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 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.

 

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 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 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.