SOHMA Integrative Medicine

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

Therapy

How Does Cupping Work?

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Woman Getting Cupping Treatment At a Spa. Cupping Therapy. Treatment used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for pain relief and other health benefits.

One of the oldest forms of medicine, cupping, has been used for thousands of years in Asian countries. Nowadays, you may see celebrities and athletes with round marks going down their backs. These are surely the result of cupping therapy. Although many patients report feeling better after cupping therapy, some people may not understand how cupping works.

Join us today as we go over how cupping therapy works and the benefits of cupping.

What is Cupping Therapy

For thousands of years, cupping therapy has used flames to heat a horn or glass cup, this heat creates a negative pressure in the cup, and once placed upon the skin, the soft tissue is pulled into the cup. Although some still use flames when performing cupping therapy, many now opt for plastic or silicone cups with a suction pump. This makes it easier for the practitioner to get the same amount of pressure on every cup, though some still prefer the traditional method, which provides a similar result.

How does it Work?

The skin, fascia, connective tissue, and muscle can become stuck and reduce the range of motion. Think of it as though you were wearing a sweater. If it’s too small and tight, it can restrict mobility, and if you force it, you can damage or tear the shirt. The cups use negative pressure to pull the soft tissue under the skin. This improves blood flow to the area being treated. The new blood flow brings fresh oxygenated blood full of nutrients. The added blood flow promoted healing and quicker repair of the damaged tissue. Alternatively, you may also receive a cupping massage, and this is where the cups are slid around the areas being treated. These results are more akin to a deep tissue massage, except a cup is used instead over the area of pain or concern.

When visiting SOHMA Integrative Medicine in Long Beach, CA., you’ll be evaluated by the therapist to see the extent of damage to the injury. If, during the evaluation, it is discovered that there is shooting pain or an issue directly involving the spine, Cupping may not be the correct method to aid recovery. 

What do the Marks Mean

The common concern about cupping therapy is the round marks left behind after treatment. Many people see people on TV with round marks and wrongfully assume they are bruises. These aren’t bruises and are more like hickies caused by the suction. This can give the misconception that cupping therapy is painful. On the contrary, many patients find cupping relaxing and satisfying when cups are released.

Not all the marks are the same; some are darker, while others are lighter. The scars left behind on the cups are more than just the result of cupping therapy. They can help you learn how you’re progressing and how long it takes to recover fully. The darker the mark, the longer for it to fade away. This also means more attention will be needed in that area. These marks often take about a week to fade. Lighter marks disappear entirely after a couple of days and tend to signify that that area is working correctly. 

What does Cupping Help with?

While most people look at cupping therapy to help with muscle pain in their back, cupping therapy has been used to help with a variety of conditions, such as:

  • Fevers
  • Poor Appetite
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Cramping
  • Leg Pain
  • Joint Pain
  • Headaches
  • Mental Health

For many conditions, cupping can help by increasing blood circulation. Nonetheless, you need to be able to clear out stagnation and toxins for the body to recover naturally. While cupping has shown beneficial effects on the physical health of a patient, due to the relaxing nature of cupping, it can help people with their mental health. By improving sleep quality, the body can physically and mentally recover better, alleviating stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

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 are the Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Starting Myer’s Cocktail?

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We’ve all seen an IV drip on tv shows or in hospitals used to deliver fluids and medicine to patients. But the same kind of IV can be used therapeutically. Though instead of providing medication, Myer’s cocktail IV therapy offers a perfectly crafted blend of vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream for its beneficial properties.

It’s natural for you to have questions about how this is possible, and today we’ll try and answer the five questions patients have before starting Myer’s cocktail IV therapy.

What is Myers Cocktail IV therapy?

Myer’s cocktail IV therapy is a great way to administer a high dose of vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream so the body can use them immediately. The blend of vitamins and minerals in Myer’s cocktail includes Vitamin C, Vitamin B Complex, Magnesium, and Calcium—nutrients the body needs to manage energy levels and proper immune system health. As we get older, the way our bodies absorb nutrients begins to change. While for some people a simple multivitamin will suffice to keep their body in balance, some people may need to be more direct. IV therapy delivers the vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream, this means it completely bypasses the digestive system. This system can sometimes not absorb the nutrients at their fullest concentration; sometimes, the nutrients aren’t absorbed. By going straight to the bloodstream, the body can make immediate use of the vitamins and minerals and their fullest concentration providing their benefits quickly.

What is Myer’s Cocktail IV Therapy Good for?

The benefits of the Myer’s cocktail IV therapy are numerous and based on how out of balance the nutrient in one’s body is. Some of the benefits Myer’s cocktail can provide include:

  • Boosts Immune System
  • Improves Blood Circulation
  • Enhances Mood
  • Alleviates Migraines
  • Rehydrates
  • Helps with Hangovers
  • Fights Fatigue
  • Improves Skin Health
  • Promotes Relaxation
  • Reduces Anxiety and Stress

IV therapy can be incredibly versatile. Depending on each case, Myer’s cocktail IV therapy can help based on the body’s needs.

How Long Does Myer’s Cocktail Take to Work?

There isn’t an exact timeline for every patient. Everybody is unique and will respond differently. Once Myer’s cocktail IV therapy is administered, some patients report a difference within 30 to 45 minutes, usually the amount of time the body needs to absorb nutrients. However, some patients may require more time and visits to see a significant difference.

How Often Should I Do a Myer’s Cocktail IV Therapy Protocol?

This, too, depends on each person and condition. Typically the regularity of the IV therapy will be discussed. Some patients use Myer’s cocktail IV therapy to maintain a healthy lifestyle and may receive a session once or twice per month.

If you are doing IV therapy as a program for recovery, you may be recommended to receive more. Based on how you feel and how well you respond to treatment, visiting us at SOHMA twice weekly is recommended until your condition improves. After which, the frequency will be adjusted or terminated based on how you feel.

Does Myer’s Cocktail IV therapy have any Side Effects?

Trained professionals should always administer Myer’s cocktail IV therapy to reduce the risks of infections. Though much like many treatments, there is always an inherent risk. This is why you should communicate your medical history with our staff. Vitamins are natural and known to be safe, but the vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes in the IV blend may interact with prescribed medications. Some medications can have a contrasting effect with the nutrients provided in the IV therapy which can cause potentially unsafe conditions. It’s best practice to let us know what medication you’ve been prescribed, and we can let you know if there may be any potential harm.

Myer’s Cocktail Right for Me?

If you want to return to balance and play, ask us about Myer’s cocktail IV therapy.

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

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to 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 Beac, 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 Physical Therapy Help In Rehabilitation?

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Physical therapy helps millions of people annually manage their pain and rehabilitate injuries in most cases without the need for potentially addictive pain medications. And oftentimes, physical therapy can help a patient avoid surgery altogether.

Join me as we discover how physical therapy works and how it has helped many in rehabilitation.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a treatment that addresses illness, degenerative disease, or injury limiting a patient’s ability to move or perform daily activities. While many other forms of pain management only cover pain symptoms, physical therapy uses the patient’s history and in-person examination to arrive at a personalized program to help with recovery. Physical therapy most commonly uses stretches, exercises, and movements to manage pain though not exclusively. In recent years physical therapists have employed a variety of new techniques, including:

  • Manipulation
  • Spinal Traction
  • Electric Muscle Stimulators
  • Acoustic Sound Wave Therapy
  • Hot/Cold Therapy

Physical therapy can be used preventatively by developing a dedicated program to promote wellness and fitness. And it can be used as a treatment for people suffering from acute and chronic pain.

Physical Therapy for Rehabilitation

When using physical rehabilitation therapy, you’ll first talk with your physical therapist to review your history and your injury. Our main goal is to get you back to your previous activity levels. After evaluation, your physical therapist will develop a program tailored to your case. Although every case is different, the target is the same, to prevent further injury while accelerating recovery. Physical therapy has been used to help in the treatment of many conditions, such as:

  • Chronic Pain
  • Acute Pain
  • Tendonitis
  • Sports Injury
  • Back and Neck Pain
  • Osteoporosis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Sprains

Although physical therapy is a great way to treat many conditions, sometimes surgery may be required. It’s not uncommon for patients to be prescribed physical therapy before the procedure to strengthen the body in preparation for the surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, physical therapy may also help speed up rehabilitation.

Unfortunately, there is no guide for how long physical therapy will take before you fully recover. There are many variables, including age, sex, weight, fitness level, and dedication.

How does it Work?

Our physical therapists at SOHMA at Long Beach, CA, have expertise and knowledge of how the body works as a unified system. When combining their knowledge and your medical history, a physical therapist can create a program to care for you and help you reach your goal. They understand how a body part should move and what is needed to get it to move correctly. The exercises a physical therapist will prescribe help correct limited and inefficient movement patterns. 

Physical therapists will provide exercises and movements to do on your own time. Following their instructions is crucial in rehabilitating an injury and can be the difference between healing swiftly or adjusting your program and managing your pain for longer. Even if there is pain or discomfort initially, you must stick with the program for the best results. Once you’ve progressed, it’s common for patients to feel like they can do more than the recommended amount of exercise. This isn’t recommended as it may result in setbacks and, in some cases, cause further damage to the injury.  

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

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to 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.

Is Cupping Therapy Safe?

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Cupping therapy comes from ancient China and has been used for thousands of years. As one of the oldest forms of Chinese medicine, cupping has helped people manage pain and cleanse their bodies from toxins. In recent years even athletes and celebrities have been seen with round marks on their backs, which often appear after cupping therapy.

It’s understandable for some people to wonder if cupping therapy is safe. With very few and rare exceptions which we’ll go over, Cupping therapy is generally seen as a safe form of alternative medicine.

How does Cupping Work?

As the name suggests, cupping therapy uses cups placed on the skin, then whether by a pump or fire, a vacuum is formed in the cup. The negative pressure pulls and stretches the skin, fascia, and muscle tissue into the cup. Following this, the body may respond by increasing blood circulation in the treated area. Good blood circulation is very important when it comes to recovery. The improved blood circulation brings fresh oxygenated blood that can replace the stagnated blood that was there before. This can help reduce inflammation and accelerate your body’s ability to recover naturally.

Does Cupping have any Drawbacks?

The main drawback patients report are the round marks. Though often mistaken for bruises, the round marks don’t hurt when touched like bruises. These marks are more akin to a hickey, as the cup does create a good amount of suction force.

Although side effects are rare, some patients have reported that cupping therapy has made them feel nauseous, while others report sweating or dizziness. Depending on the sensitivity of the patient’s skin, they may feel mild soreness in the treated area and a small amount of pain. In most patients, this pain is not noticeable, and there is a feeling of relaxation instead of pain.

What are Those Marks?

As previously stated, the round marks are caused by the suction on the surface of the skin. These marks are temporary and often fade away after some time, depending on the mark itself. Although some may find them unsightly, the round marks can be useful. The color of the marks ranges from pale pink up to dark purple. The intensity of the mark’s color can indicate how your treatment is going. Often the darker the mark signifies severe stagnation, and that area should be focused on. 

The discoloration is temporary, and light red or pink marks will often fade after a day or so. Red, dark red, and purple marks may take longer to heal. Depending on the severity, some of the darker marks can take up to two weeks to completely fade away.

Who Should Avoid Cupping?

While cupping is considered generally safe and viable for many people to help with recovery, patients with certain conditions should avoid cupping. These include:

  • Kidney failure
  • Liver Disease
  • Heart Disease
  • Hemophilia 
  • Anemia

It’s best practice to let the therapist know if you suffer from any of these conditions, as our goal is to help you recover. If you are taking blood thinners or are pregnant, consider talking with your primary care provider before starting a cupping therapy program. 

Cupping is relatively safe as long as you go to a trained health professional. But you could have these side effects in the area where the cups touch your skin:

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

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to 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.

When Should You Seek Physical Therapy?

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It doesn’t matter how athletic or stationary we are. Minor aches and pains can sneak up on us. If the pain doesn’t subside, physical therapy is available to help. For natural recovery, physical therapy is one of the best options. Uniquely designed for each patient, physical therapy has helped millions return to getting out of pain and balance.

Today we’ll go over what signs to look for, so you can better understand when to seek physical therapy.

Pre and Post Surgery

Surgery is frequently the last solution after all other options have been exhausted. To prepare for surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to you. Especially for those with a high probability of transfer to a rehabilitation center. Physical therapy has been shown to shorten patients’ stay at hospitals by reducing muscle atrophy. Muscle atrophy is usually one of the reasons that can delay a patient from returning to their home.

After surgery, physical therapy can help recover and regain mobility sooner. It also helps to ensure any surgical repairs or replacements will heal correctly. For many patients, physical therapy is used to manage pain. That way, they avoid using potentially dangerous and addictive pain medications.

Chronic Pain

Natural wear and tear is the most common chronic condition treated with physical therapy. This can be caused by aging, injury, or constant stress on a muscle or joint. This can include:

  • Tendonitis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Muscle Tears and Sprains
  • Bone fractures
  • Tendon Damage
  • Arthritis
  • Back Pain

As well as conditions that affect the spine, such as scoliosis, stenosis, and herniated discs.

Although physical therapy can’t undo the damage caused by these conditions, it can help to strengthen muscles and joints. Flexibility training can help to diminish the damage caused by aging. Physical therapy is usually one of the preferred choices when dealing with long-term pain.

Primary Care Provider Suggestion

Although you can ask about physical therapy alone, when your primary care provider suggests physical therapy, you should take it seriously. They should have the best knowledge of your unique condition and issues. If physical therapy is a viable solution to your condition, it is wise to take their advice.

In California, it’s not required to have a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist; however, you should consider letting them know you will do physical therapy so they can understand how your condition is progressing.

After An Injury

Many injuries can be helped by physical therapy. Injuries such as ankle sprains, muscle strain, or tendonitis can happen to everyone, regardless of age, physical fitness, or activity level. After suffering the injury, it’s best practice to get it looked at by your primary care provider to understand the severity of the injury. Ruling out fractures and tears can allow a physical therapist to provide a personalized program to help heal the injury. This program will need to be followed closely. If the patient doesn’t follow the program accordingly, progress may not be seen, resulting in the injury not healing correctly and chronic pain. In the worst case scenario, surgery may even be required. 

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

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to 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.