Do you experience tingling in your hand or fingers? Pain that radiates from your wrist to your shoulder? Maybe even difficulty holding small objects? If so, you could be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), an uncomfortable and sometimes disabling condition that affects up to five million Americans.

The good news is that lifestyle changes can relieve symptoms, and there are many treatments available to help. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can effectively treat CTS without side effects or harmful medications.

What is CTS?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that protects the median nerve which innervates the hand as well as tendons that control the fingers. This nerve controls sensation and muscle movements in the hand. If the carpal tunnel becomes narrowed from swelling or injury, the nerve is compressed and impinged. This can cause numbness, pain, and severe weakness in the hands.

There are several causes of CTS, but the main culprit is repetitive flexion and extension of the tendons in the hands and wrists, especially when performed for long periods, leading to Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI).

Symptoms usually start with dull wrist pain that gradually worsens. Other symptoms may include:

• Loss of feeling in the fingers
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the fingers or hand
• Pain extending from the wrist up the arm to the shoulder or down into the palm or fingers
• Weakness in the hands and difficulty holding objects

How can acupuncture help?

Typically, treatment for CTS is based on how severe the symptoms are, and may include immobilizing the wrist and hand, using anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids to reduce swelling, and surgery in severe cases. Acupuncture and TCM can safely be used in conjunction with Western treatments to relieve CTS symptoms.

Studies suggest that acupuncture can both reduce swelling of soft tissue and stimulate production of cortisol, a hormone that reduces inflammation. Since CTS is caused by the swelling of the soft tissue that leads to inflammation of the carpal tunnel, acupuncture can be effective in treating CTS. In addition to improving your CTS, treatment may also improve other symptoms often associated with this condition such as headaches, neck pain, and shoulder stiffness. More importantly, acupuncture and TCM can help relieve the emotional stress of living with this painful condition.

Your practitioner will create a unique, personalized treatment plan designed to address your body’s imbalances. During treatment, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific acupoints along the meridians in order to support and strengthen your body and eliminate pain.

Your practitioner may also recommend herbal remedies, vitamin supplements, massage, and stretching as part of your treatment.

Acupuncture and TCM offer a safe, pain-free, natural way to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. With proper care, you can recover from CTS. As you continue with treatment, you may even find that your overall health and well being improve along with your symptoms.

References:
Carpal tunnel syndrome. Mayo Clinic. Feb. 21, 2007. Link
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Nov. 2002. Link
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. American Physical Therapy Association. Accessed April 20, 2008. Link
Tanaka, Tim H., Ph.D., D.Ac., CST, RMT, BCIAC. TECH PAINS: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Eye for the Future Magazine. 1997.

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.

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 ›

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

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.