According to Chinese medical theory, the symptoms and signs that indicate a Western diagnosis of allergies relate to imbalances in the meridian and Organ Systems of the body. These imbalances may stem from a variety of causes, including stress, poor diet, constitutional weakness, pollutants and environmental toxins.

Over time, if imbalances remain within the body, they will affect the functions of the Organ Systems. Some of these Organ Systems are involved in the production of Wei Qi (pronounced “way chee”). According to the theories of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, it is important to have
the correct quality and quantity of Wei Qi circulating around the body in order to stay healthy.

What is Wei Qi?

The Chinese concept of Wei Qi is similar to the Western concept of the immune system. Wei Qi functions to protect and defend the body against foreign substances, that if not caught can lead to allergies. When Wei Qi is strong and abundant, we remain healthy. When the supply of Wei Qi becomes deficient, health is compromised and we become vulnerable to foreign invaders such as dust, mold, animal dander, bacteria, viruses and pollen. People who have a Wei Qi deficiency are prone to allergies and frequent colds.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine support and strengthen the systems of the body that are involved in the production of Wei Qi. By building up the supply of Wei Qi, and facilitating the smooth and free flow of it through the body, symptoms and signs related to allergies could be greatly reduced or eliminated.

What will an acupuncturist do?

An acupuncturist will conduct a thorough exam, taking a complete health history. They will then develop a unique treatment plan that will address your specific concerns. The goals of the treatment plan will be to eliminate visible symptoms and signs, while addressing the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances affecting the quality and quantity of Wei Qi.

Acupuncture treatments may be combined with herbs, dietary changes, massage (tuina), or exercise. These therapies accelerate the healing process in order to balance, build, and support the body’s Wei Qi.

Seasonal allergy tips:

1. Flush your nose with a Neti pot.
2. Add spicy foods and omega-3’s to your diet.
3. Keep your windows closed during allergy season to prevent dust and pollen from entering.
4. Put on a dust mask when you are doing yard or house work.
5. Do not hang your clothes out to dry in the sun, as they
   will gather dust, mold and pollen.
6. Come in for an acupuncture tune-up.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are a drug-free, safe, natural and effective way to eliminate hay fever, allergies or the common cold.

Acupuncture for Anxiety in Metairie, LA | Big Easy Acupuncture

Acupuncture offers a safe, natural, and evidence-based approach to help reduce anxiety, regulate stress hormones, and restore calm to your nervous system.

Feeling anxious from work, health, family, or life changes is normal. But when worry, tension, and fear start to affect your sleep, focus, relationships, or ability to function, it can feel overwhelming.

You’ve probably tried to manage it on your own with deep breaths, mindfulness, or just pushing through, but it still feels like these feelings won’t turn off. You’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’re broken. Your system just needs help remembering how to relax again.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health concerns in the U.S., affecting tens of millions of adults each year. Many people use counseling and medication, and are also looking for safe, natural options to support their nervous system. 

Many of our patients are busy professionals or caretakers whose minds never stop running. If you’ve tried counseling, supplements, or breathing techniques and still feel wired, acupuncture offers a different kind of nervous system reset.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, we use acupuncture, herbology, and other Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques to help calm the body, support the brain, and improve overall resilience so anxiety is easier to manage day-to-day.

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a general term for several disorders that have common symptoms – such as nervousness, worrying, apprehension, and fear. 

Anxiety can show up in different ways, such as:

• Constant worrying or feeling “on edge” 
• Trouble relaxing or sleeping
• Tight chest, racing heart, or shallow breathing
• Irritability, restlessness, or difficulty concentrating
• Panic attacks or sudden waves of fear
• Avoiding people, places, or situations

Common diagnoses include:

• generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Phobias
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety associated with Parkinson’s disease
• Anxiety related to other conditions like chronic pain

You don’t need an official diagnosis to seek help. If anxiety is getting in the way of how you want to live, you’re in the right place.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on Emotions and Organ Balance

In TCM, brain chemistry and organ systems are seen as interconnected. Each emotion corresponds to an internal organ system:

• Excess Worry affects the Spleen
• Excess Grief affects the Lungs
• Excess Anger affects the Liver
• Excess Fear affects the Kidneys
• Excess Lack of Joy affects the Heart

Prolonged emotional strain along with lifestyle, diet, or environmental stress, can disrupt this balance, creating both physical and emotional symptoms that contribute to anxiety.

These connections aren’t meant to replace science. They simply show how emotions and the body influence one another. When your organs and nervous system are in balance, emotions feel more stable and easier to navigate.

How Acupuncture Helps Anxiety

Acupuncture is a form of medicine that uses very fine, sterile needles to stimulate specific points on the body. It helps regulate the nervous system, improve circulation, reduce pain and inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Modern research suggests acupuncture can help reduce anxiety symptoms by acting on the nervous system, hormones, and brain chemistry:

• Encouraging release of natural “feel-good” chemicals (like endorphins/dopamine/serotonin)
• Modulating stress hormones such as cortisol
• Influencing brain regions involved in mood and emotional regulation
• Shifting the body out of “fight or flight” and into a more restful, regulated state

A large systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was associated with meaningful reductions in anxiety symptoms compared with control or sham treatments. 

In simple terms: acupuncture helps your body shift gears from wired and tense to calmer and more regulated.

Examples of Acupuncture Points Used for Anxiety Support

While each treatment is personalized, certain acupuncture points are commonly used to support nervous system regulation, relaxation, and emotional balance.

Some of these points include:

• Yintang (Third Eye Point) – Located between the eyebrows, this point is often used to promote relaxation, ease mental tension, and quiet racing thoughts.
• Shenmen (Heart 7) – Found on the wrist, this point is traditionally used to help calm the mind, support emotional balance, and improve sleep quality.
• Pericardium 6 (Neiguan) – Located on the inner forearm, this point is commonly used to help regulate the heart and nervous system and may ease symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, or nausea related to anxiety.
• Stomach 36 (Zusanli) – Located below the knee, this point supports overall resilience and vitality and is often used when anxiety is accompanied by fatigue, digestive issues, or low energy.
• Auricular (Inner Ear) Acupuncture Points – Certain acupuncture points on the ear are commonly used to support nervous system regulation. These points are selected to help influence vagus nerve tone and balance the body’s stress response, supporting relaxation, emotional regulation, and overall autonomic nervous system function.

Not every patient receives the same points. Point selection is based on your symptoms, medical history, nervous system patterns, and how your body responds over time.

What Anxiety-Focused Treatment Looks Like Here

At Big Easy Acupuncture, anxiety sessions are not “cookie cutter.” We look at how your stress shows up in your whole body, including:

• Energy and sleep
• Muscle tension, pain, or headaches bringing stress/anxiety from the long standing issues
• Digestion, appetite, thirst 
• Breathing patterns and chest tightness
• Hormonal changes or life transitions
• Medical conditions and medications you’re already using
• Lifestyle (How do you spend your time, stress triggers, discussion of hobbies)

What a Session Feels Like

When you come in, the room is quiet with white noise to help your mind settle. We will discuss together your goals and then after discussion we will move into the acupuncture session, 

Needle sensation is usually minimal – you may feel a slight pinch or tingle upon the insertion of a needle that dissipates quickly. Many patients become deeply relaxed or fall asleep with the needles retained for treatment.

Once the needles are placed, you rest while your nervous system shifts from high alert into deep regulation. Many patients describe this phase as their body finally letting go without forcing it. The needles are normally retained for 15-20 minutes while your body relaxes. 

What to Expect at Your First Visit

During your first visit we will:

• Review your health history, medications, and symptoms
• Talk about your anxiety triggers and patterns
• Check areas of tension like the neck, jaw, shoulders, chest, and diaphragm
• Create a treatment plan that fits your presentation
• Begin treatment

A treatment may include:

• Acupuncture points to calm the nervous system
• Points to ease muscle tension, headaches, or digestive upset
• Cupping, guasha, or bodywork
• Breathing and body awareness coaching
• Herbal or lifestyle suggestions

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Everyone is different, but a common plan for anxiety is:

• Acute or recent anxiety:
  1–2 visits per week for 3–4 weeks, then taper as symptoms improve.
• Long-standing or complex anxiety (with pain, insomnia, or chronic illness):
  A longer course such as 8–12 weeks, with progress checks as we go.

Treatment plans are customized to meet the needs of each individual based upon presentation.

Research trials that showed benefit for anxiety often used 8 or more sessions, usually once or twice per week.

Herbal Medicine for Anxiety Support

In addition to acupuncture, herbal medicine can play an important role in supporting your anxiety recovery. Chinese herbal medicine can be used alongside acupuncture to help calm the mind, regulate energy, and improve sleep.

At Big Easy Acupuncture, formulas are customized based on your presentation and adjusted week to week as you progress.

Anxiety, Pain, and the Rest of Your Body

Anxiety rarely shows up alone. It may come with:

• Chronic pain (neck, back, headaches, TMJ)
• Sleep problems or insomnia
• Digestive issues (IBS, nausea, loss of appetite)
• Hormonal changes, hot flashes, or life transitions
• Sexual dysfunction
• Long-term illness, such as cancer or Parkinson’s disease

Prolonged or excess anxiety leads to a higher nervous system tone which will lead to:

• Reduced blood flow
• Higher muscular tensions
• Nerve entrapments due to tension leading to pain, mobility, or strength issues

Because acupuncture treats the whole system, we can often help address both the emotional and physical sides at the same time. 

What Patients Often Notice

After a few sessions, patients frequently describe:

• Feeling calmer and more grounded
• Sleeping more deeply
• Less tension in the neck, shoulders, chest, or areas tension is normally held
• Fewer headaches
• Improved digestion and energy
• A greater sense of control over daily stress
• A steady, balanced emotional state rather than reactive anxiety

If you’re ready to feel calmer, sleep better, and get your energy back, you don’t have to keep managing it alone. Acupuncture helps your body remember how to find balance again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

How does acupuncture help with anxiety?

It influences the nervous system and brain chemistry. It can lower stress hormones, release endorphins, and activate the rest-and-digest response.

Is acupuncture a substitute for therapy or medication?

No. Acupuncture can complement other treatments such as therapy, counseling, or prescribed medications. Many patients find that acupuncture enhances their results by reducing physical tension and emotional overwhelm, making it easier to engage in other forms of care.

Is acupuncture safe for people with anxiety or panic attacks?

Yes. When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is considered very safe. Needles are sterile and single-use, and most people find treatment deeply relaxing. Mild soreness or lightheadedness afterward is rare and temporary.

How many sessions will I need before I feel better?

Every patient is unique. Some notice improvement after just one or two sessions, while others need several weeks of consistent care. Research studies showing significant anxiety reduction typically involved 8 or more treatments over 4–8 weeks.

Can acupuncture help with anxiety-related insomnia or physical symptoms?

Absolutely. Anxiety often affects sleep, digestion, and muscle tension. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system, improve sleep quality, relax tight muscles, and ease symptoms like chest tightness, headaches, or stomach discomfort that often accompany anxiety.

How long do the effects last?

Many people feel calmer for hours or even days after a session. Each treatment builds on the previous visit. This leads the body to stay in a new state rather than reverting back to having the issues it had previously. Regular treatments help retrain the nervous system to stay in a more balanced state, leading to longer-lasting relief over time.

Anxiety Treatment at Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie

If you’re ready to explore acupuncture as part of your anxiety care:

• Location: Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine – Metairie, LA
• Scheduling: Easy online booking 24/7 at bigeasyacu.com
• Care style: one-on-one sessions focused on nervous system regulation, pain, strength, mobility, and long-term resilience

Why choose Big Easy Acupuncture for Anxiety Care

• • • Specialized in nervous system regulation and pain management
    • One-on-one hands-on treatments in a quiet, private setting
    • Customized plans combining acupuncture, herbs, and lifestyle support
    • Convenient online scheduling and flexible hours
    • Licensed Acupuncturist with advanced training in Sports Medicine Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
    • Custom herbal blends to continue stress and anxiety treatments outside the clinic.

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

Let’s help your nervous system finally exhale.

Evidence Summary

Modern research supports acupuncture as a safe and effective complementary approach for managing anxiety. Studies show it helps regulate stress hormones like cortisol, release natural endorphins, and influence brain regions involved in mood and emotion. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrate significant improvements in anxiety symptoms compared with control or sham treatments. While results vary by individual, acupuncture consistently shows benefits for both physical tension and emotional regulation, making it a valuable addition to comprehensive anxiety care.
References

1. Gao, Y., Wang, Y., Liu, Z., et al. (2021). Acupuncture for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Systematic Review. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 784756. Source: National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI / PMC).
2. Healthline Editorial Team. (2023). Acupuncture for Anxiety: How It Works, Benefits, and Risks. Source: Healthline.
3. Henry Ford Health. (2020). Get the Most Out of Acupuncture for Anxiety. Source: Henry Ford Health Blog.
4. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (2022). Acupuncture for Neuropathy, Cancer Pain, Anxiety, and More. Source: MSKCC.org.
5. Evidence Based Acupuncture. (2023). Acupuncture and Anxiety: What the Research Says. Source: EvidenceBasedAcupuncture.org
6. Nebraska Medicine. (2022). Acupuncture Treatment for Depression and Anxiety. Source: NebraskaMed.com.
7. JAMA Network Open. (2022). Effect of Acupuncture vs Sham Acupuncture on Psychological Distress Among Patients with Anxiety or Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Source: JAMANetwork.com.

Acupuncture for Arthritis Relief in Metairie, LA

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine

Does acupuncture help with arthritis?

Yes, acupuncture can relieve arthritis pain by releasing tight muscles, improving blood flow and oxygen to affected joints, reducing inflammation, and restoring mobility.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term referring to inflammation and/or degeneration of joints. Arthritis causes joint damage, pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
There are many different types of arthritis.
Some of the most common include:

• Osteoarthritis: The cushioning between your bones (cartilage) wears down and is often part of the aging process
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Your immune system attacks your own joints and causes inflammation.
• Other types: gout, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis. 

Auto-immune arthritis types: Tends to have pain come and go when pain flares up 

Degenerative arthritis types: Tends to have pain worsen over time as the body goes through wear and tear

No matter the type, the result is similar – pain, stiffness, and loss of movement

Symptoms & Signs

Arthritis is a family of conditions with these most common arthritis symptoms and signs:

• Joint pain or tenderness
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Swelling or warmth around joints (Inflammation)
• Muscular tightness or pain near joints
• Pain that is worse in the morning or after being still for too long

What is Happening Inside Your Joints?

Healthy joints normally have soft tissue and fluid to have your bones glide easily.

Arthritis changes local joints but also affects the surrounding tissues over time.

• The joint becomes irritated and inflamed
• Blood flow diminishes around the area
• Muscles tighten to protect the area. 
• Nerves in the area can become irritated or compressed, sending stronger pain signals to the brain.
• Movement in general becomes harder and more painful. 
• Immune system attacking joints and causing inflammation for some types

Who is at higher risk?

What factors increase risk of dealing with arthritis issues?

Arthritis often develops from a mix of joint stress, inflammation, systemic factors, and natural wear over time.

You are more likely to develop arthritis if you:

• • Are Older (Normal wear and tear over time)
  • Are Female (Some types are more common in women)
  • Carry Extra Weight or Obesity (Puts pressure on joints)
  • Repetitive Motions or heavy physical labor
  • Smoking (Reduces blood flow and healing)
  • Family History (Genetics)

When to See a Doctor or Acupuncturist

See your healthcare provider or acupuncturist if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, feels swollen or warm, or limits your daily movement. 

Early treatment prevents long-term damage.

Diagnosis & Tests

Diagnosis of arthritis involves a combination of clinical exam, imaging, and sometimes lab tests. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to avoid joint destruction. 

• Physical exam: check joints for swelling, redness, warmth, range of motion, resistance strength, and pain.
• Imaging: X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT may be used to assess joint damage or rule out other causes.
• Laboratory/blood tests: especially when autoimmune arthritis is suspected (eg rheumatoid arthritis). Checking for markers like ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor.

How Acupuncture and Dry Needling Helps Arthritis

Acupuncture uses thin, sterile needles to help your body heal itself.

It improves blood and oxygen flow to the joints, calms the nervous system, and releases natural pain-relief chemicals.

Regular treatments can help reduce pain, ease swelling, and keep muscles relaxed so your joints move better.

Acupuncture leads to:

• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Improved blood and oxygen flow to joints
• Calmer nervous system so the pain signals quiet down
• Fewer flare ups
• Relaxed tight muscles that press on nerves and send signals of pain to the brain
• Support of joint movement, stability, and flexibility 
• Release of natural pain-relief chemicals in the brain
• Release of pain relieving and feel good chemicals that exist naturally to assist in pain reduction

What to Expect at Big Easy Acupuncture

Initial Visit:

• Starting pain map sheet to track original pain levels and areas affected
• Discussion of your health history, underlying conditions, and goals
• Mobility and strength testing to understand the initial range of motion, strength, and pain affecting certain muscle movement

Initial and Follow-Up Visits include a combination of the following: 

• • Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Acupuncture for pain, movement, and strength testing
  • Electro-acupuncture / Acupuncture for nerve and circulation support
  • Manual therapy to loosen tight muscles
  • Exercises / Lifestyle Advice for helping reduce inflammation from lifestyle choices
  • Herbal medicine when needed for support between visits or as a standalone treatment

How Many Visits will you need? 

Most patients feel improvement in their recovery within 4–6 treatments.
Chronic arthritis (that’s been around for years) often takes a few months for long-term change with maintenance suggested to support the aging process.
You may start with 1–2 visits per week, then spread out as your body improves.

Regular sessions help maintain these results. Most people notice significant improvement after the first few visits with results improving past that for recovery and maintenance. 

Post Treatment

You may feel mild soreness—similar to a light workout—but this fades within a day or two.
Most patients report:

• Less pain
• Easier movement
• Better strength
• Fewer flare-ups

Lifestyle tips for managing arthritis

To keep joints healthy between treatments:

• Stay active with gentle movement like walking, stretching, or swimming.
• Use heat for stiffness and ice for swelling.
• Keep a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure.
• Manage stress and get enough sleep to calm inflammation.
• Follow your doctor’s plan and use acupuncture as part of your total care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Acupuncture Safe? 

Yes! Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. Side effects are rare and usually mild—such as small bruises or slight soreness. There’s no downtime, and most people return to normal activity right after their session.

Will I still need my arthritis medicine?
Yes. Acupuncture works best as part of your full care plan. You can use it safely along with your prescribed medicine for combined best effectiveness. 

How soon will I feel the results?
Some people notice change after the first visit. Most feel clear improvement within a few weeks.

Can acupuncture reduce swelling?
Yes. By improving circulation and calming the nervous system, acupuncture can help joints feel less swollen and stiff.

Is it safe for older adults?
Absolutely. Acupuncture is gentle, safe, and a great option for people who can’t take certain pain medicines.

Why Patients Choose Big Easy Acupuncture

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we take a hands-on approach that looks at your whole body — not just the sore joint.
We blend:

• Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Acupuncture
• Manual therapy / Bodywork to ease tight muscles
• Electro-acupuncture for nerve and circulation support
• Custom herbal medicine when needed

Our mission is simple:

👉 Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

We treat the root cause, not just the symptoms, so you can enjoy life with less pain and more freedom of movement.

Serving patients in Metairie, New Orleans, and surrounding Louisiana communities.

Discover how acupuncture can help relieve arthritis pain naturally.

General Arthritis Information

1. Cleveland Clinic. Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Types, and Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12061-arthritis
2. Mayo Clinic. Arthritis: Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
3. Mayo Clinic. Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350777
4. National Health Service (NHS). Rheumatoid Arthritis – Treatment. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/treatment/

Acupuncture and Arthritis Research
5. Lu W, et al. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pain Medicine. 2022;23(6):1068–1080. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35496051
6. Zhang R, et al. Effect of acupuncture on pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review. Pain Medicine. 2024;25(3):541–553.
7. Zhou W, et al. The role of acupuncture in regulating inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Frontiers in Immunology. 2022;13:829409. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.829409/full
8. Liu C, et al. Acupuncture combined with standard therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2020;2020:1–12.

Asthma is a long-term condition that affects more than 20 million Americans. Caring for a chronic condition such as asthma can sometimes be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that it can be controlled. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in the management of asthma, and they work well in conjunction with other types of treatment.

The facts about asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory disease in which the airways become blocked or narrowed, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Some people have long periods without symptoms, while others may always experience difficulty breathing. Asthma attacks occur when something triggers the inflammation of the respiratory system. Flare ups can be severe—sometimes even life-threatening.

Asthma attacks are generally caused by one or more triggers, including:

• A cold, flu, bronchitis, or sinus infection
• Allergens including dust mites, tree and grass pollen, mold, and animal dander
• Irritants that include tobacco smoke, strong fragrances, and air pollution
• Certain foods and food additives
• Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs
• Strenuous exercise
• Changes in weather
• Strong emotions such as anxiety, stress, grief and anger

Generally, the available approach of asthma treatment is to try and prevent attacks. This is usually done with regular use of anti-inflammatory medications, inhaled steroids and leukotriene inhibitors. Once an asthma attack is underway, quick-acting medications like corticosteroids may be able to relieve it.

Most of these medications can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, muscle tremors, and insomnia. However, many people have found that acupuncture treatment may help reduce asthma attacks, improve lung function, and even lower the amount of medication needed.

Asthma according to ancient principles

In TCM, asthma is known as “Xiao Chuan”, which means “wheezing” and “shortness of breath”. It is caused by a variety of factors that involve an imbalance with Wei Qi (pronounced “way chee”), and an imbalance with one or more of the organ systems, generally the Lungs, Spleen or Kidney.

An acupuncturist will take a holistic, or whole-body approach in order to determine what areas of the body are affected and out-of-balance and contributing to the attacks.

Since acupuncture and TCM take into account your overall well-being, your practitioner may also address other issues that may be contributing to your asthma, such as exercise, diet and stress. Acupuncture is a safe, effective, and pain-free approach to many conditions, and you may find that your overall health improves along with your asthma symptoms.

References:
Asthma. U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Encyclopedia. 10/30/2006. Link
Alternative Therapy for Asthma. WebMD. 12/1/2006.
Chen, J., Pharm, D. Treatment of Asthma with Herbs and Acupuncture. Acufinder.com Acupuncture Learning & Resource Center.
Facts about Asthma. American Lung Association. 10/2006.

Lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Crohn’s disease…You may have heard of these conditions, but do you know what they have in common? They are all types of autoimmune disease and they are all lifelong conditions.

Approximately 50 million Americans are living with an autoimmune disease. If you are facing one of these conditions, you know how crucial it is to have a treatment plan in place to help you manage your symptoms and live the healthiest, most active life possible.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in living with an autoimmune disease. They can help:

• Strengthen your immune system
• Relieve painful symptoms
• Reduce your stress, and
• Bolster your overall health

Perhaps most importantly, your practitioner will focus on YOU as an individual. Your care will be tailored to your specific needs and symptoms, so you won’t ever receive a “one-size-fits-all” treatment.

When the immune response goes wrong

To understand autoimmune disease, we must first understand how the immune system works. The immune system generally acts as the body’s protection against foreign substances and microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. When the immune system is working properly, it can tell the difference between the body’s own tissues and outside organisms.

In the case of autoimmune diseases the immune system stops being able to differentiate, and begins to attack the body’s own cells, tissues, and organs. This immune response causes harmful inflammation that eventually leads to an autoimmune condition. There are about 80 recognized autoimmune diseases, and several other conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and fibromyalgia that are currently believed to have an autoimmune component.

Autoimmune conditions are often difficult to diagnose and treat because their symptoms and progression can vary from person to person. These conditions may either affect many organs or target one specific part of the body. The symptoms may be persistent, get progressively worse, or go into remission with occasional “flare-ups,” and can range from being mild to so severe that they become disabling.

The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are unknown, but since many conditions run in families, it’s believed there is a genetic relationship. Since women are at a much higher risk for many autoimmune diseases, hormones may also play a part.

Treatments generally rely upon a variety of medications, which can help to relieve symptoms, but may have uncomfortable side effects.

How acupuncture can help

Acupuncture and TCM take a holistic, or whole body approach to healing based on the idea of Qi, or vital energy. Qi flows through pathways called meridians to nourish all of the body’s organs, protect us from illness and keep us healthy. When the flow of Qi becomes diminished or blocked, disease can result.

The goal of treatment will be to find and treat the underlying imbalances that are affecting the flow of Qi. By addressing the root cause of the disease, TCM can help your body regain balance and help improve your overall health. Acupuncture and TCM can also help reduce inflammation, soothe uncomfortable symptoms, relieve side effects from medication, and increase your energy levels.

During treatment, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific points along the meridians in order to unblock any obstruction and allow Qi to flow freely. Your practitioner may also help improve your nutrition, reduce your stress, or start you on an exercise program.

In addition, your practitioner may recommend herbal remedies and supplements designed to support your health and boost your immune system. It’s important to communicate with all of your health providers in order to maximize your healing potential.

Acupuncture and TCM have proven effective against a wide variety of health concerns. By incorporating these powerful tools into your treatment program, you’re making the decision to support and nourish your body and take control of your autoimmune condition.

References:
Autoimmune diseases: overview. The National Women’s Health Information Center. Link
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. WebMD. May 17, 2007. Link

BACK PAIN RELIEF IN METAIRIE – BIG EASY ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBAL MEDICINE

Does acupuncture help with back pain?

Yes, acupuncture can relieve back pain by relaxing tight muscles, improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and restoring mobility.

BACK PAIN HOLDINGYOU BACK? FIND RELIEF WITH ACUPUNCTURE

Does your back ache after sitting too long or standing at work?
Do you get shooting pains down your leg or stiffness in the morning?

Back pain can interfere with even the simplest parts of life — tying your shoes, picking up your kids, sleeping well, or making it through a workday. For many people, it’s more than discomfort. It can affect sleep, reduce energy, and even limit independence.

Acupuncture offers safe, natural, and drug-free relief that addresses the root cause of your pain.

WHAT CAUSES BACK PAIN?

Back pain is one of the leading reasons people visit doctors worldwide. It can come from everyday strain or more complex conditions. Common causes include:

• Everyday Strain & Overuse
  Heavy lifting, repetitive bending, twisting, or long hours on your feet.
• Poor Posture & Core Weakness
  Slouching at a desk, weak abdominal support, or prolonged sitting.
• Injuries & Accidents
  Sports injuries, falls, or sudden awkward movements leading to sprains or herniated discs.
• Nerve Irritation
  Sciatica, pinched nerves, or spinal stenosis causing radiating pain to the legs.
• Age-Related Changes
  Arthritis, osteoporosis, degenerative disc disease, and reduced disc cushioning.
• Scar Tissue, Bone Spurs, Masses, Tumors
  Internal changes that press on nerves or limit movement.
• Lifestyle Factors
  Smoking (slows healing), stress (tightens muscles), seasonal cold/damp weather can all trigger pain, or feeling tight muscles when sick.

HOW PEOPLE EXPERIENCE BACK PAIN

• Physically – Pain may be dull, aching, or sharp. It may radiate down one or both legs (sciatica), cause stiffness, or lead to spasms that make it hard to move.
  
• Mentally – Chronic back pain often brings frustration, irritability, or depression due to ongoing limitations.
  
• Time Frame – Some cases resolve with rest and lifestyle changes; others become persistent or recurring, lasting months or years.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK FOR BACK PAIN?

Acupuncture is effective because it targets both the muscles and nerve pathways involved in pain.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is well known to provide a natural, anatomy based, researched, and safe approach to treating back pain.

Thin sterile needles are inserted at specific points either locally or along distant areas of the body that connect to the same pathways to manipulate the body, reduce pain, and calm the nervous system. Pain can come from nerves being elongated, shortened, or compressed. Nerve compression and muscular tensions lead to areas of the body not being able to fire actions like a misfire in a car or perform as intended because the area could be shut off. 

Western Medical Perspective:

• Triggers release of endorphins (your body’s natural pain relievers)
• Relaxes tight muscles and reduces spasms
• Improves blood circulation for faster healing
• Decreases inflammation in irritated joints and discs
• Restores proper nerve signaling to reduce radiating pain
• Calms the nervous system, helping the body “reset” from chronic tension

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective:

• Clears blockages in meridians that cause pain and stiffness
• Restores balance of Qi, blood, and body fluids
• Reduces stress and tension that worsen back problems

The result: Less pain, improved mobility, stronger posture, and better quality of life.

RESEARCH ON ACUPUNCTURE FOR BACK PAIN

Modern research continues to confirm the benefits of acupuncture for people living with back pain:

• A large randomized trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients receiving acupuncture — whether individualized or standardized — experienced greater improvements in function and symptoms compared to usual care. Read the study ›
• A systematic review and meta-analysis in Pain Medicine concluded that acupuncture was generally more effective than control treatments for various neuropathic pain conditions, improving both pain and nerve function. Read the study ›

What this means for you: Acupuncture is not only safe, but it has strong scientific support as a natural, effective treatment for back pain — helping reduce symptoms, restore mobility, and improve quality of life.

TYPES OF TECHNIQUES USED FOR BACK PAIN

• Traditional Acupuncture – Needling along Bladder, Kidney, and Du channels, especially points along the lumbar spine. These meridians are pathways of action utilized to treat your condition.
• Sports Medicine Acupuncture – Targeting motor points to restore muscle balance, relieve nerve compression, and restore function to nerve pathway of action. These pathways are part of a larger network of nerve branches that showcase the pathways of action of the body.
  
• Electrostimulation (Electroacupuncture) – Gentle electrical current to reduce inflammation and improve nerve function. Electrostimulation can provide deeper stimulation for a period of time without the need to manually stimulate each needle.
  
• Cupping Therapy – Cups are placed onto the skin to create suction. This increases blood flow to surface level tissues and loosens muscles/tendons

IMAGING AND RED FLAGS

Imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) may be recommended if:

• Pain follows an accident, fall, heavy trauma, or major injury
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness travels into one or both legs
• Pain is severe, persistent, or worsening even with care
• Sudden changes in bladder or bowel control occur
• Unexplained weight loss, fever, or other systemic symptoms appear
  

Imaging can reveal issues such as disc herniation, fractures, or spinal narrowing that may guide treatment.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST ACUPUNCTURE VISIT

When you visit Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie, we start by discussing the reason for your visit, history of complaint, and checking your mobility and muscle strength. Then we create a plan just for you.

• Consultation & Assessment – We’ll discuss your pain history, lifestyle factors, and perform orthopedic mobility and strength testing to determine your personalized treatment plan.
  
• Treatment – Gentle acupuncture targeting back pain pathways, with needles retained for ~20 minutes.
  
• What You May Feel – A sense of release in the muscles, reduced pain, improved movement, and deep relaxation.
  
• Complementary Care – Cupping, electroacupuncture, or manual therapy may be used to boost results.
  
• Lifestyle Support – Core-strengthening exercises, lifting technique adjustments, and posture tips.

Big Easy Acupuncture treatments utilize a combination of Sports Medicine Acupuncture along with Traditional Chinese Medicine to bring you the best of both this ancient healing system along with modern treatment methods.

BENEFITS OUR PATIENTS NOTICE

• Relief from neck pain and stiffness
• Reduced radiating pain from back pain (Sciatica)
• Better posture, range of motion, and strength
• Better sleep and lower stress levels
• Reduced reliance on pain medications
• More energy for daily life

Many patients feel relief within the first or first few visits. For chronic or recurring cases, a short treatment series helps retrain the body for long-term results.

AFTERCARE (POST TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS)

• Drink water to support recovery
• Avoid heavy lifting immediately after treatment
• Practice gentle stretches or core engagement exercises as recommended
• Pay attention to ergonomic adjustments (chair support, lifting mechanics)
• Some patients may have temporary soreness at needling sites as the body processes treatment. This can be normal for some and resolves normally within 24-48 hours.
• Pain reduction is not the only progress people make on their journey to reduce and remove their pains. Pay attention to changes in mobility, strength, sleep, medications used, and overall comfort level. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How many acupuncture sessions do I need for back pain?
  Many patients notice improvement quickly, but for chronic low back pain, 6–8 visits help retrain the body for lasting relief.
• Is acupuncture safe for chronic back pain?
  Yes. Acupuncture is a safe, non-drug treatment that supports both acute and chronic back pain management.
• Can acupuncture help with sciatica?
  Absolutely. By reducing nerve irritation and relaxing tight muscles, acupuncture often reduces radiating pain into the legs.
• Do you accept insurance for acupuncture?
  Big Easy Acupuncture is a cash-based clinic. We can provide itemized receipts for patients who want to seek out-of-network reimbursement upon request. 

Unlike pain medications that only mask symptoms, acupuncture helps your body heal. It’s safe, natural, and effective — and it’s trusted by people all over the world.

🌿 Ready to Find Relief from Back Pain?

📍 Big Easy Acupuncture | Metairie, LA
📞 504-650-0027

FEEL RIGHT. MOVE FREE. LIVE EASY.

References

1. Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Avins, A. L., Erro, J. H., Ichikawa, L., Barlow, W. E., … & Deyo, R. A. (2009). A randomized trial comparing acupuncture, simulated acupuncture, and usual care for chronic low back pain. Archives of Internal Medicine, 169(9), 858–866. View Article ›
2. Vickers, A. J., Vertosick, E. A., Lewith, G., MacPherson, H., Foster, N. E., Sherman, K. J., … & Linde, K. (2012). Acupuncture for chronic pain: individual patient data meta-analysis. Pain Medicine, 18(3), 356–374. PubMed ›

Acupuncture and Cancer Care: Finding Strength and Balance

Hearing the word cancer can be scary. You may feel worried, confused, or unsure about what will happen next. But there is hope. Many people recover from cancer or live long, healthy lives with the right care and support. Today, there are more treatments than ever before to help stop cancer, slow it down, or make you feel better while you heal.

Along with your regular cancer treatments, you can also choose natural ways to support your body. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been used for thousands of years to help people heal, reduce pain, and find support for whole-body health. They can be safely used to help you feel stronger and calmer while going through medical treatments.

Understanding Cancer and Its Treatments

Cancer happens when certain cells in the body start to grow too fast and don’t stop. These cells can form lumps or spread to other parts of the body, making it hard for healthy cells to do their job.

There are many kinds of cancer, but the most common include:

• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Skin cancer
• Colon cancer
• Prostate cancer

Doctors choose your treatment based on the type of cancer, how far it has spread, and your overall health. Treatments can work very well, but they may also cause side effects.

Common treatments and side effects include:

• Surgery: Removes the cancer from the body.
  • Side Effects: Pain, inflammation, mobility, and strength issues possible during recovery.
• Chemotherapy: Uses strong medicine to kill cancer cells.
  • Side Effects: It may cause tiredness, nausea, vomiting, or hair loss.
• Radiation therapy: Uses powerful energy to destroy cancer cells.
  • Side Effects: It can cause fatigue and skin changes near the treated area.
• Biological therapy: Helps your immune system fight cancer.
  • Side Effects: It can cause flu-like feelings, rashes, or loss of appetite.

These treatments can save lives, but they can also make the body feel weak and tired. That’s where acupuncture and TCM can help support your healing.

How Acupuncture Helps During Cancer Care

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found that acupuncture can help reduce:

•  Nausea and vomiting
• Mental and physical fatigue
• Pain after surgery

Acupuncture can support overall well-being by:

• Calming the nervous system
• Improving blood flow
• areas of the body with weakness, mobility, or pain issues
• Stress / Anxiety
• Easing fatigue

Your practitioner might also suggest:

• Gentle bodywork or acupressure
• Nutrition guidance
• Light exercises or breathing practices
• Herbal medicine or supplements

Always tell your doctor and acupuncturist about all the medicines and supplements you take so they can work safely together.

Working together with your medical team

Acupuncture is a supportive therapy that can be safely combined with your doctor’s treatment plan. We always encourage open communication with your oncologist and medical team. By working together, we help create a coordinated plan that supports both your physical healing and emotional wellbeing.

Supporting Your body during cancer care

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine focuses on helping your body recover from the effects of treatment and daily stress. Many people going through care experience muscle pain, tightness, poor sleep, or loss of energy. Acupuncture restores comfort, calms the nervous system, restores mobility / strength, and reduces pain so your body feels better during every stage of recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can acupuncture cure cancer?
No. Acupuncture does not cure cancer. It’s used to help manage side effects, improve quality of life, and support your body during medical treatments.

Q: Is it safe to get acupuncture during chemotherapy or radiation?
Yes, when performed by a licensed acupuncturist familiar with oncology-supportive care. Always tell your medical team so treatments can be coordinated safely.

Q: How many sessions are needed?
Every person is different. Some patients come once or twice a week during active treatment, then less often as they recover.

Metairie Acupuncture Care and cancer Support

If you’re receiving cancer treatment and want gentle, natural ways to support your body, our clinic in Metairie, Louisiana is here to help. Every session is tailored to your needs—whether that’s reducing pain, improving mobility, or helping you feel calm and strong through treatment and recovery.

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy. 

References:
1. NIH Consensus Conference. Acupuncture. JAMA 280 (17): 1518-24, 1998.
Comprehensive cancer care: integrating alternative, complementary, and conventional therapies. Gordon JS, Curtin S. NY: Persus Publishing, 2000.
Acupuncture. American Cancer Society. May 25, 2007. Link
Understanding CancerTreatment. WebMD. Accessed February 11, 2008. Link
New Lung Cancer Guidelines Oppose General CT Screening – Lung Cancer Recommendations – Avoid Select Vitamins, Try Acupuncture. Chest, September 2007.

Acupuncture For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | Big Easy Acupuncture, Metairie LA

Acupuncture and Dry Needling for Hand and Wrist Nerve Pain

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hand and fingers. Many people notice symptoms at night, while driving, or when using a phone or computer. Over time, simple tasks like gripping, typing, or holding objects can become uncomfortable or frustrating.

It is common to worry that nerve symptoms mean permanent damage or that surgery is the only option. In many cases, carpal tunnel symptoms respond well to conservative care when addressed early and treated properly.

At Big Easy Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in Metairie, we help people reduce nerve irritation, improve hand function, and return to daily activities using acupuncture, dry needling, and hands-on care.

Does Acupuncture Help Carpal Tunnel?

For many people, the answer is yes. Acupuncture is commonly used to help reduce pain, numbness, and tingling associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Treatment focuses on calming irritated nerves, improving circulation, and releasing tension in the wrist, forearm, shoulder, and neck. Addressing these areas can reduce pressure on the median nerve and support better nerve function.

Many people choose acupuncture as a conservative option before considering injections or surgery. Results depend on how long symptoms have been present and how severe they are, but many people experience meaningful improvement with consistent care.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through the wrist. This area also contains several tendons that control finger movement.

When the nerve is irritated, people may experience numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness in the hand. Symptoms often worsen at night or with repeated hand use.

Carpal tunnel is not always caused by one single issue. In many cases, it develops from a combination of nerve sensitivity, muscle tension, joint mechanics, and repetitive strain rather than a sudden injury.

Causes and Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel symptoms are often influenced by more than just the wrist.

Common contributing factors include:

• Repetitive hand or wrist use
• Prolonged wrist bending or gripping
• Tightness in the forearm muscles
• Shoulder or neck tension affecting nerve pathways
• Inflammation or fluid retention

Risk factors may include:

• Desk and computer work
• Manual labor or tool use
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes or other underlying chronic systemic conditions
• Previous wrist injury

In our clinic, we often see carpal tunnel symptoms improve when the forearm, elbow, shoulder, and neck are addressed together rather than treating the wrist in isolation.

Red Flags to Watch For

Some symptoms should be evaluated by a medical provider before starting treatment.

These include:

• Constant numbness that does not change
• Progressive hand or finger weakness
• Frequent dropping of objects
• Loss of coordination
• Symptoms following trauma or injury

Acupuncture works best as part of responsible care and may be used alongside bloodwork or imaging evaluation when needed.

What Is Acupuncture and Dry Needling?

Acupuncture uses very thin, sterile needles to stimulate specific points in muscles, connective tissue, and along nerve pathways. Dry needling is a related technique that focuses on releasing tight or dysfunctional muscle tissue to restore normal muscle activation in inhibited areas 

Both approaches aim to reduce pain, improve circulation, and calm irritated nerves. Treatments are targeted and based on physical assessment rather than symptoms alone.

How Acupuncture and Dry Needling Help Carpal Tunnel

Research suggests acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve nerve-related symptoms in people with carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment focuses on improving local circulation, reducing muscle tension, and decreasing nerve sensitivity.

At Big Easy Acupuncture, care may include the wrist, forearm, elbow, shoulder, and neck. Addressing these areas can reduce strain along the median nerve and support healthier nerve signaling.

Acupuncture and dry needling helps to:

• Reduce nerve irritation
• Improve blood flow to the affected area
• Release tight forearm muscles
• Support nervous system regulation

What to Expect During and After Treatment

During treatment

Your visit includes hands-on mobility and strength assessment followed by targeted treatment. Most people find the needles comfortable and relaxing. Treatment is mobility and strength based, focused, and individualized.

After treatment

Some people notice temporary soreness or heaviness in the arm. Tingling, warmth, or changes in sensation are common and usually short-lived. Improvement often builds gradually over several visits.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments depends on a few factors:

Your Symptom Stage (Relief → Correction / Root Cause → Maintenance)

Relief: calming pain, tension, or nerve irritation
Correction / Root cause: correcting movement, strength, or structural issues
Maintenance: preventing flare-ups and supporting long-term function

Acute conditions:

If you’re dealing with recent injuries or sudden issues within the last few months, you may notice significant improvement after just a few sessions. Typically acute conditions require only 1–5 treatments compared to long-term issues.

Chronic conditions:

Chronic issues or long-term systemic conditions usually require more sessions. A typical plan involves 2 visits per week for the first 2–3 weeks, with treatments spreading out as you progress. Chronic issues often need more total sessions and may benefit from follow-up or maintenance care.

Maintenance:

Many patients choose occasional visits to keep pain from returning and to support active lifestyles.

We’ll regularly reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as you improve.

Complementary Treatments That May Help

Acupuncture works best when combined with appropriate self-care and medical guidance.

Recommendations from external care may include:

• Ergonomic adjustments to normal life environment
• Assisted exercise
• Soft tissue manipulation
• Electroacupuncture

Self care recommendations: 

• Forearm stretches
• Mobility exercises to improve the gliding of the nerve 
• Taking a break from triggering activities or stepping back during recovery
• Applying heat or cold based upon presentation

When to Seek Help for Carpal Tunnel

You may want to seek care if:

• Symptoms last more than a few weeks
• Numbness or pain disrupts sleep
• Hand weakness affects daily tasks
• Symptoms interfere with work or quality of life

Early care often leads to better outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acupuncture help carpal tunnel?
Yes. Many people use acupuncture to reduce pain, numbness, and nerve irritation associated with carpal tunnel syndrome..

Can acupuncture help avoid surgery?
Many people try conservative care like acupuncture before considering injections or surgery.

Is carpal tunnel permanent?
In most cases, symptoms improve with proper treatment, especially when addressed early.

Does treatment hurt?
Most people find acupuncture and dry needling very comfortable. You may feel a slight pinch or tingle upon insertion of most needles but the process is very comfortable for most people. 

Ready to Understand What’s Going On?

If hand numbness, tingling, or wrist pain is limiting your daily life, an evaluation can help clarify what’s actually driving your symptoms and whether acupuncture or dry needling is appropriate.

📍 4300 S I-10 Service Road West, #208 Metairie, LA 70001
📞 504-650-0027
🌐 Schedule online anytime at: bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

Acupuncture for Colds & Flu | Big Easy Acupuncture, Metairie LA

Simple, clear care for the times you feel worn down.

Cold and flu season shows up every year, and even a mild illness can make you feel tired, stuffed up, and drained. Many people deal with:

• a stuffy or runny nose
• sore throat
• headaches
• sinus pressure
• cough
• body aches
• low energy

These illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria. Your body works hard to fight them off, and symptoms can feel worse or last longer when you’re stressed, not sleeping well, or already run down.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, my goal is to help your body recover faster, breathe easier, and feel more comfortable while you heal. 

How Acupuncture Helps When You’re Sick

Clinical studies show that acupuncture helps shorten how long cold symptoms last. 

1. Opens your nose and sinuses

Acupuncture helps reduce swelling and improves blood flow, which makes it easier to breathe and release pressure in your face, forehead, and head.

2. Calms aches and soreness

Cold and flu symptoms often come from inflammation. Acupuncture helps settle that inflammation so your body feels lighter and less achy and helps with reducing sore throat. 

3. Supports your immune system

Research shows acupuncture may help your immune system respond better, which can shorten how long you feel sick.

4. Helps your body rest and recover

Being sick is stressful. Acupuncture helps your body shift into “rest mode,” where healing happens. Acupuncture helps your body to feel not in fight or flight and more into rest and digestion. 

5. Reduces coughing and throat irritation

Certain points help relax the chest, lessen irritation, and reduce coughing. Persistent coughing can be irritating and stressful especially trying to get a good night’s rest. 

Cupping for Better Breathing

Cupping is often added when your upper back or ribs feel tight.

Cupping can help by:

• relaxing tight muscles that make breathing harder
• improving movement in the ribs
• easing chest pressure
• helping the lungs expand more comfortably

Many patients say they can take a deeper breath after cupping and feel less tight through the shoulders and upper back.

Custom Herbal Formulas for Faster Recovery

Herbal formulas can support your body while it fights a cold or flu. These blends are chosen based on your exact symptoms and may help:

• break up phlegm
• calm cough
• ease sinus pressure
• Reduce fever
• Control sweating
• support immune function
• reduce lingering fatigue
• help you avoid getting sick again soon

Herbs are gentle, natural, and work well with acupuncture and cupping. Herbal treatments also work well as a standalone treatment. 

When Should You Come In?

Treatment can help at many stages:

• when you feel a cold starting
• when your nose or chest won’t clear
• when a cough hangs on
• when you’re past the fever but still tired
• when you keep catching the same cold again and again

Most people feel clearer and more relaxed after treatment.

What a Visit Looks Like

During your appointment, we focus on:

• acupuncture points to open sinuses
• points to calm cough and throat irritation
• cupping on the upper back to ease breathing
• herbal formulas made for your symptoms
• gentle techniques to reduce headaches, pressure, and body aches

The treatment is calming and gives your body space to heal.

Simple Tips to Help You Recover Faster

• drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated
• rest more than usual
• eat warm, simple foods
• limit sugar
• avoid pushing yourself too hard or high stress

Small steps make a big difference when your body is fighting a virus.

Feel Better Sooner

If a cold or flu is slowing you down, acupuncture, cupping, and herbal medicine can help your body recover and ease your symptoms.

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

To Schedule:

📱Text / Call 504-650-0027

🌐 Schedule online anytime: bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

Acupuncture for Depression | Big Easy Acupuncture

Support for low mood, low energy, and nervous system balance

All Emotions Are Part of Being Human

All emotions are normal.
No one feels happy all the time.
No one feels sad, angry, fearful, or calm all the time either.

When sadness, heaviness, or lack of motivation begin to affect sleep, focus, relationships, or daily life, it can feel overwhelming.

When one emotion lasts too long, our views can narrow.
Things may feel in the way instead of on the way.

When sadness, discouragement, or hopelessness last too long, quality of life can suffer.
Support can help the body and nervous system settle so emotions can move more freely again.

Many of our patients are busy professionals, caretakers, or people living with long-term stress or pain. When the body stays run down for too long, mood and energy often follow.

Acupuncture works with both the body and the nervous system. Treatment helps release physical tension, improve blood flow, and support nerve regulation. As the body becomes less strained, many people find it easier to move through the day, think more clearly about what matters, and see situations with a wider view.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, we use acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine to support the nervous system, improve resilience, and help the body move out of a stuck state.

What Depression Can Feel Like in the Body

Depression is more than feeling sad. It often affects how the body and nervous system work together.

Some people feel low or flat. Others feel heavy, tired, or disconnected. Many notice low energy, poor focus, or trouble starting daily tasks. Simple things can feel harder than they used to.

Depression may show up as:

• Low or uneven energy
• Trouble focusing or mental fog
• Changes in sleep
• Body aches or muscle tension
• Loss of motivation
• Feeling overwhelmed or shut down

When stress, pain, illness, or pressure last too long, the nervous system can stay in a protective state. This can narrow energy, focus, and emotional range over time.

This does not mean something is wrong with you. It often means the system has been under strain for too long and needs support.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine View

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, emotions and physical systems are connected. Each emotion relates to how the body manages stress, energy, and recovery.

When emotional strain, lifestyle stress, or illness last too long, balance can be disrupted. This may show up as physical symptoms, changes in mood, or both.

How Acupuncture Supports Depression

Acupuncture supports the body systems that influence mood, energy, and stress response. It works by helping the nervous system regulate, improving circulation, and reducing physical strain.

By addressing the body first, acupuncture can help create the conditions needed for emotional balance to return.

Over time, patients often notice:

• More steady energy
• Clearer thinking
• Less physical tension
• Improved sleep quality
• Better stress tolerance
• Emotions that feel easier to move through

In simple terms, acupuncture helps the body move out of a stuck state and back toward balance.

What Depression-Focused Care Looks Like Here

Care at Big Easy Acupuncture is structured and personal. We look at how depression shows up in your whole system, including:

• Energy and sleep patterns
• Muscle tension or chronic pain
• Digestion and appetite
• Stress load and daily demands
• Other care you may already be using

Treatments are adjusted over time based on how your body responds.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

At your first visit, we will:

• Review your health history and symptoms
• Talk about mood, stress, and energy patterns
• Check areas of physical tension
• Create a care plan that fits your needs
• Begin treatment

Treatment may include:

• Acupuncture
• Gentle bodywork
• Cupping or gua sha when helpful
• Herbal or lifestyle support when appropriate

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments depends on several factors, including:

• How long symptoms have been present
• Whether depression is recent or long-standing
• Stress levels, sleep, and overall health
• How the body responds to treatment

In general:

Recent or situational depression
Many people start with 1-2 visits per week for a few weeks. As the body stabilizes, visits are spaced out.

Long-standing or complex patterns
Depression that has been present for months or years, or that overlaps with pain, insomnia, or chronic stress, often needs a longer course of care. Treatment may continue over several weeks with regular progress checks.

We reassess along the way and adjust care based on how your body responds.

Herbal Medicine for Depression Support

Chinese herbal medicine can support mood, energy, and sleep when used alongside acupuncture.

Formulas are customized and adjusted as your body changes. Herbs are used to support balance, not to numb emotions.

Depression and the Rest of the Body

Depression often overlaps with:

• Anxiety or chronic stress
• Ongoing pain
• Sleep problems
• Digestive issues
• Hormonal changes
• Burnout

Because acupuncture treats the whole system, it can support both physical and emotional symptoms at the same time.

Small Supports That Can Help Alongside Treatment

Depression can make simple things feel hard. You do not need to fix everything at once. Small steps matter.

Some supports that may help include:

• Talk to someone safe. One trusted person is enough.
• Move a little. A short walk or light stretching can help the body shift gears.
• Get light and fresh air. Even a few minutes outside can help the nervous system.
• Eat regular meals. Simple, steady nourishment can support energy and mood.
• Allow rest without pressure. Rest helps the nervous system recover, even if sleep is not perfect.
• Build a simple routine. One steady habit can make the day feel more manageable.

You are not alone. Many people go through this. Support helps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture a replacement for therapy or medication?
No. Acupuncture is one part of care for depression. It works as supportive care and can be used alongside therapy, counseling, or medication.

Is acupuncture safe for depression?
Yes. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe and often calming.

How long do results last?
Each session builds on the last. Over time, the nervous system can learn to stay in a more balanced state.

Depression Care at Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie

If depression has been affecting your energy, focus, or sense of balance, acupuncture may be a supportive part of your care.

Care is one-on-one, quiet, and structured. Treatment focuses on nervous system balance, physical tension, and long-term resilience.

📞Phone: 504-650-0027
📅Online Scheduling: Book anytime at bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

Chances are that you or someone you know has been affected by diabetes. It’s an increasingly common condition—one that approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with this year alone. While it is generally a long-term condition, diabetes can be managed through self-care, nutrition, and medication. Another safe, effective approach to managing diabetes and its symptoms is acupuncture. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) help promote health and well-being. Both can be used safely along with your current medical treatment to provide the best results for you.

Understanding a complex condition

The body gets its energy from food through the process of digestion. Food is broken down into glucose (or sugar) which passes into the bloodstream. Then the glucose is moved into muscle, fat, and liver cells by the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. However, if you have diabetes, your body either does not produce enough insulin, or doesn’t respond to it properly, and this leads to high levels of sugar in the blood.

Uncontrolled blood-sugar levels can cause serious complications if left untreated, including blindness, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, amputations, and nerve damage.

There are two main types of diabetes

Type I diabetes: Usually diagnosed during childhood, type I is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. Symptoms usually come on suddenly, and treatment includes daily injections of insulin.

Type II diabetes: This type accounts for 90-95% of all diabetes cases, and is usually diagnosed during adulthood. Major risk factors include family history, having high blood pressure or high cholesterol and being overweight and sedentary.

Since symptoms may be mild, many people don’t know they have diabetes, which is why it’s important to get tested regularly, especially after age 45. Testing can also detect pre-diabetes, where blood sugar is high, but not yet at diabetic levels. With early detection and treatment, it is far easier to stop the disease from progressing, control your symptoms, and prevent complications. Treatments often include regular blood-sugar monitoring and medications to control blood sugar, as well as diet and exercise.

A natural approach that works

The good news is that certain types of diabetes respond very well to acupuncture along with other holistic health care choices and lifestyle changes—sometimes even making medications unnecessary.

Acupuncture and TCM can help put you on the path to a healthier lifestyle. Since diabetes has an impact on every part of your body, it makes sense to try a therapy that takes a holistic, or whole-body, approach to health.

According to TCM, Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness. Qi flows through pathways called meridians and provides nourishment to all of the body’s organs and glands. When there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Qi, symptoms associated with diabetes may appear.

According to TCM, diabetes is known as “Xiao Ke” or “wasting and thirsting disease”, caused by an imbalance of Qi and Yin. This produces heat which drains and consumes the body’s fluids. That is why symptoms related to heat appear—excessive thirst, irritability, itchy skin, dry mouth and red, swollen gums.

During treatment, fine, sterile needles will be inserted in specific acupuncture points along the meridian pathways in order to restore the flow of Qi and nourish Yin. This can ultimately relieve symptoms, improve pancreatic function and control blood sugar levels. Your acupuncturist will also work to resolve other imbalances or concerns that may be complicating your condition, and can help with common symptoms such as pain.

In addition to acupuncture care, your practitioner may offer recommendations for dietary changes, exercise plans, and herbal remedies.

Acupuncture and TCM address each patient’s individual needs in eliminating symptoms and potentially reduce the need for medication. The best approach to controlling your diabetes is to work with a team of health care providers who can address the many aspects of diabetes. Including an acupuncturist to your team—and working together to manage your diabetes—can have lasting benefits and help you live a healthy, active life.

Choate, C. Diabetes Mellitus From Western and TCM Perspectives. Accessed 2/10/2007.
Diabetes. U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Encyclopedia. 2/8/2007.
Diabetes Overview and Facts. WebMD. Accessed 6/9/2007.
Treating Diabetes with Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Acufinder.com. Accessed 6/4/2007.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide a safe, effective, natural, and drug-free approach to reducing the signs of aging. A facial rejuvenation using this ancient technique can improve muscle tone of the face and neck while addressing underlying imbalances that may have contributed to the aging process.

Why does skin sag?

According to TCM, wrinkles begin internally from a constitutional imbalance and fundamental weakness of Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi circulates throughout the body within a series of pathways called meridians. Flowing through these pathways, Qi provides nourishment, support, and energy to every cell, tissue, muscle, and organ.

As we get older it becomes more difficult for Qi to flow upwards to “lift” the face. This leads to inadequate muscle tone, and over time, wrinkles and sagging skin. A variety of factors can contribute to this—poor diet, digestion and circulation, or emotional and environmental stresses.

Give your skin a lift

A facial rejuvenation using acupuncture, tightens pores, improves muscle tone and dermal contraction, while enhancing and increasing the elasticity of the skin. Acupuncture can reduce signs of aging by strengthening and stimulating the circulation of Qi within the meridian pathways, especially those of the face. You will look and feel more energetic, calm, vibrant and healthy.

Acupuncture treatments may be combined with herbal supplements, exercise and acupressure in order to maximize results.

Facial rejuvenation with acupuncture and TCM is virtually painless, and a non-surgical method to reduce the signs of aging. Before using drugs or surgery to improve appearance, consider acupuncture. It is an effective, natural, safe, drug free and painless alternative. It helps your whole body to look and feel younger.

Self-care techniques:

1) Herbal poultice—Thoroughly clean face. Make a poultice using equal parts of ground organic almonds, lavender and rose flowers, ground flax seeds, and oats. Add water and French clay, and stir into a thick paste. Apply to the face, avoiding the eyes, and let dry. Wash off after 15-20 minutes.

2) Stay hydrated— drink plenty of fresh spring water. This can keep the muscles and skin hydrated to prevent drying.

3) Gently massage the face.

4) Walk at least 20 minutes a day, and remember to breathe deeply.

The treatment of infertility with acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates back 2,000 years. These ancient, time-tested techniques improve fertility rates and support a woman’s whole body, unlocking unlimited potential for health, healing and childbearing.

Studies reported by The American Pregnancy Association suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medical interventions. However, conception does sometimes occur without traditional medical interventions when acupuncture and herbal medicines are used alone.¹

Researchers from Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York reviewed recent studies and concluded that acupuncture helps to:

• Increase blood flow to the uterus, which improves the chances of an ovum implanting on the uterine wall.
• Reduce anxiety and stress. The hormones that are secreted during stressful situations can significantly decrease fertility.
• Normalize hormone and endocrine systems that regulate ovulation, especially in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.
• Positively affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which plays a key role in fertility.
• Regulate menstrual cycle.²

In a 2007 study, researchers found that acupuncture may improve the quality of life in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). It was also found that women receiving acupuncture reported significantly
less abdominal pain, other pain, nausea, and stress two hours after
oocyte aspiration (egg collection) compared to women receiving conventional analgesia.³

In 2008, the British Medical Journal published research which
concluded that acupuncture can be offered as a significant, clinically relevant adjunct to IVF, relaxing the uterus and increasing blood flow
for the successful implantation of an embryo within the uterine lining.⁴

An acupuncturist’s approach to fertility.

According to the theories of acupuncture and TCM, infertility is caused by an imbalance of Qi (pronounced “chee”) and blood affecting the healthy functioning of one or more of the organ systems. When Qi, also known as our vital energy, and blood are circulating freely throughout the body, every cell, tissue and organ is properly nourished and can function well. Acupuncture and TCM can raise the fertility potential of women by effecting the quality, quantity, balance and flow of Qi and blood (keep in mind that the organs described reflect Chinese medical theories and philosophies).

Kidney Organ System. The release of an ovum is controlled by the kidneys. The kidneys also create a substance called Jing Qi, which is required in order to have a healthy body, mind, and pregnancy. If an imbalance exists within the kidneys, Jing Qi may be inadequate in supply and may be a cause for infertility. Chinese herbal medicine, along with acupuncture, can nourish and support Jing Qi and overall kidney health.

Spleen Organ System. An adequate supply of blood is required by a woman’s body to sustain a normal menstrual cycle, a growing fetus, and a healthy pregnancy. Disharmony within the spleen can result in an inadequate supply and imbalance of blood. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can build and nourish blood in order to promote a healthy flow
of blood to the uterus.

Liver Organ System. In order to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy, it is important to have a free flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. The liver is in charge of facilitating this function. When it is out of balance, areas of the body will not receive the required supply of Qi and blood. This imbalance can lead to depression, anxiety, stress and increased possibility of infertility.

Acupuncture and TCM provide a safe, effective, drug-free, and natural approach to treating infertility and enjoying a healthy pregnancy. Here are a few reasons to try acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine:

• An acupuncturist does not treat just symptoms and signs, but instead activates the body’s natural healing potential by treating
  the root causes that have lead to the problem or disease.
• Acupuncture and TCM are completely natural. No drugs are ever used. Invasive procedures and drug therapies that are used in the Western treatment of infertility can cause undesirable side effects and accumulated toxicity in the body.
• Acupuncture and TCM can be used to strengthen, support, and balance overall health and well-being, therefore can increase the effectiveness of other procedures.

Fibromyalgia affects about 3-6% of the world’s population, an estimated 200-400 million people worldwide, with higher numbers among women than men.¹ People diagnosed with fibromyalgia experience a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, pain, stiffness, aches and muscle tenderness, along with sleep disorders and intestinal and bowel troubles.

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be confirmed when eleven out of eighteen specific points on the body are tender to pressure. Interestingly, some of these tender points closely correspond to the location of ancient acupuncture points.²

How acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help.

According to
the theories of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, an imbalance in the flow of Qi can create symptoms and signs that reflect a Western diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy that animates and supports the functions of the body. It flows through specific pathways, called meridians,
and provides nourishment
for the entire body.

When Qi is abundant and freely circulating throughout the body, there is health and pain-free living. When Qi becomes “blocked,” or the supply is inadequate, pain, stiffness
and other symptoms related to fibromyalgia can appear.

What does an acupuncturist do?

An acupuncturist will take a complete health history in order to find out where Qi has become blocked, and/or why the amount of Qi within the body has changed. He or she will then develop a treatment plan tailored to address the meridian pathways that are out of balance. The goal of such a plan will be to eliminate visible symptoms, while addressing the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances.

What is out-of-balance?

The body constantly strives to maintain a healthy balance of Qi traveling through the meridian pathways. When the flow of Qi has been disrupted, or the supply of Qi has changed, the body becomes unbalanced and the meridians cannot properly nourish the body. This is when signs and symptoms appear.

Most cases of fibromyalgia fit into the Chinese diagnosis of a Liver, Spleen, and/or Heart disharmony. This does not mean that these organs have a problem, it means that the functions of these organ/meridian pathways according to Chinese medical diagnosis are out of balance.

Liver. The functions related to the Liver organ, according to Chinese medicine, are to control the smooth flow of blood, Qi, and emotions and to nourish the tendons. When the Liver meridian becomes blocked there will be an inadequate supply of blood and Qi flowing throughout the body. The tendons and muscles will not be properly nourished, leading to stiffness and pain. Other symptoms of a blocked Liver are depression, anger, anxiety, and insomnia. A Liver imbalance may be caused by improper diet, stress, deep, unexpressed anger, drugs, and alcohol.

Spleen. The Chinese function of the Spleen is to transform the food that we ingest into Qi and blood. The health of the Spleen is affected by diet, over-concentration, and worry. An unbalanced Spleen can result in fatigue, digestive troubles, muscle stiffness, and pain.

Heart. When there is an insufficient amount of Qi and blood produced by the Spleen, the Heart organ will be affected. The role of the Heart is to pump blood throughout the body. It is also considered to be the home of the Spirit. If the Spleen cannot generate enough blood to nourish the Heart, the Heart Qi does not have enough control to properly house the Spirit. Symptoms can include anxiety, palpitations, insomnia, and emotional unrest.

A study conducted in 2010, suggests that acupuncture treatment is effective in relieving pain and improving quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.³ Not only can Acupuncture treat the pain and discomfort, but it can also address the underlying problems that have caused the imbalance.
In other research, subjects who received acupuncture experienced an overall improvement in fatigue, anxiety and the hypersensitivity associated with fibromyalgia.⁴

References

1. National Fibromyalgia Association.
2. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia-symptoms/AR00054.
3. Itoh K, Kitakoji H. Effects of acupuncture to treat fibromyalgia: A preliminary randomised controlled trial. Chinese Medicine Journal. 2010, 5(1):11.
4. Sletten, C., Berger, I., et al., Mayo Clinic Proceedings Report, June 2006.

Acupuncture for Foot Drop in Metairie, LA | Big Easy Acupuncture

Foot drop can feel scary and limiting, especially when it affects your balance, walking, or confidence. Many people notice their foot dragging, slapping the ground, or feeling weak when trying to lift the front of the foot. Over time, this can change posture, create pain in other areas, and make daily movement harder.

Many of our patients with foot drop want to stay active, keep working, or move with confidence day to day. Our goal is to help you return to the life you want to live.

At Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie, we combine orthopedic testing, Sports Medicine Acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, and targeted neuromuscular work to help restore function, reduce nerve irritation, and support the muscles involved in lifting the foot. Our goal is not only to help the foot move better but to support the entire chain: the leg, hip, lower back, and nervous system.

Your body can recover, even if this has been going on for a while. There are real treatment options, and progress is possible. 

Whether your foot drop is new or long-standing, acupuncture can help your body recover and regain stability.

What Is Foot Drop?

Foot drop means the muscles that lift the front of the foot are not working well. This can happen for many reasons and may affect one or both sides. Common signs include:

• Difficulty lifting the foot while walking
• The foot dragging or slapping the ground
• Trouble stepping up or walking on uneven surfaces
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness in the shin or foot muscles
• Needing to lift the knee higher to avoid tripping

Foot drop is not a diagnosis on its own. It is a sign that something is affecting the nerves or muscles that control the foot.

Common Causes of Foot Drop

Foot drop can come from many conditions, including:

• Peroneal nerve compression near the knee
• Knee replacement surgery
• Viral infection
• Lower back issues such as herniated discs or sciatica
• Lumbar nerve irritation
• Muscle weakness or disuse
• Post-surgical nerve irritation
• Diabetes-related nerve issues
• Stroke or neurological conditions
• Head injury
• Long-term crossing of legs or pressure on the outer knee

Understanding the cause is the first step in choosing the right treatment.

How We Evaluate Foot Drop at Big Easy Acupuncture

During your first visit, we assess:

• Nerve pathways from the lower back to the foot
• Muscle strength and motor firing patterns
• Sensation changes such as numbness or tingling
• Tension in the hip, lower back, and glute muscles
• Walking, balance, and foot mechanics
• Compression points along the peroneal nerve

This gives us a clear map of what is causing the weakness and how to treat it.

How Acupuncture Helps Foot Drop

Acupuncture can help foot drop by supporting both the nerves and the muscles they control.

Acupuncture helps by:

• Reducing inflammation around irritated nerves
• Improving blood flow to the lower leg and foot
• Stimulating motor points to help muscles fire again
• Reducing compression along the peroneal nerve
• Supporting the lower back and L5 nerve root
• Helping the brain reconnect to the muscles of dorsiflexion
• Relaxing overactive muscles that block normal movement

Electro-acupuncture is often used to help activate weak muscles and retrain the nervous system to send clear signals to the foot.

What a Foot Drop Treatment Looks Like

Most sessions include:

• Targeted acupuncture on motor points in the lower leg
• Electro-acupuncture to improve muscle activation
• Manual therapy to release tension in the hip, lower back, or glutes
• Work on the peroneal nerve pathway
• Corrective exercises to reinforce movement between visits

As strength returns, treatment focuses on stability, balance, and gait.

Why patients choose us:

• • Advanced training in Sports Medicine Acupuncture
  • Detailed orthopedic assessment – mobility and strength assessment

• Electro-acupuncture for motor point activation
• Manual therapy and corrective exercises
• Support for both nerve and muscle recovery
• A calm, private setting focused on your progress

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments depends on a few factors:

Your Symptom Stage (Relief → Correction / Root Cause → Maintenance)
Relief: calming pain, tension, or nerve irritation
Correction / Root cause: correcting movement, strength, or structural issues
Maintenance: preventing flare-ups and supporting long-term function

Acute conditions:
If you’re dealing with recent injuries or sudden issues within the last few months, you may notice significant improvement after just a few sessions. Typically acute conditions require only 1–5 treatments compared to long-term issues.

Chronic conditions:
Chronic issues or long-term systemic conditions usually require more sessions. A typical plan involves 2 visits per week for the first 2–3 weeks, with treatments spreading out as you progress. Chronic issues often need more total sessions and may benefit from follow-up or maintenance care.

Maintenance:
Many patients choose occasional visits to keep pain from returning and to support active lifestyles.

We’ll regularly reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as you improve.

TCM Perspective on Foot Drop

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, foot drop may be linked to:

• Weakness in the Kidney or Liver channels
• Blockage along the Gallbladder or Stomach channels
• Lack of smooth circulation of qi and blood to the leg
• Trauma or long-term strain disturbing the channels that nourish the foot

Treatment focuses on restoring circulation, strengthening the body’s foundation, and supporting nerve pathways.

What Patients Often Notice

People with foot drop commonly report improvements such as:

• Gentle activation of the lower leg
• Better control when lifting the foot after treatment
• A lighter, smoother step when walking
• Less dragging or tripping
• Stronger and more stable walking
• Reduced numbness or tingling
• Less strain in the hip or lower back
• Feeling more stable on uneven ground, getting back to longer walks, or simply moving through daily tasks with more control
• More confidence with movement

Small improvements build over time, and consistent care helps the nervous system relearn proper movement patterns.

When to Seek Care

Foot drop should be evaluated as soon as possible, especially if:

• It came on suddenly
• There is severe numbness
• Leg pain travels from the lower back
• Walking feels unstable

Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

Foot Drop Treatment at Big Easy Acupuncture 

If you are ready to explore acupuncture for foot drop:

Location: Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine – Metairie, LA
Scheduling: Book by call, text, or online anytime at bigeasyacu.janeapp.com
Care style: One-on-one treatments focused on nerve function, muscle activation, and long-term recovery

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

If you suffer from headaches, you are not alone. Over 50 million of us experience some form of a severe headache at some point in our lives. Whether you experience minor head pain or severe migraines, headaches can take valuable time out of your day and your life, and leave you searching for relief.

One way to seek relief is by reaching for drugs and other medications. This is fine for the short run, and can help you get out of pain fast. Unfortunately, common headache medications do not address the root cause(s), and when used over long periods of time can cause unwanted side effects.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer a safe and effective approach to relieving headache pain, without causing harmful side effects, and incorporate a comprehensive diagnostic protocol that can help your acupuncturist understand and address the root cause(s)
of your headaches.

Understanding headache types.

There are many factors in TCM theory that may play a key role in the root cause(s) of a headache.
These include body constitution, emotional health, excessive work,
social and exercise activities, improper diet, physical trauma and hormones. Headaches can also be diagnosed according to specific symptoms, times of occurrence, location on the body, type of pain, triggers and remedies which provide relief.

A natural path to relief.

Acupuncture and TCM takes a holistic, or whole-body approach to health. Your practitioner will take a detailed health history, and perform a physical exam to determine how and why your body’s vital energy, or Qi, is out of balance and identify what type of headache you are experiencing. He/she will also attempt to determine what root cause(s) are contributing to the overall problem. By identifying and treating the underlying cause(s), not just the symptoms, he/she can apply the most effective care.

What do you mean my Qi is out of balance?

An important part of acupuncture and TCM is the concept of Qi. Qi (pronounced “chee”)
is the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness.
It flows through pathways called meridians, and provides nourishment
to all the body’s organs. When there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Qi, physical symptoms may result. Qi stagnation may be the cause of your headaches.

During treatment, in order to restore the balance and flow of Qi, fine sterile needles will be inserted at specific points along the meridian pathways. Based on your unique symptoms, your acupuncturist will choose to concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs. Afterwards, a variety of self-care techniques may be prescribed to
further expedite your healing process.

It is important to remember that acupuncture is not a “quick fix.” Changes may occur quickly or over a longer period of time, depending upon your overall constitution and health. It is also important to closely follow care recommendations suggested by your acupuncturist. Whether it is one visit to address an acute problem, or several visits to address a chronic problem, your acupuncturist will create a treatment protocol
that will maximize your healing potential.

Below are a few ways that you can participate in your own healing, by making simple lifestyle changes that may help soothe—or even prevent—head pain.

• Track those triggers: Try to keep track of when your headaches start. Migraine sufferers may find it especially helpful to keep a diary of symptoms and possible causes. Triggers might include anything from eating chocolate, to anxiety or inhaling specific smells. Pinpointing these triggers—and avoiding them when possible—could help.
• Stress relief: Stress puts a lot of strain on the body, and can contribute to many types of health concerns, including headaches. Talk to your practitioner about healthy ways to
  handle stress, such as meditation or breathing techniques.
• Exercise: Physical activity is an important part of any healthy lifestyle, and is a great antidote to stress. Your acupuncturist can recommend types of exercises that may work best for you.
• Healthy habits: Making minor changes can make a big difference in your overall health and vitality. Do your best to eat healthy, organic foods, and make sure to get enough sleep every day.

Naturally, acupuncture care is extremely effective in reducing the frequency and severity of many types of painful conditions, including headache pain. By working with your acupuncturist and adopting some simple lifestyle changes, you will be on your way toward a healthier, happier, pain-free life.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects more than one in three Americans, but most people may not even know they have it. Since hypertension can lead to heart attacks and other life-threatening health problems, it’s very important to learn all you can and take action to lower your risk.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer a safe, natural, and pain-free way to keep your blood pressure in check.

What is hypertension?

Blood pressure is the actual force of blood flowing against your artery walls. Getting your blood pressure tested is a quick, simple process. It’s measured in two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Blood pressure is considered high if your systolic pressure is at or above 140 mm Hg, and/or your diastolic pressure is at or above 90 mm Hg.

Often called “the silent killer,” hypertension doesn’t usually cause symptoms until it gets severe enough to lead to major health problems such as heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and metabolic disorders. It has also been linked to dementia and cognitive impairment.

What causes hypertension?

More than 90% of cases of high blood pressure are known as “essential hypertension” and have no identifiable cause. “Secondary hypertension,” on the other hand, is caused by underlying conditions such as kidney disease or certain medications.

The risk factors for essential hypertension include age (the risk is higher after age 35), race (African Americans are at higher risk), and a family history of the condition. While you can’t control those factors, there are many you can control, including:

• Being overweight
• Being stressed
• Consuming too much salt
• Drinking heavily
• Not exercising
• Using tobacco

How can acupuncture and TCM help?

Fortunately, there are many ways to lower your blood pressure. Typical Western treatments includes controlling your risk factors and taking medication if needed. By incorporating acupuncture and TCM into your treatment plan, you can treat your hypertension and improve your overall health and well-being.

Acupuncture and TCM practitioners take a holistic, or “whole body,” approach for the treatment of hypertension, and take into account inharmonious conditions of the whole system than can involve the function of the liver, kidneys, digestive system and heart.

Treatment is based upon the idea of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy that flows through pathways called meridians, providing nourishment for all of the body’s organs and protecting it from illness. When the flow of Qi becomes diminished or blocked, disease and illness result.

The goal of treatment is to find and address the underlying imbalance(s) affecting the flow of Qi, leading to the elevated blood pressure and various symptoms. By addressing the root cause of your high blood pressure, TCM can help your body regain its natural balance. In doing so, you’ll also be strengthening your health and reducing the risk of future health conditions.

Acupuncture and TCM have proven effective against a wide variety of health concerns. Studies have found that a special form of acupuncture called electro-acupuncture, which uses electrical stimulation, may be particularly helpful in lowering blood pressure. By working together with your practitioner, you’ll be on your way to successfully treating your hypertension and improving your health, for today and the days ahead. Similar to healthy eating and regular exercise, consistent acupuncture treatments should be considered for the greatest long-term results.

References:
High Blood Pressure. American Heart Association. March 20, 2008. Link
High Blood Pressure. MayoClinic.com. June 5, 2007. Link
Hypertension. Acupuncture.com. Accessed April 20, 2008. Link
Williams T; Mueller K; Cornwall MW. Effect of acupuncture-point stimulation on diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive subjects. Physical Therapy. 1991 Jul, 71(7):523-9.
Wood, Shelley. Blood Pressure Changes with Acupuncture Comparable to Those with ACE Inhibitor Monotherapy. Medscape, Medical News. 2007, June, 15.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder in which the intestines lose their ability to efficiently move their contents. The main symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation. Less common symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Symptoms may be triggered by stress, diet, emotional factors, hormone levels and medications.

Let’s talk acupuncture

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can offer a safe, effective, natural and drug-free way to address IBS. This holistic healthcare system looks at the body differently than Western medicine. According to Chinese medicine, the body is like a garden that must be cultivated and maintained in order to grow strong and remain healthy. Good health happens when all of the organs and meridian systems are balanced and working together.

How does your garden grow?

According to Chinese medical theories, there are several possible causes for IBS.

One of these is an imbalance of the spleen. The spleen is the organ in charge of digestion and assimilation of foods and liquids. One of the main functions of the spleen is to aid in the production of spleen Qi. Spleen Qi is the energy that provides power and nourishment for the entire body.

Another function of the spleen is to produce blood from the food it breaks down and to convert it into usable energy to power your body. If your spleen isn’t properly cared for, the body’s energy levels will not be supported and illness may occur.

The spleen is easily affected and weakened by poor eating habits and diet, antibiotics, excessive worry, or a weak constitution. When a weakened spleen cannot metabolize or process food efficiently, “dampness” appears in the body. Dampness occurs when rotting, undigested food sits in the gut, causing a variety of symptoms. If dampness “rises” to your head, you may experience headaches, a “foggy” feeling and an inability to concentrate. Over time, dampness can lead to bloating, fullness and loose stools.

Another possible scenario is an imbalance in the liver. According to Chinese medicine, the liver is associated with emotional health. Stress and anger directly influence the function of your liver. Alcohol, drugs and medications, or a poor diet further compromise its function. When this happens, your liver energy overflows, in a figurative sense, and attacks the spleen. If your spleen is already weakened, it can be easily overcome. The result can be stress-induced IBS.

If your liver is compromised, you may experience alternating diarrhea and constipation, as well as bloating, gas, headaches, and dull pain. In this case, your liver may be the root of the problem, and your spleen the secondary problem.

An imbalance in kidney Yang could also cause IBS symptoms. kidney Yang is energy that provides warmth for your body. This energy warms up your spleen to aid in the digestion and breakdown of food. If your kidney energies are compromised, you may experience early-morning diarrhea and possibly bladder incontinence, cold limbs, weak knees and a sore back.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can create a clear picture of the root imbalance(s) that lead to IBS symptoms. When you meet with your practitioner, he or she will determine what organ and meridian systems are contributing to your IBS. They may also suggest adjunct therapies such as herbs, dietary changes, breathing techniques and exercises in order to maximize your healing.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can provide a safe, natural, drug-free and effective way to address IBS.

You settle into a warm, comfortable bed, close your eyes and nothing happens, you just can’t fall asleep. Hours go by and still you’re awake. The next day you feel tired, grouchy, and are unable to focus. Does this sound familiar?

Sleepless nights happen to almost everyone at some time, but ongoing insomnia or sleep disorders can indicate a deeper issue and could lead to further health concerns. Unfortunately, a common approach to treating insomnia includes prescription sleeping medications, which can cause side effects or even dependence. That’s one of the many reasons to consider an all-natural approach to treating your sleep problems. Acupuncture can be a very effective way to improve your sleep quality without side effects.

One bad night…or an ongoing issue?

Occasional insomnia is a very common problem, affecting about one in four Americans. It can happen to anyone, but is more common in older adults. Its symptoms include:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking up during the night
• Waking up too early
• Daytime fatigue and irritability
• Frustration and moodiness

Insomnia can be very frustrating, but it’s more than an annoyance. When insomnia becomes ongoing, or chronic, your body is unable to get the rest and renewal it needs so that you can feel your best. In fact, a lack of quality sleep can cause problems such as difficulty concentrating, diminished energy, low mood, and trouble performing everyday tasks. Since sleep strengthens the immune system, insomnia can leave you susceptible to many other health concerns. Luckily, you don’t have to just “put up with” chronic insomnia.

How acupuncture can help

According to the theories of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), conditions such as insomnia are a sign of an imbalance in Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness. Modern research also recognizes acupuncture to help regulate stress hormones and our nervous system. This helps us feel more naturally calm by regulation of our fight or flight response.

This imbalance can stem from a number of causes such as stress, anxiety, medications, depression, and chronic pain. To determine the underlying causes of your insomnia, your acupuncturist will take into account many factors, including your lifestyle and emotional and mental well-being. They will then work to restore the balance and flow of Qi by inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points along the body.

Your acupuncturist may also suggest aromatherapy, yoga, meditation, or other additional therapies. You may find that you sleep better after your very first session, though you will most likely receive the most benefit from a series of treatments.

Your acupuncturist can get to the root of your sleep issues by taking into account all of the factors that may be contributing to your sleep disturbance. With this ancient form of health care, you can treat your symptoms, improve your overall health and well-being, and start looking forward to a great night’s sleep, every night.

References:
Overcoming Insomnia: How to achieve peaceful quality sleep. Acupuncture.com. Accessed Feb. 1, 2008. Link
Insomnia. MayoClinic.com. March 16, 2007. Link
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Acupuncture. Alpha Books, 2000.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex condition that currently affects approximately 400,000 people in the United States—with 200 more people diagnosed every week. This chronic disease causes uncomfortable, sometimes debilitating symptoms that can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

An unpredictable condition

The exact causes of MS are not entirely understood, and there is currently no cure, though there have been many advances in treatment in recent years. Western medicine considers MS an autoimmune condition–a condition that occurs when the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. In the case of MS, the immune system starts attacking and breaking down a substance called myelin, the sheath that surrounds the nerve fibers of the central nervous system. Myelin increases the speed of the transmission of nerve signals.

When myelin becomes “broken” or destroyed, nerve impulses are slowed down, leading to a progression of nerve-related problems. When these nerve fibers become damaged, symptoms can result, including:

• Blurred vision
• Loss of balance
• Poor coordination
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue
• Memory problems
• Numbness or weakness of
  the limbs

The symptoms of MS vary from person to person, can range from minor to severe and can even disappear for a period of time only to flare up unexpectedly.

Treatment options

Depending upon your symptoms and the progression of the disease, your doctor may suggest medications designed to slow the disease and/or medications for the symptoms.

It is important to take an active role in your treatment. More and more, people living with MS are choosing to complement their Western treatment with acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupuncture and TCM can provide a safe, natural way for those living with MS to stay as healthy as possible. Including acupuncture and TCM in your treatment plan can help boost your overall health and relieve symptoms. Practitioners of TCM view MS differently than Western medicine practitioners, taking into account each individual’s overall health, lifestyle and emotional well-being—not just their symptoms.

TCM is based on the concept that Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy, flows through the body in channels called meridians. If Qi becomes stagnant, unbalanced or deficient, symptoms such as those linked to MS can result. This can occur for any number of reasons, from an inherited constitutional imbalance or illness to stress or an external invader such as wind or dampness.

Your practitioner will work to determine the condition at the root of your symptoms in order to create a treatment plan. For example, the muscular stiffness and numbness associated with MS are often related to excessive dampness within the meridians, or a deficiency in the liver and kidney organ systems.

Based on their diagnosis, your acupuncture practitioner will work to balance the Qi in the body’s organ systems by manipulating corresponding points on the body with hair-thin acupuncture needles. While acupuncture alone can’t cure MS, it has been found to be particularly useful in managing symptoms such as pain, muscle spasms and bladder problems.

Self-care for MS

MS can have an impact on every part of your life. To help support both your physical and emotional well-being, your practitioner may suggest some of these lifestyle changes and self-care techniques.

• Herbal remedies – Your practitioner may provide herbs or nutritional supplements designed to help relieve symptoms and boost your overall health. Be sure to let your other health care providers know if you take supplements in order to avoid any potential drug interactions.

• Staying cool– Heat can make symptoms of MS worse. Tepid baths, cool drinks and air conditioning may help make you more comfortable.

• Exercise – Yoga and Qi Gong can help improve strength, balance and depression. Consider adding gentle aerobic exercise as well to improve your overall health and reduce stress.

• Stress relief– Stress can exacerbate symptoms and cause other health problems, so it’s important to keep your stress levels in check. Meditation or deep-breathing techniques can help you stay calm and relaxed. Massage is another great way to help relieve stress and loosen tense muscles. If your anxiety becomes overwhelming, consider talking to a professional.

MS is a serious condition, but many people with MS live long, happy, fulfilled lives. Acupuncture and TCM can provide the support you need to cope with MS and its effects. If you or someone you love is facing MS, contact an acupuncturist today.

References:
Chinese herbal treatment for Multiple Sclerosis and other flaccidity syndromes. S. Dharmananda, Ph.D. Inst. for Traditional Medicine.
Traditional Chinese medicine and Multiple Sclerosis. A patient guide. E. Vickers, N.D., L.Ac.
Acupuncture for Multiple Sclerosis. 6/27/08. Link

NECK PAIN RELIEF IN METAIRIE – BIG EASY ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBAL MEDICINE

Does acupuncture help with neck pain?

Yes, acupuncture can relieve neck pain by releasing tight muscles, reducing inflammation, and restoring mobility

DON’T LET NECK PAIN HOLD YOU BACK

Does your neck feel stiff, sore, or hard to move?

Do you get headaches from neck tension or long hours at a desk?

Many people deal with this every day from posture, stress, or old injuries.

Neck pain makes simple things harder — turning your head, sleeping well, or even enjoying time with family.

Neck pain doesn’t just cause discomfort. It can trigger tension headaches, limit mobility, disturb sleep, disturb work, and drain your energy. The good news? Acupuncture offers safe, natural, and drug-free relief that addresses the root cause of your discomfort.

WHAT CAUSES NECK PAIN?

Neck pain is one of the most common reasons our Louisiana residents seek out acupuncture treatment. Neck pain can be caused by a wide range of factors, including wear-and-tear, strains or sprains, or inflammation. A few common culprits include:

Everyday Strain, Occupational, Lifestyle strain:

• Long hours at a desk, on the road, carrying heavy weight, overuse or doing repetitive tasks

Poor Posture / Seated Lifestyle:

• Text neck, tech neck, long computer hours, long drives, awkward sleep positions

Injuries, Accidents, Trauma:

• Whiplash, sports injuries, or accidents

Nerve Entrapments / Irritation:

• Nerves being elongated, shortened, or compressed to cause pain along a line of action

Medical Conditions / Aging:

• Arthritis, herniated discs, disc height changes, and some age related wear and tear

Growths / Scars:

• Masses, tumors, cysts, scars, and bone spurs. These can put pressure on nerves and cause a line of action of pain/inhibition along that nerve pathway

Lifestyle Factors: 

• Smoking (slows healing), stress (tightens muscles), seasonal cold/damp weather can all trigger pain, or feeling tight muscles when sick.

HOW PEOPLE EXPERIENCE NECK PAIN

What Might People Feel?

• Physically – Pain can be experienced widely from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. You may also experience reduced mobility, headaches, stiffness, or pain/weakness radiating to your arms if nerves in the neck are compressed
• Mentally – Decreased quality of life, depression, or anxiety due to long term effect on lifestyle
• Time Frame – Some cases resolve with rest and lifestyle changes; others become persistent or recurring, lasting months or years.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK FOR NECK PAIN?

Acupuncture is effective because it targets both the muscles and nerve pathways involved in pain.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is well known to provide a natural, anatomy based, researched, and safe approach to treating neck pain.

Thin sterile needles are inserted at specific points either locally or along distant areas of the body that connect to the same pathways to manipulate the body, reduce pain, and calm the nervous system. Pain can come from nerves being elongated, shortened, or compressed. Nerve compression and muscular tensions lead to areas of the body not being able to fire actions like a misfire in a car or perform as intended because the area could be shut off.

Western Medical Perspective:

• Triggers release of endorphins (your body’s natural pain relievers)
• Relaxation of tight muscles and reduces spasms
• Improves blood flow and circulation for faster healing
• Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Restore strength and mobility by promotion of nerve signaling and action
• Calms the nervous system, helping the body “reset” from chronic tension

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective:

• Clears energy (Qi) blockages that create pain and stiffness along meridians
• Restores balance and circulation of Qi, blood, and body fluids
• Calms the mind to hold less tensions in the body

The Result: Less neck pain, fewer headaches, better sleep, improved posture, improved mobility and strength, and improved quality of life.

RESEARCH ON ACUPUNCTURE FOR NECK PAIN

Modern research supports what patients have experienced for centuries: acupuncture helps relieve neck pain and improve mobility.

• A study published in the British Medical Journal found acupuncture to be a safe and effective treatment for chronic neck pain, improving both movement and comfort.
• Research from the National Institutes of Health showed that acupuncture not only reduces pain intensity but also improves daily quality of life, with results that last beyond treatment.

Research Spotlight: A well-designed randomized controlled trial published in the journal Pain followed patients with chronic neck and shoulder pain after acupuncture treatment. The study found that acupuncture not only reduced pain more effectively than placebo points but that the improvements were still present three years later. This long-term benefit is especially important for people with ongoing neck tension from stress, posture, and computer work—exactly the issues we see daily in our clinic.

These findings confirm what we see every day in our clinic: acupuncture provides safe, natural, and long-lasting relief for people living with neck pain.

TYPES OF TECHNIQUES USED FOR NECK PAIN

Traditional Acupuncture

• Insertion of thin needles along body meridians. Points along the Gallbladder, Bladder, Small Intestine Channels, and Hua Tuo Jia Ji points of the central spine are most often used.

Sports Medicine Acupuncture

• Insertion of thin needles to manipulate motor points of specific muscles to decompress nerves, relax muscles, restore strength and mobility

Electrostimulation

• Electroacupuncture attaches clips to the needles with a gentle pulsating electric current between them. Electrostimulation can provide deeper stimulation for a period of time without the need to manually stimulate each needle

Cupping

• Cups are placed onto the skin to create suction. This increases blood flow to surface level tissues and loosens muscles/tendons

IMAGING AND RED FLAGS

X-Rays, MRI, CT Scans, and other imaging may be recommended if:

• Pain following a major injury, accident, or fall
• Weakness, numbness, tingling spreads to arms or legs
• Pain is severe, persistent, or gets worse even with care
• Coordination issues or balance issues, sudden loss of bladder/bowel control
• Unexplained weight loss or major fluctuations in body temperature
• Imaging can be used to determine structural changes as we age and also after some injuries causing high levels of pain. A few examples that could be found: fractures, cysts, disc issues, and nerve entrapments

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST ACUPUNCTURE VISIT

When you visit Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie, we start by discussing the reason for your visit, history of complaint, and checking your mobility and muscle strength. Then we create a plan just for you.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

• Discussion of condition, history of condition, detailed medical history, and orthopedic mobility and strength assessment

Treatment Process

• Acupuncture needling targeting pathways of pain and muscles according to findings 
• A relaxing session with needles retained for about 20 minutes — many people even nap during treatment

What Do People Feel

• Reduction in pain levels, increased range of motion, relaxation of tight muscles, sense of relaxation or euphoria, Possible temporary soreness near needle sites.

Complementary Care

• Treatments may also include cupping, electro-acupuncture, or manual therapy to enhance results

Herbal Medicine  

• Custom herbal blends targeted to your specific condition. Works well between visits of acupuncture to keep treatment going

Lifestyle Recommendations and Exercises

• Support with recommended stretches, posture tips, and stress management techniques

Big Easy Acupuncture treatments utilize a combination of Sports Medicine Acupuncture along with Traditional Chinese Medicine to bring you the best of both this ancient healing system along with modern treatment methods.

BENEFITS OUR PATIENTS NOTICE

• Relief from neck pain and stiffness
• Fewer headaches caused by tension and increased blood flow
• Better posture, range of motion, and strength
• Improved sleep and less stress
• Reduced intake of pain medications
• More energy for daily life

Many patients notice relief after the first or first few visits. For ongoing pain, a short series of treatments helps retrain your body and bring steady improvement.

AFTERCARE (POST TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS)

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid stress triggers if possible and be mindful of any neck triggers
• Avoid vigorous exercise immediately after treatment
• Some patients may have temporary soreness at needling sites as the body processes treatment. This can be normal for some and resolves normally within 24-48 hours.
• Pain reduction is not the only progress people make on their journey to reduce and remove their pains. Pay attention to changes in mobility, strength, sleep, medications used, and overall comfort level.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many acupuncture sessions do I need for neck pain?

• Most patients notice improvement within the first visit or first few visits. For chronic conditions, a short series of 6–8 visits helps retrain your body and provide lasting relief.

Is acupuncture safe for chronic neck pain?

• Yes. We see many patients with acute and chronic neck pain. Acupuncture is a very safe option. Some patients may feel temporary almost post workout soreness at the needle site after treatment.

Can acupuncture help with tension headaches from neck pain?

• Absolutely. By relieving tight muscles, improving circulation, and regulating the nervous system, acupuncture often reduces headache frequency and intensity.

Do you accept insurance for acupuncture?

• Big Easy Acupuncture is a cash-based clinic. However, we can provide itemized receipts for insurance reimbursement upon request.

Unlike pain medications that only mask symptoms, acupuncture helps your body heal. It’s safe, natural, and effective — and it’s trusted by people all over the world.

🌿 Ready to Find Relief from Neck Pain?

📍 Big Easy Acupuncture | Metairie, LA
📞 504-650-0027

FEEL RIGHT. MOVE FREE. LIVE EASY.

References:

1. Irnich, D., et al. Randomised trial of acupuncture compared with conventional massage and “sham” laser acupuncture for treatment of chronic neck pain. British Medical Journal June 30, 2001;322:1-6.
2. Liang Z, Zhu X, Yang X, Fu W, Lu A. Assessment of a traditional acupuncture therapy for chronic neck pain: a pilot randomized controlled study. Complement Ther Med. 2011 Jan 19, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21195292.
3. Hokkanen, K., et al. (2003). Long-term results of acupuncture treatment for chronic neck and shoulder pain: A randomized controlled trial. Pain, 104(1–2), 197–204. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15157691/

Does Acupuncture Help with Pain?

Introduction

Most people experience significant pain at some point in their lives—whether from an injury, arthritis, nerve issues, muscle tension, or stress. Pain is your body’s warning signal, a way of saying something is irritated, overworked, or out of balance.

Many people are told to rely on medication or “wait and see,” but that often only dulls the symptoms. If you’re tired of hitting the “snooze button” on your pain and want a more natural, root-cause approach, you may be wondering:

Pain affects everything — sleep, focus, energy, and your ability to feel like yourself. You’re not imagining it.

Does acupuncture actually help with pain?
For many patients, the answer is yes. In this article, we’ll look at how acupuncture helps relieve pain, how it compares to other options, and what you can expect at Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, LA.

What Is Pain and Why Does It Become Chronic?

Pain can show up in many ways:

• Sharp, stabbing or burning sensations
  
• Achy, dull, or deep pressure
  
• Pain with movement or at rest
  
• Pain that radiates into the arms, legs, or head
  
• Pain that interferes with sleep, work, or daily life

Short-term pain can be protective, but when pain hangs around for weeks or months, it often reflects:

• Ongoing muscle tension or joint irritation
  
• Nerve compression or inflammation
  
• Poor movement patterns and posture
  
• Stress keeping the nervous system “on edge”
  
• Prior injuries that never fully recovered

Over time, the body can get “stuck” in a pain pattern—even after the original injury has healed. That’s where acupuncture and a hands-on, assessment-based approach can help reset the system.

Why Medication and Surgery Aren’t Always Enough

When pain is intense, turning to medication is understandable. Pain pills may:

• Temporarily reduce discomfort
  
• Make it easier to get through the day or sleep at night

But medication:

• Doesn’t correct muscle tension, nerve irritation, or movement problems
  
• Can cause side effects or dependency with long-term use
  
• Often stops working as well over time

Surgery can sometimes be necessary, but it is:

• Expensive
  
• Invasive and not reversible
  
• Not guaranteed to eliminate pain

Many people are looking for a safer, more natural option that addresses the cause, not just the symptom.

How Acupuncture Helps with Pain Management (Modern View)

Modern research shows that acupuncture can help manage pain by:

• Releasing natural painkillers
  Stimulates endorphins and other neurotransmitters from your own body that reduce pain signals.
  
• Calming the nervous system
  Helps shift the body out of “fight or flight” so muscles and nerves can relax.
  
• Improving blood flow
  Increases circulation to tight or injured areas, bringing oxygen and nutrients for healing.
  
• Reducing inflammation
  Modulates inflammatory pathways that contribute to swelling and pain of local and surrounding areas.
  
• Resetting muscle and nerve patterns
  Especially when combined with electroacupuncture and targeted motor point work.

Many types of pain come from poor circulation or weak nerve signals to an area, which causes muscles to tighten over time. Nerves may also get stretched, pinched, or compressed, creating pain that travels along the nerve’s pathway. 

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we use these principles with a strong orthopedic and sports medicine lens so treatments are both traditional, research, and anatomy based. 

The Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on Pain

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pain often relates to a disruption or blockage of Qi (vital energy) and blood in the body’s meridians—pathways that supply tissues with nourishment and information.

When Qi and blood are not flowing well due to:

• Physical or emotional stress
  
• Poor diet or lifestyle
  
• Injury or overuse
  
• Long-term strain on joints and muscles or repetitive actions

…areas of the body can become tight, undernourished, and painful.

Acupuncture uses fine, sterile needles at specific points to:

• Open blocked pathways
  
• Restore circulation and balance
  
• Support the body’s natural ability to heal

Whether you think in terms of Qi or circulation and nerve signals, the goal is the same: restore healthy flow so pain can decrease and function can improve.

Conditions We Commonly Treat with Acupuncture for Pain

At our Metairie, LA clinic, we see patients for a wide range of pain conditions, including:

• Neck pain and shoulder tension
  
• Back pain and hip pain
  
• Sciatica and other nerve-related pain
  
• Knee pain and ankle or foot pain
  
• Headaches and migraines
  
• Muscle strains, sprains, and overuse injuries
  
• Postural pain from desk or tech work
  
• Chronic pain that hasn’t responded well to other care

Many patients come to us after trying medications, physical therapy, chiropractic, or even injections. Acupuncture can be a stand-alone approach or part of a broader plan.

Our Approach to Pain Management at Big Easy Acupuncture

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, LA, we combine traditional acupuncture with a structured, assessment-based system.

Assessment & Treatment Planning

Your visit often includes:

• A detailed history of your pain (onset, pattern, triggers)
  
• Strength and mobility testing (every visit)
  
• Palpation and orthopedic-style assessment
  
• Discussion of lifestyle, work demands, and stress

This allows us to identify which muscles, joints, or nerve pathways are driving your symptoms.

Treatment Methods We May Use

Depending on your needs, your pain management plan may include:

• Acupuncture – to reduce pain, tension, and inflammation
  
• Electroacupuncture – to influence nerve pathways and muscle activation
  
• Cupping therapy – to relieve fascial and muscular tightness
  
• Manual release techniques – to free up restricted areas
  
• Herbal medicine – to support circulation, reduce inflammation, and boost energy
  
• Lifestyle and movement guidance – to help prevent flare-ups
  

Results-Based Treatment

I can’t directly feel your pain… but I can measure how your body is responding to it. Through orthopedic testing, I assess mobility, strength, tension, and pain with specific movements. When mobility and strength improve while tension decreases, its a strong sign that the body is coming out of protection mode – and in most cases, pain levels drop as a result which patients can normally confirm.

Our goal is not just “chasing the pain,” but understanding why it’s there and how to help your body move differently going forward.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments depends on:

• Length of your issue
• Condition being treated
• Acute or chronic condition
• Individual response to treatment
• Treatment goals
• Individual’s health, sleep, and stress levels

In general:

• Acute conditions: If you’re dealing with recent injuries or sudden issues within the last few months, you may notice significant improvement after just a few sessions. Typically acute conditions require only 1-5 treatments compared to long term issues.  
• Chronic conditions: Chronic issues such as arthritis, chronic pain, or long term systemic conditions, usually require more sessions. A typical plan involves 2 visits per week initially for the first 2-3 weeks and treatments will spread out with progress. More sessions over several weeks will be needed to work with chronic conditions compared to acute conditions and sometimes followed with maintenance. 
• Maintenance: many patients choose occasional follow-up visits to keep pain from returning and to support active lifestyles.

We’ll regularly reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as you improve.

Is Acupuncture Safe for Pain Management?

Acupuncture is considered very safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. At our clinic:

• We use single-use, sterile needles
  
• Treatments are adjusted for age, sensitivity level, and medical history
  
• Most patients find sessions relaxing and often notice other benefits like better sleep and reduced stress

It can also be used alongside medications, physical therapy, massage, or other medical care. We’re happy to coordinate with your other providers where appropriate.

Conclusion: A Natural Path Forward for Pain

If you’re living with pain—whether it’s recent or has been with you for years—you don’t have to settle for “just getting by” on medications or pushing through.

Acupuncture offers a natural, evidence-informed, hands-on approach to pain management that:

• Reduces pain
  
• Improves mobility and strength
  
• Supports the nervous system
  
• Helps your body heal, not just cope

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, LA, our mission is to help Louisiana with their pain, mobility, strength, and overall health. Ready to explore a different approach to pain management?
👉 Schedule your session here: https://bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of pain can acupuncture help with?

We commonly treat neck and back pain, joint pain, sciatica, headaches, muscle tension, post-injury pain, and chronic pain that hasn’t fully responded to other care.

How soon will I feel relieved?

Some people notice changes within the first few sessions, especially in muscle tension and sleep. Long-term pain relief usually builds over several weeks of consistent treatment.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. We use single-use sterile needles and adjust each treatment based on your health, age, and comfort level.

Do you accept new patients in Metairie, LA?

Yes. Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine welcomes new patients in Metairie and the greater New Orleans area. Appointments are required, and we’ll create a personalized plan based on your goals.

Pregnancy is a time of extraordinary physical and emotional change. It’s also a time when it’s more important than ever to support and care for your well-being. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help you meet the unique challenges of pregnancy, ensuring optimal health for you and your baby in a safe and natural way, without the use of harmful medications.

What to expect

Acupuncture has been used in China for thousands of years to regulate the female reproductive system. Acupuncture and TCM are based on the concept that Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy, flows through the body in channels called meridians. Practitioners of acupuncture and TCM work to balance the Qi in the body’s meridian and organ systems by manipulating corresponding points on the body.

For a healthy pregnancy, regular weekly and/or monthly treatments are recommended. However, your practitioner will tailor your treatment entirely to your needs and suggest treatment based on your unique symptoms and concerns.

Because some acupuncture points should not be used during pregnancy, it’s important to choose a practitioner experienced in prenatal acupuncture. It’s also important to discuss any treatments or herbal supplements with all of your prenatal health care providers.

Relief for common concerns

Regular balancing treatments throughout your pregnancy can enhance your health as well as your baby’s health, potentially preventing complications and positively influencing the development of your baby. Many mothers-to-be find themselves facing anxiety, fatigue, back pain, heartburn, nausea and other symptoms as a result of the many new demands being placed on their bodies. Acupuncture has been found to effectively relieve many of these symptoms.

Morning sickness responds particularly well to acupuncture, and your practitioner can even show you specific points that you can massage at home to help restore your appetite. Recent studies have also shown promising results in using acupuncture for depression during and after pregnancy.

Breech babies and other issues

Acupuncture can also help with more serious issues during pregnancy. Specific acupuncture points and techniques are very useful for turning “breech babies” (those positioned feet first). One study concluded that acupuncture is useful for babies that position themselves in a difficult presentation, and it is a relatively simple, effective and inexpensive method for breech birth presentation.1 Treatment involves moxibustion, or applying heat from the burning of the herb mugwort to a point on the little toes. The treatment causes no adverse side effects.

If your due date has passed, acupuncture can also be used to induce labor through gentler means than traditional Western labor-inducing treatments and medications. Acupuncture and acupressure can even be used to help control pain, calm the mind and reduce stress during delivery.

After baby has arrived

It’s important to recover properly after childbirth. Acupuncture can help you heal and regain your strength and vitality, rebalance your energy, boost your body’s defenses and help address concerns such as pain, fatigue, and postpartum depression.

References:
1 Acupuncture Conversion of Fetal Breech Presentation. D. Habek, et. al. Fetal Diagn Ther 2003;18:418-421
Non-Stress Test Changes During Acupuncture Plus Moxibustion on BL67 Point in Breech Presentation. I. Neri, PhD., et al. Journal of the Society for Gynecologic Investigation, Vol. 9, No. 3, 158-162 (2002)
Acupuncture during IVF improves pregnancy chances.Link
Research Articles on Acupuncture and Pregnancy.Link

Quit Smoking / Quit Vaping | Big Easy Acupuncture, Metairie LA

Congratulations on Taking the First Step

If you’re reading this, you’re already moving toward a healthier, smoke-free life.

Each year, more than 3 million Americans try to quit smoking. Only about half are able to do it. With the help of acupuncture, your chances of success are much higher.

Doctors agree that quitting smoking is the single best thing you can do for your health.

Smoking is linked to more than 25 serious diseases, including cancer of the lungs, bladder, mouth, throat, pancreas, kidneys, and more. It also raises the risk of emphysema and increases stroke risk by about 30%.

It’s not easy to quit, but the good news is that acupuncture has helped people kick the habit.

Acupuncture uses clean, thin needles placed at certain points on the body to help it heal. It comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine and is supported by modern research.

What Is Acupuncture? 

Acupuncture uses clean, thin needles placed at certain points on the body to help it heal.

It comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine and is supported by modern research. Acupuncture helps with recovery and maintenance of people by:

• Improving blood flow
• Calming the nervous system 
• Easing pain by releasing endorphins (body’s natural painkillers)
• Decompressing muscle areas and nerve bundles to have actions of the body happen more naturally 
• Bringing the body back into balance

How Acupuncture Helps With Smoking Cessation

“Nicotine withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 hours, peak around 72 hours, and gradually diminish over the following 3 to 4 weeks” (McLaughlin et al., 2015).

Some of the largest stumbling blocks to becoming smoke-free are the stress, anxiety and mood changes associated with quitting. 

Acupuncture helps by reducing withdrawal symptoms related to mood, physical body, and mental clarity as the person transitions into a smoke-free lifestyle 

• Support Mood: Reduces anxiety, irritability, and low mood.
• Support Body: Helps ease tremors, digestive upset, and appetite changes.
• Support Mental Clarity: Supports focus, memory, and clear thinking

Specific points in the ear and wrist are often used, while others can help lower cravings, balance appetite, and support healing of the lungs and organs. NADA protocol is one of the most commonly applied ear protocols for smoking cessation. Herbal formulas may also be used to calm the body and provide a healthy alternative during the transition

Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) reports primary symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal (American Psychiatric Association 2013) along with a general timeline of withdrawal symptoms: 

3 Primary Categories:

• Affective (Mood-Related): Anxiety, sadness, anhedonia, dysphoria, hyperalgesia, and irritability
• Somatic (Body-Related): Shaking, heart rate changes, digestion issues or discomfort, appetite changes
• Cognitive (Thinking-Related): Trouble with focus, concentration, or forgetfulness 

Cravings feel much more intensive at the beginning of smoking cessation. Your body and mind are detoxing from various areas and this takes time to shift the body into a new state. 

Here’s what most people can expect when they quit:

• First 24 hours:
  Cravings begin within a few hours of your last cigarette. Irritability, restlessness, and trouble concentrating often appear.
• Days 2–3 (Peak Withdrawal):
  By day 3, all the nicotine is out of your body. This is often the hardest time. Cravings feel strong, moods go up and down, and you might get headaches or feel hungrier.
• Weeks 1–2:
  Most physical symptoms (headaches, fatigue, digestive changes) start fading. Cravings are still there but usually come in short waves that last only a few minutes.
• Weeks 3–4:
  Your brain chemistry is adjusting to life without nicotine. Many people report feeling more clear-headed, having more energy, and breathing easier. Cravings are less frequent but can still be triggered by stress or routine.
• After 1–3 months:
  Physical withdrawal is largely gone. What remains is mostly habitual and psychological.  Triggers such as being around smokers, drinking coffee, or social situations. That’s where strategies (like the ones you’re collecting) and acupuncture really shine.

Once you understand what nicotine withdrawal looks like, the next step is learning how to measure real progress over time.

Quitting Smoking Happens in Stages

Anyone can quit smoking short term. What matters is tracking how your actions help you learn to stay smoke-free over time.

Lasting change comes from tracking meaningful metrics, not chasing perfection. These stages help measure how your actions support a smoke-free goal that aligns with your personal values.

1. Tolerance

How long can you stay smoke-free with normal triggers around you?

This stage is about learning how your body and mind respond when cigarettes are no longer there.

Triggers might include:

• Stress
• Being around other smokers
• After meals
• Driving
• Habitual routines

Tolerance is not about willpower. It’s about how long your nervous system can stay steady without nicotine. Acupuncture can help calm cravings, reduce agitation, and make this stage more manageable.

Progress here looks like:

• Fewer cravings
• Shorter craving periods
• Feeling less reactive to triggers

2. Fortitude

If you slip, do you return to being smoke-free or fall back into regular smoking?

Fortitude is what happens after a cigarette, not before it.

If a cigarette happens, this stage asks:

• Do you stop again?
• Or does one turn into many?

Fortitude is the ability to interrupt the spiral. One cigarette does not erase progress. What matters is the decision to return to not smoking instead of giving up entirely.

Acupuncture supports this stage by:

• Reducing guilt and stress
• Helping regulate urges
• Making it easier to reset
• helping the body to detox

3. Resilience

How quickly do you return to living smoke-free after a cigarette?

Resilience is about recovery time, not perfection.

Instead of asking:
“Why did this happen?”

Resilience asks:
“How soon can I get back on track?”

Early on, it might take days.
Later, it might take hours.
Eventually, it may take minutes.

That shortening recovery time is real progress.

4. Adaptability

Do your habits improve, stay the same, or slowly get worse over time?

Adaptability looks at the big picture.

Over weeks and months:

• Are cravings decreasing?
• Are you handling stress differently?
• Are you building new routines that support not smoking?

Adaptability means your system is learning. Even small improvements matter. Acupuncture helps support this by calming the nervous system, reducing stress load, and making change feel less overwhelming.

A Different Way to Think About Quitting

Quitting smoking is not about being perfect.
It’s about learning how to return to balance faster each time.

If you’re ready to quit smoking or vaping, acupuncture can support your nervous system through each stage of the process.

Key Point

Most people find the worst of nicotine withdrawal is over within 2 weeks, with cravings dropping sharply after 1 month. From there, it’s mainly about breaking habits and avoiding triggers.

WAYS TO COUNTER AND RESIST TOBACCO CRAVINGS

• Know your triggers – Notice the times, places, or feelings that make you want to smoke. Make a plan for how to handle those moments differently.
• Write down or say out loud your reasons – Your own reasons to quit are powerful. The more reasons you list, the more you’ll remind yourself why quitting is worth it and why you should stick with it
• Focus on the benefits – Keep reminders visible: more energy, fresher breath, no smoke smell, and extra money in your pocket. Keep this somewhere visible if possible while you rewire your brain into new patterns
• Redefine your time as a non-smoker – Think about what you’ll do with the extra time. Imagine the healthier, smoke-free version of yourself and act like that person today. Become the future you now by embodying that persona.
• Find new ways to relax – Replace smoking with a walk, deep breathing, stretching, or another calming activity. Do something new with your time or just appreciate the time itself and be present with it.
• Use physical activity to manage cravings – Exercise, even light movement, helps cravings pass, boosts your mood, and strengthens your lungs. Find a physical activity you enjoy.
• Build your support network – Ask friends, family, or a coach to keep you accountable. Support groups can also help you stay on track.
• Choose a special time and place to buy cigarettes – Don’t buy them where you shop for other things. Keep it separate so you don’t grab a pack out of habit.

Extra Resources

Be connected to your state’s tobacco cessation services:

📱📞Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669)

Adults can also text QUITNOW to 333888 for free support.

Ready To Quit? Contact Us Today

If you’re ready to quit smoking or vaping for good, acupuncture can give you the calm, clarity, and support you need.

Call 504-650-0027 or Book Online Today using the book now link to start your smoke-free journey with Big Easy Acupuncture.

FEEL RIGHT. MOVE FREE. LIVE EASY.

References

1. American Psychiatric Association . Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM 5. American Psychiatric Association; Washington: 2013.
2. McLaughlin I, Dani JA, De Biasi M. Nicotine withdrawal. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2015;24:99-123. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-13482-6_4. PMID: 25638335; PMCID: PMC4542051.

Acupuncture for Sciatica | Big Easy Acupuncture, Metairie LA

Natural Support for Sciatic Nerve Pain, Back Pain, Tingling, and Leg Symptoms

Sciatica can be painful, frustrating, and limiting. Many people feel sharp pain, burning, numbness, or tingling that starts in the low back or hip and travels down the leg. Sitting, driving, walking, or sleeping can become uncomfortable. 

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Sciatic nerve pain is one of the most common nerve-related issues we see. Many people come in after trying stretches, rest, or other treatments without lasting relief.

It is common to worry that something is permanently damaged or that movement will make things worse. In most cases, sciatic nerve irritation is very responsive to the right care and acupuncture works very well.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, we help people with sciatica reduce pain, calm irritated nerves, and move more comfortably again using a structured, hands-on approach.

We commonly see sciatica in people who sit for long hours, stay physically active, or have jobs that place repeated stress on the body. Desk workers, active adults, and people with physically demanding work often experience sciatic nerve irritation for different reasons, but the symptoms can feel very similar.

Will Acupuncture Help Sciatica?

For many people, the answer is yes. Acupuncture can help sciatica by reducing nerve irritation, relaxing tight muscles, improving blood flow, and supporting the nervous system’s ability to calm pain signals.

Sciatica is usually caused by pressure or irritation of the sciatic nerve, often from disc issues, muscle tension, joint restriction, or nerve entrapment along the low back, hip, or leg. Acupuncture works by addressing both the nerve itself and the surrounding tissues that contribute to pain.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is nerve pain caused by irritation, inflammation, pinching, or compression of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest and thickest nerve in the body. It runs from the low back through the buttocks and down each leg, and symptoms can range from mild burning or tingling to sharp pain or numbness that radiates down the leg.

Sciatica is very common: about 40% of people in the U.S. will experience it during their lifetime.

What Does Sciatica Feel Like?

Sciatica usually affects one side of the body and may feel like:

• Sharp or shooting pain down the leg
• Burning or electric sensations
• Tingling or numbness (pins and needles)
• Tightness in the low back, hip, or glutes
• Weakness in the leg or foot

Symptoms often worsen with sitting, bending, long drives, or sudden movements.

For many people, these symptoms interfere with daily life. Sitting at work, driving, exercising, or even relaxing can feel uncomfortable or unpredictable. This loss of confidence in movement is often just as frustrating as the pain itself.

What Causes Sciatic Nerve Pain?

Sciatica is less about one sore spot and more about how the sciatic nerve is being stressed along its pathway.

Nerve irritation commonly occurs in three main ways:

• Compression: pressure on the nerve from discs, joints, masses, tumors, or tight surrounding tissues
• Overstretching (elongation): excessive tension placed on the nerve during movement or posture
• Restriction (shortening): shortened or tight muscles limiting how the nerve moves and glides

When the sciatic nerve is stressed in one or more of these ways, symptoms often follow the nerve’s path. This creates the familiar pattern of pain, tingling, or burning that travels from the low back or hip down the leg.

This is why sciatica often does not respond fully to rest or simple stretching alone. The nerve itself needs to be unloaded, calmed, and supported so normal movement and recovery can return.

Pain that travels down the leg is an important clue. Pain that stays only in the low back and does not travel is typically not sciatica.

Common sources of sciatic nerve irritation include:

• Disc bulges or herniations 
• Degenerative disc conditions
• Muscle tension or guarding in the hips or glutes
• Piriformis muscle irritation or spasm
• Low back or pelvic joint restriction
• Spinal stenosis or foraminal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Arthritic changes in the spine
• Postural stress from prolonged sitting or repetitive work
• Pregnancy
• Tumors, cysts, or other growths
• Old injuries that never fully resolved

More than one factor is often involved. Sciatica can feel intense, but intensity does not always reflect damage. Nerve irritation often improves when pressure, tension, movement, and strength patterns are addressed.

When to Seek Medical Evaluation First (🚩 Red Flags)

Seek medical care if you have:

• Sudden or worsening leg weakness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
• Severe pain after a fall, accident, or injury

If any of these are present, imaging or medical testing may be needed before starting treatment.

Risk Factors of Sciatica

Certain factors can increase stress on the sciatic nerve or make irritation more likely. These include a combination of physical, lifestyle, and health-related factors.

Physical and Structural Factors

• Previous injuries to the low back, hips, or pelvis
• Normal age-related wear and tear of the spine
• Weak core strength, which reduces support for the lower back
• Arthritic or degenerative changes in the spine

Posture, Movement, and Work Demands

• Jobs that involve heavy lifting, repetitive bending, or prolonged sitting
• Poor posture or improper lifting mechanics
• Long periods of inactivity or limited movement throughout the day

Health and Systemic Factors

• Being overweight, which increases load and pressure on the spine
• Diabetes, which can affect nerve health and sensitivity
• Reduced circulation and oxygen delivery from tobacco use

These factors do not guarantee sciatica, but they can increase strain on the nervous system and reduce the body’s ability to recover if nerve irritation develops.

Why Sciatica Doesn’t Always Go Away on Its Own

When pain keeps returning, the body often becomes protective. Muscles tighten, movement feels unsafe, and people start avoiding certain positions or activities. Over time, this guarding can keep the nerve irritated even when no serious damage is present.

Stretching, rest, or pain medication may help temporarily, but sciatica often returns if the underlying nerve irritation and muscle tension are not addressed.

When the nervous system stays irritated:

• Muscles stay tight to protect the area
• Movement becomes guarded
• Circulation and recovery slow down

Over time, this can turn an acute issue into a chronic one.

How Acupuncture Helps Sciatica

Acupuncture works by influencing both the nervous system and the surrounding tissues.

For sciatica, acupuncture can help by:

• Reducing nerve irritation
• Decreasing muscle tension around the low back and hips
• Improving circulation to affected tissues
• Calming pain signals traveling down the leg
• Supporting better movement and recovery

During treatment, many patients notice a sense of release in the low back or hip, less pulling down the leg, or a feeling of warmth and ease in the affected area.

After sessions, people often report that movement feels smoother, sitting is more comfortable, and the leg feels less reactive during daily activities.

The Big Easy Approach to Treating Sciatica

Sciatica care at Big Easy Acupuncture is not one-size-fits-all.

Your treatment may include:

• Walking (Gait) analysis
• Orthopedic and movement assessment
• Sports Medicine Acupuncture based upon orthopedic testing
• Electro-acupuncture for nerve and muscle activation
• Manual therapy to reduce tension and guarding
• Treatment of the full chain: low back, hips, and leg

Our goal is not just to reduce pain, but to help your body move and recover more normally again.

In some cases, a referral may be recommended if imaging or bloodwork from another physician is needed to better understand your condition.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments depends on a few factors:

Your Symptom Stage (Relief → Correction / Root Cause → Maintenance)
Relief: calming pain, tension, or nerve irritation for reduced symptoms and better daily living
Correction / Root cause: correcting movement, strength, or structural issues
Maintenance: preventing flare-ups and supporting long-term function

Acute conditions:
If you’re dealing with recent injuries or sudden issues within the last few months, you may notice significant improvement after just a few sessions. Typically acute conditions require only 1–5 treatments compared to long-term issues.

Chronic conditions:
Chronic issues or long-term systemic conditions usually require more sessions. A typical plan involves 2 visits per week for the first 2–3 weeks, with treatments spreading out as you progress. Chronic issues often need more total sessions and may benefit from follow-up or maintenance care.

Maintenance:
Many patients choose occasional visits to keep pain from returning and to support active lifestyles.

We’ll regularly reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as you improve.

Who Is a Good Fit for Acupuncture for Sciatica?

Acupuncture is a good fit for people who want to keep working, stay active, or return to movement without constantly worrying about nerve pain.

Acupuncture may be a good fit if you:

• Have leg pain, tingling, or burning related to nerve irritation
• Feel stuck despite stretching, rest, or other care
• Want a drug-free approach to pain relief
• Are active and want to move better again
• Prefer a calm, structured treatment plan

Most people with sciatica improve over time with appropriate care and don’t require surgery, especially when issues are addressed early.

Sciatica Treatment in Metairie, LA

You do not have to live with constant nerve pain or feel unsure about your next step. We’ll help you understand what’s driving your symptoms and whether acupuncture is the right fit.

We work with people throughout Metairie and the greater New Orleans area who want clear answers and structured care for sciatic nerve pain.

📞 Call or text 504-650-0027
🌐 Schedule online at bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we focus on helping your body calm down, move better, and recover at its own pace.

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

Acupuncture for Stress | Big Easy Acupuncture, Metairie LA

Natural support for tension, overload, and nervous system fatigue

Stress is a normal part of life. Work, family, health, and daily demands all add up. The problem starts when stress does not turn off.

Many busy professionals, caregivers, and active adults live in a constant state of tight muscles, shallow breathing, poor sleep, and mental overload. Over time, the body can start to get stuck in that mode. This can affect how you move, how you sleep, and how you feel day to day.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Metairie, we help people reduce stress in a grounded, practical way by supporting the nervous system and releasing physical tension.

Common Signs of Ongoing Stress

Stress does not always feel emotional. Often, it shows up in the body first. This is common for people with demanding jobs, active schedules, or long days that leave little time to recover.

Physical signs include:

• Tight neck and shoulders
• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
• Headaches or pressure
• Low back tightness
• Shallow breathing
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• Feeling tired but wired
• High blood pressure
• Digestion or waste elimination issues 
• General aches and pains
• Chest tension or heart racing
• Trouble having sex 
• Stress rashes (hives)
• Slower recovery from workouts or long workdays

Behavior changes may also occur. Some people cope with stress through buffering or distracting behaviors, such as:

• Alcohol use
• Gambling
• Eating disorders
• Compulsive activities
• Substance use

These are signs our nervous system may be overloaded

What Stress Does to the Body

When stress is constant, your nervous system stays alert for too long.

This can lead to:

• Muscles staying tight and guarded
• Constant fight or flight mental state
• Reduced blood flow and slower recovery
• Poor sleep quality
• Digestive changes under pressure
• Faster fatigue and burnout

Your body is designed to handle stress in short bursts, not all day every day.

How Acupuncture Helps With Stress

Acupuncture helps shift the body out of constant alert mode and into a calmer, more balanced state.

At Big Easy Acupuncture, stress-focused care helps:

• Calm the nervous system
• Improved blood flow
• Release muscle tension
• Improve breathing patterns
• Support deeper, more restful sleep
• Help your body recover more efficiently

Treatments are hands-on, structured, and focused on helping your body reset rather than forcing relaxation.

What a Stress Treatment Feels Like

Many patients describe stress-focused treatments as calming but not sedating. Acupuncture is gentle. You may feel a slight pinch or tingle upon insertion of hair-fine needles but most needles are not felt when it comes to the process. 

During or after treatment, you may notice:

• Slower, deeper breathing
• Muscles softening
• A clearer or quieter mind
• Feeling more grounded
• Better sleep later that day or night

Everybody responds differently, but many people feel lighter and more at ease after sessions.

How Many Treatments Are Needed for Stress

The number of treatments depends on:

• How long stress has been building
• Your sleep and recovery habits
• Work and lifestyle demands
• How your body responds to care

In general:

• Short-term stress may improve in just a few visits
• Ongoing high-demand lifestyles often benefit from regular care at first
• Some patients choose maintenance visits to prevent stress from building back up

Short-term stress
Recent stress from work changes, life events, or poor sleep may improve within a few visits.

Chronic stress
Long-standing stress often benefits from more consistent care at first. Visits may be closer together early on and spaced out as the body stabilizes.

Maintenance and prevention
Some patients choose occasional follow-up visits to prevent stress from building back up, especially during busy or demanding periods.

We reassess regularly and adjust care based on your progress.

Small Daily Changes That Add Up

Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day. The difference is how those hours are used and how often the body is allowed to recover.

Staying in a low stress state does not require big changes. Small, steady habits can add up over time.

Helpful changes may include:

• Going to bed and waking up around the same time
• Slowing your breathing for a few minutes during the day
• Taking short breaks from screens
• Moving your body gently, even on busy days
• Eating regular meals and drinking enough water
• Creating short moments of quiet or rest

These steps may sound simple, but when stress has been building for a long time, they can be hard to keep up without support.

Stress vs Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are related, but they are not the same.

• Stress is usually caused by external demands
• Anxiety is more of an internal nervous system pattern

Some people experience both. Treatment may overlap, but the focus can differ. We help determine what your body needs.

If worry, racing thoughts, or persistent nervousness are a bigger part of what you are experiencing, you may want to read our page on Acupuncture for Anxiety.

Ready to Get Started?

If stress is affecting your sleep, movement, or daily comfort, you do not have to keep pushing through it alone.

An initial acupuncture visit allows us to assess your nervous system, identify where tension is building, and create a care plan that fits your body and your lifestyle.

You can schedule online at your convenience or call our office if you have questions.

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine
Metairie, LA
📅 Schedule Online: bigeasyacu.janeapp.com
📞 Call / Text: 504-650-0027
Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

Acupuncture for Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL) Pain

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine – Metairie, LA

The tensor fasciae latae, often called the TFL, is a small muscle on the outside of your hip and upper thigh. It helps lift your leg, steady your hip, and support you when you walk, stand up, or climb stairs.

Even though it is small, this muscle works hard every day. When it becomes tight or overworked, it can cause pain in the hip, outer thigh, or even the knee. This pain can make daily movement uncomfortable and limit activity.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we focus on how your body moves, not just where it hurts. Our goal is to calm pain, restore balance, and help you move with more ease.

Common Signs of TFL Pain

TFL pain can feel different for each person. Common symptoms include:

• Pain on the outside of the hip
• A deep ache along the outer thigh
• Tightness or stiffness when walking or standing
• Pain that worsens with running, cycling, or long periods of sitting

We often see this type of pain in active adults, runners, cyclists, and people who sit for work during the week and try to stay active around Metairie and New Orleans on weekends.

When the TFL stays tight, nearby muscles may have to work harder. Over time, this can lead to more pain and movement problems.

How Acupuncture Helps TFL Pain

Acupuncture helps tight and overworked muscles relax.

During treatment, very thin needles are placed into specific areas of the body. This signals your nervous system to release tension and increases blood flow to the sore muscle. Better circulation helps:

• Reduce inflammation
• Ease muscle tightness
• Improve nerve signaling by reducing compression to its pathways and branches 
• Improve hip movement
• Decrease pain

Each visit includes assessment and hands-on treatment based on mobility and strength assessment. 

Most people feel a gentle release or warmth in the hip as the muscle starts to relax. Instead of masking symptoms, acupuncture helps your body repair irritated tissue and restore balance.

Supporting the Nervous System and Pain Relief

Acupuncture works differently than pain medication.

Pain relievers may help for a short time, but they do not help the muscle heal. Acupuncture supports your nervous system so your body can manage pain more naturally.

Treatment helps your body release endorphins, which are your body’s natural pain relievers. These help calm pain signals and improve comfort.

Many people also notice better sleep and a calmer nervous system. Sleeping well along with less stress tensions helps your body and mind to remodel, restructure, and repair. When your body feels safe and supported, healing happens more easily.

Is Acupuncture Enough for TFL Pain?

For many people, acupuncture brings fast relief from TFL pain. It can also help prevent pain from coming back.

Because TFL problems are often linked to poor movement habits, we may also guide you through simple posture or movement changes. Learning how to move better helps take stress off the hip and thigh.

TFL pain can also affect nearby areas, such as the hip, knee, or low back. In some cases, we may use hands-on therapies like cupping or soft tissue work to release tight muscles and improve movement.

Each treatment is personalized based on how your body moves and where you feel pain.

When to Start Care

The sooner TFL pain is addressed, the easier it is to treat. Even if your pain has been there for a long time, acupuncture can still help reduce pain and improve mobility.

You do not have to push through discomfort or wait for it to get worse.

With the right care, many people return to walking, exercise, and daily life feeling more comfortable and confident.

Frequently Asked Questions About TFL Pain & Acupuncture

What is the TFL muscle?
The TFL is a small muscle on the outside of the hip and upper thigh. It helps steady your hip when you walk, stand, or move your leg.

What causes TFL pain?
TFL pain is often caused by overuse, long periods of sitting, poor posture, or repeated movements like running or cycling.

Can acupuncture really help TFL pain?
Yes. Acupuncture helps relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and calm irritated tissue. Many people notice less pain and better movement after treatment.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
This depends on how long the pain has been present and how your body responds. Some people feel relief in just a few visits, while others need longer care.

Is acupuncture safe for muscle and hip pain?
Yes. Acupuncture is safe when performed by a licensed provider. The needles are very thin, and most people find treatment comfortable and relaxing.

Do I need to stop exercising during treatment?
Not always. We often help you adjust activity and movement so your body can heal while staying active.

Can TFL pain cause pain in other areas?
Yes. Tight TFL muscles can contribute to pain in the hip, knee, or low back. Treating the source often helps reduce pain in these areas.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If hip or outer thigh pain has been limiting how you move, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we take time to understand how your body moves, what’s driving your pain, and what kind of care actually makes sense for you.

You can:

• Schedule an appointment online
• Call or text us with questions
• Or start with a conversation to see if this is the right fit

📞 Call or text: 504-650-0027
🌐 Schedule online: bigeasyacu.janeapp.com

Care should feel supportive, not stressful.

Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

If you struggle with your weight, you’re not alone. In fact, more than 30% of all U.S. adults meet the criteria for being obese.¹

Americans spend billions of dollars annually on weight loss products, but obesity is still on the rise. People are even turning to surgery as a weight loss option. This is a drastic measure and can cause unwanted side effects.

Unfortunately, excess weight is not just a cosmetic issue. Being overweight is a risk factor for many conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The good news is that maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk, and it’s never too late to get started. People seeking to address their weight concerns are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss.

A traditional approach to healing

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) take a holistic, or whole-body approach to health. This ancient form of healthcare works to restore the balance and flow of the body’s Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy. According to TCM, the reasons why people gain weight, or find it difficult to lose weight, are numerous. Your acupuncturist is well versed in uncovering the root cause(s) or imbalances that have affected your weight.

Your acupuncturist will also take into consideration other factors that may have led to weight gain, including your lifestyle, and emotional and mental well-being. By taking your whole self into account, you and your acupuncturist can get to the root of your health concerns, rather than just treating the symptoms.

What will my acupuncturist do?

During your first visit, your acupuncturist will take an extensive health history and perform various exams. At the completion of your first visit, your acupuncturist will provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and an explanation of your treatment plan. Your treatments will focus on correcting any underlying imbalances in your body, and will also help to support you in reaching your weight loss goals.

Based on your unique symptoms, your acupuncturist will choose to concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs. For example, restoring balance to the flow of Qi in the Stomach can help promote good digestion and suppress an overactive appetite. Emotional issues, such as anxiety and stress, both of which can lead to overeating, can be addressed by balancing the Liver.

A partnership for better health

It is important to remember that acupuncture is not a “quick fix.” By working with your acupuncturist, and committing to long-term goals, you will experience positive changes in your overall health, including maintaining a healthy body weight.

In addition to acupuncture treatments, your practitioner may also recommend other lifestyle changes. Whether you want to lose a few pounds or a significant amount, people are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss. By working together with your practitioner, you can help your body regain its natural balance—and start taking steps toward true health and vitality.

Sources:
1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity
U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Encyclopedia, Article – Obesity. 4/19/2004.
Komada, J., Article – Acupuncture for Weight Loss, 2003.
Pitchford, P., Healing with Whole Foods, North Atlantic Books, 1993.