Neuro-Acupuncture Rehab
Neuro-Acupuncture is a treatment of diseases in which needles are placed on points in the scalp that correspond to specific areas of the cerebral cortex. The treatment is safe and effective. It requires very few needles, and the effects are often seen immediately.
Neuro-Acupuncture is based on the latest scientific understanding of brain-area functioning and neuroplasticity. By stimulating areas associated with motor, sensory, or other functional impairments through acupuncture, brain cells are induced to make new connections. Surrounding neurons are then recruited to reform circuitry and restore lost abilities.
Although it is commonly used for post-stroke recovery, Neuro-Acupuncture is also used to treat neurological problems like cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, phantom pain, PTSD, autism, anxiety, and various body pains.
We offer Neuro-Acupuncture Rehabilitation (NAR) – a combination of Neuro-Acupuncture and evidence-based rehabilitation. The act of acupuncture with rehabilitation has proven to show more benefits than rehabilitation alone.
Benefits include:
- Aid with functional mobility and activities
-
Reduction in swallowing difficulties
(dysphagia)
- Improved neurological deficiencies
-
Reduction of muscle stiffness and
involuntary contractions (spasticity)
- Aid with neurological impairments
Traditional Acupuncture
Acupuncture – one of the oldest healing practices in the world – is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture practitioners stimulate specific points on the body by inserting thin needles into the skin. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, this regulates the flow of qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. In today’s terms, this process stimulates brain cells to make new connections.
Acupuncture is an ancient practice used around the world and has recently gained momentum in the US. It is safe only when performed by an experienced practitioner using sterile needles. There are almost no side effects from acupuncture compared to many standard drug treatments (such as anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections).
Acupuncture is one of the primary treatment methods we use at Hope Neuro-Acupuncture Therapy, and Dr. Lu is certified both in California and nationally for this form of treatment. Our experience and expertise ensure safe treatment and optimal results.
We Treat Diseases Such As
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Menstrual Cramps
- Anxiety and/or Depression
- Postoperative (Post-Surgical) Dental Pain
- Headaches & Migraines
- Osteoarthritis or Knee Pain
- Tennis Elbow
- Pregnancy-Related Pelvic and Back Pain
- Low-Back Pain & Neck Pain
- Sleeping Problems
- Arm And Shoulder Pain
-
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Dysfunction
Physical Therapy
Here at HOPE Neuro-Acupuncture Rehab, we also use physical therapy to assist in treatments for those suffering from injuries and/or disease. We use exercises and hands-on treatments including specific muscle or joint stretching and manual techniques to make patients stronger. These treatments allow patients to relieve pain and improve their ability to perform activities such as lifting, sports, and hobbies.
Physical modalities, including heat, cold ultrasound, cold laser, traction, and electric stimulations, are also used for pain management. Throughout the process, we emphasize the importance of fitness, showing patients how to avoid body injuries at work or play, designing and supervising individualized exercise programs to promote optimal physical wellness further.
We offer a unique blend of physical therapy techniques that makes us distinctive from other clinics. Our combination of physical therapy, advanced manual therapy techniques, customized exercise programs, instruction in body mechanics/ergonomics, relaxation techniques, Neuro-developmental Treatment (NDT), and acupuncture helps promote healing in the shortest amount of time with minimal pain and discomfort. Of course, all treatments are conducted with care and respect.
We Treat Diseases Such As:
- Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia
- Stroke Rehabilitation
- Bell's Palsy
-
Repetitive Motion Injuries - Tendonitis,
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and Tennis Elbow - Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, other
- Collagen Diseases
- Athletic Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Balance Disorders
-
Shoulder Injuries - Rotator Cuff Tears and
Frozen Shoulders -
Treatments of Severe Fractures - “Pinning”
and Artificial Joint Replacement Surgeries
- Pregnancy-Related Orthopedic Problems
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Headaches
-
Knee Problems - Ligament and Cartilage
(Meniscus) Injuries - Temporomandibular Joint and Facial Pain
- Foot & Ankle Pain
Additional Services
Pain Elimination
Pain and musculoskeletal complaints account for 7 of the top 10 conditions for which people use acupuncture. Back pain is the most common, followed by joint pain, neck pain, severe headache/migraine, and recurring pain.
Through his clinical experience and research, Dr. Lu found that acupuncture and physical therapy make a “perfect match” for pain elimination. Acupuncture can reduce the pain immediately while physical therapy helps prolong the effects and treat the root causes of the pain. This powerful two-step option is an effective, natural, and drug-free, treatment for pain.
Dry Needling
Dry Needling Trigger Point Therapy is a powerful, drug-free way to treat musculoskeletal pain. It is often utilized within a larger pain management plan that includes exercise, stretching, massage, and other techniques, but it can play an important solo role toward muscle recovery and pain relief.
This therapy involves using hair-thin dry needles — “dry” in the sense that they don’t inject anything into the body — which are inserted through the skin into muscle tissue. The main focus is stimulating the muscle and connective tissue, restoring mobility and normalize muscle tone. Stimulating a trigger point with a needle helps draw normal blood supply back to flush the area and release tension. The prick sensation can also fire off nerve fibers that stimulate the brain to release endorphins – the body’s natural pain killer.
Dr. Lu is one of the most experienced dry needling practitioners in the field. Because Dr. Lu is licensed in both acupuncture and physical therapy in California, he is one of the few clinicians in California who can legally perform this technique. Most patients experience immediate relief with this treatment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Let’s learn some history! Doctors have practiced Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is based on two chief concepts: qi (pronounced “chee”) and yin and yang. Qi is the flow of energy along pathways in the body called meridians. It is believed that when that flow is blocked or unbalanced, illness can occur. Causes of qi imbalance are thought to involve:
- External forces, such as wind, cold, or heat
- Internal forces, such as emotions of joy, anger, or fear
- Lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, too little sleep, or too much alcohol
Yin and yang is the concept that all things (including the body) are composed of said opposing forces. Health is said to depend on the balance of these two forces. Traditional Chinese medicine focuses on maintaining the qi and yin-yang balance to maintain health and prevent illness. Doctors like Dr. Lu are highly trained to read the balance of body, mind, and spirit to determine how to restore qi and yin-yang balance for good health. Treatments have been found particularly effective for asthma, allergies, infertility, and hormonal issues. Common treatment methods include:
- Acupuncture: thin metal needles placed along the body’s meridians
- Acupressure: hands or fingers applied directly to pressure points along the body’s meridians.
- Chinese herbs: combinations of herbs, roots, powders, or animal substances to restore balance in the body.
- Cupping: heated air directed into glass jars that create suction when the jars are placed on areas of the body,
stimulating qi. - Diet plans: food recommendations that restore the yin and yang balance.
- Massage (tui na) on specific areas of the body or along the body’s meridians.
- Moxibustion: small amounts of heated fibers from the moxa plant (Chinese mugwort) placed above specific areas
of the body. - Qi gong: body movement, breathing techniques, and meditation