Optimal Health

Acupuncture and Eye Health

Acupuncture and Eye Health

Your eyes are a reflection of your overall health. Illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease can be revealed in the eyes. Conditions such as glaucoma, optic neuritis or vision loss are often associated with systemic health problems. It is this interconnection between your eyes and your health that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can tap into and utilize to treat eye and vision problems. Eye conditions respond well to acupuncture and it has been used successfully to treat a wide range of eye problems for centuries.

 

How Eye Disorders Are Treated With Acupuncture:Oriental medicine pays close attention to the relationship between tissues and organs. Sometimes an imbalance within the body can manifest as an eye problem, just as the health of the eyes is often a reflection of an imbalance or health problem elsewhere in the body.When you are treated for an eye condition with acupuncture, any underlying imbalances that are attributing to your symptoms will be addressed. The eye problems will also be treated directly by promoting circulation of Qi (life force) and blood around the eyes.

Common eye problems treated with acupuncture and/or homeopathy and Chinese herbs include:

 

• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Chronic Dry Eyes
• Macular Degeneration
• Optic Neuritis
• Optic Atrophy
• Weak vision - both reading and driving
• Difficulty focusing
• Headaches from reading
• Eye related allergies
• Pink Eye

 

 

Acupuncture Points Around the Eye:

 

 

 

There are several powerful acupuncture points around the eyes that promote eye health. These points bring Qi and blood to the eyes to nourish the tissue and improve the condition of the eyes.

 

Jingming (UB-1) - When translated, Jingming means Bright eyes. This point is located in the inner corner of the eye. It is one of the primary points to bring Qi and blood to the eyes and is used for eye problems of all kinds including early-stage cataracts, glaucoma, night blindness, conjunctivitis and blurred vision.

 

Zanzhu (UB-2) - This point lies in the depression at the inner end of the eyebrow. Like Jingming, it is a primary point for the eyes and is used for all types of eye problems. Some of the indications to use this point include headache, blurring or failing of vision, pain in the supraorbital region, excessive tearing, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, twitching of the eyelids and glaucoma.

 

Yuyao - In the hollow at the midpoint of the eyebrow, directly above the pupil. It is used for eye strain, pain in the supraorbital region, twitching of the eyelids, ptosis, cloudiness of the cornea, redness, swelling and pain of the eyes. 

 

Sizhukong (SJ 23) - In the hollow at the outside end of the eyebrow. This point is used for eye and facial problems including headaches, redness and pain of the eye, blurring of vision, twitching of the eyelids, toothache and facial paralysis. 

 

Tongziliao (GB 1) - Located on the outside corner of the eye. This point is used to brighten the eyes as well as for headaches, redness and pain of the eyes, failing or blurring of vision, photophobia, dry, itchy eyes, early-stage cataracts and conjunctivitis.

 

Qiuhou - Below the eye, midway between St-1 and GB-1 along the orbit of the eye. Used for all types of eye disease.

 

Chengqi (St 1) - With the eyes looking straight forward, this point is directly below the pupil, between the eyeball and the eye socket. This is a main point for all eye problems, conjunctivitis, night blindness, facial paralysis and excessive tearing. 

 

In addition to acupuncture, there are several things you can do each day to maintain eye health and avoid problems:

 

**Drink eight to ten glasses of water to keep your body and eyes hydrated.

**Stop smoking.

**Exercise to improve overall circulation.

**Make a conscious effort to stop periodically to rest and blink frequently especially when reading, working on a computer or watching television.

**Avoid rubbing your eyes.

**Always remember to always protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV light and glare with protective lenses.

LEAKY GUT SYNDROME, POOR ASSIMILATION, AND FATIGUE

 

 

The digestive tract is a very complex, multifaceted system that integrates the breakdown of the foods we eat into their molecular constituents so that our body can utilize them efficiently.  Disturbances in the integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosal lining may arise from a number of different causes.  If the integrity of the mucosal lining is intact, then digestion and assimilation will work well.

 

But due to a combination of factors, including stress, poor eating habits, environmental pollutants, or a weak digestive tract from childhood, we may not be able to absorb all the nutrients we need from the foods we eat.   The mucosal lining in the stomach and intestines acts like a barrier to protect the body.  But when the mucosal lining is weak, this will contribute to the development of chronic diseases because toxic substances from the foods we eat will accidentally get absorbed into our body.  When this happens, it’s called “leaky gut syndrome.”

 

Signs and symptoms of leaky gut syndrome include chronic gas, bloating, burping, burning, diarrhea, or alternating diarrhea with constipation.  Secondary signs include chronic fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis, other autoimmune conditions, skin problems such as psoriasis, frequent hives, herpes, or eczema, joint pain, and migraine headaches.

 

Treatment is aimed at rebuilding the digestive mucosal lining. This is done through acupuncture, dietary counseling, homeopathic remedies and specific dietary supplements. 

If you have this problem, it is essential to immediately stop ingesting any gluten containing products, including wheat, rye, oats, barley, kamut, malt, as well as cow’s dairy products.  Some of the supplements I’ve discovered to work best for this type of problem include the following:

 

Permeability Factors:  To rebuild the mucosal lining

Probiotics:  The stronger the better

Rice Detox Protein Meal Supplement:  An easy-to-digest protein supplement

Pan Plex 2:  Digestive Enzymes which will aid in the breakdown of your food;  this supplement includes the necessary enzymes for both the upper and lower digestive system, making it much more powerful and effective than other formulas

 

There are many other supplements I’ll use with specific people depending on their personal symptoms.   Treatment of leaky gut syndrome will take a while, and a patient should be prepared to stay on the diet and supplements for about six months before experimenting with other foods and supplements.

 

But this treatment really works, and with time you will regain your strength, energy, reduce your joint pains, headaches, and feel much better overall!

 

 

Treating Thyroid Problems with Acupuncture

 

 

 

When functioning properly, the thyroid gland secretes just the right amount of thyroid hormone to regulate almost all the metabolic processes in your body. Too much or too little of these vital body chemicals and it can drastically influence energy levels, body weight and your mental health. With over 20 million Americans living with some form of thyroid disease, much attention has been given to the many ways that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can treat thyroid problems.

 

What is the thyroid?

 

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that sits in the front of the neck. It is responsible for energy, metabolism, hormone regulation, body weight and blood calcium levels. Thyroid disorders stem from either an overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones. When your thyroid is not functioning properly, your body can experience a variety of symptoms:

Hyperthyroidism: 

Weight loss despite increased appetite

Increased heart rate, heart palpitations, higher blood pressure, nervousness, and excessive perspiration

More frequent bowel movements, sometimes with diarrhea

Muscle weakness, trembling hands

Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck)

Lighter or shorter menstrual periods

 

 

Hypothyroidism: 

 

Lethargy, slower mental processes or depression

Reduced heart rate

Increased sensitivity to cold

Tingling or numbness in the hands

Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck)

Constipation, heavy menstrual periods or dry skin and hair

 

 

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. Hormones secreted by the thyroid are measured, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the thyroid. Some milder forms of hypothyroidism can also be detected by a consistently low basal body temperature.

 

How can acupuncture help?

 

Both Western and Eastern medicine offer various methods to restore thyroid hormone levels. Western treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery while Eastern treatments aim to restore immune function as well as balance the production and release of thyroid hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. 

In the treatment to thyroid problems, acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep, emotions and menstrual problems. There are several powerful acupuncture points on the ear and the body that can be used to regulate the production of thyroid hormones. Treatments take all of your symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health. 

When it comes to lifestyle changes, a diet rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, and iodine helps support thyroid function while certain foods known as goitrogens may interfere with thyroid hormone production and should be limited. These include cruciferous vegetables (such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts), peanuts, and soy. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi can also be beneficial.

 

 

 

If you have a thyroid problem, call for a consultation. A custom-tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your individual needs so that you can feel better quickly and safely!

 

Insurance will usually cover the cost of your treatments.

 

 

 

 

 

Professional Athletes Turning to Acupuncture

 

 

In the 2009 baseball season, New York Yankees pitcher A.J. Burnett played an integral role in his team’s rise to a World Series Championship, and did so without missing a single inning due to injury. For an athlete whose reputation for landing on the injured list had (until then) overshadowed his considerable talent, this was remarkable.

 

Throughout this career, Burnett suffered from a ruptured ligament in his thumb, a bone bruise, a stress fracture in his right foot, a right shoulder strain, and a host of other injuries that could derail a pitcher’s career.

 

That all changed when Burnett discovered acupuncture. He credits the therapy with helping him stay healthy. Burnett states, “I found that I responded really well to the acupuncture, how that treated my body and my nerves, and the release of stress.”

 

The trend isn’t a new one.

 

The use of acupuncture in professional sports has been growing for a while now.

 

For instance, National Basketball Association (NBA) stars Yao Ming and Allan Houston have both reported turning to acupuncture treatment to help recover from injuries, as have National Football Association (NFL) standouts Steve Young and Jerry Rice. Many professional sports teams, (including the Yankees) now employ a staff acupuncturist to help them gain a competitive advantage.

 

Dr. Martin’s Comments:  ”I’ve seen athletes, and athletic injuries respond very well, and very quickly to acupuncture treatment. Torn ligaments, tennis elbow, swollen knees, neck pain, pulled backs, sciatica, and all kinds of sprains and strains respond exceptionally well.   

 

It’s always funny to see a person’s response to an acupuncture treatment:

 

First, they are amazed that they never even feel the needles.  But they are also surprised when they get up off the table, at how much more relaxed and calm they always feel.  

 

 

Come on in!  You’ll like  that “floating feeling” you get on your way out.  

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance will usually cover the cost of your treatments.

~~~~

Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD

Doctor of Chinese Medicine

Certified Classical Homeopath

 

Encino Office:  MAILING ADDRESS

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 - 7:30 pm

17000 Ventura Blvd #220

Encino, CA 91316

Telephone: 818 905 6171

 

West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office: 

Wednesday

12:30 pm -7:30 pm

1444 Carmelina Blvd #132

West Los Angeles, CA 90025

Telephone: 310 979 6495

 

Valencia Office:

Saturdays AND Mondays

12:30  - 6:00 pm

23332 Valencia Blvd

Valencia, CA 91355

Telephone:  661 312 9868

 

Email:  drrandymartin@gmail.com

On the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com

 

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June 13, 2010

 

Dear Friends ~ I’ve found some research to share with you on tennis elbow, arthritis, urinary infections, and depression.  Quite a wide array of problems. And acupuncture works well for them all.  Please encourage your friends to try some complementary methods to treat their problems.  I’m constantly amazed by how well and in some cases, how fast, acupuncture, homeopathy, and herbs really work.

Also, an increasing number of people are coming to see me for infertility treatments:  both men and women.  And fertility MD’s are also referring an increasing number of patients for infertility treatments.  

 

 

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Times are fast-paced, and an increasing number of people are coming to my offices for stress-related problems, which are manifesting as physical issues.  I encourage all of you to try and take time for yourself to relax, pray, and/or meditate daily.  

 

Find a special, sacred space, in your home, or in nature to spend time daily, to receive the revitalizing effects of slowing down, and listening to the inner wisdom of your higher self.  Spending time in nature is a particularly effective way to get rejuvenated quickly.

 

When you feel stressed, try to go easy on both yourself and those around you.  Kindness and gentleness go a long way to reducing stress.  Arguing, whether you “win” or “loose” only creates more stress in the long-run.  ”Win-Win” is the only true winner in our relationships, with both sides walking away feeling a sense of being heard, and honored.

 

Try to plan a nurturing activity for yourself, so that you feel you can give the nuturing you need to yourself, and not have to depend on others or on events in your life, in order to feel grounded and whole.

 

In Love and Healing,

 

Dr. Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, CCH, PhD.

 

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~Most Insurance Is Accepted~

 

 

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Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow 

 

In this study, 45 patiens were given two acupunctuure treatments per week for five weeks.  Two weeks after the treatments ended, the  group who received the acupuncture had significantly more strength, arm flexibility and less pain then the control group.  Two months after  the treatment ended, arm function was still significantly improved.   

 

(Rheumatology 2002; 41: 205-9.))

 

 

 

Acupuncture for Urinary Tract Infections

 

In this study, 94 women were given acupuncture two times per week for four weeks.  Of these women, all had gotten at least three UTI’s during the previous 12 months before the acupuncture treatment.  Of these women,73% remained infection-free during the six months after the treatment.  Of the women who didn’t received acupuncture, only 53% remained infection-free.

 

(American Journal of Public Health 2002; 92-1609-1611.)

 

 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Helpful in Treating Depression

 

Recent research has shown that people with depression have an abnormally low amount of PUFA’s (Omega-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids) in their blood cells, and in their dietary intake.  In this study, reported in European Neuropsychopharmacology (2003;13:267-271), 28 patients with major depression were given Omega-3 PUFA’s and found to have significantly less depression as a result.

 

 

 

Acupuncture Shown to Reduce Arthritis Pain 

 

Acupuncture, in addition to conventional therapy, reduces the pain suffered by people with osteoarthritis, according to the results of an NIH-supported study presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Pain Medicine.

 

Dr. Brian M. Berman, from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore and his colleagues studied the impact of acupuncture on pain levels in knee arthritis among the elderly. The researchers evaluated 73 people with moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the knee that could not be relieved by standard anti-inflammatory drugs. 

 

After 3 months, there were significant changes. Acupuncture did reduce their pain, they had less stiffness, and they were able to function better.

 

These results offer encouragement as he and his colleagues plan a larger trial of 570 patients.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD

Doctor of Chinese Medicine

Certified Classical Homeopath

 

Encino Office:  MAILING ADDRESS

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 - 7:30 pm

17000 Ventura Blvd #220

Encino, CA 91316

Telephone: 818 905 6171

 

West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office: 

Wednesday

12:30 pm -7:30 pm

1444 Carmelina Blvd #132

West Los Angeles, CA 90025

Telephone: 310 979 6495

 

Valencia Office:

Saturdays AND Mondays

12:30  - 6:00 pm

23332 Valencia Blvd

Valencia, CA 91355

Telephone:  661 312 9868

 

Email:  drrandymartin@gmail.com

On the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com

 

 

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ACUPUNCTURE FOR JET LAG, INSOMNIA, ANXIETY

 

Acupuncture treatments before and after jet travel work very well to keep the internal clock in balance.  Try to get a treatment as close to travel as possible, both before and after.  Also take homeopathic Rescue Remedy or Jet Lag, and Yin Tonic herbs.  When we travel, our Yin gets depleted.

 

Acupuncture for:

*Jet Lag

*Insomnia

*Anxiety / Nervousness

*Depression from traveling through time zones

*Immunity during and after travel

 

 

ACUPUNCTURE FOR KIDS

 

I used to feel that children should not be needled prior to age 12 or so.  But I have more recently been treating small children with great success, and they seem to like it, usually falling asleep on the table.  These kids first see their parents being needled and find it very interesting.  They often ask to be treated themselves.  The kids seem to really relax with the treatment.  More and more I’m treating mom and child together.  Common problems:

 

*ADD/ADHD

*Digestive problems:  constipation, gas

*Nervousness

*Immunity

*Headaches

*Backpain

*Bedwetting

 

 

MONTHLY ACUPUNCTURE TUNE-UP’S  FOR  IMMUNITY, HORMONES AND MENTAL CLARITY

 

When you make a personal committment to yourself to get a montly acupuncture treatment, even when you are doing well and feeling fine, you are making a committment to your long-term health goals, and will be very happy with what you find a year or two latter!   

 

*More energy

*Less Anxiety

*Better Immunity

*Better digestion

*Improved mental outlook

*Improved hormones, sex drive, menstrual cycle regularity

*Less aches and pains

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD

Doctor of Chinese Medicine

Certified Classical Homeopath

 

Encino Office:  MAILING ADDRESS

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 - 7:30 pm

17000 Ventura Blvd #220

Encino, CA 91316

Telephone: 818 905 6171

 

West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office: 

Wednesday

12:30 pm -7:30 pm

1444 Carmelina Blvd #132

West Los Angeles, CA 90025

Telephone: 310 979 6495

 

Valencia Office:

Saturdays AND Mondays

12:30  - 6:00 pm

23332 Valencia Blvd

Valencia, CA 91355

Telephone:  661 312 9868

 

Email:  drrandymartin@gmail.com

On the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com

 

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Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation

 

 

 

 

Acupuncture has been used to treat skin complaints and reduce signs of aging for centuries. In fact, facial rejuvenation acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture, has a recorded history going as far back as China’s Sung Dynasty (960AD - 1270AD), when the Empress and the Emperor’s concubines used it to engender beauty and good health.

 

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture can improve muscle tone, increase collagen production, tighten pores and boost circulation and moisture in the skin. Moreover, when acupuncture is used to create overall balance within the body, the physical, mental and emotional patterns that contribute to aging are addressed, helping you look and feel younger.

 

Benefits of Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation:   

• Increases the production of collagen and elastin
• Improves muscle tone (preventing further aging and wrinkles)
• Improves local lymph and blood circulation 
• Softens or erases fine lines and wrinkles 
• Reduces the depth of deeper lines 
• Decreases bags (puffiness) under the eyes 
• Reduces or eliminates acne and rosacea 
• Provides a consistently smoother and brighter face

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACUPUNCTURE SUCCESS STORIES

 

Recent research, as well as my clinical experience since 1983, has proven to me that acupuncture can be extremely effective for the following woman’s health problems.  These include the acupuncture “face lift”, PMS, endometriosis, infertility, cysts, fibroids, breast augmentation and menopause.In addition, there are great clinical and scientific studies on acupuncture for low back pain, sciatica, fatigue and anxiety.   To summarize some of my experiences:PMS Eileen, a 27-year-old psychologist, came to my office with symptoms of severe PMS, which were threatening to interfere with her relationship with her fiancé.  After discussing her symptoms and taking a complete health history, it became evident that she had what is called “Type A PMS.”  Type A refers to PMS where there is an overabundance of estrogen with a lack of progesterone.  Her symptoms consisted of anxiety, irritability and mood swings.   This is the most common type of PMS.Eileen’s treatment lasted three months and she received acupuncture twice per month.  She also took a Chinese Herbal supplement to balance her female hormones and detoxify her liver.After the three months of treatments, she was 85% free from her original PMS symptoms and her relationship with her fiancé was flowing very smoothly.  Eileen periodically came in for “tune-up” treatments, about once every three months, and reports she was still doing really well.LOW BACK PAIN WITH SCIATICA George, a 48 year old male, came to my office complaining of acute lower back pain that had started about three weeks before when he lifted a box and “pulled something” in the back.  George wanted to try acupuncture only, without the use of Chinese herbs or homeopathic remedies.  He came in twice per week and after the first week, his pain had diminished by about 75%.Acupuncture was performed on his lower back, buttock area, legs and ankles.  The treatments lasted between 20-30 minutes each.  After three weeks, George’s pain was about 95% better, on a scale of 0 - 100% (with 100% being totally free of pain.).I told George to come back in for treatment on an as-needed basis.  I see him every six months or so for a tune up treatment.  Georges’ case is a bit unusual, due to the fact that normally I’ll treat low back pain and sciatica using herbs and homeopathic remedies in addition to the acupuncture.  But this case is a great example of lower back pain with sciatica that resolved very effectively with acupuncture only.PMS:  DEPRESSION, HEART PALPITATIONS, WITH ANXIETY Julia, a 28-year-old secretary came to me to work on her symptoms of anxiety, agoraphobia, depression, and racing heart or palpitations.  Her symptoms began after breaking up with her boyfriend after a five-year relationship.   She had also been to a psychiatrist who had placed her on an antidepressant prescription medication, and she was also in weekly psychotherapy.  Her primary problem was that she had trouble getting to sleep at night due to her overactive mental chatter.For the first three weeks I saw Julia twice a week for acupuncture and gave her the homeopathic remedy Coffea cruda* 30C to take at bedtime.  She immediately reported being able to get to sleep more quickly and the heart palpitations were lessoning as well.I kept Julia coming in once weekly for acupuncture for another ten weeks, at which time she reported her anxiety and other symptoms had been almost totally eliminated.  This ended her treatment and I told her to come back if and when, she wanted to try and get off the prescription medication.

CHRONIC FATIGUEMy experience treating CFIDS, or chronic fatigue syndrome and Fibromyalgia is that 80% of my patients feel substantially better within four weeks after beginning treatment.  Jill, a fifty-year-old single mother of two teenagers was under a significant amount of stress when she came in.  She had been trying to treat her self using vitamins and herbs for her severe muscle and joint pains and progressive fatigue for a period of about four years with mixed success.A friend who had seen me for the same problem told her about acupuncture, so she decided to try it.  She came in weekly and I did acupuncture and had her get blood work.  Her blood tests revealed a severe deficiency in protein, sodium, calcium and magnesium.  So along with the acupuncture she increased her protein intake, decreased her carbohydrates in the diet, and began to take the mineral supplements I suggested, which were easier to assimilate than the ones she had previously been taking.Jill improved very quickly and after only six weeks, she reported an 80% increase in energy, and the only time her muscles and joints hurt was when she exerted herself too much in the garden, or didn’t get her full eight hours of sleep.   She continues to come in once a month for her acupuncture “tune-up”.ACUPUNCTURE FOR ANXIETY Marcia, a 42-year-old movie producer, came to me wanting to get off the antianxiety prescription medications he had become addicted to over a period of three years.  This is one of the more difficult treatments using acupuncture alone, so we placed her on a detoxification diet and herbal regimen, without changing her prescription medications.  Checking her blood tests showed her liver enzymes were significantly elevated, so I targeted the liver and created a detoxification regimen for her.After ten weeks of detoxification, the liver enzymes came down on the blood test and with her doctor’s supervision we began to lessen her prescription medications.  After three more months, although she was not off the prescriptions entirely, she managed to reduce them significantly.  She continued acupuncture once every three weeks while taking her herbs, and reported that she had not felt that clearheaded in years!BREAST AUGMENTATION Breast augmentation, or natural breast enlargement, is possible by stimulating the body’s own, naturally existing hormones.  This is done through the use of acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy and specific nutritional supplements aimed at increasing and balancing the body’s own, naturally occurring hormone levels.The effects are always more substantial in younger woman.  Most of my experience has been with women in their late twenties and early thirties.Linda, age 27, came to me for breast augmentation after deciding she didn’t want to suffer the possible side effects of implants.  I saw Linda twice weekly for the initial four weeks and performed acupuncture, and then she came weekly until she received the results she was wanting.Her weekly acupuncture lasted another fifteen weeks and then monthly for another four months.  Needles were placed along the meridians, which travel through the breasts, including the liver and stomach meridians.  Points were also done on the Spleen and Chong Mo meridians, on the stomach, and insides of the wrists and legs, all governing hormones.Linda was also taking a constitutional homeopathic remedy, which in her case was Sepia.  She also took a Chinese herbal supplement called Venus.  She was delighted with her results.   Before and after breast measurements gave her what she was wanting.  In addition, because the treatment was holistic and aimed at balancing the body’s hormones, her overall level of health, and the feel and look of her skin and her energy were better than ever!The average cost for breast implants is from $4,000 to $10,000.   For the acupuncture, the average cost is $2,000 to $2,500.COSMETIC FACE LIFT Acupuncture face-lifts are very effective.  The purpose of the treatment is to strengthen the overall vitality, or chi in the body, thereby creating firmer skin with less wrinkles.  Wrinkles will lesson as specific Chinese herbs are used, diet is changed and needles are placed on the wrinkles themselves.The needles are placed on the face, hands, legs, and stomach, strengthening the meridians, which run through the facial area.  This type of treatment works best if done twice weekly for a minimum of ten weeks.  Then we take a break of about one month, and perform another cycle of treatments of ten weeks at twice per week.Results will vary, depending on the overall level of health and vitality of the patient.  If the digestion is good, and the diet is healthy, good results will be achieved by the end of treatment.  This treatment can also be complemented by home, self-stimulation of the meridians through acupressure and with an electrical acupuncture device held in the hand.The average cost of a traditional face-lift is from $4,000 to $10,000.   The acupuncture facelift from $2,000 to $3,000, and in addition to the facelift, the patient ends up with a much greater level of health.

 

 

 

 

Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD

 

Doctor of Chinese Medicine

Certified Classical Homeopath

 

Encino Office:  MAILING ADDRESS

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 - 7:30 pm

17000 Ventura Blvd #220

Encino, CA 91316

Telephone: 818 905 6171

 

West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office:   

Wednesday

12:30 pm -7:30 pm

1444 Carmelina Blvd #132

West Los Angeles, CA 90025

Telephone: 310 979 6495

 

Valencia Office:

Saturdays AND Mondays

12:30  - 6:00 pm

23332 Valencia Blvd

Valencia, CA 91355

Telephone:  661 312 9868

 

Email:  drrandymartin@gmail.com

On the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com

 

 

 

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HOW SHOULD I FEEL AFTER MY ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT?

 

 

I’m asked this question a lot, and the answer is always the same: It depends… But on what does it depend? That is the real question. Well, it depends on many factors, such as the following:  What exactly is the problem you’re being treated for?   Depending on what you are being treated for, you might have all types of reactions to the acupuncture treatment.

 

If you are being treated for a systemic problem, like migraines, or ovarian fibroids, then you may experience a healing aggravation. This means your condition may actually seem to worsen or other uncomfortable physical or emotional symptoms may arise—but these, as well as the original problem—will subside as your body works to heal itself.

 

If you are being treated for a short-term, pain-related problem, then the likelihood of a healing aggravation is not as high.

 

Systemic problems include anything hormone-related or having anything to do with one of the various organ systems in the body. Examples are the cardiovascular system, the central nervous system, the emotional system, the urinary system, the digestive system, and the like. Because these systems are so complicated, often a problem related to one of the systems might take longer to heal.

 

 

When treating these types of problems, a person will often experience a healing aggravation, or healing crisis. This could mean you experience a rash, or headaches, or nausea, or certain emotions such as anger; or weepiness may overcome you.

 

These are all signs that your body is healing by correcting imbalances by releasing physical and emotional toxins that may have been held in the body. The healing aggravation occurs when the problem gets temporarily worse before getting better.

 

Depending on the severity of your health problem, you may experience positive results immediately, or the treatment might take some time. The length of time it takes to feel the healing results of the treatment might be anywhere from one treatment to six months of treatments.

 

I’ve seen many migraine patients who experienced relief with one treatment, and other migraine patients who didn’t experience complete pain relief for about six months or so after the treatment. In general, the more severe the health problem, and the longer you have had the problem, the longer it’s going to take to heal and establish permanent results.

 

Please remember: this is a general rule, and depending on other factors, even a longstanding, severe problem can sometimes respond quite well to acupuncture in just a few short weeks. I recently treated a man in his 50’s for long-standing asthma and coughing, which cleared up in three treatments. I generally tell people that it’ll take half as long as you’ve had the problem to completely heal it. But that is not to say that you won’t experience significant relief and benefits from your treatments long before this time period. It has been my experience that most people find significant relief in just three or four treatments, regardless of the length of time they’ve had the problem.

 

Treatment time will vary depending on what result we are trying to accomplish and the following additional factors:

1.  How many needles are used

2.  How many treatments have you received

3.  Which type of acupuncture is being used

4.  How much toxicity is stored in your tissues and cells

5.  How much anxiety or stress are you under

6.  How easy is it for you to relax

7.  What your diet is like

8.  How much water and other fluids you drink to keep your body hydrated, and flushing out toxins

9.  Whether you exercise regularly

 

1.  How many needles are used?

Some forms of acupuncture may use only one or two needles placed strategically on specific points meant to elicit a constitutional balancing. Other treatments may use 20 to 30 needles or more. Depending on the strength of the various types of treatments, you may feel entirely different and get entirely different results. In fact, even if you had the same treatment for two consecutive weeks, you might feel different after each treatment, because the energy traveling through your acupuncture meridians is constantly shifting and changing.

 

2.  How many treatments have you received?

In general, the more treatments you receive, the better results you are going to have. This is also true in terms of frequency. If you have been feeling very depressed and come in for acupuncture, I will probably recommend you have treatments twice a week. This is not to say that you won’t get as good a result if I only see you weekly, or twice monthly, but you will receive the benefit more quickly if you receive treatments more often. Most people receive a very nice benefit from the treatment after about eight to ten treatments, and then they will often decide, with me, to let the frequency trail off to every other week, or once a month.

 

3.  Which type of acupuncture is being used?

There are so many different types of acupuncture. Each type was “invented” by a different doctor and most have proven to be quite successful. You could go to 20 different acupuncturists and receive 20 different types of treatments. The important thing is that you experience significant improvement and that you feel comfortable with the acupuncturist and your treatments. Comparing types of acupuncture treatments is like comparing apples with asparagus. Each practitioner you see will tell you something different.

 

4.  How much toxicity is stored in your tissues and cells?

Most people living in our culture do not eat and drink only perfectly healthy food. Also, if you live in a large city you are breathing air that is not too pure. So for the average patient I see, there is quite a bit of detoxification that goes along with the acupuncture treatment. Often people will report headaches, changes in bowel and urination habits and emotional shifts. If you are someone who rarely expresses yourself emotionally, you might find that after receiving regular acupuncture treatments, you are more apt to say what is on your mind. On the other hand, if you tend to have an explosive streak in you, then as you detoxify, you might tend to become more calm and relaxed.

 

Above all, acupuncture allows the body to heal itself by releasing toxins and allowing a free flow of energy throughout your body to help you reestablish harmony in your body and in your life.

 

It’s The Cold and Flu Season:

 

The cold and Flu Season has officially arrived and there is a lot you can do to help boost your immune system during this time of year.  The number one most effective treatment is getting frequent acupuncture sessions.  

 

All of my patients who receive acupuncture say they feel so much stronger - and those that do get a cold or flu, say they got over it so much more quickly than their friends.

 

Here is the list of supplements and homeopathics you can use to boost your immune system - both for prevention and treatment:

 

Dr. Martin’s Immunity Regimen:

Stage 1:  The Beginning: (Also use this in lower doses for prevention)

*Vitamin C – 1000 mg. 3X/day

*Vitamin E – 400 I.U., 2X per day

*Beta Carotene or O.P.C.’s  or both! – 25,000 I.U., 2X per day

*Jade Screen  or Astragalus or Immune+ – 3 tabs, 3X per day empty stomach

*Colostrum – 1 – 2 tabs per day

*A strong mushroom formula – take as directed on the bottle

*Isatis Gold – 3 pills, 3X per day

*Yin Chiao or Quell Cold – 4 pills, 4X per day

*Toxic Heat Formula for sore/strep throat – 6 pills, 3-4 X per day

*Oscillococcinum Homeopathic – as directed on the box

*Influenzinum Homeopathic for 2009-10 flu season

*Additional homeopathic remedy chosen for your specific symptoms

*Umcka

*Airborne

*Kyolic garlic

*Eat lot’s of garlic and onions

*Don’t eat frozen, cold foods, dairy, sugar, gluten, fried or fats

*2 Tblspns Apple Cider Vinegar in warm water with honey 2X per day

 

Stage 2:  Head Cold:

*Mostly same as above, except oscillococcinum can be replaced with a

            more specific homeopathic for your specific symptoms

            *Gelsemium, Arsenicum Alb or Allium Cepa are some of the

              most typical.

 

Stage 3:  The Worst (fever, or other symptoms that won’t stop):

*Mostly same as above, except replace oscillococcinum with either:

            *Ferrum Phos 12C  for low fever

            *Belladonna 30C  / 200C for high fever

*Gan Mao Ling or Zhong Gan Ling – 4 pills, 4X per day

*Gan Mao Tuire – 1 packet in hot water 3X per day

*For coughing, add Dispel Cough, Spongia tost 12C or Hepar sulph 12C

*For persistent coughing add Immune+: 4, 3X per day and Platycoden & Fruitilaria