Denver Acupuncture - News Feed For Martha Lucas, Ph.D., L.Ac.

Dry needling is acupuncture. ALWAYS ask about your medical practitioner's training.

2012-02-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

Dry needling is acupuncture. ALWAYS ask about your medical practitioner's training.

This is a cute little video where a PT and a practitioners of Chinese Medicine/Acupuncturist are discussing whether dry needling is indeed acupuncture and the very large discrepancy in training. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygtOBE_qkZ0

Dry needling is acupuncture. ALWAYS ask about your medical practitioner's training.

2012-02-10T07:48:00.001-08:00

Hot flashes and other peri-menopause symptoms? Acupuncture works!

2012-02-09T06:12:00.000-08:00

A 2011 study in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine tested 53 post-menopausal women who reported having menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. Half the women were given acupuncture treatment that lasted 20 minutes twice a week for 10 weeks. The needles were inserted, then left in place without any further manual or electrical stimulation.

By the end of the 10-week treatment, the group of women who received acupuncture reported having significantly fewer hot flashes as well as hot flashes that were less severe when they did get them. No significant differences were found in hormonal levels between the two groups. Typcially, it is believed that hormonal changes cause the hot flashes, so this is somewhat surprising, and the authors suggest that the hormonal fluctuations were not considered to be the reason for the improvement in menopausal symptoms.

To contact me for an appointment, call 303-947-6224.

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Happy year of the Yang Water Dragon!!!

2012-01-23T18:45:00.001-08:00

The energy of the Yang Water Dragon year: it's likely to be a good one!

The Yang Water Dragon year is here! I am so excited about this year's energy that I started to feel it even before today.

Dragons are associated with power and good fortune. When we examine Chinese lore, we see that Dragon years can be dramatic. Why? In Chinese astrology, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize character traits such as passion, dominance, and raw ambition. They are unafraid of challenges or change and do everything on a grand scale.

What does a Yang Water Dragon year have in store for you? If you enjoy Chinese astrology, then this could be an exciting year, providing you read the landscape with attention. You would do well to complete unfinished business from 2011 as quickly as possible. When Dragon begins its procession through 2012, you want his route unimpeded and smooth, even though it may climb and twist.

The Dragon is a sign of good fortune and the Year of the Dragon is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings. Be watchful for opportunities that present in late January. Entrepreneurs and new ventures are particularly favored to experience success this year – business, marriages, projects, children born in 2012 or in previous Dragon years all benefit from the outstanding luck often associated with this zodiac sign. 2012 can also be an auspicious year to plan a celebration or throw a big party. Those compatible with the Dragon — Rat and Snake in particular — will also find 2012's circumstances inspiring them to greater personal happiness and professional success. But, the Dragon, perhaps because of its passion, may also bring a rougher style of communication - less diplomacy and more directness, so be prepared

The energy of the year will move grandly and quickly right away, and you want to be ready for it. The Dragon is associated with Spring, and the energetic high point of the year is the Dragon Moon, from May 20^th (New Moon) to June 18^th. Dragon energy favors the bold. The grand scale of Dragon energy encourages you to reach for the proverbial brass ring or to act on your dream. If you want to succeed at something major, according to Suzanne White, author of THE NEW ASTROLOGY, start early in the year and persist. Don’t give up; express yourself openly. She writes, "Any and all events will be dramatic and charged with a rare intensity. In short, 2012 will be a year of derring-do, hell-raising and exorbitant fun.

What of the Yang and Water aspect of 2012? Water has a calming effect on Dragon’s fearless temperament. Yang Water is like a flowing river rather than a still lake. Things move, ideas flow, creativity abounds, business booms, and love blossoms in this environment. It is likely to be an exciting year. Because this year is the Year of the Water Dragon, affairs maybe tempered because water helps calm the Dragon’s fire. That’s why Water Dragons tend to be less stubborn than your regular old Dragons. But just as the ceremonial dragon is put away after the festival, the dragon “effect” can be fleeting. A project or relationship or romance may be more transitory than long-term. This year can point to either spectacular successes or epic fails. Your luck can be good or bad, and your actions may enhance your fortune or derail it. While this is, of course, true in any circumstance, it’s the extreme nature of the outcome that is attributed to Dragon. Remember that Dragon is mythic and larger than life; so are Dragon-based experiences. Be mindful and try to understand your circumstances deeply and with insight. Consider risk carefully, for an extravagant gesture can leave you at risk when the moment passes.

Summer will present as a relatively quiet period in 2012, but one should not relax during this period since all activities of the unfolding year have acquired a certain momentum and intensity. Therefore vigilant management of your affairs is needed. Fall is a good time for wrapping up loose ends, reflecting, taking stock. At the end of the year, it is beneficial to engage in self-education and planning for the next year.

Three lovely words that a person in my field loves to hear: Martha, I'm pregnant!

2012-01-17T13:43:00.001-08:00

That's right. Another success using Chinese medicine for fertility issues. This is the energy of the Yang Water Dragon year coming in! This couple had been "trying" for 8 years, had 2 failed IUIs, at least one miscarriage. Many of these couples come for acupuncture after they've been told that their follicle count won't increase, their FSH won't go down, even that some of the measures will NEVER change. Not true in some cases. We are energetic bodies and balancing our energy can lead to many positive outcomes. I'm smiling!

Let's learn about how to use herbs during the cold/flu season: Don't use most "immune boosting" formulas while you have a cold

2012-01-13T06:31:00.000-08:00

Many so-called "immune boosting" formulas have an herb called Huang Qi (astragalus) in them. No. Do not take a formula containing Huang Qi during a cold; it may drive the bug deeper and extend the length of time it takes you to get well. This is one of the most frequent misunderstandings that I hear people talk about. They think that it is good to take an immune booster during a cold. Remember: it depends upon the ingredients! Wu Wei zi (schisandra) is another such ingredient; okay to take when you are not experiencing cold symptoms.

The good news is that there are herbs that will help fight a cold and you can get these from your licensed Chinese medicine practitioner or Acupuncturist. Ban lan gen (isatis root) has antibiotic properties, jin yin hua (lonicera - honeysuckle) has anti-inflammatory properties so it can help with some symptoms. Gan cao (licorice root) is another individual herb can help break a cold right at the beginning.

Here's a good place to clarify that Chinese herbs are prescriptions and should be prescribed by a knowledgeable practitioner. In my most humble professional opinion, they should not be sold over the counter. One of the most frequent stories I hear is that a person bought a Chinese medicine formula in a grocery store and then didn't understand why it didn't work. Well, if you take a formula that is designed to deal with the beginning energetics of a cold midway through your cold, you're right, it's not going to work! Or, if you have a runny nose kind of cold but you take a formula designed for a phlemy, sore throat kind of cold, it's not going to work and might even extend the length of your cold or flu. Please talk with a licensed Chinese medicine practitioner before purchasing Chinese herbal formulas. Taking herbal formulas, especially those containing herbs used in Chinese herbal prescriptions is one case where checking the training and credentials of your alternative medicine practitioner is important.

Remember, this information is based on my training, clinical experience, and licensure as a practitioner of TCM and is not something with which the FDA would necessarily agree or suggest.

Acupuncture fertility case study - the proof is in the W medical test results

2012-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Acupuncture fertility case study - the proof is in the W medical test results

Follicle count up 30%, FSH down 30%, FSH/LH ratio closer to normal!! Wow! Twenty nine yr old patient told she has the hormonal system of a 40 yr old ... literally, that she could start menopause at any time, has 6 months to get pregnant. The young woman and her husband decided that they (she) did not want to take hormones so they came to me for TCM/Acupuncture treatment. Less than 4 months later, spectacular test results! Periods better, less cramping, no PMS, better quality of blood (remember, that's your uterine lining so the "little pink period" or clotting, cramping, etc. aren't conducive to conception. Call 303-947-6224 for a couples' consult if you are having fertility challenges.

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More evidence that Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine helps those with fertility challenges

2012-01-10T05:49:00.000-08:00

I keep reading study results like this one and don't understand why more couples don't consider a natural medicine either before they start on hormonal and physical procedures or in conjunction with them. All hormonal and physical procedures cause more qi and blood stagnation so why not combat that using acupuncture?! Additionally, research has demonstrated that women who undergo hormonal procedures are at a higher risk for certain gynecological cancers. I've said this for years: our hormonal systems are BASIC to our existence, they don't tolerate hormonal intervention very well. http://medicalxpress.com/news/2012-01-traditional-chinese-medicine-fertility-treatments.html

Using our language for a happy, healthy 2012+

2012-01-02T15:47:00.001-08:00

Did you know that there are over 3000 words in the English language that relate to our emotions and that over 2000 of them (2/3) are negative?!? The beginning of another year is a perfect time to start using the 900+ positive words in our daily lives. This could be quite a task considering that 2/3 of the words are negative .... just seems like those words might be more "accessible". But they don't have to be! Why not have a word for each day - a positive word. That way, it will take you about 3 years to use all of the positive words and then you can start over. My word for today: Gratitude.

I wish you and your circle of loved ones a happy, healthy 2012+.

Chinese herbs infused into the products in the Mei Zen skin care line

2011-12-22T08:34:00.001-08:00

Our artisan, hand crafted Mei Zen skin care line is expanding soon! Currently our products include our Japonica toner for cleansing and invigorating your skin. Our Mei Zen Revitalizing serum and Golden Radiance pearl cream are both super good for you skin; I use the pearl for my day treatment (it makes my skin radiant) and the serum at night. Everyone should be putting pearl on their face; it's loaded with minerals that improve the tone of your skin. Our Neroli Peptide eye cream is an essential part of a skin care regimen along with the Sea Pearl Masque and Frankincense Bamboo scrub. Masques are fun!!! and they make your skin feel like a baby's butt after you take it off. For those of you who may try to lose a few pounds in 2012, we have our Juniper Cypress oil to rub on fatty areas. It is also useful to get your digestive qi and lymph moving - both very important parts of weight loss.

All of our products contain active ingredients that make your skin better. They are not just for moisturizing; they are for regenerating a youthful skin! And don't forget .... ALWAYS treat your neck and upper chest area too, not just your face!

Start the year of the Dragon right! Get your orders in now for our January 3rd shipping date by calling 303-349-2932 or emailing info@CosmeticAcupunctureSeminars.com to order.

Article accepted by Alt and Comp Therapies journal!

2011-12-20T16:53:00.000-08:00

Alternative and Complementary Therapies has accepted an article of mine about how TCM treats chronic prostatitis! They were looking for practitioners who could write a (very) short article on how we treat CP in our practices. Unfortunately they wouldn't publish a formula that I mentioned because there wasn't enough room to list each ingredient and say why/how it works.

PTSD is not just about military. Acupuncture helps.

2011-12-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

We hear a lot about PTSD these days w/ soldiers returning from the battles they experienced in war. But, PTSD also occurs in non-military people. It can result from other trauma as well .... and for some, the trauma might be something that others wouldn't consider "traumatic". The reasons for PTSD are very individual. Why use acupuncture? Becase when there are energetic remnants of past experiences that caused anxiety, similar events in today may cause the PTSD sort of reaction. And, although there have been no mechanistic studies of acupuncture in human PTSD, extant research shows that acupuncture has biological effects that are relevant to PTSD pathology. Conceptual, clinical, and biological data support the efficacy of acupuncture for PTSD.

Study shows that acupuncture aids memory ... call now!!

2011-12-13T07:22:00.000-08:00

As I keep saying, "Acupuncture works" ...and so do Chinese herbal prescriptions, gua sha therapy, emotional/Spirit treatments, and low level acupuncture laser therapy. Now a study demonstrates that acupuncture treatment improves memory when your stress makes you feel a little befuddled ... or you can't multi-task as well.

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/470-acupunctureceusstressmemorybrain

Brain or central nervous system conditions can be effectively treated using acupuncture. Even if the condition can't be "cured", Chinese Medicine may slow the progression of the disease. I've seen it!

Natural cures: this one for diarrhea. More to come!

2011-12-08T16:48:00.000-08:00

One of my patients and I were talking about natural cures (or treatments) for various conditions and she shared this natural cure for diarrhea that she's used since she was a child in Europe. http://m.voices.yahoo.com/natural-cures-treat-diarrhea-pomegranate-555760.html

Military using acupuncture

2011-12-07T07:41:00.000-08:00

The military using acupuncture to help treat the new types of trauma that soldiers are suffering.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703561604576150110202228764.html

Pain effectively treated with acupuncture

2011-11-30T06:00:00.001-08:00

This is a nice review article about acupuncture for the treatment of pain. And don't forget, I also use Chinese herbal prescriptions for various conditions/symptoms.

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/acupuncture-for-pain.htm

Chinese herbs shown effective for treating fertility issues!

2011-11-29T05:55:00.000-08:00

A recent study from the Adelaide University titled “Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine in the management of female infertility: A systematic review” found that that “Chinese herbal therapy improved pregnancy rates as much as 2-fold in just a 4-month period in comparison with Western Medical fertility drug therapy or IVF.”

Thanksgiving wishes a day early

2011-11-23T10:13:00.000-08:00

I'm sending this wish today because tomorrow may be a very busy day for everyone! Many of us have so much for which to be grateful. Here's wishing that you have the experience on Thanksgiving that offers you the most growth, happiness, Spiritual wellness, and calm that you deserve. Remember, the important things in life aren't things.

Acupuncture + LLLT (low level laser therapy aka cold laser)

2011-11-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

My patients are preferring the combination of acupuncture plus LLLT to the cortisone or lidocaine injections that they have received for their acute or chronic pain. And, a massage therapist to whom I refer people says that they are much easier to work on after the addition of the LLLT.

Research recently published demonstrates the effectiveness of low level laser therapy for treating carpal tunnel syndrome. This is a big deal because so many people suffer with carpal tunnel and it is often extremely debilitating. The effective clinical protocol consisted of 24 treatments which is consistent with the time frame and number of treatments demonstrated in the literature. If you or someone you know has carpal tunnel find a doctor that uses low level laser therapy (ME) … otherwise, you are likely suffering needlessly.

24 treatments?! you say ...... Acupuncture works but is it a miracle, one time treatment cure? Not very often. Chronic pain, chronic health issues require treatment to get your body into a balanced, healthy, pain free state. Back pain that you have had for 10 years will take time to cure, not 3 treatments. But often, because for some things we can "take a pill", the immediate cure is an expectation. But the problem w/ some pharmaceuticals (pills) is that they are NOT curing, they are ameliorating a symptom. Face it. It may be a late-life-long effort to keep it in the kind of shape that allows you to continue to live the active lifestyle that you enjoy. I know it is for me so that I can continue playing soccer.

In my practice we talk a lot about a healthy life plan - it's not a magic pill. To those of you who say "but I don't have to go see my MD twice a week or three times a week or even once a week to get well" ..... really? If you are taking daily medication, that pill taking is akin to seeing your physician EVERY DAY and sometimes the pharmaceuticals are just treating the symptom. Get to the cause! A Chinese Medicine practitioner with good diagnostic skills can help you do that.

Digestive issues during pregnancy successfully treated with acupuncture

2011-11-18T06:02:00.000-08:00

This study further demonstrates that acupuncture during pregnancy is a good thing! We know that Chinese Medicine successfully treats fertility issues and women should continue treatment during and AFTER their pregnancy. Building and delivering another human being is the hardest thing your body will ever do on its own. Get treatment to rebuild your qi, blood, and immune system after delivery. I'll babysit!! http://www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/Safety-Concerns-for-Acupuncture-in-Dyspepsia-During-Pregnancy-93508-1.htm

Sports' injury? Acupuncture works .... even on severe, "unresolvable" injuries

2011-11-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

Another success story!

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/othersports/2016775172_tbirds16.html?prmid=head_main

Acupuncture treat dry mouth in people receiving radiation

2011-11-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

Another article about how acupuncture supports people who are being treated with strong modern medicine treatments. Quality of life does matter!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/13/acupuncture-dry-mouth-xerostomia-cancer-radiation_n_1087017.html

Acupuncture treats fibromyalgia

2011-11-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

In an Australian study, fibromyalgia patients treated with acupuncture were found to experience significant improvement in symptoms. That is, patients felt less pain and fatigue. Yay!! Another condition that modern medicine often finds difficult to treat is treated successfully using Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture helps relieve cancer-related fatigue (CRF)

2011-11-04T07:56:00.000-07:00

One of the things I like about this article is that the researchers also advise lifestyle "changes" ..... and I am always talking in my practice about how I am a guide, Chinese Medicine heals but one also may need to help oneself through QiGong, Taichi, yoga, exercise, nutritional changes, etc. Life without pain is a lifelong journey that can require vigilant treatment or other activity that makes our quality of life better. In this case, the goal is cancer treatment with minimum negative side effects. I have treated many people going through various cancer-related treatments who say that acupuncture helped them maintain a "more or less" normal level of activity. Some didn't even have to take much time off from work.

http://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/using-acupuncture-to-relieve-cancer-related-fatigue/article/215933/

PMS and pain are NOT a normal period: research shows that Chinese Medicine helps

2011-11-03T06:14:00.000-07:00

A recent Cochrane meta-analysis reported acupuncture may be an effective treatment to manage primary dysmenorrhea. Acupuncture significantly improved pain when compared to a placebo control as well as NSAIDs. Acupuncture also strongly reduced menstrual symptoms when compared with medication.

Believe it or not, your period can show up easily without PMS or pain. Cramps mean that your uterine wall has too much lactic acid in it leading to muscle tension/cramping and uneasy flow. That's not normal. Women's issues respond very well to acupuncture and Chinese herbal prescriptions.

Nerve regeneration and acupuncture; it happens!

2011-11-02T05:16:00.001-07:00

I always knew that acupuncture and Chinese Herbal prescriptions successfully treat conditions like neuropathy, post-stroke paralysis and speech issues; I have a patient whom I've helped smile again after a death defying motorcycle accident.

Here's a study that demonstrates neurogenesis as the result of acupuncture: Journal of Acup Meridian Study, 2011, Sept; 4(3): 153-158.

See an abstract of the study http://www.acupuncture.com/newsletters/m_nov11/res.htm. Remember though, this sort of result is not from one treatment. I never promise the "miracle cure" although sometimes it does happen. And for those who say "but I don't have to see my MD everyday" .... really? How many pharmaceutical prescriptions are you taking? In essence, that IS seeing your physician every day. You're just not physically going to his/her office. If you received acupuncture every day .... well, you wouldn't have to do that very long before seeing effects of treatment. That's my goal: treat you until your body can take over to a healthy state again. Start out w/ frequent treatment the wean off as you body begins to heal itself. Then, just come in for maintenance or when a symptom comes up!

Acupuncture training: What does L.Ac. mean?

2011-10-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what "L.Ac." means? Or wondered what training this person doing acupuncture has had? Here are your answers. L.Ac., those of us who are trained in the medical system called Chinese Medicine of which acupuncture is just one of the therapies are required to have 3 to 4 years of academic education in an approved Traditional Chinese Medicine school. Naturally, physicians can do acupuncture and generally they take a 300 hour course if they want to add acupuncture to their medical practice. Chiropractors can get "certified" to do acupuncture after a 100 hour course. Physical therapists do something called "dry needling" or trigger point therapy - don't get confused, this is NOT acupuncture and should not be called such. There are weekend courses in dry needling for PTs who want to add it to their cache of therapies. Where does that leave you, the consumer? Ask questions! Ask where your practitioner went to school and/or how much training he or she has in acupuncture. Ask what his/her theory of treatment is, how good a needler is the practitioner, etc. As I said, practitioners like me are what I called "fully trained" in Chinese Medicine AND nationally certified by the NCCAOM. We practice acupuncture, manual therapies like guasha, we can prescribe Chinese herbal medicines, auricular acupuncture, and more. Some of us also have additional training. My doctorate degree is in Research Psychology and my experience with allopathic (Western or modern) medicine was in doing research with heart patients. After a number of years of professing and research assignments I decided to learn Chinese Medicine. Being a research scientist is helpful in my Chinese Medicine practice because I can determine whether studies about acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are well done. There are many gifted practitioners available. Do your research and find the one who is right for you!

Your First Fertility Choice - Chinese Medicine as in vitro fertility treatments are tied to risk of ovarian cancer

2011-10-28T05:34:00.000-07:00

Reported today in the Denver Post from the journal Human Reproduction: women whose ovaries are stimulated to produce extra eggs for in vitro fertilization have an increased risk of ovarian cancer later in life. The long-term risk for ovarian tumors is twice as high among women who undergo stimulation for in vitro fertilization compared with women who don't undergo such treatments to boost fertility. Lead researcher Professor Flora van Leeuwen said "If we find out that women who receive large doses of ovarian-stimulating drugs are at a greater risk for ovarian cancer, then these women would need to be in formed about these risks when continuing IVF treatment." Further research will be conducted to see if there is a connection between the risk of cancer and the number of IVF treatment cycles.

From a Chinese Medicine standpoint this is fascinating in that I have been telling my fertility patients for years that these medical procedures do two things: they create havoc in your hormonal system AND and they create qi and blood stagnation. What are tumors in Chinese Medicine? Qi and blood stagnation. And now this research shows that is true.

This is another example of how our bodies reject fooling around with our hormonal systems. Another example is the connection between Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in peri-menopausal women and the risk of cancer. And, in this case also, hot flashes and other symptoms or conditions that women deal with during this time of life can be successfully and safely treated using Chinese Medicine.

A third example of hormonal control is birth control pills. These have always been associated with a greater risk of blood clots and, in my humble opinion, are one of the reasons for this rash of fertility issues. If one begins to take hormones at 14 years old and takes them for 15 years, I wonder how it is thinkable that the body would then immediately go into a "normal" state to get pregnant.

There are natural, healthy ways to get the bodies of women AND men ready to conceive and support a successful pregnancy. Yes, MEN. The successful conception rate in my practice went up 30 to 40% when I insisted that the male partner also be treated. It's true .... getting pregnant is not all about the female.

Plantar fasciitis and acupuncture: start early in your symptom presentation!!

2011-10-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Scientists in Greece at the University of Athens tested two groups of athletes with plantar fasciitis. Both groups received conventional treatments, but only one group received acupuncture. Those who got needled experienced significantly more relief after just a matter of weeks. The researchers concluded that "acupuncture should be considered as a major therapeutic instrument for the decrease of heel pain, combined with traditional medical approaches."

The earlier you begin acupuncture, the better. This is always true - the younger the better and the earlier into your symptom the better. I can't stress how waiting until the last minute makes your treatment last longer and need to be more frequent. When people say that they "don't have to see their MD every day" I respond by saying "that's true. But you are taking medication every day or more than once a day! That is the equivalent of seeing your MD for treatment daily." Acupuncture heals rather than put on a bandaid to hide symptoms.

Ingredients: now triclosan in toothpaste may affect the thyroid

2011-10-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

I just read an interesting report about a chemical called triclosan that is in some toothpastes - the ones that say "anti-gingivitis". Turns out that, in animal studies, the triclosan negatively impacts the thyroid that controls some hormones, weight, mood, and energy. Another thing to watch out for - it's clearly on the label in the Drugs Facts box.

Obviously the other big thing to watch for is hormones, especially estrogens, in meats and dairy. Studies recommend that if you can only afford to eat partial organic, eat organic meat and dairy products to reduce hormone load. One of my theories about the crazy amount of fertility challenges that we see today is that the people - men and women - have been eating too much estrogen. Who knew back when they were children that foods contain hormones? Or that shampoos and other cosmetic items contained parabens that can turn estrogenic inside the body even though you are putting them on the body (the skin is a living organ that takes in chemicals).

Speaking of the skin, if you want to look great for the holidays and New Year, try Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture. It is absolutely the most healthy and safe option for cosmetic work. And, it improves your general health!

Individualized treatment & fertility: that's Chinese Medicine

2011-10-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

Another conception success! And this after the patient had been to a "fertility retreat" where she, and everyone else, was told to become gluten and dairy free plus a number of other things that needed to be done each and every day. She was a "mess" by the time I saw her. She had lost 11 lbs (I told her to gain it back) and the dairy & gluten thing. Really? This was a practitioner of Chinese Medicine giving "blanket advice" to the entire group? REPEAT AFTER ME: One of the real beauties of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the treatment of the individual. Everyone does not get the same treatment - or shouldn't if your practitioner is in tune with YOUR energy patterns. I don't like to have to say "buyer beware" but you are when you choose a physician or a massage therapist, right? Most people don't go to just anyone out of the phone book. Don't be afraid to ask the practitioner about his or her theory about Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, herbal prescriptions, and the other TCM therapies. This medicine's promise is to treat YOU, not give out blanket prescription medicine. So with this patient, I told her to get back on dairy, to quit some of her daily activities that were creating more stress (so much so that she hired a nanny so she could do all of these recommended activities), and to take herbs. Success is in the treatment of the individual not a group setting where everyone takes the same advice or prescription.

Libido not what it used to be? Chinese Medicine works!

2011-10-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Is your libido not what it used to be? That could be due to hormonal issues, stress, or even your last sports injury. Chinese Medicine successfully addresses hormonal issues in a safe way (take a look at the potential side effects of HRT vs. those of Chinese Medicine). Acupuncture reduces the negative impact of stress on your body thereby allowing your libido to thrive. And if you are active, some sports injuries or activities can block the flow of qi and blood to the pelvic area thereby reducing your libido ..... that's a matter of reopening your Dai Mai to get everything flowing again! Men: Chinese Medicine is a much safer option than the pharmaceutical drugs out there. For example, you don't have to worry about "temporary loss of vision" as a side effect. For a consult or treatment, call 303.947.6224 or email me at DrMLucas@AcupunctureWoman.com. All medical treatment is strictly confidential even with the treatment of couples (for fertility for example) and family members.

www.AcupunctureWoman.com

Digestion is how you make your qi/energy and ginger is so good for us!

2011-10-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting article about how ginger reduces inflammation. That is good news for us since many of the issues of aging center around inflammation (pain, acid reflux, more pain, skin rashes, etc.).

I recommend making yourself ginger tea w/ just a very thin slice of ginger (use a tool like a potato peeler) in hot/warm water. It is so wonderful to help manage digestion.

http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la-heb-ginger-colon-inflammation-20111012,0,7836755.story

Acupuncture and plantar fasciitis

2011-10-19T08:12:00.001-07:00

NCBI report: Acupuncture should be considered as a major therapeutic instrument to treat plantar fasciitis - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21868796. Suffering from heel pain? Schedule an appointment at 303-947-6224 or DrMLucas@AcupunctureWoman.com. We bill insurance!!

Acupuncture and plantar fasciitis

2011-10-19T08:09:00.001-07:00

Acupuncture and chemotherapy

2011-10-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture is a lovely and powerful adjunct treatment to receive during therapies used to treat cancer. http://www.nbc-2.com/story/15696599/health-matters-using-acupuncture-for-side-effects-of-chemotherapy

Acupuncture for stroke: don't give up!

2011-10-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is a nice read about how acupuncture can help minimize the negative impact of stroke. It also mentions that people shouldn't have to leave the country to get treatment (as demonstrated in the movie 9000 needles).

http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32474

New Study: 'MRI Acupuncture Research Shows Mind-Body Connection'

2011-10-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

Quoting from Health CMI this week:

"New research concludes that 'acupuncture may function as a somatosensory-guided mind-body therapy.' The research compared MRI readings of real acupuncture with sham acupuncture (needle stimulation at non-acupuncture point locations) at acupuncture point P-6 (Neiguan, Inner Pass). The MRI imaging showed that true acupuncture yielded greater activity over sham acupuncture in the dorsomedial prefontal cortex of the brain. Real acupuncture produced significantly 'greater activity in both cognitive/evaluative (posterior dmPFC) and emotional/interoceptive (anterior dmPFC) cortical regions' and the MRI results showed that true acupuncture 'increased cognitive load.'1"

I think this is demonstrative of the effectiveness of acupuncture.

Link to the Health CMI posting

Asthma inflammation and Vit E: Prevention even with signs of aging

2011-10-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

This is a very interesting study about how Vitamin E in its alpha-tocopherol form reduced lung inflammation in mice. What good news for asthmatics! One of my good friends, Dr. Kedar Prasad - an expert on vitamins and cancer treatment - has been touting the wonderfulness of the alpha-tocopherol form of Vitamin E for years. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal prescriptions may also reduce inflammation in the proper practitioner hands but maybe the addition of the alpha-tocopherol is a good thing. I'm certainly going to try it. Inflammation is one of the causes of many of the conditions of aging - including aging itself actually. Prevention, prevention, prevention. In fact, in the world of Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture I even like to say "prevent the waddle" .... the skin on the neck that starts to sag ... the best way (and sometimes the only way) to deal w/ that is through preventing it. Acupuncture works!!

http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/041109.htm

Acupuncture, worry, & high blood pressure.

2011-10-12T08:21:00.001-07:00

My November column in Acupuncture Today.

http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32478

Tim Tebow, acupuncture, and welts. ... Welts?!

2011-10-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture is in the news! "Acupuncture," Tebow said of the alternative treatment he received Friday afternoon on the recommendation of veteran safety Brian Dawkins .... "It actually makes you feel good." He was certain to clarify that it makes him feel good because the first line in the article said that he had "hockey puck-sized red welts" dotting his back. "Welts"? The article creates the impression that the acupuncture produced the welts. In my experience, you have to hope that it didn't create the welts. Maybe Tebow received cupping which can leave red circular marks (when done "vigorously") but still, not welts. I wish they had shown a photo of it so I could clarify what they meant but a good acupuncture needler/practitioner would not produce welts. Ask any of my patients! Maybe "welts" was too strong a word to describe the results but fear not: acupuncture does not leave welts. If Tebow would like a gentler, kinder yet super effective acupuncture I wish he'd drop by my office.

Acupuncture helps sports injuries or surgical injuries heal faster. Your practitioner may also use Chinese herbal prescriptions or gua sha - one of my personal favorite therapies - to help get you back to 100% quickly.

303-947-6224/AcupunctureWoman.com

Teaching Mei Zen in Vegas: Out of office on Monday

2011-10-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture: just one therapy in the system of Traditional Chinese Medicine

2011-10-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture is but one of the therapies available in the system of medicine that is called Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Practitioners also offer Chinese herbal prescriptions, gua sha &/or tuina (both manual therapies), cupping, nutritional advice according to the theory of TCM and energetics of food, QiGong (I give all of my patients a QiGong CD in which I guide you through moving the qi through your body and storing it in your lower dantian/belly), take-home acupuncture tacks or bio-ceramic balls, and I am excited to announce that I will be adding cold laser as an energetic/electrical therapy for pain and cosmetic work soon! In CO, our title "licensed acupuncturist" does not reflect our full scope of the medical practice. It is a limiting title for those of us who practice a system of medicine rather than one therapy.

Fertility and acupuncture or "I need to start a baby face page on my website"

2011-10-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

Another great story about fertility treatment acupuncture success when the couple had had other more invasive procedures without success and had more or less given up hope.

http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=189832

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Taking care of the life and body we are given

2011-10-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think I've had a little more than my share of sudden deaths of loved ones (my mom and beloved mentor for two). Yesterday news of another. Each time it makes me think about my life in terms of relationships mostly ..... do my children and grandchildren know how much I love them? Is everything in order in my personal relationships? And - this is very important - am I taking care of my health to the best of my ability? In other words, I am thrown back into a state of reality about taking life for granted. Taking everything for granted actually. It's tough to think about death and dying sometimes so I take these sudden deaths as messengers of a sort. They make me take pause and wonder about changes that I may need to make in my life, relationships, work, experiencing joy, etc. But one thing always stands out: the state of my health and the health of my loved ones. This body is the temple of my soul, of who I am in this world. If the car analogy works better for some - that is, you don't your car run without oil, right? You fix the dents and cracks in the windshield. Then why don't we do the same for our temple? Don't have time ..... costs too much .... it's only a temporary pain or symptom ... it'll go away ..... we have a million reasons why not to pay attention to our health. Well, today is another day where I will ponder that state of my life as I move through the emotions of another sudden death of someone. My family and I will go over the details, wonder why, complain about the state of health care in what I call "the valley" where my hometown is, etc. etc. I'm going to go now and do something good for my body/health. I hope you can take the time to do the same thing today.

Acupuncture in hospitals

2011-10-04T05:49:00.001-07:00

I wish that the Denver medical community wasn't so conservative. This is what should be happening everywhere:

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2011/oct/03/jupiter-medical-center-brings-acupuncture-to-the-o/. People deserve options. AND, acupuncture, Chinese herbal prescriptions, etc. accelerate healing. If an orthopedic surgeon had an acupuncturist on his or her staff, his/her patients would be the poster people for healing quickly after an orthopedic surgery. I did it three times myself: ACL reconstruction (running earlier than predicted), foot surgery (out of the boot early); broken wrist (out of the cast 2 weeks early) - all because, in my opinion, I did acupuncture near the injury/surgical site, used liniment that moves qi and blood, and took Chinese herbal prescriptions. And oh, no need for pharmaceutical pain killers.

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Acupuncture works! It's the "why" that is still difficult to put in W med terms

2011-10-03T07:52:00.001-07:00

We know that acupuncture works - it's the explanation in modern medicine terms that is still somewhat "mysterious". I can explain how Chinese Medicine works according to its theory but some people still want it to be explained according to their comfort zone. We're working on it!

http://www.theatlantic.com/life/archive/2011/09/a-healthy-poke-demystifying-the-science-behind-acupuncture/245816/

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Chinese herbs help fight cancer cells

2011-09-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting article about headway made in demonstrating the effectiveness of Chinese herbal prescriptions. Also, I like that it mentions that "acupuncturist" 'is a limiting term to describe those of us who have full Traditional Chinese Medicine training that includes herbal prescriptions.

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/452-anticancerherbnewresearchacupunctureceus

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Carrying Chinese Medicine down through generations

2011-09-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

Today, four and a half year old grandson Jonathan was in the treatment room w/ me. He donned an emblem that I have hanging on my supply cabinet and called himself "Chinese doctor Jonathan". He even touched the wrist of my patient to feel his pulses (just like Grandma). It was adorable. Passing it on!

Happy Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Day!

2011-09-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

This video is a little corny but cute.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXI_29BUL0g&feature=youtu.be

Call 303-947-6224 to set up an acupuncture appointment!

Acupuncture on the job

2011-09-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

How about weekly on-site acupuncture treatments for your staff?

In the September issue of the Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine an article titled "Employee use and perceived benefit of a complementary and alternative medicine wellness clinic at a major military hospital: evaluation of a pilot program." was published.

Results of a pilot program at a major military hospital indicate the hospital's employees would benefit from a wellness center that employs complementary and alternative therapies.

The objectives of the study were to examine the feasibility of a weekly on-site complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) wellness clinic for staff at a military hospital, and to describe employees' perceptions of program effectiveness. The study setting was at a United States Department of Defense hospital and the subjects were hospital nurses, physicians, clinicians, support staff and administrators, the abstract noted. Employees could select from ear acupuncture, clinical acupressure and Zero Balancing. A self-report survey was done after each clinic visit to evaluate clinic features and perceived impact on stress-related symptoms, compassion for patients, sleep, and workplace or personal relationships.

Among the results:

• 97.9 percent of participants strongly agreed they felt more relaxed after sessions;

• 94.5 percent of participants felt less stress after sessions;

• 84.3 percent of participants felt less pain after sessions; and

• 78.8 percent of participants would recommend the wellness center to a colleague.

Among surveys completed after five or more visits, more than half (59-85 percent of participants) "strongly agreed that experienced increased compassion with patients, better sleep, improved mood, and more ease in relations with co-workers”.

This study suggests that weekly CAM-based treatments have positive health benefits related to stress reduction at work as well as improved mood and sleep.

Let me set up such a program at your office for more productive, happier employees. Call 303-947-6224 or email DrMLucas@AcupunctureWoman.com.

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Chronic chest pain and acupuncture

2011-09-22T06:05:00.000-07:00

According to a recent article in Cardiology Journal, approximately 6.4 million people in the U.S. suffer from symptomatic cardiac disease usually involving fatigue and chest pain. For some, drug therapy or surgical procedures like cardiac bypass or angioplasty may cure their suffering. But those who continue to suffer with chest pain are known to have “Refractory Angina Pectoris” or simply RAP (also known as “intractable Angina Pectoris” or iAP). For these people, there is no clear cure. While there are numerous new experimental methods of helping, from spinal stimulators to the latest drugs, there is a very old therapy that has also shown to help reduce pain: Acupuncture.

Researchers at Liaocheng Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Shandong randomly divided up 70 RAP patients into two groups of 35 each. The control group received the standard medications including nitric acid, beta blockers, calcium antagonists, aspirin and heparin. The study group received the same drugs and acupuncture once daily for 10 consecutive days. The group that received the addition of acupuncture improved significantly over the group that only received drug therapy on measures of perceived pain (89% vs. 60%), electrocardiogram readings (63% vs. 31%) and even sudden death (6% vs. 20%). (Acupuncture.com, T Boldt)

That’s pretty impressive! And to boot, the patients who received acupuncture were also receiving an overall body balancing like you do when you see a TCM Practitioner whose diagnostic skills are good. Ask your practitioner about his or her pulse diagnosis training including courses taken after formal academic TCM training to determine their level of skill. Remember, a proper diagnosis drives effective treatment and you are not just there to get pain relief. You are receiving treatment to balance your overall qi so that your general health is better. That way, your pain goes away because your body is better at staying balanced. Acupuncture should not just be a bandaid treatment. That is, seeing someone who puts needles only where your pain is. Treatment needs to encompass your entire body and energetic systems. Call or email me if you have questions about diagnosis and treatment. 303-947-6224; DrMLucas@AcupunctureWoman.com.

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Rolfing/Acupuncture energetics journal continued

2011-09-21T10:38:00.000-07:00

Had to take a couple of Rolfing sessions off in favor of dealing w/ a mt biking back "injury" and to give my lumbar discs a rest but back on track! Session 7 today: neck area. One of the most fascinating things is to feel Amanda put my body/head "in center" and how awkward that feels to me. Me? Not centered? Please.

Yes, it's true, the body (esp one that gets used for sports) can get physically out of center. Think of the impact that just walking plus gravity puts on our bodies every day. Ever been rear-ended? Then it is likely that your Dai Mai channel is blocked and your physical body gets out of center/balance when your energetic channels that regulate the upward and downward flow of Qi (Dai Mai) are blocked. That's one reason why I think that Acupuncture combined w/ Rolfing would be one of the greatest series of treatments ever.

Acupuncture point/energetic-wise: the areas that she worked on in this session have several Window of the Sky points. Their names say it all: Heavenly Appearance, Window of Heaven, Heavenly Prominence - strong Spirit level points. Modern society's tendency is to block our Spirit from fully feeling; not good. A fully lived life includes feeling our emotions during experiences rather than blocking the emotions in the hopes of dealing with them "later". Free your Spirit!

Cramps before, during, or after your period? That's not normal!

2011-09-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

Cramps? Cramps are not part of a "normal" period. They mean that the uterine muscle has too much lactic acid in it thereby causing cramping - just like when you overuse another muscle and it hurts. Not having cramps is a very pleasant experience AND if you are considering pregnancy, then you really need to get your periods regulated so that you don't even know they're coming: no PMS (mood swings, swelling, bloating, cramps, etc. etc.) Try Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture/herbal prescriptions.

http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1089/acu.2011.2303

Acupuncture, tea, and digestion

2011-09-19T07:22:00.001-07:00

One of the benefits to those who come to me for Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture treatment is that I am fairly fanatical about working to improve the digestion. And, I am a font of nutritional advice for you! Good digestion is one of the key ingredients is maintaining a vibrant life – actually, it’s pretty much THE key since digestion is how we make our qi. It is where we create the energy on which we live. When your digestion runs smoothly, you get the maximum nutrients from your food that keep your body functioning in peak condition. Unfortunately our society is marked by poor digestion – whether that be caused by inadequate chewing, stress, poor choice of foods (and non-foods), medication & supplement side-effects, etc. Here are some things that you can try at home for better digestion (and therefore better qi production!!)

Peppermint tea improves gastric secretions, settles the stomach, and alleviates gas. But, be aware that it may cause some acid reflux if you already suffer from it.

Chamomile tea settles the stomach – it’s actually a good all around relaxer.

Ginger … ahh, ginger. Ginger has been known practically forever to benefit those who suffer from nausea. But it also soothes the stomach’s digestive lining and balances gastric juices. It actually can help us absorb nutrients better. Be careful to use a very thin slice of fresh ginger because, like peppermint, it can cause acid reflux.

I also highly recommend fennel tea. Fennel improves peristalsis so it’s great for good digestion. Or try this prescription: flash fry fennel seeds, keep a bowl on the kitchen table, eat before, during, after meals.

Licorice (tea not candy) soothes the gastro-intestinal system.

If tea isn’t your “bag”, you can drink warm lemon water to receive a number of benefits including cleaning out your intestines first thing in the AM. Try some of these natural digestive aids and let me know how it works for you. And don’t forget to call me if you want help regulating your digestion and your creation of qi using TCM/Acupuncture. It works!!

Acupuncture treats breast cancer lymphedema

2011-09-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

We all pretty much know that acupuncture and herbs are the bomb when it comes to supporting people who are experiencing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy in terms of reducing the potential negative side effects. Now research demonstrates that acupuncture treats the lymphedema that may accompany treatment for breast cancer. My specialty is internal medicine, treating what I call "serious chronic illness" and that includes treating those who are receiving strong allopathic care (as well as those whose meds etc. don't work) and it is very rewarding to improve the quality of life for those who are experiencing those strong (and somewhat toxic) treatments. In that respect, Traditional Chinese Medicine rocks! Additionally, some people use my QiGong CD during their chemo treatemtn - it helps them relax and keeps their qi flowing during the treatment thereby minimizing the potential for negative side effects from the start. http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/446-acupuncturetreatsbreastcancerlymphedemanewyork

Acupuncture and fibromyalgia

2011-09-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm back online finally. This is a great article about the effective treatment of fibromyalgia using acupuncture: https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/Acupuncture+for+Fibromyalgia+Syndrome

Once again, Traditional Chinese Medicine shines where allopathic medicine isn't so effective. Don't get me wrong: we need allopathic medicine. If I break a bone, I'm going to see an allopath. BUT, I am also going to receive acupuncture, take herbs, do my QiGong and get out of my cast earlier than the average patient.

Hope you have a wonderful and healthy day!

Rolfing journal

2011-08-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

Blog is back up! (so is email on my laptop, not certain about iPad yet, haven't used it).

Where to start? Let's start w/ the Rolfing journal since you've missed comments for sessions 3,4, &5.

Session 3: I'm taller. True. Amanda worked on lengthening the sides during that session. I got up to look in the mirror after she worked on the L side and it was so smooth. The right side (not worked on yet) had that little roll of fat that some of us have when in bathing suits and it looked "scrunched up". Very COOL. And, no more pain in the sides when I do things like turn to reach for my seat belt. Discomfort level: basically nil (disclaimer: I can only speak for myself on discomfort levels).

Session 4: the legs, ow. But to have untangled calves, quads, and hamstrings is worth it.

Session 5: the core, loved it! And, this would be a great session for women who are having fertility challenges as I could feel the RenMai and ChongMai channels opening, filling, getting warm. COOL again! Amanda and I are always talking about how TCM and Rolfing would go so well together. I strongly advise this treatment to all women who need their bellies opened, centered, untwisted and will recommend it to my fertility patients. No waking up w/ crooked hips since this session. Discomfort level for me was nil.

I'll catch you up on any TCM/Acupuncture updates in next writing.

Denver Acupuncture - contact advisory

2011-08-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

The e-mail address drmlucas@acupuncturewoman.com is migrating to another server and not operational for a few days. In the interim, please us energymedicinewoman@yahoo.com or call 303-947-6224 to reach Dr. Lucas.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

The Chinese Medicine Practitioner does NOT need a machine to make a diagnosis

2011-08-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here is an article from Acupuncture Today about a computerized method of diagnosis that prints out a bunch of pretty charts for patients/clients.

You know what? The practitioner needs to be skilled in Pulse Diagnosis by hand (in my humble opinion). Sure, people like colorful graphs. But they also like someone who can take their pulses, DRAW how they look, and then explain them in plain English. Additionally, these machines do not tell the person how the qi is working between channels or why it is not flowing properly. This is told by putting your hands/fingers on the patient and feeling the qi person-to-person.

Link to the article: http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32452

Afraid of acupuncture needles?

2011-08-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

No need to be! These are NOT syringes. Practitioners of Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture have a wide variety of needle gauges from which to choose. I use 38 to 42 gauge ... very very thin, even flexible, that's how thin. Plus, there are different theories about needling. I take the very gentle, non-painful approach while others may believe that it "has to hurt" in order to be effective. No, it doesn't. Having a theoretical perspective like that keeps people away from acupuncture. Albeit that is the "traditional" Asian way, it doesn't have to be done in a manner that is rough on the person. Heck, I wouldn't want to receive acupuncture if it hurt - so I choose gentle practitioners who are well trained in pulse diagnosis so that they have a similar treatment perspective to mine. Remember, the good diagnosis is key to successful treatment. If a practitioner is just doing "prescription Chinese Medicine", that is, the person has a headache so they do "prescribed" points, that may not work so well. Because YOU are an individual and you deserve individualized - and gentle - treatment.

Rolfing journal: session 2

2011-08-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today was session 2: the feet - our base. Intense! Some of the work offers some discomfort - intense therapeutic sensations, let's say. Amanda and I have an agreement about not going above an 8 on the intensity scale. I said "8" maybe four times today so the work is therapeutic and (I think) tolerable. I wouldn't use the words "hurt" or "pain". Pain is a sensation over which we have little control and may not understand why it is occurring. The Rolfing sensations are "therapeutically intense". :o) During the sessions I am usually thinking about the acupuncture points or channels that are being treated. When Amanda worked on Kidney 1 (Yongquan, Rushing Spring) I could feel a real opening up toward my lower belly (our Mingmen Fire). I thought about what the Masters have said about Kidney 1 - when you put heat on K1 the qi will rise up to the digestion like it did when you were prepubescent. Who wouldn't want to have all of that young, vibrant energy again? So my feet were better in touch with the Earth after the session, posture better, AND Mingmen Fire refreshed (i.e., body centered). Back feeling good.

Should I start wearing a white coat when I do acupuncture treatments?

2011-08-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

According to this study, patients are more comfortable w/ a practitioner who wears a white coat. What?!?! I thought that the white coat raised blood pressure. Read on ...

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21721926

Fertility issues? Do not give up!

2011-08-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

Treating couples who are struggling through fertility challenges is one of my specialties. In fact, sometimes using Chinese Medicine is a better start than doing allopathic medicine procedures. Stats show that only about 37% of women who undergo IVF have a successful pregnancy .... I don't mean to boast but my successful pregnancy rate using Chinese Medicine is higher than that. And, the treatments are healthier and better for both mother and child (the Dad too often needs treatment).

Here is an article with more information:

http://www.chinesemedicinetimes.com/section/463/1/the_treatment_of_premature_ovarian_failure_using_traditional_chinese_medicineh

Rolfing journal Day 1

2011-08-03T11:26:00.001-07:00

Wow! I went in w/ a stiff, crooked back and came out feeling great. Intense work, no doubt, but I am so looking forward to the entire process. My skin reacted because the Lung and LI channels were worked on (according to Chinese Medicine those channels run the skin and immune system therefore if blocked you may have allergies, skin issues, breathing probs etc.).

It's fun for me to experience the Rolfing work while thinking about Chinese Medicine and how all of this makes sense. A non-Chinese Med practitioner wouldn't be able to think the same way about the results or sensations so I am lucky in that way. The body is an amazing energetic form. And Amanda Rach is so skilled w/ this work.

Chronic back pain? Acupuncture works!

2011-08-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

Denver Acupuncture Expert

‎128 pages demonstrating that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of back pain. But you'll notice, results get better over a 2 year period. Dealing with our aging aches and pain takes work on our part; not a magic pill. And remember, the magic pills often carry negative side effects with them!
http://www.hta.ac.uk/fullmono/mon932.pdf

Richard Lucas: The Girl Who'd Lost Her Violin

2011-08-01T06:34:00.000-07:00

This is a very funny yet sweet story that includes childhood memories. My brother Richard is an excellent writer and teller of stories.

Richard Lucas: The Girl Who'd Lost Her Violin

Mei Zen skin care at the Denver County Fair

2011-07-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

Another day at our Mei Zen Skin care booth at the Denver County Fair. Stop by to try the best natural skin care line available - we use all natural ingredients including Chinese herbals infusions. We're in the Fashion section. You can also pick up information about Cosmetic Acupuncture and acupuncture in general; I'll be there from 2 to 10PM.

Mei Zen skin care at the Denver County Fair

2011-07-29T05:52:00.001-07:00

Join me this weekend at the Denver County Fair to try Mei Zen natural skin care products. We have a dynamite skin revitalizing serum, pearl cream with sea buckthorn oil in it that makes it a beautiful golden color, toner, frankincense bamboo scrub - all with Chinese herbs and other natural ingredients. Meet my co-producer of the line, Eujenia of Silfiz skin care. We have sample sizes for sale, small investment for trying products that will bring back the youthfulness in your skin!

Acupuncture very supportive in relieving symptoms caused by tamoxifen in the treatment of breast cancer

2011-07-27T07:30:00.003-07:00

Women taking tamoxifen experience hot flashes and night sweats; according to research, acupuncture offers a nonpharmaceutical method of management PLUS improved quality of life.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20954961

Acupuncture for schizophrenia

2011-07-26T05:31:00.001-07:00

There are 2 things I'd like to comment on here. First, acupuncture/Traditional Chinese work for emotional conditions. Second, this study (like many others) demonstrates, for one thing, how the body heals faster with more frequent treatment ...... the once a week acupuncture treatment for chronic conditions may not work. Want to cure your condition or reduce your symptoms, lose weight, prepare for pregnancy? Then, more than once a week may be the answer. http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/419-acupuncturealleviatesschizophrenia

"Take home" needles are the bomb

2011-07-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture rocks! My ACL reconstructed knee has been golden for 10 yrs and counting. To keep it working perfectly during this past weekend's soccer tournament (5 games including the finals where we took first place in our division away from the first placed team .... yay!!) I needled it on Saturday PM and put little tiny needles on tape in it for Sunday's play. Today: no knee pain at all, none!

Protect your skin in the sun!

2011-07-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

Had a great day playing in a soccer tournament (tomorrow too!) Wore my Mei Zen skin care products, super strength sunscreen, Hauschka day toner, and hat. No sense getting Cosmetic Acupuncture if I don't protect my face, neck, and decolette.

Mei Zen Cosmetics at Denver County Fair

2011-07-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Mei Zen Cosmetics is at booth 164 in the fashion section at the Denver County Fair next weekend. Come check out our lovely artisan collection of skin care items including our Golden Radiance Pearl Cream .... everyone's skin needs pearl! www.denvercountyfair.org

"Martha moves mojo!"

2011-07-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

Said by one of my acupuncture clients today .... should I add that to my email signature line?

Mothers need less medication during labor when they use acupuncture

2011-07-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

Having to take fewer prescription drugs is a good thing during labor:

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/415-acupuncturelaborpainnewresearch

Acupuncture insurance coverage

2011-07-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

Does your insurance cover acupuncture treatment? I am willing to bill your insurance if they cover Acupuncture. You can fill out one of my insurance verification forms and we can find out. Work for the Fed? Several of those groups cover 26 Acupuncture visits a year!!

Acupuncture increases blood flow to brain

2011-07-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

The acupoint mentioned in this study is one of my favorites and one that I use on pretty much 100% of my patients. In fact, when I teach other practitioners I usually mention my favorite Du 20, Du 24 combination and that Du 20 is excellent at managing Yang, not necessarily raising it only. And, I am correct! -- it helps the brain without necessarily raising Yang too much.

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/414-acupunctureceusresearchenhancedbloodflowbrain

Acupuncture treats depression

2011-07-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

Many people don't realize that emotional "conditions" like depression and anxiety can be successfully treated with TCM/Acupuncture. I love opening the Spirit level so that my patients can feel their happiness.

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/407-acupuncturetreatsdepressionresearchceusx2

PR Web Overview: Denver Acupuncturist Dr. Martha Lucas Conducts Intensive Seminar Sessions for Physicians in Turkey

2011-07-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

I was in Turkey last month (for the third year in a row), teaching Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture and Pulse Diagnosis to medical doctors.

Background: A physician from Antalya, Dr. Asuman Kaplan Algin, attended one of my cosmetic acupuncture seminars in the States a few years ago and asked if I would teach Mei Zen™ Cosmetic Acupuncture in Turkey. After the first year of teaching in Turkey, the physicians became interested in also learning my Pulse Balance System of diagnosis. This year, both courses were taught in addition to Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. The diagnosis course is especially beneficial since proper diagnosis leads to the most effective treatment plan.

Link to the PR Web newswire

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Acupuncture is not only for adults.

2011-07-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture for colic - quoting Dr. Nithin Jayan:

"The next time your baby has a colic and cries incessantly, try acupuncture instead of medical treatment is the message of a recent study. Minimal acupuncture was found to shorten the duration and reduce the intensity of crying in infants with colic without producing any side effects."

Link to the article

Chronic pain relief

2011-07-02T15:44:00.001-07:00

According to this article in the Denver Post, modern medicine is sorely trained to treat chronic pain. And, it seems that many physicians have a more or less "negative" attitude toward patients who suffer from chronic pain.

Enter Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Acupuncture works!

Link: http://www.denverpost.com/nationworld/ci_18380718

New Column from Denver-based Acupuncturist Dr. Martha Lucas: "Food for Thought About Beauty, Inside And Out"

2010-12-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

Quoting from Dr. Martha Lucas' column in the current issue of Acupuncture Today:

"Friedrich Nietzsche said, 'At bottom every man knows well enough that he is a unique being, only once on this earth; and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is, ever be put together a second time.' This doesn't seem very true in our current society where many people are searching for cosmetic procedures outside themselves in order to feel good "at bottom." For some, no matter how many cosmetic procedures they endure, there will be no self-acceptance... Dr. Martha Lucas practices TCM in Denver. She is an internationally known instructor of pulse diagnosis and cosmetic acupuncture as well as the author of Vanity Calamity: Your Guide to Cosmetic Acupuncture for Anti-Aging. She is also a moderator on the Acupuncturetoday.com "Ask an Acupuncturist" forum."

Link to AcupunctureToday.com

MeiZen Facial Acupuncture, Co-Developed & Taught Internationally by Denver's Own Dr. Martha Lucas, Is Featured in Oprah's June O Magazine

2010-05-21T15:50:00.001-07:00

Stop everything you're doing right now and go to the newsstand to pick up a copy of the June O Magazine. Why? Because MeiZen Facial Acupuncture is featured on page 164. MeiZen is the facial acupuncture system co-developed and taught internationally by Denver's own Dr. Martha Lucas. The photo was taken at the practice of Martha's New York student, Dr. Melinda Mingus. In addition to co-developing the MeiZen system, Martha is also the author of Vanity Calamity and a true acupuncture trailblazer! We admire Dr. Lucas' unwavering passion and dedication to Chinese medicine http://www.acupuncturewoman.com/.

If you're interested in learning more about the MeiZen system and not in the Denver area for assistance from Dr. Martha Lucas, you can find a MeiZen certified acupuncture practitioner in your area at this link: http://www.cosmeticacupunctureseminars.com/practitioners.html.

New column: Teaching Cosmetic Acupuncture in Turkey

2009-12-10T12:41:00.001-08:00

Denver-based Martha Lucas, PhD, LAc is now a columnist for ACUPUNCTURE Today. Her first column is in the just released January 2010 issue.

Link to Dr. Lucas' column about teaching cosmetic acupuncture in Turkey

Denver-based Cosmetic Acupuncture Expert Dr. Martha Lucas Conducts Intensive Seminar Sessions for Physicians in Istanbul

2009-10-09T19:26:00.000-07:00

Denver-based Cosmetic Acupuncture specialist and author Martha Lucas, Ph.D., L.Ac., has recently returned from a teaching tour of Istanbul. The announcement is made by Dr. Lucas, who says “The interest in safe, natural, non-invasive cosmetic procedures simply spans the globe now. MDs in Turkey are trained in acupuncture but don’t have the specialty training like I offer in cosmetic protocols.”

Link to the TCM Directory

Denver-based Cosmetic Acupuncture Expert Dr. Martha Lucas Conducts Intensive Seminar Sessions for Physicians in Istanbul

2009-09-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

Martha Lucas, Ph.D., L.Ac., author of Vanity Calamity, recently taught Mei Zen™ Cosmetic Acupuncture to medical doctors in Istanbul. MDs in Turkey are trained in Acupuncture but don't necessarily have specialty training like that offered by Dr. Lucas.

A physician from Antalya, Turkey, had attended one of Dr. Lucas' cosmetic acupuncture seminars in the States last year and asked if she would teach Mei Zen™ Cosmetic Acupuncture in Turkey this year. According to Dr. Lucas, it is apparent women all over the world are searching for safe, natural, non-invasive cosmetic procedures of which Cosmetic Acupuncture is becoming one of the most popular.

Link to the PRWeb newswire

6/22/09: Denver-based Acupuncturist, Dr. Martha Lucas, Releases New Book: 'Vanity Calamity: Your Guide to Cosmetic Acupuncture for Anti-aging'

2009-09-24T13:35:00.001-07:00

Martha Lucas, Ph.D., L.Ac., Denver-based acupuncturist and practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has authored "Vanity Calamity: Your Guide to Cosmetic Acupuncture for Anti-aging." The announcement is made by Dr. Lucas who says "Vanity Calamity tells the history of vanity and what women have been willing to do to look younger or more beautiful. Now there's a healthy, safe option - Cosmetic Acupuncture. My new book, now available for purchase at Amazon.com, shares how to look young naturally, including foods that nourish the skin."

Link to the PR Web newswire

3/30/09: Death of the Facelift

2009-09-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

"Martha Lucas, Ph.D., an acupuncturist in the Capitol Hill area who specializes in Mei Zen cosmetic acupuncture, says the needles create tiny wounds, engaging the body to send microblasts of collagen to the site. Before-and-after photos indicate it's very effective in smoothing skin and evening its tone, but because there haven't been many randomized, controlled studies, some in the community have been slow to embrace it as a viable choice."

Link to the article posting

12/13/07: Many Paths but One Goal [Skin Deep: Hold the Chemicals, Bring on the Needles]

2009-09-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

"MEI ZEN This system, developed by Martha Lucas. . .in 2003, uses shallow needling techniques with Korean face and hand needles. A treatment plan may also include herbs, qigong exercises and burning the herb mugwort to stimulate qi. Find a practitioner at http://www.cosmeticacupunctureseminars.com."

Link to the article posting and related feature

9/14/07: Eastern Medicine Goes West

2009-09-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

"A Denver, Colorado practitioner of TCM, Martha Lucas, who has been running a private practice for nearly six years, adds that many of her patients express frustration with the rising cost of medical care, the side effects, the lack of individual care, and are often 'disappointed with the outcome' of modern medicine. 'People realize a pill doesn't always cure everything," she says. Part of the effectiveness of TCM is the approach, according to Ms. Lucas, which focuses on prevention and maintaining good health. TCM "looks for the cause of the pain -- and we treat that, not just the symptoms.'"

Link to the article posting

1/21/05: Acupuncture: The New Facelift? Can those tiny little needles really get rid of your wrinkles?

2009-09-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

"Martha Lucas, PhD, LAc, a Colorado acupuncturist, says after a series of 10 treatments (twice a week for five weeks), skin becomes more delicate and fair, and there are fewer wrinkles. She says the treatments also result in an erasing of fine lines and a reduction of deeper lines, less sagginess, a lifting of droopy eyelids, and a clearing or reduction of age spots. And, as an added bonus, she says, there is an overall rejuvenation that is not confined to your face."

Link to the article posting

12/16/04: Acupuncture gets a face lift and much more

2009-09-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

"Cosmetic acupuncture practitioners and patients swear by the results: Foreheads are smoothed, tummies tucked, breasts lifted and double chins become single once again. And as tales of botched Botox injections spread — the lawsuit filed by a sickened Beverly Hills socialite; at least four Botox recipients now seriously ill with botulism — acupuncturists say their non-toxic technique is proving ever more alluring."

Link to the article posting