SOHMA Integrative Medicine

We offer the best of Eastern & Western medicine without using drugs or surgery

Therapy

How Does Cupping Therapy Remove Toxins

by

Coming from traditional Eastern medicine, Cupping therapy has garnered new life due to a modern resurgence. Much of its current popularity is because of how celebrities and athletes use cupping therapy for their recovery, and occasionally, they are seen with recognizable round marks going down their backs. It’s not uncommon to see Olympians being showcased with visible cupping marks. This also drew the public’s curiosity towards cupping therapy.

Cupping therapy is popular in aiding recovery and has many benefits beyond recovery from injury or a workout. Join me as we explore how cupping therapy can help to remove toxins from your body.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is one of the oldest forms of medicine practiced in traditional Asian cultures. Cupping therapy traditionally uses fire to heat a glass globe or bamboo cup to create negative pressure. Recently, plastic or silicone cups with a pump have been used to control the vacuum created. When the cup is placed onto the skin, the negative pressure pulls the soft tissue into the cup. 

This pulls skin, fascia, and muscle tissue into the cup, which may promote increased circulation in the treated area. Increased circulation allows for several potential benefits, including: 

  • Pain Management
  • Reduced Inflammation
  • Reduced Muscle Tension
  • Increased Blood Flow
  • Increased Range of Motion

Aside from physical benefits, cupping therapy can also benefit your mental health and recovery. It has been shown that cupping therapy can help patients relax and release body tension. This can have the additional benefit of allowing you to rest better at night. This improves both the ability to fall asleep and the quality of sleep. As we understand, having healthy rest at night is incredibly important to our mental health as this can reduce stress and anxiety.

How does Cupping Help to Remove Toxins?

Creating vacuum pressure on the skin may draw out impurities from deep within the soft tissue and muscles. This can help to draw out built-up waste products and toxins like smoke and heavy metals. These may have been stored in your cells for years while you are unaware of them.

Since cupping therapy can help enhance blood circulation, it can allow fresh new blood to flush out stagnation in the affected areas. This can promote the removal of toxins and metabolic waste products. Cupping may stimulate the lymphatic system as well. This can aid in removing toxins and waste materials from the body through improved lymphatic circulation. This can help to promote healthier cells and overall wellness.

What are the Round Marks?

Although the round marks may seem like painful bruising, this is far from what they are. The marks are closer to a hickey than a bruise. Unlike bruises, these marks don’t hurt. Visually, some patients may not appreciate them. However, these marks have an additional function. The round marks can help to determine how close you are to finishing a cupping therapy protocol. For example, light pink marks may signify that you’re nearing the end of treatment, whereas dark purple marks may indicate heavy levels of stagnation. This can mean that you may require more cupping or complementary therapy, such as acupuncture or massage therapy to get to the root of your issues.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can contact us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What’s it Like to Receive a Myer’s Cocktail

by

For years now, the Myer’s cocktail has been used to help athletes and everyday people return their bodies to balance with essential vitamins and minerals through an IV drip. The same kind of IV is used in hospitals to deliver patients medicine and fluids. However, when used therapeutically, it provides vitamins and minerals through the fluid instead. The perfectly crafted blend of nutrients in the Myer’s cocktail IV therapy includes Vitamin C, B Complex, Magnesium, and Calcium.

Many times in our busy lives, we are unable to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients in our bodies. Especially as we get older and our bodies begin to absorb nutrients differently. This is why supplements are often recommended. The nutrients in Myer’s cocktail have been shown to have several benefits, including: 

  • Increased Immune System Function
  • Reduce the Duration and Intensity of Migraines
  • Aids in Detoxification
  • Aids in Hangover Recovery

Myer’s cocktail has also been used to help alleviate symptoms caused by:

  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Adrenal Fatigue
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Depression 
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Acute/Chronic Infections

While the benefits of Myer’s cocktail IV therapy may be noted, some may be curious about what it feels like to receive the Myer’s cocktail IV therapy. Today, we will explore how receiving a Myer’s cocktail IV therapy feels.

First Impressions

Like any use of IV drip, there are needles involved. Naturally, you will first feel a pinch as the IV drip is set up. Once the IV is set up and the Myer’s cocktail begins to flow into your bloodstream, many patients report a couple of feelings—first, some report of feeling a cooling sensation due to the nutrient-rich solution entering the bloodstream. The fluid is often cooler than room temperature. Afterward, some people mention a tingling or warm sensation. Some vitamins, such as B-complex, can result in these sensations in some people, though this is generally considered harmless.

Boost in Energy

Once the body has had time to absorb the nutrients, many people report feeling a boost in energy levels. This can be due to your body’s previous lack of an essential nutrient that Myer’s cocktail replenishes. Your body doesn’t need to break down a multivitamin or other supplement before absorbing it with Myer’s cocktail. Because the nutrients are delivered directly to the bloodstream, your body will receive a more concentrated dose of these essential nutrients. It’s been reported that this boost in energy can last for days or weeks, depending on your physical composition.

Relaxing

As the IV therapy progresses, some individuals mention feeling relaxed. Both physical and mental. This may be attributed to the calming effects of the nutrients or hydration the body is receiving. It’s been known that magnesium and B-Complex may help increase your body’s resistance to stress. As a result, many people use the session as an opportunity to rest, and sometimes patients may even take a nap.

Steadily Improved Progression

Throughout the session, individuals might notice a gradual improvement in how they feel. This includes increased alertness and a sense of rejuvenation. At this point in the session, you may begin to notice how the Myer’s cocktail IV therapy has helped you with your particular condition. You should also be feeling the overall benefits of the Myer’s cocktail IV therapy. While for many, IV therapy is a “one and done,” others opt for regular IV therapy sessions as the prolonged benefits of Myers cocktail IV therapy can help you in your daily life.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can contact us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

How Does a Myer’s Cocktail Affect Your Energy Level?

by

Myer’s cocktail is a form of IV therapy, the same kind of IV you would see delivering medicine in a hospital setting. However, Myer’s cocktail IV therapy uses the exact mechanism to provide vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream. Myer’s cocktail has a variety of uses for nearly everyone. However, it is beneficial to athletes and older adults. As we age, our bodies absorb nutrients differently; sometimes, we can use some help to return to balance.


You may be wondering how Myer’s cocktail affects your energy levels, and today, we’ll explore the answer to that question.

What Is Myer’s Cocktail IV Therapy?

Myer’s cocktail was developed in the 70s to provide a mix of essential nutrients your body needs for overall health and wellness. The perfectly crafted blend provides the body with Vitamin C, B Complex, Magnesium, and Calcium. Since the 70s, Myer’s cocktail has been shown to have a number of benefits. Some of which include aiding and alleviating some of the following ailments and conditions:

  • Increased Immune System Function
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 
  • Adrenal Fatigue
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Depression
  • Migraines
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Acute/Chronic Infections
  • Detoxification

Due to the nutrients being delivered directly to the bloodstream, Myer’s cocktail bypasses the digestive system. By doing this, the nutrients are available nearly immediately compared to oral supplements, which take the body time to break down and absorb. Some nutrients aren’t absorbed to their fullest potential during this time compared to IV therapy, which will provide a much more concentrated dose of vitamins and minerals the body needs for essential functions.

Give Yourself that Little Boost

In our busy lives, it’s likely you’ve missed a meal due to a deadline or sacrificed some sleep to run errands. We’ve all felt a bit exhausted from time to time. It’s easy to reach out for an energy drink when you’re feeling tired. However, you may not be aware that what you may be consuming is loaded with sugar, caffeine, and other chemicals. And while this can give you a short burst of energy, it’s only a matter of time before you have to deal with the dreaded “crash.”

Myer’s cocktail IV therapy can help many people who may not have the time to maintain their bodies in balance properly. IV therapy directly infuses nutrients into the bloodstream. This allows the body to take full advantage of the nutrients as they become available. There’s no need to wait for you to digest a healthy meal or breakdown supplements. Many people feel an immediate boost in energy levels during or shortly after a session. Patients managing fatigue comment that they feel revitalized for days and, in some cases, weeks. This is because Myer’s cocktail IV therapy directly provides fluids infused with vitamins and minerals to the bloodstream, and your body absorbs the nutrients quickly, becoming readily available to your cells. Any excess nutrients will eventually be processed and expelled by the body.

As mentioned, many patients report prolonged effects, such as feeling energized for days or weeks. Typically, this is because, for some, their body may lack the essential nutrients the IV therapy provides. Conventional oral supplements can be helpful if you already have healthy habits, though for many, oral supplements simply take too long for the body to absorb them. The digestive process may reduce nutrient bioavailability as well.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can contact us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step to better health.

3 Benefits of Cupping Therapy

by

Have you ever watched a sporting event, noticed athletes having round marks on their back and shoulders, and wondered what they are? 

While many assume they’re bruises, they resemble a “hickey.” This is because they’re not caused by an accident. Instead, they’re the resulting mark from cupping therapy. Cupping therapy has become incredibly popular amongst athletes in recent years. However, cupping therapy is over 1000 years old. This ancient technique uses heat or a pump to create negative pressure in a cup. Then, the cup is placed on the skin. The skin, muscle fibers, fascia, and other soft tissue are pulled into the cup. This has various benefits, and today, we’re going to over 3 benefits of cupping therapy.

Benefit #1 Managing Pain

It is estimated that millions of Americans deal with chronic pain. That is roughly 20% of all adults in the country. Many people ignore the early back, shoulder, or neck pain signs. Assuming they just “slept wrong” or sitting awkwardly at the office. Often, people assume the pain will go away on its own, and in some cases, it does. Typically, the longer you wait to get the pain treated, the longer it takes to recover.

 Cupping may be the solution many people need. Cupping may cause vasodilation, which promotes better circulation. When the soft tissue is pulled into the cup, the body reacts by increasing blood flow to the treated area. This brings fresh, oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood in while flushing out any stagnation. 

Cupping therapy can also help with inflammation. Inflammation or swelling is a natural response by the body to an area that has been injured or damaged. The swelling keeps the muscles from moving to reduce the possibility of further hurting the tissue. Unfortunately, this same pressure can result in pain. The increased blood circulation through cupping therapy can help reduce this inflammation, which helps to minimize pressure and ultimately enables you to manage your pain.

Benefit #2 Reduces Stress

Stress is a common reaction we’ve had for as long as we’ve existed. However, in our modern society, stress has become a dangerous response. Stress is often called “the silent killer.” This is because nothing harms you when you cannot release your stress. Stress is known to cause a large amount of symptoms, including:

  • Headaches
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Physical Pain
  • Insomnia
  • Indigestion
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Tension

And many more. To help combat the increasing stress of daily life, consider cupping therapy. 

Cupping therapy has been shown to increase dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters or chemical messengers can improve your mood and reduce anxiety. They’re also the neurotransmitters your body needs to provide natural stress relief. 

Another way cupping therapy helps with managing your stress is by improving your ability to sleep and the quality of sleep. If your body is tense and in pain, getting comfortable is challenging, leading to less sleep. After a cupping therapy session, you should feel more relaxed and less tense. Making it easier to get comfortable allows you to fall asleep sooner and have fewer issues remaining asleep through the night. A good night’s sleep is when the body works on healing both body and mind. 

Benefit #3 Improves Recovery

Many athletes need to be in their best physical condition. This is why they often use cupping therapy as part of their recovery. We’ve mentioned the increased blood circulation, which is key in promoting recovery. You need oxygen to repair any injury, and the increased blood flow from cupping provides it to the treated areas. This stimulates proper and standard healing at the cellular level.

In many people, cupping therapy can drain excess fluids and toxins and loosen adhesion in connective tissue. This can be caused by repetitive motion, physical trauma, infection, or surgery. Because cupping causes vasodilation, it can help reduce muscle stiffness and pain. With less pain, you can focus on other recovery exercises and stretches needed for recovery.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can contact us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step to better health.

5 Benefits of Massage Therapy

by

For years, massage therapy was seen as simply a form of relaxation for those who could afford it. We know that massages can be therapeutic and come with various benefits. 

Manipulating the body’s soft tissues manually has been shown to improve overall well-being. By applying pressure, stretching, and kneading the soft tissue, a massage can help you in ways you may not have thought of.

Join us today as we explore five often-overlooked benefits of massage therapy.

Stress Reduction

Though often depicted as a relaxing experience, the stress reduction it can provide is underestimated. Massage therapy can help you release tension stored in the muscles. The body’s physical response to stress is to tense the muscles. When the muscles are tense, it signals to the mind that you are stressed. This is a looping cycle that can result in a variety of issues, including heart conditions and mental health issues. 

Stress is often referred to as the “silent killer.” This is because stress is linked to poor body functions. Stress can disrupt your ability and quality of sleep, cause headaches, and cause stomach and back pains. Stress is known to have a negative effect on your immune system as well. Massage therapy can break this cycle, reduce tension, alleviate built-up stress, and improve physical and mental health. 

Helps to Manage Nerve Pain

Nerve pain can be some of the most debilitating pains a person can experience. Often causing sharp or burning pain whenever it triggers, this causes people to be bedridden even if they may be otherwise physically capable of moving. 

Massage therapy can often release “knots” of muscle tension. This can reduce the amount of pressure on nerves. This type of massage therapy can feel intense for some patients as pressure is relieved from the nerves. However, most patients only report slight soreness and overall relief after it is done.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Accidents happen, and sometimes, they may result in soft tissue injuries. Massage therapy can help recover and heal the soft tissue, too. When an injury occurs, the muscles around the injury tense up. This is the body’s natural reaction to the injury. The muscles become tense to immobilize and stabilize the injured area to prevent further damage.

A massage can improve blood flow to the injured soft tissue, which promotes healing. It can also reduce the tension caused by the body’s reaction to the injury. This can enhance flexibility, improve recovery speed, reduce pain, and prevent scar tissue from forming. Scar tissue can reduce flexibility and strength because it is less flexible and elastic than the original tissue. If scar tissue has already developed, massage therapy can help to break down the scar tissue. 

Improves Muscle Flexibility

When used frequently, muscles tend to build tension and tighten up. This can reduce flexibility and mobility. Even when we stretch before exercising, there are many muscles that we use that are deep within the soft tissue that we are unable to stretch.

Massage therapy can break down tension deep within the muscles. Deep tissue massage therapy can “loosen” muscles that rarely get stretched. This can promote elasticity and increase the range of motion in the muscles. With an increased range of motion in the muscles, some activities can become more accessible, and in older adults, it can even provide independence and balance.

Better Sleep Quality

The average amount of time an adult needs to sleep to feel well-rested is between 7 and 9 hours. However, it’s common for adults to claim not to feel rested even when sleeping for that long. This can be for various reasons, including physical discomfort and anxiety. Massage therapy can help with both of these issues. Physical discomfort is reduced after massage therapy. This is because of the release of tension in the muscles and improved blood circulation that promotes healing and recovery. The reduced tension can reduce stress, and the reduction of stress can reduce anxiety. This combination allows people to fall asleep sooner after going to bed and have higher quality sleep.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can contact us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step to better health.