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In the quest for optimal health and well-being, many individuals are turning to complementary therapies that address both physical and mental wellness. Among these, acupuncture and chiropractic care have emerged as powerful allies in promoting holistic health. By integrating these two modalities, patients can experience a comprehensive approach to healing that enhances their overall quality of life. In this blog, we will explore how acupuncture and chiropractic treatments work together, their unique benefits, and how this combined approach can lead to complete wellness.

Understanding Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. This technique is designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, improve energy flow (or “Qi”), and restore balance. Acupuncture is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating a variety of conditions, including pain management, stress reduction, digestive issues, and reproductive health.

Chiropractic care, on the other hand, focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through spinal adjustments. Chiropractors work to realign the spine and improve nervous system function, which can relieve pain, enhance mobility, and promote overall health. Chiropractic adjustments can also support the body’s natural ability to heal, making it an ideal partner for acupuncture.

The Synergy of Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care

When combined, acupuncture and chiropractic treatments create a synergistic effect that can enhance the benefits of both modalities. Here’s how they work together:

1. Holistic Pain Management: Many individuals seek treatment for chronic pain, whether due to injury, tension, or underlying conditions. While chiropractic adjustments can address spinal misalignments and reduce pain, acupuncture can further alleviate discomfort by promoting blood circulation and releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This dual approach allows for more comprehensive pain management, targeting both structural and energetic aspects of pain.
2. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Stress is a common factor that exacerbates many health issues, including pain and anxiety. Chiropractic care can help relieve physical tension, while acupuncture promotes deep relaxation and emotional balance. By combining these treatments, patients can experience profound stress relief, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional stability.
3. Enhanced Mobility and Function: Both acupuncture and chiropractic care aim to restore mobility and improve function. Chiropractic adjustments focus on aligning the spine and improving joint function, while acupuncture can reduce inflammation and enhance muscle relaxation. Together, they help patients regain full range of motion and function, making it easier to engage in daily activities.
4. Support for Recovery and Rehabilitation: Whether recovering from an injury or undergoing rehabilitation after surgery, the combination of acupuncture and chiropractic care can significantly enhance recovery outcomes. Chiropractic adjustments can improve mobility and alignment, while acupuncture can accelerate healing by increasing blood flow to injured areas, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural recovery processes.
5. Personalized Treatment Plans: One of the greatest advantages of integrating acupuncture and chiropractic care is the ability to create personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs. Practitioners can collaborate to design a holistic approach that considers the individual’s specific health goals, ensuring comprehensive care that promotes long-term wellness.

The Benefits of a Complete Wellness Approach

By embracing a complete wellness approach that incorporates both acupuncture and chiropractic treatments, patients can enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:

• Improved Overall Health: The combined effects of acupuncture and chiropractic care can lead to improved physical and mental health, helping individuals achieve their wellness goals more effectively.
• Preventive Care: Regular treatments can help prevent injuries and manage chronic conditions, reducing the risk of future health issues.
• Empowered Patients: Patients are encouraged to take an active role in their health and wellness journey, leading to greater self-awareness and proactive health management.
• Increased Quality of Life: By addressing both physical pain and emotional stress, patients often report a higher quality of life and greater overall satisfaction.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Combined Therapies

If you’re seeking a comprehensive approach to your health and wellness, consider exploring the benefits of combined acupuncture and chiropractic treatments. By addressing both the physical and energetic aspects of health, this integrated approach can lead to complete wellness.

At Dr. Amie Shimmel’s clinic, she is dedicated to providing personalized care that supports your unique health journey. As an experienced practitioner she tailors treatment plans that harness the benefits of both acupuncture and chiropractic care. Whether you’re dealing with pain, stress, or seeking overall wellness, she is here to help you achieve your health goals.

Take the first step towards complete wellness today—contact us to learn more about how our combined acupuncture and chiropractic treatments can support you on your path to optimal health.

In the heart of Chicago, Dr. Amie Shimmel stands out as a dedicated acupuncturist committed to promoting wellness and healing through holistic practices. With a passion for acupuncture and a deep understanding of its benefits, she has helped countless individuals navigate their health journeys. In this blog, we will explore Dr. Shimmel’s background, her approach to acupuncture, and how her expertise can help patients achieve optimal health.

A Journey into Acupuncture

Dr. Amie Shimmel’s journey into the world of acupuncture began with a profound interest in holistic health and wellness. After completing her undergraduate education, she sought to understand more about the body’s natural healing processes. This pursuit led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from Midwest School of Oriental Medicine, an Acupuncture degree from Lincoln College, and trained as a fellow from International Academy of Medical Acupuncture, where she gained extensive knowledge in acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and other complementary therapies.

Her formal education laid the foundation for her practice, but it was her experiences working with patients that truly shaped her understanding of the healing arts. Dr. Shimmel’s compassionate nature and commitment to patient care became evident as she began treating individuals dealing with various health challenges, from chronic pain and stress to digestive issues and reproductive health concerns.

A Holistic Approach to Health

At the core of Dr. Shimmel’s practice is the belief that true health is a balance of the mind, body, and spirit. She approaches each patient holistically, taking into account their physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. This comprehensive view allows her to tailor treatments specifically to the needs of each individual, ensuring they receive the most effective care possible.

Dr. Shimmel emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of health issues rather than simply addressing the symptoms. By focusing on the underlying imbalances, she helps patients achieve long-lasting results. This philosophy is at the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which seeks to restore harmony within the body and support its natural ability to heal.

Expertise in Acupuncture Techniques

As a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Shimmel is well-versed in various acupuncture techniques, allowing her to provide personalized care for her patients. Her areas of expertise include:

1. Pain Management: Dr. Shimmel has extensive experience in treating chronic pain conditions such as back pain, arthritis, migraines, and sports injuries. By targeting specific acupuncture points, she can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms.
2. Stress and Anxiety Relief: Understanding the toll that stress can take on overall health, Dr. Shimmel utilizes acupuncture to help patients manage stress, anxiety, and emotional imbalances. Her calming approach, combined with acupuncture’s relaxing effects, provides a safe space for patients to unwind and find peace.
3. Reproductive Health: Dr. Shimmel is dedicated to supporting women’s health and fertility. She uses acupuncture to regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate symptoms of PMS, and enhance fertility treatments. Many women have found relief from reproductive health issues under her care.
4. Digestive Health: Acupuncture can be a powerful tool in addressing digestive disorders. Dr. Shimmel helps patients manage conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues by promoting digestive function and reducing stress.
5. Holistic Wellness: Beyond specific conditions, Dr. Shimmel promotes overall wellness through acupuncture. Her goal is to empower patients to take charge of their health by integrating acupuncture into their daily lives for preventive care and health maintenance.

Patient-Centered Care

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Shimmel’s practice is her patient-centered approach. She takes the time to listen to each patient’s concerns and health goals, creating a warm and welcoming environment where patients feel valued and understood. Dr. Shimmel believes that building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for effective healing.

During initial consultations, she conducts a thorough assessment, discussing medical history, lifestyle, and personal wellness goals. This collaborative approach allows her to develop a treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s unique needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and engaged in their healing journey.

Education and Empowerment

Dr. Shimmel is not only a practitioner but also an educator. She is passionate about empowering her patients with knowledge about their health and wellness. Through informative discussions, workshops, and resources, she encourages individuals to take an active role in their health journey.

By providing guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, Dr. Shimmel helps patients make informed choices that support their well-being. She believes that education is a key component of holistic health, and her goal is to inspire individuals to live healthier, more balanced lives.

Conclusion: Your Partner in Health

As a dedicated acupuncturist, Dr. Amie Shimmel is a beacon of hope for those seeking holistic health solutions in Chicago. Her expertise, compassionate care, and patient-centered approach make her a trusted partner in health for individuals navigating their wellness journeys.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, reproductive health concerns, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, Dr. Shimmel is here to support you. Through the ancient art of acupuncture, she empowers patients to restore balance, promote healing, and achieve optimal health.

If you’re ready to take the next step on your health journey, consider reaching out to Dr. Amie Shimmel for personalized acupuncture care. Together, you can work towards a healthier, happier you.

Chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Traditional treatments often include medication and physical therapy, but acupuncture has emerged as a complementary approach that offers promising results for managing these conditions.

Understanding Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions are long-lasting health issues that require ongoing management. Unlike acute conditions that resolve in a short time, chronic conditions persist for months or even years, often requiring a multi-faceted treatment approach.

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture, a core component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. These points, known as acupoints, are thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. According to TCM, the flow of energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”), is crucial for maintaining health. Disruptions in Qi flow can lead to chronic conditions.

Acupuncture’s Benefits for Chronic Conditions

1. Pain Relief: One of the most common uses of acupuncture is pain management. By stimulating acupoints, acupuncture can release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, reducing pain and discomfort associated with chronic conditions.
2. Improved Function: For conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia, acupuncture can help improve joint function and reduce stiffness. Regular sessions may lead to enhanced mobility and overall physical function.
3. Reduced Inflammation: Acupuncture may help decrease inflammation, which is beneficial for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. By targeting specific acupoints, acupuncture can modulate the body’s inflammatory response.
4. Enhanced Overall Well-being: Chronic conditions often come with a range of symptoms, including fatigue and poor sleep. Acupuncture can help improve sleep quality, boost energy levels, and enhance overall well-being.

Clinical Evidence

Numerous studies have supported the efficacy of acupuncture in managing chronic conditions. Research has shown that acupuncture can be effective for conditions like chronic back pain, osteoarthritis, and migraines. Although individual results may vary, many patients report significant relief from their symptoms.

Integrating Acupuncture into Your Treatment Plan

Acupuncture should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It can be used in conjunction with conventional treatments, including medication and physical therapy. Consulting with a licensed acupuncturist, such as Dr. Amie Shimmel, can help tailor treatments to your specific needs and health goals.

Conclusion

Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to managing chronic conditions, providing relief from pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. By incorporating acupuncture into your treatment plan, you can enhance your overall well-being and improve your quality of life.

Gentle chiropractic care is a specialized approach to chiropractic treatment that focuses on providing effective relief with minimal discomfort. Unlike traditional chiropractic care, which may involve more forceful adjustments, gentle chiropractic techniques prioritize a softer, more patient-friendly approach.

Understanding Gentle Chiropractic Care

Gentle chiropractic care involves using low-force techniques and gentle adjustments to address musculoskeletal issues and improve overall health. The goal is to provide relief from pain and discomfort while ensuring a comfortable and non-invasive experience for the patient.

Differences Between Gentle and Traditional Chiropractic Care

1. Adjustment Techniques: Gentle chiropractic care utilizes lighter, more controlled adjustments compared to traditional methods. This approach is suitable for patients who may be sensitive to more forceful techniques.
2. Patient Comfort: Gentle chiropractic techniques prioritize patient comfort and minimize discomfort during treatment. This makes it an ideal option for individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis or those who prefer a milder approach.
3. Treatment Approach: While traditional chiropractic care often focuses on spinal adjustments to address misalignments, gentle chiropractic care may incorporate additional techniques such as soft tissue therapy and gentle mobilizations.

Benefits of Gentle Chiropractic Care

1. Reduced Discomfort: Patients often experience less discomfort with gentle chiropractic techniques, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive conditions or apprehensions about traditional adjustments.
2. Improved Mobility: Gentle chiropractic care can effectively improve joint mobility and reduce pain without the need for forceful adjustments.
3. Safe for All Ages: This approach is safe and effective for individuals of all ages, including children and seniors, who may benefit from a softer treatment approach.

Who Can Benefit from Gentle Chiropractic Care?

Gentle chiropractic care is ideal for patients with conditions such as chronic pain, arthritis, and those recovering from injuries. It is also suitable for individuals seeking a non-invasive, patient-friendly approach to chiropractic treatment.

Conclusion

Gentle chiropractic care offers an effective alternative to traditional chiropractic methods, focusing on providing relief with minimal discomfort. By incorporating gentle techniques, patients can achieve improved mobility and pain relief in a comfortable and supportive environment.

Fertility acupuncture is a specialized area of acupuncture that focuses on improving reproductive health and increasing the chances of conception. This approach combines traditional practices with modern scientific understanding to support couples on their journey to parenthood.

Understanding Fertility Acupuncture

Fertility acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific acupoints to balance the body’s energy and enhance reproductive function. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views fertility issues as imbalances in the body’s Qi (energy) and blood flow.

How Acupuncture Enhances Reproductive Health

1. Regulation of Menstrual Cycles: Acupuncture can help regulate irregular menstrual cycles by balancing hormones and improving blood flow to the reproductive organs.

2. Improved Egg Quality: By enhancing blood circulation to the ovaries, acupuncture can improve egg quality and support ovarian function.

3. Support for IVF and Other Treatments: Acupuncture can complement assisted reproductive technologies like IVF by reducing stress, improving blood flow to the uterus, and supporting overall reproductive health.

4. Enhanced Sperm Quality: For men, acupuncture can improve sperm quality by increasing blood flow to the testes and reducing oxidative stress.

Scientific Evidence

Research has shown that acupuncture can positively impact fertility by improving menstrual regularity, increasing the success rates of IVF, and enhancing sperm quality. Studies indicate that acupuncture may help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and improve overall reproductive health.

Integrating Acupuncture into Your Fertility Treatment Plan

Fertility acupuncture can be used alongside conventional fertility treatments. Working with a skilled acupuncturist, such as Dr. Amie Shimmel, can help develop a personalized treatment plan that complements your existing fertility strategies.

Conclusion

Fertility acupuncture offers a holistic approach to enhancing reproductive health. By addressing imbalances in the body and supporting overall well-being, acupuncture can play a significant role in improving fertility and increasing the chances of conception.

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and many individuals struggle with conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress. Acupuncture, a time-honored practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been increasingly recognized for its potential to support mental health and emotional balance.

The Connection Between Mental Health and Acupuncture

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, mental health issues are often linked to imbalances in the flow of Qi (energy) and blood within the body. Acupuncture aims to restore balance by targeting specific acupoints to regulate the body’s energy and support mental health.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Mental Health

1. Anxiety Reduction: Acupuncture has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. By stimulating certain acupoints, acupuncture can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, promoting relaxation and emotional stability.
2. Depression Management: Research suggests that acupuncture can be a useful adjunctive therapy for depression. It may help enhance mood, increase energy levels, and improve overall emotional well-being.
3. Stress Relief: Stress is a common factor contributing to mental health issues. Acupuncture can help alleviate stress by promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and balancing the body’s stress response.
4. Enhanced Emotional Balance: Regular acupuncture treatments can help regulate emotional fluctuations, leading to improved emotional resilience and balance. It supports the body’s ability to cope with stress and maintain a positive outlook.

Scientific Evidence

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture in managing mental health conditions. For example, acupuncture has been found to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as enhance overall mental well-being. The practice is believed to influence neurotransmitters and hormones that play a role in mood regulation.

Incorporating Acupuncture into Your Mental Health Routine

Acupuncture can be integrated into your mental health care routine alongside conventional therapies, such as counseling and medication. Consulting with a qualified acupuncturist, like Dr. Amie Shimmel, can help create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your mental health needs.

Conclusion

Acupuncture offers a valuable complementary approach to managing mental health and achieving emotional balance. By addressing the root causes of mental health issues and promoting overall well-being, acupuncture can play a significant role in enhancing your emotional and mental health.

Acupuncture, a potentially effective treatment for heart rhythm disorders, pain and nausea, is now being studied for use after cardiac surgery at Northwestern Medicine.

ACU-Heart is a clinical trial designed to assess the feasibility of daily acupuncture in the hospital setting after open-heart surgery, which has not been examined to date,” says lead investigator, Kim L. Feingold, PhD, a cardiac psychologist and the founder and director of Cardiac Behavioral Medicine at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Dr Feingold states “We know that the mind and body are connected,” “We’re always looking for ways to improve the patient experience and reduce the emotional consequences of heart disease, which can include depression and anxiety.”In the ACU-Heart pilot trial, patients undergoing valve surgery with no prior history of atrial fibrillation, were sorted into two groups. One group received standard care after surgery and the other received daily acupuncture intervention from the day after surgery until discharge.

From the study, the research team found that acupuncture after heart surgery was linked to:

– Lower rates of post-operative atrial fibrillation
– Reduced pain, nausea, stress and anxiety
– Less time spent in intensive care
– A reduced need for anti arrhythmic medication 

“It’s exciting to demonstrate the potential role of acupuncture in the cardiovascular setting,” says Dr. Feingold. “There’s more to be done, but the ACU-Heart pilot trial certainly demonstrates significant promise.” This shortened article was taken from the full article which was originally published on NM.org on September 2023.

“Acupuncture is great for maintenance. It helps a long life become a better-quality life.” It’s about “Getting the “CHI”. Life Force flowing. Schedule your treatment today.

Yes, research has found that acupuncture can be very beneficial to those with chronic stress. Many people suffer from stress 24/7. While there are many treatments, Acupuncture works wonders, it is one of the most effective treatments out there for reducing stress

Acupuncture promotes the parasympathetic zone, also referred to as “rest and digest” it is the zone one should be in for the body to heal. Most people in today’s world are in a sympathetic zone, which is also known as “fight-or-flight,” and can be triggered by something as little as watching something upsetting on the news, traffic, and so forth. When the body is in this zone, all the blood flow goes to the limbs, as your body perceives a threat, meaning that all other processes such as digestion and healing of tissues/organs are put on hold. During Acupuncture, your body goes from being in the sympathetic zone to the parasympathetic one. “This not only immediately calms you down, but also puts your body in healing mode.

When in the rest and digest mode, acupuncture stimulates the production of endogenous opioids like serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin “This symphony of neurotransmitters controls our body’s response to stress and improves our mood, and has such a profoundly relaxing effect.

Stress is the number one contributor to major disease in America –

so don’t let your stress levels get out of hand. Acupuncture reduces your stress, lowers anxiety and creates calmness.

How does it work?

Deactivating the analytical brain which is responsible for anxiety and worries, and acting on the primary somatosensory cortex which is the area in the middle of the brain which is known to reduce sensitivity to stress and pain.

Down regulating the body’s stress response by balancing neurotransmitters and hormones. Stress triggers the production of certain hormones, cortisone and adrenaline.

Stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to initiate the relaxation response. The parasympathetic nervous system acts like a brake and will calm your nervous system down to help you relax.

Regulate the release of inflammatory markers and chemicals which are associated with anxiety. Emotional disturbances and anxiety can lead to lowered immune system function and increased inflammation in the body.

Shift the effects of stress induced biochemical and behavioural changes that are triggered when someone experiences anxiety.

“Acupuncture is great for maintenance. It helps a long life become a better-quality life.” It’s about “Getting the “CHI”. Life Force flowing. Schedule your treatment today.

Stress can affect our mental and physical health, shifting that should be a top priority . There are techniques we can practice daily to boost healing, decrease pain, and adjust our nervous system for a decreased stress response.

The Vagus nerve acts to synchronize our nervous system to decrease this stress response. It is the largest cranial nerve and it’s the most powerful nerve in the body, it connects the brain to the heart, lungs, spleen, and gut, when we stimulate the Vagus nerve we can receive impressive health benefits!

One of the easiest ways to stimulate the Vagus nerve is through Slow Deep Breathing. You can learn to use breathing exercises to shift your focus away from stress or pain. The human mind processes one thing at a time. If you focus on the rhythm of your breathing, you’re not focused on the stressors.

The moment we anticipate stress in any form, we tend to stop breathing and hold our breath. Breath-holding activates the stress response; it tends to increase the sensation of pain, anxiety, or fear. To practice, deep breathing inhales and exhale through your nose, breathe very slowly and aim for 6 breaths a minute. Exhale longer than you inhale, exhale triggers the calm and relaxed response

Additional techniques for stimulating the vagus nerve are: Acupuncture, singing, laughing, ice-cold showers, etc.