Headaches & Migraines

Cancer Support

Cosmetic

According to the American Migraine Study, more than 28 million Americans suffer from migraines or severe headaches, 80% being women. Though a doctor should be your first visit to rule out significant neurological or cardiovascular problems, many patients have found the treatment options of Western medicine to be limited. Most pain medications simply mask the pain, give only temporary relief or can even cause “rebound headaches,” making the original pain return. According to a new analysis conducted by Duke University Medical Center, acupuncture has been shown to be more effective than medication in reducing the severity and frequency of chronic headaches.

There are many different types of headaches and the beauty of acupuncture is that everyone is treated holistically as an individual. 

All of the myriad types of cancer come with their own symptoms and problems, as do the medications and treatments. Acupuncture is a useful complement to the primary care provided by your oncologist. Whether you are receiving radiation, gamma knife or chemotherapy, some of the side effects may be relieved by doing regular acupuncture alongside your protocol.

We will work with your oncology team to coordinate the most effective acupuncture treatment for your needs. This includes the timing of your treatments and the number of treatments. Our services aim to provide relief with a minimal number of treatments throughout your course of oncology care. Some patients prefer acupuncture to help them prepare for treatment, while others respond best a few days after chemo or nuclear treatment.

We can also visit you in the hospital and provide acupuncture treatment to help manage your pain. Our experience has shown acupuncture helps expedite recovery from surgery and lessen the need for opioids.

Acupuncture has been shown to:

• Reduce nausea, vomiting and fatigue associated with chemotherapy

• Relieve pain  from neuropathy, incisions, tumors or chronic issues

• Help manage stress and balance the mood swings from anxiety & depression

• Reduce or eliminate hiccups

• Treat dry mouth or Xerostomia

• Increase the appetite

• Reduce or eliminate hot flashes and night sweats

• Decrease the incidence and increase sensation of neuropathy

• Increase T-cell and Nk killer cell count to help fight rogue cancer cells

Also known as facial rejuvenation, cosmetic acupuncture is a virtually painless, non-surgical method of reducing the signs of the aging process. Fine lines may be entirely erased, deeper lines reduced and bags around neck and eyes firmed. Cosmetic acupuncture has been featured in USA Today and MSNBC/Reuters as the equivalent of an acupuncture face-lift.

How Does it Work?

Very thin disposable needles are inserted into the acupuncture points on the face. This superficial insertion will increase local circulation to the face and stimulate collagen production, filling out the lines and giving firmness to the skin for a healthy, glowing complexion. Acupuncture works from the inside out. For example, after a careful examination of a patient who has premature wrinkles, the acupuncturist might uncover high stress levels, poor digestion and weak elimination. The root of the problem is linked to these deeper issues so the practitioner will treat that as well as the wrinkles themselves. This is a holistic approach.

What is a course of treatment?

Cosmetic acupuncture at HAC is done in 2 parts.  First an initial set of 5 treatments are done to start the process and focus on trouble areas.  After a break of 2-4 weeks to let the body continue to improve, another series of 5 treatments are performed. Once the series is done, we recommend a quarterly seasonal visit to maintain results. Some people will also come in to prepare for special occasions or simply as a treat. 

However, each patient responds to treatment differently according to their age and lifestyle. A recent study published in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture showed that of 300 people who received facial acupuncture, 90% saw marked improvements after one course of treatment. The length of time the results last depend on several factors, including your lifestyle, exercise regimen, nutrition plan and stress levels. In general, a well-managed regimen yields enormous benefits that go far beyond restoring a youthful appearance. Women who opt for cosmetic acupuncture often see improvements in mood, increased energy levels, better digestion and sleep cycles, and fewer hot flashes and night sweats. 

How should I prepare for treatment?

The patient should arrive fifteen minutes early to fill out the medical intake form before the session begins. It is best to come dressed in loose, comfortable clothing. Long hair should be kept back with a headband or elastic. Skin should be washed and free of makeup.

Back to Top