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Tension Headaches and Migraines: How to Tell Them Apart, What Helps and When to Get Checked

Woman pressing her fingers to her temples with a headache

It starts as a dull squeeze around your forehead by mid-afternoon. Or it’s a throbbing pain behind one eye that sends you looking for a dark, quiet room. Headaches are very common, and knowing which kind you have is the first step toward finding what helps.

Tension headache, migraine or neck headache?

There are many types of headache. Three of the most common are tension-type headaches, migraines and cervicogenic headaches (headaches that start in the neck). Here’s a rough guide to how they often feel:

TypeHow it often feelsCommon clues
Tension-typeA dull, pressing band or tight cap around the head, usually on both sidesTight neck and shoulders, stress, long days at a screen. Usually mild to moderate.
MigraineThrobbing or pulsing pain, often on one side, lasting hours to a few daysNausea, sensitivity to light or sound, worse with activity. Some people see visual changes (an “aura”) beforehand.
Cervicogenic (neck-related)Pain that starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward, usually on one sideNeck stiffness, pain that changes with neck movement or certain positions

This is a starting point, not a way to diagnose yourself.

Why do headaches happen?

Tension-type and neck-related headaches are often linked to how our muscles and joints are coping. Tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, jaw and scalp can refer pain into the head. Stiff joints in the upper neck can do the same. Long hours at a desk, clenching your jaw, poor sleep and stress all tend to stack up.

Migraine is different. It’s a neurological condition, and it often runs in families. Attacks can be set off by triggers such as missed meals, dehydration, changes in sleep, hormonal changes, bright light, strong smells, alcohol or stress. Our older post on what triggers your migraine covers several common ones.

What can I do at home?

  • Keep a headache diary. Jot down when each headache starts, how it feels, what you were doing, what you ate and how you slept. After a few weeks, patterns often show up.
  • Keep the basics steady. Regular meals, plenty of water and a consistent sleep schedule (even on weekends) can make a real difference, especially for migraine.
  • Take screen breaks. Every 30 minutes, look away from the screen, roll your shoulders and gently turn your head side to side. Raise your monitor so you aren’t looking down all day.
  • Relax your jaw. Notice if you clench while you concentrate. Lips together, teeth apart, tongue resting on the roof of your mouth.
  • Try heat or cold. A warm pack on the neck and shoulders may ease a tension headache. Some people with migraine prefer a cool cloth on the forehead or neck.
  • Use pain medication wisely. Using pain relievers on many days each month can lead to “rebound” headaches. If you’re reaching for them often, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

When should I get it checked?

Book an assessment if your headaches are frequent, are getting worse, keep you from work or sleep, or come with neck pain and stiffness. If you think you have migraines, see your family doctor as well. Migraine has specific medical treatments, and a diagnosis helps everyone on your care team.

Get medical care right away (see your doctor, or go to emergency) if you have:

  • A sudden, severe headache that peaks within a minute, or the “worst headache of your life”
  • A headache with fever, a stiff neck, rash or confusion
  • A headache after a fall, blow to the head or car accident
  • Weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, drooping of the face, loss of balance or vision changes
  • A new headache pattern after age 50, or a headache that keeps getting worse over days or weeks
  • A headache that wakes you from sleep and comes with vomiting

How we help with headaches

Our team looks for what may be feeding your headaches, especially the neck, shoulders and jaw. We’ll work alongside your family doctor when that’s the right fit. You can learn more on our neck pain and headaches page.

Chiropractic

Our chiropractors assess the joints and muscles of your neck and upper back, which can play a part in tension-type and neck-related headaches. Care may include spinal manipulation or gentler low-force options, soft tissue work, exercises and posture advice. Dr. Tessa Bryan, DC uses soft tissue therapies, instrument-assisted and manual techniques, cupping and therapeutic exercise. Dr. Alexia Grelson, DC has additional training in cranial techniques and is especially interested in helping patients shift out of tension and into ease. Dr. Matthew Bryan, DC takes a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Krisjan Gustavson, DC has been in practice since 1986.

Registered Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can ease tight neck, shoulder, jaw and scalp muscles and may help reduce tension headaches. Craig Lawrence, RMT has practised since 2006 and focuses on trigger point release, often for working professionals dealing with desk-bound aches and tension headaches. Braedan Pearce, RMT uses myofascial release, trigger point release and stretching, with a calming pace that supports stress relief. Alex Baan-Meiklejohn, RMT trained in trigger point therapy and stretching,. Morag Hart, RMT and McKenzie Connell, RMT tailor each treatment to your needs.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another option that may help with headaches, muscle tension and the stress that often comes with them. Lauren Ching, R.Ac supports people with pain and stress management, sleep and emotional regulation, using techniques including scalp acupuncture and cupping. Rebecca Thompson, R.Ac, R.TCM.P includes chronic pain, insomnia and mental and emotional health among her clinical focuses. Annie Wang, R.Ac, R.TCM.P works with myofascial tension, postural pain and stress-related concerns. Jun Liu, R.Ac works with musculoskeletal pain, postural concerns and insomnia, and provides care in English, Mandarin and French.

Book an appointment

If headaches are getting in the way of your work, sleep or weekends, we’d be glad to help you sort out what’s going on. We bill most insurance plans directly, so you can focus on feeling better.

Book online or call us at 250-382-0018. You’ll find us at 1063 Fort Street in downtown Victoria.

This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for an assessment by a qualified health professional.

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Neck Pain and “Tech Neck”: Causes, Desk Fixes and When to Get It Checked

Woman holding the top of her shoulder and neck where it hurts

You finish a long day at the laptop, check your phone on the bus home, and by evening your neck feels stiff, achy and tight across the shoulders. Sound familiar? Neck pain is one of the most common reasons people visit our clinic, and the way we work and scroll today often plays a part.

What is “tech neck”?

“Tech neck” is a casual name for neck and upper back pain linked to long periods of looking down at a phone, tablet or laptop. It isn’t a formal diagnosis, but it describes a pattern we see often.

Your head weighs about as much as a bowling ball. When it sits balanced over your shoulders, your neck muscles don’t have to work very hard. As your head drifts forward and down, those muscles have to hold more of that load, for longer. Over hours and days, that can add up to:

  • Stiffness when turning your head, like checking your blind spot while driving
  • Aching or burning between the shoulder blades and across the tops of the shoulders
  • Tight, tender spots in the neck and shoulder muscles
  • Headaches that start at the base of the skull and wrap forward

Posture isn’t the whole story, though. There’s no single “perfect” posture. Staying in any position for too long tends to be the bigger problem. Stress, poor sleep, an old injury and low overall activity can all make the neck more sensitive too.

What can I do at home?

  • Bring the screen up to you. Raise your laptop or monitor so the top of the screen is near eye level, and hold your phone a little higher instead of dropping your chin to it.
  • Move often. Set a reminder to change position every 30 minutes. Stand up, roll your shoulders and look around the room. Small, frequent breaks beat one long stretch at the end of the day.
  • Try chin tucks. Sitting tall, gently glide your chin straight back (like making a double chin), hold for a few seconds and relax. Repeat 5 to 10 times, a few times a day.
  • Open up the upper back. Sit tall, squeeze your shoulder blades gently back and down, and hold for a few breaths. A walk with your arms swinging freely helps too.
  • Check your pillow. Your pillow should keep your head level with your spine, not propped up or sagging. Sleeping on your stomach often twists the neck.
  • Use heat or cold. Either can ease pain and muscle tension. Use whichever feels better. Our post on relief for a stiff neck has a few more simple ideas.

Movement should feel easy and comfortable. If an exercise makes your pain sharper or sends symptoms down your arm, stop and get it checked.

When should I get it checked?

Book an assessment if your neck pain lasts more than a week or two, keeps coming back, wakes you at night, or comes with headaches, or tingling or numbness in your arm or hand.

Get medical care right away (see your doctor, or go to emergency) if you have:

  • Neck pain after a fall, car accident or other injury
  • A sudden, severe headache unlike any you’ve had before
  • Fever with a stiff neck, especially with a headache or sensitivity to light
  • Weakness, clumsiness or loss of coordination in your arms or legs
  • Dizziness, trouble speaking or swallowing, double vision or fainting
  • Unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer along with new neck pain

How we help with neck pain

Neck pain often involves joints, muscles and everyday habits all at once. Having several disciplines under one roof means we can look at the whole picture and refer you in-house if another approach would suit you better.

Chiropractic

Our chiropractors assess how your neck and upper back are moving, and may use spinal manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue work, exercises and workstation advice to ease pain and improve movement. Dr. Tessa Bryan, DC combines manual and instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques, cupping, RockTape and therapeutic exercise. Dr. Alexia Grelson, DC blends manual, instrument-assisted and drop-table techniques tailored to each patient’s comfort, and enjoys working with busy professionals. Dr. Matthew Bryan, DC takes a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care. Dr. Krisjan Gustavson, DC has been in practice since 1986.

Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists use manual therapy, education and a progressive exercise plan to build strength and endurance in the neck and upper back, so your body copes better with long days at a desk. Spirit Donahue, MPT centres his care on therapeutic exercise, manual therapy and patient education. Kanu Priya, MPT has over 10 years of experience and uses manual therapy, dry needling (IMS) and exercise prescription. Ivy Elling-Quaintance, MPT focuses on evidence-based exercise and movement, and has an interest in chronic pain management.

Registered Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can ease tight, tender neck and shoulder muscles and help you move more comfortably. Craig Lawrence, RMT has practised since 2006 and focuses on trigger point release, often for working professionals dealing with desk-bound aches and tension headaches. Braedan Pearce, RMT uses myofascial release, trigger point release, stretching and home care exercises, and works with neck, shoulder and arm pain. Morag Hart, RMT brings a particular empathy for chronic repetitive stresses on the body and tailors home care to each client.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another option that may help relieve neck pain and muscle tension. Jun Liu, R.Ac is also a certified Pilates instructor with over 20 years in therapeutic movement, and works with musculoskeletal pain and postural concerns. Annie Wang, R.Ac, R.TCM.P includes posture-related and myofascial pain among her clinical focuses, using acupuncture, cupping, gua sha and Tui Na.

Book an appointment

If your neck is making workdays harder than they need to be, we’d be glad to help. We bill most insurance plans directly, so you can focus on feeling better.

Book online or call us at 250-382-0018. You’ll find us at 1063 Fort Street in downtown Victoria.

This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for an assessment by a qualified health professional.

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CryoDerm in Victoria: Cold vs. Heat, How to Use It, and Where to Get It

Patients keep asking us about CryoDerm, and several have told us they couldn’t find it anywhere in Victoria. We carry it at Diversified Health Clinic on Fort Street. Here’s what it is, how to choose between Cold and Heat, and how to get the most out of it.

What is CryoDerm?

CryoDerm is a topical pain reliever that you rub or roll onto sore muscles and joints. It is made for clinics, so you’ll mostly find it through chiropractors, physiotherapists and massage therapists rather than at the drugstore.

It comes in two versions:

  • CryoDerm Cold Therapy cools the skin. Its active ingredient is 10% menthol, with arnica, boswellia, eucalyptus and peppermint oil, and MSM added.
  • CryoDerm Heat Therapy warms the skin. It uses menthol and camphor (3.85% each) with a small amount of capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot.

Both are free of dyes, parabens and silicone.

Our clients love it because the main ingredients are natural ingredients, so it makes it less chemically-based than some of the competitors on the market. It also dries quite quickly, and leaves behind less of a “greasy” feel after application.     

How does it work?

Menthol switches on the cold-sensing nerves in your skin. That strong cooling signal competes with pain signals from the muscle or joint underneath, so the ache feels quieter. Capsaicin in the Heat version works the same way with warming nerves.

It gives temporary relief. It doesn’t fix what’s causing the pain, but it can make it easier to move, stretch and do your exercises, and that’s often what helps you recover.

Cold or Heat: which one should I use?

If your pain is…TryWhy
A fresh strain or sprain, or a joint that feels hot or swollenColdCooling feels better on irritated tissue
Sore after a workout, a run or a long dayColdClean, fast cooling that doesn’t feel greasy
Stiff, tight muscles like neck and shoulders, or a stiff lower back in the morningHeatWarmth helps tight muscles feel looser
Ongoing achy jointsEitherTry both and use the one that feels better

Not sure? Ask your practitioner at your next visit. They can tell you which suits your injury.

Which format is right for me?

ProductBest forPrice

$24.99

Cold Therapy roll-on (3 oz)Small areas.
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Extended Benefit Plans and Direct Billing: What You Need to Know

Extended Benefit Plans and Direct Billing: What You Need to Know

Extended Benefit Plans allow you to receive treatments that are covered under your plan, which can be directly billed at the time of service.

Depending on your coverage, you may have to pay a percentage of the treatment cost or nothing at all. As every benefit plan is different, it is imperative that you reach out directly to your employer or insurance company to get an understanding of your plan and what may or may not be required.

While our clinic is pleased to offer direct billing, our administrative team cannot investigate extended benefit plans on behalf of patients to determine what treatments are covered, how many visits you have used, or how many visits you have left. 

Deductibles

Many extended benefit plans have an annual deductible that is applicable at the start of each new year. A deductible is a dollar amount that you have to pay out of pocket until that dollar amount is reached, and then your extended benefits coverage takes effect. You do not have to pay the entire deductible at your first visit, but instead, each visit will go against the deductible until it reaches the maximum. Generally, the lower the deductible or no deductible, the more expensive the policy is and vice versa.

Please note that we cannot see what your annual deductible is or how much is remaining; we can only view the amount placed against the deductible each time we process a direct billing. To find out the annual deductible amount in your plan, please check with your extended benefits company.

What services are eligible for direct billing? 

Our clinic can bill directly for chiropractic, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and registered massage therapy.

Athletic Therapy is not a direct billable service yet; however, many plans will reimburse you if you submit yourself. Check with your extended benefits plan to see if Athletic Therapy is covered.

Kinesiology is only directly billable to ICBC. Always check your benefit plan to see what treatments they deem eligible for direct billing.

What cannot be direct billed?

  1. Missed appointment fees are not billable to most extended benefit plans.
  2. Orthotics are not direct billable; however, many benefit plans cover orthotics up to a specific dollar amount. For more information on orthotics and orthotic billing, please click here. 
  3. Depending on your specific plan, each of our treatment services may or may not be a direct billable service for you. Please refer to your extended benefits guide for what is directly billable under your plan.

What Insurance companies can we direct bill?

Our clinic can direct bill most extended benefits companies, including but not limited to:

  • Manulife 
  • Sunlife 
  • Canada Life (Formally, Great West Life) 
  • Greenshield
  • Pacific Blue Cross
  • Veterans, RCMP, CAF 
  • Desjardins
  • Group Health/ Group Source
  • People’s Corporation
  • Empire Life
  • ClaimSecure
  • Johnston Group
  • Chamber of Commerce
  • Maximum Benefits
  • Group Medical Service 

Partner/Spousal coverage or secondary policy coverage

We can directly bill your primary benefits provider and your secondary provider at the same time of service with a few exceptions. For example, we generally require your partner’s date of birth and full legal name along with policy information.

Suppose we are unable to bill directly to the secondary coverage due to benefit rules or other restrictions. In that case, we will still direct bill your primary coverage and then only collect the remaining amount from you. We can then provide you with a receipt to send to the secondary coverage for reimbursement. 

For more information or to book a treatment:

Contact our clinic to find out more about extended benefits or to book an appointment at 250-382-0018 or book online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

#extendedbenefits #physiotherapy #chiropractic #registeredmassagetherapy #acupuncture #victoriaBC #injury #mva #multidisciplinary #healthandwellness

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The Ins and Outs of Acupuncture

The Ins and Outs of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a safe and gentle treatment suitable for all ages. It has been used for several thousand years as part of a complete system of medicine that originated in China, known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Treatments include: TCM examination, diagnosis, and acupuncture, and may also incorporate lifestyle counseling, fire cupping, Gua Sha, and Chinese massage techniques known as Tui Na. 

Afraid of Needles?

Acupressure can be used for patients who have a fear of needles or a tendency to faint.

How Acupunture Works and What It Treats

Acupuncture works on both mental/emotional and physical levels. It can help with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, the following:   

  • Acute and chronic pain (osteoarthritis; injuries, including sprains and strains; headaches/migraines; body pain e.g. neck, frozen shoulder, back, knee sciatica; fibromyalgia; facial pain including TMJ; surgery preparation/recovery
  • Mental health (including depression, stress, grief, anxiety, and addiction)
  • Gynecological concerns (such as heavy bleeding, painful cycles, PMS, fertility, symptoms of menopause)
  • Skin conditions (rashes, hives, acne, eczema)
  • Neurological disorders (MS, neuralgias, stroke, palsy)
  • Respiratory disorders (asthma, bronchitis, allergies)
  • Digestive disorders
  • Sleep (insomnia, fatigue, lethargy)

Acupuncture can also be used on an ongoing basis to maintain health and well-being and enhance/support physical and mental performance. 

How Many Treatments Should I Expect to Have?

The number of acupuncture treatments required depends on the condition. Most acute issues will need a minimum of 3-4 treatments; whereas, chronic conditions will require more. It is recommended that you start with treatments once or twice a week until symptoms improve.  

Take the Next Step!

Our registered acupuncturists are here to answer any questions you might have. Initial appointments are 60 minutes and follow-up appointments are 45-60 minutes. Book your first acupuncture allergy treatment at Diversified Health Clinic today, or contact our clinic to learn more.

Related

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Back to School / End of Summer Stress Relief

Back to School / End of Summer Stress Relief

Whether or not September marks a return to the classroom for you or your kids, autumn typically brings about abrupt changes in routines and workloads, resulting in more stress and less of the natural mood-boosting vitamin D we all enjoyed from being outdoors during summer. While stress itself can’t always be avoided, here is how establishing a solid stress relief strategy can go a long way in helping you cope and recover from the toll that stress takes on your body, mind, and spirit.

How Stress Wreaks Havoc

Have you ever noticed that during times of stress, your posture changes, your skin looks duller, your muscles feel tight, and your body feels heavier and more sluggish?

Long periods of stress can lead to chronic muscle tension that in turn can trigger headache and migraine pain, joint pain, nerve pain, bruxism (nocturnal teeth grinding), and aggravate pre-existing conditions and past injuries.

The hormonal cascade that stress triggers affects blood pressure, circulation, breathing rate, muscle tension and creates emotional anxiousness and agitation. Worse yet, chronic stress can cause potentially serious disruptions throughout the body, including a lowered immunity and a heightened risk of heart attack, stroke, autoimmune flare-ups, cognitive, reproductive, weight, and digestive issues. For these reasons, it’s wise to take stress seriously and establish a healthy stress relief strategy to help mitigate its adverse effects.

Mitigating the Harmful Effects of Stress

While periods of stress are nearly impossible to avoid, there are things you can do to help mitigate its adverse effects on our mind and body, including: 

  • Exercise: physical movement, done in moderation, can uplift mood and mitigate the detrimental effects of chronic stress. You can double up on the positive effects of exercise by getting outdoors and asking a friend to join you. 
  • Meditation, breathing exercise, or prayer: stillness, breathwork, prayer, and self-reflection can restore calmness and help you focus on the things you can do that are within your control. 
  • Time with pets and friends: even though stress can make you want to withdrawal from social obligations, making time to talk or visit with a trusted friend can go a long way in making you feel optimistic and supported. 
  • Addressing root causes of stress: sometimes, what triggers stress is evident and temporary. Other times, stress is the result of lifestyle choices requiring change. Toxic workplaces, being burdened with other people’s conflicts, and being overtaxed with too many obligations can all lead to physical and emotional burnout. Stress will become chronic unless and until the root causes are adequately addressed. 
  • Simplifying your schedule: It’s tempting to take things on while feeling overly optimistic about our time and energy reserves, but having too many obligations and–even enjoyable activities–scheduled can leave you feeling stretched and strained. When in doubt, schedule less and leave more time for spontaneity and quiet time as needed.
  • Self-care: often the first thing to be pushed aside when stressed, self-care is vital, even if it’s just making time for an afternoon nap or a relaxing bath with your favourite essential oils and soft lighting. The key is to pay attention to the signs your body sends you that rest is needed. 
  • Stress relief treatments: lingering pain and tension induced by stress often require therapeutic treatments to resolve, such as massage therapy, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and chiropractic treatments.

When Stress Relief Treatments Are Needed

Sometimes, therapeutic intervention is warranted after repeated bouts or long periods of stress, especially when considering how stress-induced tension and inflammation can aggravate pre-existing conditions and old injuries or cause new ones. Postural imbalances, nerve pain, tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, TMJ disorders, sleep disturbances, chronic muscle tension, and circulation issues are some of the most common physical manifestations of stress that professionally administered stress relief treatments can remedy. 

Therapeutic stress relief treatments can address the compounding effects of stress via several unique approaches. For example:

Acupuncture is a natural and effective way of bringing stress-induced hormones back into balance, restoring a much-needed sense of calm. 

When stress contributes to misalignment and aggravation of pre-existing conditions or past injuries, tailored chiropractic care and physiotherapy treatments can work wonders restoring strength, mobility, muscular balance, and optimal alignment while helping alleviate nerve and joint pain.

For stress-induced muscle tightness and circulation concerns, scheduling a registered massage therapy treatment will effectively release tension and immediately increase oxygen and nutrient-rich blood flow to the areas treated. 

The positive effects that physiotherapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and therapeutic massage have on improving oxygen-rich circulation also helps aid the body’s natural healing and detoxification process by increasing the movement of lymphatic fluid via massage and myofascial release. The combined benefits of releasing muscle and fascia tension and improving circulation and lymphatic flow explain why people typically feel lighter and even notice a nice glow to their skin following stress relief treatments such as massage therapy and acupuncture. 

Regardless of which stress relief treatments you receive, the healing benefits of addressing stress-related tension are both an act of self-care and an investment in your health and wellbeing. 

Book a Therapeutic Stress Relief Treatment Today

Experience the healing, calming, and restorative benefits of a therapeutic stress relief treatment. Give our team of practitioners at Diversified Health Clinic a call today at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. 

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Acupuncture Allergy Treatments: Natural Relief From Achoos! 

Acupuncture Allergy Treatments: Natural Relief From Achoos! 

Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? Are you searching for a natural alternative to antihistamines for treating your allergies? Whether you suffer from bouts of seasonal allergies, indoor allergies, or allergic reactions year-round, here’s how acupuncture allergy treatments help deliver relief.

Spring and summer are favourite seasons for many, but higher pollen counts can wreak havoc on seasonal allergy sufferers. At the onset or worsening of allergy symptoms, many allergy sufferers rely on antihistamines to get them through the season. Unfortunately, antihistamines can come with unwanted side effects, including drowsiness. Because of this, many allergy sufferers look for more natural, long-term allergy treatments. 

Regardless of what triggers your allergies, you deserve relief, and acupuncture allergy treatments are a natural option worth considering! Acupuncture allergy treatments can provide immediate and long-term relief from many allergy symptoms, including itching from eczema and urticaria. And, unlike medication, acupuncture doesn’t come with side effects–unless you consider relaxation one of them. 

How Acupuncture Allergy Treatments Work

If you’re new to acupuncture, it helps to know what acupuncture is. A practice that’s over twenty-five hundred years old, acupuncture’s ancient origins belong to a methodology known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Traditional Chinese Medicine has evolved over thousands of years and includes various treatments that address both the physical and psychological aspects of the body.

A key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the concept of life-energy referred to as qi (pronounced “chee”). According to TCM, our bodies contain energy channels referred to as meridians, which carry qi and connect our organs and tissues. When qi is out of balance or blocked, pain and ailments arise. Conversely, when qi is rebalanced, pain and ailments are relieved. 

The practice of acupuncture involves the strategic placement of thin needles at specific meridian points along the body to stimulate and restore the balanced flow of qi. Acupuncturists know which acupuncture points to stimulate according to your allergies and symptoms. Acupuncture also takes into account that two people may have the same ailment while experiencing different symptoms, therefore requiring tailored treatments for effective relief. 

What to Expect

The stainless steel needles used for acupuncture are extremely thin and are rarely felt when going in, placed at shallow depths at targeted meridian points. While many patients find acupuncture treatments relaxing, you may experience occasional discomfort when specific meridian points are stimulated, best described as a feeling of heaviness or pressure, which your practitioner will adjust to ensure your comfort throughout your treatment. 

Immediately following treatment, you may feel energized, extremely relaxed, or slightly sleepy. For this reason, It’s best to allow yourself a few minutes after treatment to relax and enjoy a glass of water or cup of tea before driving and resuming your usual activities.

There is no downtime required following acupuncture, but depending on your treatment plan and objectives, your practitioner may make personalized recommendations to ensure you receive the most benefit from each treatment. 

How Many Treatments are Required?

While a single acupuncture allergy treatment can help relieve allergy symptoms, the best results are often seen from multiple treatments to maintain results. 

Do Acupuncture Allergy Treatments Come With Any Risks? 

It is vital that you only pursue acupuncture treatments from registered acupuncturists to avoid infection or complications. 

Other rare but possible side effects include:

  • Potential bruising, temporary redness, or itching where a needle was inserted
  • Allergic reaction to needles
  • Muscle twitching or spasms

Your acupuncture practitioner will go over these risks with you. 

Take the Next Step

Get relief from allergies—book your first acupuncture allergy treatment at Diversified Health Clinic today, or contact our clinic to learn more.

Your first appointment will include a health assessment that will help your practitioner tailor your treatments to your specific needs and objectives and allow you to ask any questions you might have. 

When you call to book your appointment, let our front desk staff know if you are on a health benefits plan that covers naturopathic/acupuncture treatment. We offer direct billing and can help process your claim. 

Related

How to Conquer Seasonal Allergies

Spring is in the air! Allergy Season Relief with Acupuncture

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Acupuncture for Immunity

Acupuncture for Immunity

As we are now in the midst of cold and flu season you may be looking for new ways to boost your immune system and stay healthy. Did you know that acupuncture can help?

Acupuncture and the Immune System

Common colds and influenza are viral infections that affect our respiratory system. It is important to distinguish between bacteria and viruses as we sometimes see patients taking antibiotics which do not treat viral infections. Not only that, but overuse of antibiotics can also deplete your healthy bacteria, making you less resistant to infections. On the other side of things, over the counter medications (ex: Advil Cold and Flu, etc) may alleviate some symptoms temporarily but they will not eradicate the virus. Acupuncture can help reduce both the symptoms and the duration of both colds and flu.

Notice what your early red flags are when your immune system is feeling low. Common early symptoms may include:

  • Slight chilliness
  • Sniffly or a few sneezes
  • Sensitivity to wind or drafts
  • Feeling a little sweaty
  • Scratchy throat
  • Achy neck and shoulders

Normally, the time to come in for a treatment is at the very first sign of not feeling well. However, in the midst of a pandemic, this is no longer recommended. Instead, clear your schedule, crawl under the covers and rest. Once it’s safe for you to come into the clinic, you can book in for an acupuncture treatment and your acupuncturist will come up with a treatment plan for you that will relieve any lingering symptoms as well as boost your immunity.

Prevention

Prevention is key to warding off colds and flu. We all know by now to wash our hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth when possible.

In Chinese medicine, our outer defense system, known as wei qi, helps to protect us from pathogenic influences, like viral infections. If you’re someone who gets sick easily and often, it would be beneficial to book in for weekly acupuncture treatments before flu season to boost your immune system and strengthen your wei qi.

And do not forget to stay bundled, especially around your head and neck. All the acupuncture texts describe wind as potentially harmful as it is the carrier for airborne pathogens that affect our respiratory system. Wearing a scarf is a simple way of protecting the neck from the cold wind.

At-Home Relief

Here are some dietary and lifestyle recommendations which you can do at home:

  1. Make your own soups and stews. If you eat meat, soups and stews made from bone both are wonderful for combating a cold, with electrolytes in the broth, aromatic onions and garlic to produce a light sweat and chicken or beef for nourishing qi.
  2. Get plenty of rest. Yes, life is busy but find ways to sneak in little snoozes. Be cautious around screen time before bed, invest in a pair of blue light glasses and make time for naps where you can. We all know this, but it bears repeating, sleep = wellness
  3. Keep warm: take a hot shower or epsom salt bath. Wear warm clothes and protect not only your head and neck but wrists and ankles too, as cold is thought to invade the channels in these vulnerable places.
  4. Stay hydrated, drink warm liquids and tea: try boiled water with a few sprigs of rosemary, thyme and a squeeze of lemon. Thyme and rosemary both have antiviral and antibacterial properties, while lemon has a high content of immune system boosting Vitamin C. Maybe drizzle some honey in to sweeten things up and soothe the throat.
  5. De-stress: when we catch ourselves overthinking or worrying too much it can undermine our health.

Experience the Benefits of Acupuncture Treatment at Diversified Health Clinic

Take the first step on your road to recovery and better immunity by booking an appointment with our acupuncturist today at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. We offer direct billing and weekday and weekend appointments. Please view our hours of operation and location details here.

 

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Cupping: Its Ancient Origin and Modern Benefits

Cupping Origins and Benefits

Cupping is an ancient technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and practiced throughout history in many countries, such as Greece, Russia, and Thailand.

How It’s Performed

Cupping involves placing a glass or silicone cup on the skin, and creating suction that gently pulls up the skin and fascial tissue to break up adhesions, improve blood flow and oxygenation, and to clear cellular debris. It is sometimes thought of as a “reverse massage” that pulls up tissues rather than pushing them down into the body.

Cupping Benefits

There has been a recent resurgence and increased recognition of the benefits of this practice in North America. High profile athletes, such as Michael Phelps, have used cupping for pre and post-workout recovery, reportedly enhancing their performance and recovery.

In TCM, cupping may be used alone or with acupuncture. It stimulates acupuncture points and meridians, promotes the flow of blood and Qi, and eases muscle pain and tension. It is also recommended for respiratory conditions such as asthma, stress, anxiety, migraines, and some digestive disorders.

Treatment Specifics

Depending on the practitioner’s diagnosis and treatment, cups may be left in one place, or oil may be applied and the cups moved along muscle groups or meridians. Cupping should not be painful, but can leave temporary marks called ‘sha’ that vary in color from yellow to dark purple and fade within a week. The suction often immediately relieves tension and pressure, like a deep massage.

Cupping must be performed by a trained practitioner to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, and may be contraindicated for certain conditions.

cupping victoria bc

Book a Treatment for Yourself

Our Clinic Acupuncturist, Sara Bjorkquist offers cupping as just one of the many therapeutic options available at Diversified Health Clinic.

For more information or to book your treatment, please contact the clinic at 250-382-0018 or online here.

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How to Conquer Seasonal Allergies

seasonal allergies

Spring may be beautiful, but there are many who live with seasonal allergies who look upon the return of flowers, blossoms and other beautiful blooming plants with trepidation.

An ‘allergy’ is a sensitivity to something in your body that is usually harmless. When your body encounters a foreign substance inside your nose or air ways, the allergic reaction begins. Seasonal allergies are the same thing.

An allergic reaction is what happens in your body following exposure to allergens.  The tissues inside your nose respond to allergens by releasing substances such as histamine. Histamines then trigger sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and itchy throat or nose.

What is Hay Fever?

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever”, affects millions of people every spring. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, coughing, itchy watery eyes, congestion etc.

Allergies are your body’s reaction to allergens (mold, dust pollen), a sign that your immune system is working overtime.

Allergies are your immune system trying to defend itself. You immune system identifies pollen, dust etc. as an invader or allergen. Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.

Pollen and Mold Both Trigger Allergies

Pollen are tiny particles that are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. The weather can affect the amount of pollen in the air at any time.

Molds are tiny fungi that thrive in moist warm conditions; with their spores floating in the air, much like pollen.

Allergy testing can verify whether you’re reacting to mold, pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Every person is different in what they react to.  Just because you haven’t reacted to something currently, doesn’t mean you won’t react to it in the future. Anyone can become sensitized at any time.

5 Simple Steps to Manage Seasonal Allergies

There are some simple steps you can take to limit your exposure to the pollen or molds that cause your symptoms:

  1. Keep your windows closed
  2. Try to stay indoors when the pollen counts are highest, typically between 5am and 10am
  3. When you return indoors, take a shower and change clothes
  4. Avoid chores that stir up pollen and molds such as gardening, and lawn mowing
  5. Keep the relative humidity in your home below 50 percent; this also helps to discourage mold

Acupuncture Can Help With Seasonal Allergies

While allergy medications can temporarily alleviate the symptoms of hay fever, acupuncture addresses the underlying imbalance that’s causing the symptoms in the first place.

Acupuncture looks at allergies as a general disruption of a person’s defensive mechanisms. Instead of accepting the over reactive immune response and suppressing it with antihistamines, acupuncturists look at why the person’s immunity is compromised.

If seasonal allergies are wearing you down, learn more about allergy care with our acupuncturists in Victoria.

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