Acupuncture for Pain and Injury

  1. Perception of Pain: Acupuncture can literally change the perception of pain and dampens pain signals to the brain

  2. Faster Healing: Has been proven to boosts blood flow, lower inflammation, and help in tissue repair

  3. Inflammation: Reduces the release of inflammatory agents which cause pain and limit range of motion

  4. Natural Pain Killers: Stimulates sensory nerves in the muscle and skin which triggers the release of endogenous opioids (aka endorphins and enkephalins)

  5. Integrative Care: In combination with other modalities, like physiotherapy and massage, acupuncture can provide a faster, more complete recovery plan

  6. Nervous System Regulation: Quickly calms the mind and helps the body to down-regulate

  • Motor Point and Sport Medicine Acupuncture

    A motor point is at the anatomical junction where a motor nerve enters the belly of a muscle. This cutaneous point has the lowest resistance to electrical conductivity in the entire muscle.

    When a motor points is stimulated, it functions to contract and then fully relax the muscle. Stimulating these locations have the strongest influence on regulating muscle tension. Some motor points share locations with well-known traditional acupuncture points, but many do not. Motor point locations are often identified using handheld electrical conduction machines, which help pinpoint the most responsive sites for effective acupuncture treatment.

  • A person lying on their back with multiple acupuncture needles inserted into their chest and arm. The needles are attached to colorful wires, possibly for electroacupuncture. The person is wearing a red and white shirt.

    Electroacupuncture

    This is an incredibly effective pain reducing technique which utilizes a gentle electrical current to stimulate muscle contraction.

    With this technique, we can help calm overactive muscles and provide relief from tension and discomfort. It can also be used to activate weakened or atrophied muscles, facilitating movement that may have been previously unattainable.

  • Dry Needling and Trigger Point Release

    What is a trigger point? A trigger point is a small knot or tight band of muscle fibers that forms due to muscle damage. Contracted muscle fibers usually occur in response to either an excessive eccentric load (too much strain on a muscle as it lengthens) or a low level contraction that goes on a long time and kind of wears out the muscle fibers.

    At Rooted Rose, we combine dry needling with distal style acupuncture to address the underlying conditions actually causing dysfunction and pain.

  • Person holding a glass object with a lit match and flame in a dim setting.

    Cupping therapy

    Cupping therapy has a profound impact on muscle tension and provides fast relief.

    It can enhance blood circulation, bring fresh blood and oxygen to locked up muscles, and promote proper function. It helps reduce inflammation and stimulates the body's natural healing response, making it particularly effective in relieving muscle-related discomfort.

  • A person receiving a cupping therapy on their back with a metal cup.

    Gua sha

    Gua sha is an ancient and powerful technique that employs repetitive strokes over the skin with a specialized tool, typically made of jade, metal, or rounded plastic.

    It can be used for pain relief, stimulating an immune response, and is highly effective in reducing inflammation.

  • A woman receiving a massage from a massage therapist in a spa or therapy room.

    Tui na

    Tui na massage incorporates various techniques for manipulating soft tissue, improving circulation, reducing pain, and aiding in the healing process. Tui na techniques are usually performed after acupuncture treatment.