What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture originated in China over 2,000 years ago. It involves placing thin needles into the skin at specific points in the body. These points, called meridians, are thought to trigger the body’s natural healing responses. It’s used to treat pain and other health issues.

Does it hurt?

The needles are very thin. Overall there is no pain. However, sometimes a muscle is so tight that there can be a slight pinch when the needles are inserted. After patients say, they feel relaxed or energized.

How does this help a brain injury?

It can help manage anxiety, depression, gut health, sleep, headaches, and neck pain. Other studies found that acupuncture increases blood flow to the brain, which lets the brain get more of the critical nutrients it needs to heal. Acupuncture helps release endorphins that act as a natural pain killer. This all scratches the surface. There is little risk with the potential for significant benefits. There is no guarantee, and it sure won’t be a cure-all. But it is worth a try!

What is Cupping?

It dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. It helps with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation, and muscle tightness. Your therapist will put a flammable substance such as alcohol, herbs, or paper in a cup and set it on fire. They put the cup upside down on your skin as the fire goes out. As the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum. This causes your skin to rise and redden as your blood vessels expand. The cup is generally left in place for up to 3 minutes.

How long do the red circles last?

With cupping, you will have red circles left behind from the vacuum from the cups. They usually fade within 7-10 days, depending on your body. They are not painful, just red.

How does this help with a brain injury?

It helps with pain management, especially with a whiplash injury. For most patients, cupping is safe to try and could complement an existing treatment plan. Like all therapies, it's important to see a professional who has been trained and licensed appropriately. And before trying any new medical program, you should consult with your doctor.

Where to get treatment

UTAH

SLC QI - A Community space for acupuncture and cupping. Each session will be around $45

Wasatch Community Acupuncture - A community space for acupuncture, cupping, and craniosacral therapy. They work with a sliding scale from $20 - $50

Valenti Acupuncture - One of our favorite places for acupuncture, cupping, and holistic wellness. A center that goes above and beyond, we could never say enough good things about this place.

 

We are in the process of building out this page, please contact us with any recourses that have helped you. Emails can be sent to melissa@saveabraininc.com