Avenue Acupuncture FAQs

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at specific points on the body to stimulate nerve endings, which in turn stimulates organ function important to the regulation of neurotransmitters and hormones, targeting areas associated with mental health and emotional well-being.

No. Acupuncture works best when done in conjunction with other treatments that support mental health, such as therapy and medication, offering a holistic approach alongside your existing mental health treatment plan.

In primary dysmenorrhea, pain is associated with prostaglandin, a substance that triggers uterine muscle contractions and can cut off some blood supply to the uterus, causing pain. In secondary dysmenorrhea, pain can be caused by infection, increased pressure inside the uterus, or abnormal tissue growth.

Less severe cramps are typically treated with over the counter pain medication, while more severe cases may use hormonal birth control to moderate hormone levels. When an underlying condition like fibroids or endometriosis is present, surgical removal is often suggested.

The main cause is temporary or permanent damage to the facial nerve (cranial nerve seven), most commonly from Bell’s Palsy. Other causes include surgical damage, bacterial infections, physical trauma to the head, neurological conditions, birth trauma, rare genetic conditions, and stroke.

Facial paralysis is a loss of muscle movement or weakness in one side of the face due to damage of the facial nerve. There are three degrees of damage: first degree (a bruise to the nerve that heals in about eight weeks), second degree (more severe, healing over several months), and third degree (significant damage with slow and often incomplete healing).

Studies show patients with Bell’s Palsy have shown significant improvement with acupuncture, especially when used alongside drug therapy. Acupuncture may help by reducing inflammation, enhancing local micro-circulation, and stimulating the affected nerves.

The specific cause isn’t completely understood, but it’s believed to be due to swelling or inflammation of the seventh cranial nerve linked to exposure to certain viruses, most commonly herpes simplex, along with viruses responsible for mononucleosis, rubella, mumps, and influenza.

Bell’s Palsy always affects both the lower and upper face (including the forehead and eyebrow), while stroke often spares the upper face. Arm or leg weakness, confusion, and difficulty with balance or walking are never seen in Bell’s Palsy but are common in stroke, so it’s important to consult a doctor for a full diagnosis.

Bell’s Palsy is a relatively sudden and temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the face. Symptoms typically come on without warning over a 48 hour period, peak, and take several weeks to recede, with full recovery often taking about 6 months.