Mommy Shoulder - Does Acupuncture Help?

The journey of motherhood is a time filled with joy, challenges, and unexpected physical demands. Among these, a condition commonly known as "mommy shoulder" often catches new mothers by surprise.

Mommy shoulder can be a painful and sometimes debilitating condition. It is essentially a form of repetitive strain in the shoulder, which can significantly impact a mother's ability to care for her newborn and herself. But mommy shoulder doesn’t have to get in the way of your new journey as a mother. At Integrative Healing Arts, we offer many ways that can help relieve your shoulder pain.

What is mommy shoulder?

Mommy shoulder is not a clinical term, but rather a common phrase we use for shoulder pain and inflammation that occurs in new mothers. It's characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, usually resulting from overuse, injury, or prolonged poor posture - all common issues for women caring for newborns.

The constant lifting, carrying, and cradling of a baby can put significant strain on a mother's shoulders, leading to this uncomfortable condition.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, mommy shoulder is related to several factors that disrupt the body's natural balance. Many TCM practitioners believe it's caused by liver qi stagnation, invasion of wind, cold, and dampness, and poor circulation of qi and blood. These factors lead to obstruction of the shoulder area and inadequate blood circulation, resulting in the pain and stiffness characteristic of this condition.

Causes of mommy shoulder

New mothers are more likely to experience mommy shoulder due to the repetitive lifting and holding of the baby. One of the primary causes is the repetitive motions involved in childcare - continual lifting and carrying a baby, especially as the child grows heavier, can put significant strain on the shoulder muscles and tendons. This repetitive stress can lead to inflammation and pain in the shoulder joint.

Leaning posture during feeding is another major contributor to mommy shoulder. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, mothers often find themselves hunching over their babies for extended periods. This position can lead to neck and shoulder misalignment and muscle imbalances, setting the stage for impingement.

Changes in sleep patterns can also result in mommy shoulder. New moms often sleep in unusual positions to accommodate their babies or to make nighttime feedings easier. These awkward sleeping postures can strain the shoulders, particularly if maintained for long periods night after night.

During and after pregnancy hormonal changes can also contribute to a woman's chances of developing mommy shoulder. The hormone relaxin, which helps prepare the body for childbirth by loosening ligaments, is present in the body for several months postpartum. This increased joint laxity can make the shoulder as well as neck and lower back more susceptible to strain and impingement.

The first few months of motherhood often leave little time for self-care or restorative exercise and can lead to muscle weakness and imbalances.

Symptoms of mommy shoulder

Identifying mommy shoulder early can lead to more effective treatment and faster relief. If you're a new mother experiencing persistent shoulder discomfort, it's important to be aware of the common symptoms associated with this condition.

The most obvious sign is pain and stiffness in the shoulder, especially when lifting your arm. This pain may be sharp or dull and can vary in intensity. Many women report that the discomfort worsens at night or during periods of rest, which can significantly disrupt sleep - something new mothers can ill afford to lose.

The pain associated with mommy shoulder isn't always confined to the shoulder itself. It often extends to the neck and shoulders as well as upper arm muscles, creating a broader area of discomfort. This can make it challenging to perform everyday tasks, such as picking up your baby or reaching for items on high shelves.

Limited range of motion is another sign of mommy shoulder. You may find it difficult to move your arm in certain directions, particularly when trying to reach behind your back or lift your arm above your head. This restriction can make simple activities like getting dressed or washing your hair unexpectedly challenging.

Weakness in the affected arm is also common. You might notice that your arm becomes tired while holding your baby for extended periods. 

Acupuncture for mommy shoulder

Acupuncture is one of the most effective therapies for mommy shoulder. Acupuncture works by balancing the yin and yang energies in the body. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints, practitioners aim to regulate the flow of qi and blood throughout the body, particularly in the affected shoulder area. This improved circulation helps to nourish the muscles and tendons, promoting healing and reducing pain.  For shoulder impingement, one of our practitioners may focus on target points not only around the shoulder but also on other parts of the body that are believed to influence shoulder health.

One of the immediate benefits of acupuncture is its ability to trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can provide quick relief from the discomfort associated with mommy shoulder. Additionally, studies show acupuncture has an anti-inflammatory effect, which can help decrease swelling and pain in the shoulder joint.

The insertion of acupuncture needles can also help relax tense muscles around the shoulder, improving range of motion and further reducing pain. This muscle relaxation can be particularly beneficial for new mothers who may be holding tension in their shoulders due to stress and the physical demands of childcare.

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of acupuncture is its ability to support the whole body's health not just the symptoms. By targeting specific acupoints, acupuncture addresses the tight muscles and local pain area while also supporting hormonal balance and healing ability in the body. Mommy shoulder can be exacerbated by hormonal changes postpartum that may contribute to inflammation and slower tissue repair.  e. This holistic approach can lead to longer-lasting relief and may even help prevent future issues.

Studies have also shown the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating shoulder pain. Women receiving consistent acupuncture treatments often experience significant improvements in shoulder pain and function compared to those not receiving acupuncture. These benefits can be particularly valuable for new mothers, allowing them to care for their babies more comfortably and enjoy their journey into motherhood without the burden of constant shoulder pain.

Book your first appointment

Mommy shoulder can be a challenging condition for new mothers, adding physical discomfort to the already demanding postpartum period. But you don’t need to suffer alone in silence.

At Integrative Healing Arts, we can work closely with you postpartum to help you be the most comfortable self. Book with one of our experienced practitioners today to start your integrated healing journey that will benefit both you and your baby’s postpartum journey.

Zuo Yue Zi and Postpartum Healing

The postpartum period is an exciting yet crucial time for new mothers to rest, recover, and bond with their newborns. While modern Western cultures often expect women to bounce back quickly, many are now turning to the ancient Chinese practice of Zuo Yue Zi for a more nurturing postpartum experience. This traditional "sitting month" offers a nurturing approach to recovery that has been gaining popularity worldwide.

While taking a month to recover may seem alien or extreme to Western sensibilities, many Chinese and Asian families observe Zuo Yue Zi, adapting its principles to fit contemporary lifestyles.

What is Zuo Yue Zi?

Zuo Yue Zi, which translates to "sitting the month," is a set of postpartum practices originating from traditional Chinese folk medicine. This holistic approach to recovery emphasizes rest, warmth, and specific dietary guidelines to help new mothers regain their strength and prepare for the demands of motherhood. The practice typically lasts for 30 to 40 days after childbirth, during which time the mother follows strict rules designed to promote healing and prevent future health issues.

While some aspects of Zuo Yue Zi may seem overly cautious by modern standards, many women find that this intentional period of rest and care provides invaluable benefits for their physical and emotional well-being. Let's explore Zuo Yue Zi and how they can be adapted for contemporary lifestyles.

The practice of Zuo Yue Zi

Rest and Confinement

One of the cornerstones of Zuo Yue Zi is the emphasis on complete rest. New mothers do no activities other than recovering and bonding with their babies. Mothers are encouraged to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary physical exertion for the entire month. This long recovery time stems from the belief that childbirth leaves a woman's body in a weakened state, with loss of blood and immune vulnerability open pores that could allow "wind" to enter and cause illness.

While the confinement may feel practical for women today, the principle of prioritizing rest remains crucial. Studies have shown that adequate rest during the postpartum period can significantly reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. By allowing the body time to heal and adjust to the demands of motherhood, women can build a stronger foundation for long-term health.

Maintaining Warmth 

Another fundamental part of Zuo Yue Zi is keeping the body warm. This includes wearing warm clothing, avoiding cold drinks, and refraining from washing hair or bathing with cold water. The practice believes that exposure to cold can disrupt the body's energy balance requiring energy to stay warm and lead to joint pain or other health issues later in life.

While Western habits of drinking cold drinks may not make sense, the underlying principle of protecting the body from extreme temperature changes remains valid. Gentle warmth can promote circulation and aid in the healing process. New mothers can adapt this rule by ensuring they stay comfortably warm, using warm water for bathing, and avoiding prolonged exposure to air conditioning or cold drafts.

Dietary Guidelines 

Nutrition plays a crucial role in Zuo Yue Zi, with specific foods believed to aid in recovery and promote lactation. The traditional diet emphasizes warm, easily digestible foods rich in protein and nutrients. Common ingredients include chicken, fish, eggs, ginger, and various herbs known for their healing properties.

Modern nutritional science supports many aspects of the Zuo Yue Zi diet. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet is indeed essential for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to ensure dietary choices meet individual needs and preferences.

Avoiding Certain Activities 

During the Zuo Yue Zi period, new mothers are traditionally advised to avoid activities that can be upsetting such as watching television or using digital devices. This rule aims to protect the eyes and prevent strain on the body and mind. Complete abstinence from these activities may seem impossible in today's world, but the underlying principle of reducing mental stress and focusing on rest remains valuable.

Modern adaptations might include limiting screen time, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in gentle relaxation techniques. This can help new mothers avoid information overload and focus on bonding with their newborns.

The benefits of Zuo Yue Zi

Enhanced Physical Recovery The emphasis on rest and nutrition during Zuo Yue Zi can significantly accelerate physical recovery after childbirth. By allowing the body time to heal without the added stress of daily activities, women may experience faster wound healing, reduced postpartum bleeding, and improved overall strength.

Research has shown that women who practice some form of postpartum confinement often report less fatigue and faster recovery of pre-pregnancy fitness levels. The structured approach to rest and self-care can be particularly beneficial for women who have undergone cesarean sections or experienced complicated deliveries.

Improved Mental Health

The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging, with many women experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depression. The supportive environment created by Zuo Yue Zi can play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being.

By reducing external stressors and providing a framework for care, Zuo Yue Zi allows new mothers to focus on bonding with their babies and adjusting to their new role. This dedicated time for rest and reflection can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety, setting a positive tone for the motherhood journey ahead.

Better Breastfeeding Outcomes

The dietary guidelines and rest practices of Zuo Yue Zi are often associated with improved breastfeeding experiences. The emphasis on nutrient-rich foods and adequate hydration can support milk production, while the reduced stress levels may contribute to a more relaxed breastfeeding environment.

Studies have shown that women who follow postpartum care practices similar to Zuo Yue Zi often report higher breastfeeding success rates and longer durations of exclusive breastfeeding. This can have long-lasting benefits for both mother and child, as breastfeeding is associated with numerous health advantages.

Traditional Chinese medicine holds that proper postpartum care can prevent a range of health issues later in life, including joint pain, headaches, depression and gynecological problems.

While scientific evidence for these long-term benefits is still emerging, the principles of rest, nutrition, and self-care are well-supported by Western healthcare recommendations. By establishing healthy habits and prioritizing recovery during this crucial period, women may indeed be setting the stage for better health outcomes in the years to come.

Book with us today

The ancient practice of Zuo Yue Zi offers a structured and nurturing approach to postpartum care that can benefit modern mothers. This approach to postpartum care offers valuable insights into the importance of honoring and supporting the transformative journey of motherhood.

At Integrative Healing Arts, our experienced team of practitioners can help you develop a personalized plan that combines the wisdom of ancient practices with modern medical knowledge, ensuring the best possible start to your motherhood journey.

Book your first appointment today to learn how we can help with your postpartum journey. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine For Endometriosis

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic disease that affects around 10% of women. For women affected by the debilitating effects of endometriosis, finding relief can feel like an uphill battle. This chronic condition, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the womb, leads to severe menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant, and in some cases, infertility.

While conventional treatments offer temporary relief, many women are turning to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for a more holistic approach to managing their symptoms and root causes of endometriosis.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue can be seen on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus, as well as other pelvic organs.

Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Severe menstrual cramps

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Pain during or after sexual intercourse

• Excessive bleeding during menstruation

• Fatigue

• Digestive issues, such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea

• Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Chinese medicine for endometriosis

TCM regards endometriosis as a form of blood stasis in the abdomen that can arise from various patterns of disharmony in a woman's body.

At Integrative Healing Arts, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing endometriosis symptoms and potentially slowing its progression through various traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments. Our experienced practitioners carefully evaluate each patient's unique body constitution and comfort level to create a personalized treatment plan.

Common herbs for endometriosis 

Chinese herbal medicine can offer an alternative approach to treating endometriosis, with formulas tailored to each patient's specific needs. Unlike Western medicine's one-size-fits-all approach, TCM practitioners can adjust herbal prescriptions based on changing symptoms and patterns. When prescribed by a skilled practitioner, herbs can be an effective, natural treatment plan for women struggling with endometriosis.

Note: Herbs are powerful substances! Herbal medicine formulas should never be taken without the guidance of a professional herbalist.

Gui Zhi (cinnamon) is an herb found in many formulas and is a food and medicine renowned for its ability to increase blood circulation. It's particularly effective for women experiencing pelvic pain, cramping, and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Bai Shao and Sheng Ma are often used to help with endometriosis thanks to their ability to support hormonal balance.

Always seek professional guidance when using Chinese Herbal Medicine

Here at Integrative Healing Arts, Chinese acupuncture, and herbal and dietary supplements are offered to assist women struggling with infertility, by boosting their reproductive wellness. However, it's crucial to note that herbs, while natural substances are as powerful as pharmaceuticals and are not appropriate for everyone.

Each woman's body is unique, so we strongly caution against DIY herbal treatments. Picking the wrong herbs or even using the right ones for an extended period could worsen your condition.

If you’re interested in adding herbs to enhance your fertility and help relieve endometriosis symptoms, your first step should be to consult a professional.

Acupuncture for endometriosis 

Acupuncture plays a vital role in the treatment of endometriosis by TCM. This ancient practice involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to regulate Qi flow and restore balance. Acupuncture can alleviate pain by stimulating the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms and regulating hormones, potentially balancing estrogen levels, which play a crucial role in endometriosis.

Studies show that acupuncture can reduce inflammation, which may help mitigate the inflammatory processes associated with endometrial lesions. Furthermore, acupuncture has been shown to improve blood circulation, particularly around the pelvic area.

Endometriosis can also affect women mentally. Acupuncture can help to reduce anxiety and depression often associated with chronic pain conditions.

Key acupuncture points often used in endometriosis treatment include:

• Sp6 (Sanyinjiao) - located on the inner leg, this point is crucial for gynecological issues

• Ren4 (Guanyuan) - located on the lower abdomen, this point nourishes the uterus and regulates menstruation

• LI4 (Hegu) - located on the hand, this point is known for its pain-relieving properties

• Liv3 (Taichong) - located on the foot, this point helps regulate Liver Qi and blood

A typical acupuncture treatment plan for endometriosis might involve weekly sessions for several months, with frequency adjusted based on symptom severity and patient response.

Other treatments for endometriosis 

For women battling endometriosis, a holistic approach that also combines traditional therapies with stress-reduction techniques can offer significant relief. This increased blood flow can potentially alleviate pain and promote healing of endometrial tissues.

Stress management is crucial, as chronic stress can worsen endometriosis symptoms. Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga not only help calm the mind but also reduce cortisol levels, which may positively impact hormone balance and pain perception.

Massage therapy, particularly abdominal and pelvic massage, can be a powerful tool in managing endometriosis discomfort. These targeted techniques may help break up scar tissue, improve circulation, and release tension in the surrounding muscles. Many women report reduced pain and improved overall well-being after regular massage sessions.

By combining a stress management plan and massage therapy with other TCM practices, we aim to provide our patients with a well-rounded approach to managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.

Book your appointment today

While conventional medicine often focuses on symptom relief, TCM aims to restore the natural balance of Yin-Yang and Qi-Blood in the body. By combining herbal medications, acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping, TCM addresses the root causes of endometriosis, offering a path to long-term relief and overall wellness.

If you're struggling with endometriosis, consider exploring the benefits of TCM. At Integrative Healing Arts, we understand that every woman's journey with endometriosis is unique. That's why we take the time to explain each treatment option and work closely with you to find the most effective combination of therapies.

Book your first appointment today and take the first step towards a more comfortable life living with endometriosis. Remember, every woman's journey with endometriosis is unique, and we're here to support you every step of the way!

Chinese Herbs As Part of Postpartum Care

The weeks and months that follow childbirth are a time when your body as a new mother undergoes intense healing and realignment. In China and other East Asian cultures, the first 30 days after delivery is a crucial time for recovery. It is called postpartum confinement or Zuo Ye Zi, “sitting the month”. During this period, the mother is able to rest and eat special foods, that support recovering from delivery. This is so important during the healing period that there are special meal delivery services and clinics (hotels) where women can admit themselves so they can have support to regain strength, heal, feed the baby, and bond. Traditionally, the family would do this for a new mother. Sitting the month does not mean doing anything, it means doing only what is necessary, such as sleeping, eating breastfeeding, no exertion. Someone else can cook, clean, and change diapers. 

By contrast, women in Western culture do not rest after delivery. They are expected to deal with sleepless nights, continued bleeding, lactate, and change diapers all while navigating through hormonal ups and downs.

Over time, your reproductive hormones gradually return to their pre-pregnancy state and the uterus contracts back to its normal size, approximately 6 weeks.

During the postpartum period, metabolically and systemic there are rapid changes that can cause you to feel depleted, fatigued, and emotionally “ungrounded”. Combined with the demands of caring for a newborn baby, it can seem like an insurmountable challenge to feel a sense of normalcy. monumental work of birthing that makes postpartum recovery difficult.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has thousands of evidence-based knowledge of women's health and reproductive health. Combining Chinese and East Asian cultural practices when integrated into a comprehensive postpartum wellness plan, Chinese herbs can provide vital nourishment and healing to make the "fourth-trimester" journey smoother and grounding. 

Chinese herbs for postpartum

Please note that you should never self-prescribe TCM herbs. A herb is almost never eaten on its own but is part of a group of ingredients that act together. It is advised that you consult a professional herbalist who has experience with women’s health and postpartum recovery and will best be able to guide you.

Ginger

Ginger is a root that is found in almost every herbal formula (combined with licorice) to warm the stomach and promote absorption and is also a staple in Asian cuisine (ginger & garlic). Ginger is an important ingredient in postpartum meal planning for recovery, ginger is a warming spice that aids digestion, promotes circulation, and has been part of traditional recipes for thousands of years to help with recovery and for new mothers after delivery. 

Ginger is used for nausea and be made as a tea or added to a soup such as congee and chicken broth. 

Eggs

In Chinese folk medicine eggs are considered the concentrated essence of a chicken and therefore nutrient-dense with fats and protein.  Found in countless traditional postpartum recipes, combined with black vinegar wholesome eggs gain superfood status for their role in maternal recovery, strengthening the heart, kidneys, liver, and spleen.

Black vinegar

This vinegar is renowned for its circulation-enhancing and detoxifying virtues making it a cherished ingredient in the postnatal kitchen. By purifying the blood, stimulating sweating to eliminate excess fluids, and boosting your digestive system, black vinegar helps with metabolizing protein and fat for better absorption and supports healing from the inside out. Its amino acid riches also assist the enormous task of repairing and rebuilding tissues post-birth.

Black sesame seeds 

This superfood is another postpartum superstar, black sesame is considered Yin, relating to Kidney essence which during pregnancy and postpartum gets depleted. Black sesame is nutrient-dense for re-replenishing qi and enriching breast milk supply. These tiny seeds pack potent doses of essential fatty acids, B vitamins, bone-building minerals like calcium and magnesium, and even mood-stabilizing tryptophan, perfect for your postpartum journey. 

Pigs' Feet 

In traditional Chinese culture, pigs' feet (trotters) are the quintessential food for new mothers. Made a stew with sweet vinegar and ginger. This nourishing food is high in protein, collagen, iron, zinc, and Vitamin B12, plus they are a good source of natural fat and promote lactation. This helps warm your body, and fortify your blood and yin and kidney essence, after depletion from pregnancy and childbirth.

Postpartum women need to eat protein and fat so they have the building blocks for healing. It is not uncommon that during pregnancy women develop hemorrhoids from the downward pressure of the baby and after can experience constipation. The fats and protein from the pigs' feet can relieve constipation and dry skin while breaking down into a gelatin-rich broth ideal for replenishing blood, encouraging milk production, and encouraging healing. Not everyone eats pork and there are other postpartum traditional healing soups. Preparation of nourishing traditional postpartum soup includes bone broths with hardboiled eggs and vinegar with certain mushrooms that provide many similar benefits for healing.

The postpartum period is still a recovery time and any herbs taken including condiments for soups or teas should be under the guidance of a professional practitioner.

Vegetarian-friendly Chinese herbs

• Astragalus

• Angelica

• Jujube dates

• Ginger

These can be added to rice and sprouted pulses and grains to provide a concentrated protein replacement for animal sources. 

How does TCM help postpartum symptoms?

Within the Chinese cultural tradition, food is viewed as a form of medicine. It is regarded as the source that replenishes the qi levels (vital energy) and blood for a woman's postnatal recovery. So, by tradition, proper healing is recognized as being intrinsically tied to one's diet. 

During the postpartum period, your body has nutritional needs, especially if you are breastfeeding. Typically, this includes consuming nutrient-dense foods that can aid healing, replenish the depletion caused by pregnancy and childbirth, support breastmilk production, and facilitate your monumental life transition into motherhood.

Fatigue and weakness

Chinese herbal therapy is a carefully formulated botanical blend that contains a unique combination of healing plants specifically tailored to target your individual needs. During the postpartum healing phase, you may feel utterly spent and exhausted as your body works overtime to restore blood and qi levels. Studies show that 93% of women who had recently given birth incorporated at least one traditional Chinese herbal remedy into their dietary intake.

Strengthening tonic herbs like dang gui, Huang qi, and Dang shen naturally replenish vital essences and circulate slack energy to rebuild stamina. These deep energy reservoirs empower the liver, spleen, and kidneys for overall rejuvenation in your body postpartum.

Boosting your milk supply 

As a new mother, many suffer from low breast milk production, so don’t feel so disheartened if your milk is coming in slowly. It is important to hydrate and eat nutrient-dense foods.

There are many Tea formulas for promoting lactation that include fenugreek and milk thistle as well as dandelion for mastitis. Consult your herbal practitioner for a formula that is customized for you.

Postpartum depression and anxiety 

The emotional heaviness that can accompany the "baby blues" often stems from hormonal changes that happen after birth. After delivering your baby, the amount of estrogen and progesterone hormones suddenly drops, causing mood swings or even depression.

Heavy postpartum bleeding 

Continuous heavy bleeding can be a sign of retained lochia or fetal tissue that is still embedded in the uterine walls. It is important to see your doctor and make sure there isn’t clotting before taking any herbal remedies.

C-section healing and recovery 

If you are recovering from a cesarean birth, acupuncture is an excellent therapy to promote blood flow and healing of the scar due to a c-section and improve hormonal flow.

An integrative postpartum treatment approach 

While herbal remedies are a therapy for postpartum recovery, for optimal healing we recommend acupuncture when combining Chinese herbs and other holistic modalities in a comprehensive treatment plan. At our clinic, we have helped many women have a positive and successful postpartum journey.

In addition to Chinese herbs and medicine, acupuncture treatments are a fantastic way to rebalance your hormones, restore depleted energy, and relieve pain. Massage therapy is also great, particularly if you are suffering from back pain. By adding frequent massages to your healing journey, you can allow those muscle tensions to be released. 

By taking the time to learn more about your specific needs as a new mother, we can more effectively address the root patterns and triggers behind any postpartum complications you're experiencing from every angle—all through the graceful lens of timeless Chinese medicine principles.

Book your first appointment today

If you're feeling energetically depleted, physically unbalanced, or emotionally adrift after childbirth, you don't have to resign yourself to suffering through these challenges alone.

At Integrative Healing Arts, we have over 21 years of experience in herbal medicine. Combined with our integrative treatment approach, these herbal foods can help your body recover after giving birth.

Book a consultation at our clinic today to get started on your customized postpartum journey - your strength and radiance are returning.

Benefits Acupuncture for Pudendal Neuralgia

For those struggling with chronic pelvic pain, this can be due to pudendal nerve entrapment or pudendal neuralgia.  Even the most basic daily activities can feel painful and distressing. Not only can it cause a lot of pain when it becomes inflamed and triggered, but it can also cause embarrassing symptoms such as IBS and the persistent feeling of urgency for the bathroom, constipation, urinary incontinence (UI), and painful intercourse.

While pudendal neuralgia is extremely frustrating and painful it is also challenging to treat. , An increasing number of patients are finding significant relief by receiving acupuncture in the treatment of pelvic floor disorders as well as manual therapies to their treatment plan. This ancient Chinese practice may help reduce pudendal nerve inflammation and muscle tension while also alleviating many of the secondary symptoms accompanying this condition. When combined with other integrative therapies, acupuncture offers a safe, minimally invasive option for relieving pain and discomfort from pudendal neuralgia.

Acupuncture may help alleviate pudendal neuralgia symptoms by promoting blood flow, reducing inflammation, supporting pelvic floor functions, and releasing endorphins that block pain signals. The needles are inserted at specific points to relieve pudendal nerve inflammation and related areas, potentially providing relief from pelvic and genital pain associated with this condition.

What is pudendal neuralgia?

Pudendal neuralgia occurs when the pudendal nerve - which innervates the pelvic floor muscles, genitals, and areas around the rectum - becomes inflamed, compressed, or injured. 

Living with such severe, stubborn pain can take an immense physical and emotional toll.

Pudendal neuralgia often begins following a pelvic injury, trauma, or intense muscle strain, and it is often found in people who suffer from IBS, weak connective tissue, structural imbalances (scoliosis), and menstrual disorders such as painful periods, though in many cases the root cause remains unclear. 

For women postpartum it is very common to experience pelvic floor dysfunction, (PFD) late in pregnancy, and at least 3 out of 4 women experience (PFD) 1 year after delivery. This includes pudendal nerve inflammation that disrupts the normal recovery of the pelvic floor muscles.

Once the pudendal nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, the resulting painful sensations can spread throughout the pelvis, genitals, rectum, perineum, and upper thighs interfering with normal function. The severe, unrelenting burning, stabbing pains may intensify when sitting for too long, during bowel movements, sexual intercourse, or even just walking.

As with any chronic pain condition, the constant effects of pudendal neuralgia extend far beyond just the physical discomfort alone. The emotional weight of trying to cope as well as the therapy treatments can drastically affect your quality of life.

Many patients experience related issues such as anxiety, depression, loss of sleep, strained relationships, and the inability to work or engage in normal activities. The good news is that acupuncture can help alleviate your pudendal neuralgia symptoms with regular sessions in your treatment journey.

Acupuncture reduces body inflammation and swelling

When the pudendal nerve becomes trapped or compressed by inflamed muscles, the resulting pressure on this delicate neural pathway is what sparks your pelvic pain, and PFD, there can be numbness and hypersensitivity.

Studies indicate acupuncture can effectively alleviate inflammation by stimulating the body's natural anti-inflammatory compounds and pathways. By reducing swelling and tension in the pelvic floor and surrounding tissues, acupuncture removes sources of pudendal nerve compression and irritation.

Acupuncture can increase local circulation 

Improved blood flow and circulation from acupuncture also prevent pudendal nerve compression and facilitate the delivery of oxygen-rich nutrients to encourage healing. With restored circulation relieving pressure on the nerve, inflammation of the pelvic floor is relieved, proper nerve signaling and function return, and the burning sensations and radiating pains often begin to subside.

Acupuncture releases muscle tension and spasms

When the pudendal nerve remains entrapped for an extended time, the surrounding pelvic floor muscles can develop painful spasms, tightness, and dysfunction as they strain to compensate for the trapped nerve's diminished function.

By attending regular acupuncture sessions, our team trained in pelvic floor conditions will personalize treatment, inserting thin needles to help relax and lengthen these contracted muscles, releasing the internal dysfunctional holding patterns and muscle tension that are compressing the nerve. This natural muscle relaxation allows your overworked and hypertonic pelvic floor to finally reset and recover.

Acupuncture aids in disrupting pain signals

Beyond addressing the musculoskeletal and circulatory components, acupuncture has also been shown to disrupt the transmission of pain signals to the brain by modulating the nervous system's pain-processing mechanisms. Research indicates acupuncture promotes the release of the body's pain-relieving compounds like endorphins, encephalin, and serotonin to help override pudendal neuralgia's constant pain signaling.

Acupuncture can enhance your well-being

The profound effects of chronic pelvic pain on mental health cannot be ignored. Studies suggest acupuncture may reduce stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances that often accompany pudendal neuralgia by regulating neurotransmitters, promoting relaxation, and restoring physical balance. With the emotional weight of unrelenting pain lifted, you can better focus on healing and focus on your health, immunity, and wellness in life.

An integrative treatment approach

While the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture for pudendal neuralgia are promising, this therapy is most effective when applied alongside other treatment modalities through an integrative approach that works best for you.

At Integrative Healing Arts, your journey begins with a thorough evaluation to understand your unique case - from official diagnosis, causative factors, and aggravating movements to past treatments and their effectiveness. From there, our experienced practitioners will carefully develop a treatment that suits your needs.

At our clinic, your pudendal neuralgia plan may include acupuncture supplemented with other traditional Chinese herbal medicine, massage therapy, and mind-body practices for chronic pain management.

Get in touch with our office today

Living with the severe, unrelenting pain of pudendal neuralgia can feel like an impossible, hopeless situation at times. But you don't have to let this condition define your life any longer. With the right comprehensive care team and range of therapies, significant relief, and recovery are possible.

At Integrative Healing Arts, our compassionate, experienced team is trained to treat pelvic floor conditions and will work closely to provide a personalized care plan to put you on the path to overcoming your chronic pelvic pain. We create customized treatment plans before embryo transfer that continue in the days and weeks following the procedure. We aim to provide your body with every possible support as you await those life-changing results.

Contact us today to book an appointment at Integrative Healing Arts to learn more about how adding acupuncture addresses your unique pain pattern and brings relief and functionality back. Our caring team is here to guide you through every step.