You have the potential to relieve most ailments with your hands. Acupressure is an ancient art practiced by Chinese for over 5,000 years. This fully illustrated guide by Aaron Stein, Ph.D., distills acupressure into simple exercises that can be used to alleviate wide range of medical conditions. Since its release 3 years ago over 25,000 people downloaded the guide! Ailments Covered by the Acupressure Guide: Headache and Migraine: Frontal Headache | Back of the head | Side of the

List Price: $ 12.95

Price:

• Most advanced electronic muscle massager; Intermediate Frequency of 2500Hz to penetrate into the skin deeply; Dual Channel with adjustable intensity from level 1 to level 10; Dual Channel with adjustable intensity from level 1 to level 10
• Six therapeutic programs: Hammering, Acupuncture, Naprapathy, Cupping, Scraping and Massage, Three automatic modes specifically designed for Neck/Shoulder, Waist/Legs and Foot; Four types of waveform outputs; Three body shaping programs for Reducing Weight , Skin Tightening and Releasing Toxin; Excellent variety of sensation
• Extra Large LCD screen to display operating status; Easy to read visualized body diagram and applicable positions
• Unique “Repeat” function can instantly lock the best therapeutic stimulation for a continuous period of time; Adjustable timer: 5,10,15,20,25 and 30 minutes; Easy to use with illustrated user manual showing appropriate contact (acupuncture) points, Treatment selections; Effectively managing pain without drugs; Relieves pain in shoulders, neck, back and limbs caused by sore and aching muscles, Improves blood circulation and promotes metabolism,T herapeutist recommended; 9V batteries included
• Comes with an extra set (four pcs) of electrode pads for your convenience

Professional Electronic Dual Channel Massager is an easy to use, safe and non-invasive body massager that provides a variety of benefits.

This dual channel electronic massager enables you to effectively reduce and relieve your pain symptoms caused by cervical spondylosis, scapulohumeral periarthritis, arthritis, and lumbar muscle pain, as well as alleviate symptoms of peripheral nerve palsy and myalgia (muscle and nerve pain) through therapeutic massage and non-invasive acupuncture.

For acti

List Price: $ 169.99

Price:

• Cotton covered sponge rubber mat with 234 pieces of patented blunt spikes
• A total of 6,318 nails provide the ultimate stimulation of your skin and acupressure points
• Stimulates and invigorates your back, legs, feet, neck and body
• Perfect for stimulating blood circulation and relaxation
• 100% cotton fabric is color fast, hand washable and certified free of chemicals, metals, toxins and residues

Acupressure, an ancient healing art, uses pressure to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body’s natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they help relax muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body’s life force to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of the hands or feet, or use the blunt spikes of acupressure balls o

List Price: $ 59.99

Price:

• 6,210 acupressure points
• Reduce pain in back, neck, shoulders, hips and joints
• Improve circulation, sleep, digestion, and quality of life
• acupuncture from the comfort of your own home. #1 back pain relief and back treatment available!
• portable, comfortable and weighs 1 pound and 2 oz.

The Nayoya Mat uses the benefits of acupuncture to help the body repair itself, and heal itself from all kinds of stress such as back pain, fatigue, insomnia, high blood pressure, and muscular soreness.

The Acupuncture points on the mat stimulate the body to release endorphins, feel good hormones because they have a calming, soothing effect on the mind and body.

The Nayoya mat can help

* Reduce pain in back, neck, shoulders, hips and joints

* Improve circulation

* Supply a deep sense of r

List Price: $ 69.99

Price:

• 6,210 acupressure points
• Reduce pain in back, neck, shoulders, hips and joints
• Improve circulation, sleep, digestion, and quality of life
• acupuncture from the comfort of your own home. #1 back pain relief and back treatment available!
• portable, comfortable and weighs 1 pound and 2 oz.

Product Description
The Nayoya Mat uses the benefits of acupuncture to help the body repair itself, and heal itself from all kinds of stress such as back pain, fatigue, insomnia, high blood pressure, and muscular soreness.

The Acupuncture points on the mat stimulate the body to release endorphins, feel good hormones because they have a calming, soothing effect on the mind and body.

The Nayoya mat can help

* Reduce pain in back, neck, shoulders, hips and joints

* Improve circulati… More >>

Acupuncture Mat | Shakti Mat TM Original | Acupressure Back Pain Relief |

It started during my second pregnancy and went away a couple months after the birth of my son. Then it returned when I was pregnant with my 3rd child and got rapidly worst. After my daughter was born it just continued to get a lot worst. I had an MRI and was told I had Degenerative Disc Disease. I’ve been able to get a little physical therapy, unfortunately not a lot due to the lack of insurance. The pain has now spread to my hip. I don’t know if the pain in my hip is connected to the back pain or if it’s something completely different. But I’ve started having a hard time walking and try really hard not to leave the house because I’m so scared of having a pain attack out in public. I’m only 28 years old and have developed horrible depression from being in so much pain. I have kind of gotten used to the constant pain and have been able to manage it with pain meds, unfortunately the pain attacks are so intense I haven’t been able to get relief. I took percocet for the pain and then the doctor added extra oxycodone in addition because after 8 months I became tolerant, plus the pain increased. She recently suggested prescribing oxycontin but I’d prefer not to go that route. I’m hoping with insurance and physical therapy I can start getting relief and wean off the narcotics. I also take muscle relaxers and naproxen, plus anti-depressants. She also put me on Lyrica. I’m having some bad side affects but I’ve only been on it for a few days so I’m hoping they get more mild, I haven’t noticed a difference in the pain yet. I’ve also tried marijuana but didn’t really feel it helped me too much, maybe to be able to sleep at night. I’ve tried ice packs, hot baths, icy hot, tiger balm, ibuprofen, herbal teas, juicing, deep breathing, meditation. Flexeril completely knocks me out so I had to stop taking it.

I’d like to find a doctor who will help me get better control of the pain and give advice on what I can do other then just keep taking more pills. I’ve been doing yoga and stretching but I’m still having a lot of pain. I’d like a doctor who isn’t opposed to painkillers either. I’m hoping to find other ways to get pain control, but untill that happens I have a 3 year old, 2 year old, and 8 month old with a husband who works 75 hours a week and absolutely no one to help me. So I need to have some kind of pain management. I was told I’d never be completely pain free, but I just want to be able to take my kids to the park, and zoo, do normal housework and stop feeling like a complete failure as a wife and mother. It’s really hard for me, I used to play all these sports and run 8 miles a day, even completing marathons, now I can barely make it up the stairs without tears. So if you know of a good doctor, please let me know. Or if you have any advice, I would really appreciate it. Acupuncture, supplements, stretches, I will be grateful for any advice. Thank you!

Product Description
The authors of this book have developed a treatment protocol which they term the Integrative Neuromuscular Acupoint System, a synthesis of biomedicine and traditional acupuncture that uses biomedical terminology and concepts to interpret the basic mechanisms and clinical procedures of acupuncture, while retaining the emphasis on whole-person therapy and “promoting health while treating the disease,” cornerstones of TCM. The authors maintain that the integration of a… More >>

Biomedical Acupuncture for Pain Management: An Integrative Approach

• Intermediate frequency of 2500Hz to penetrate into the skin deeply, a natural, drug free pain relief
• Extra large LCD screen to display operating status, easy to use with illustrated user manual
• Three automatic modes specifically designed for neck/shoulder, waist/legs and foot
• Three body shaping programs for reducing weight ,skin tightening and releasing toxin

Product Description
Professional Dual Channel Massager is an easy to use, safe and non-invasive body massager that provides a variety of benefits.

This dual channel massager enables you to effectively reduce and relieve your pain symptoms through therapeutic massage and non-invasive acupuncture.

For active people, it provides a flexible massaging experience which has a very beneficial effect on muscle and back, shoulders or neck stiffness. This unit is also very good for soothing o… More >>

Professional 2500Hz Dual Channel Massager Acupuncture Therapist, Pain Relief and Relaxation for All Around Your Body

The pain does not remain limited to the lower back, but you feel its ramifications in the upper back, shoulders and ribs and breasts. Some women have sciatic pains that travel down to their legs, while others have pelvic pain, which affects the pubic joint.

Causes

The most obvious cause for back pain is the gradual increase in weight during pregnancy, which exerts pressure on the lumber spine. Most women tend to push their pelvis forward to adjust to the pressure that causes greater strain on the back. Continued sitting or standing in one posture may cause pain in the back.

History of lower back pain

Some women may have had difficult delivery in the previous pregnancy, which may have caused tiny fractures. They tend to flare up again. They may also have a history of back, neck and lumber spine problems and slipped disc, etc.  These problems aggravate with pregnancy.

Precautions

You are already carrying the weight of your child. Avoid carrying more weight. Do not carry heavy shopping. Take someone along to help you. Do not carry your baby, if you already have one, on your hip. It will exert more pressure on your back.

Avoid doing the domestic chores that make you bend too much. Wear comfortable shoes with broad heals and straps to help you walk without slipping.

Wear a maternity bra with broad straps and adequate cups to prevent any strain on your shoulders.

If you are a working woman, sit on an ergonomic or orthopedic chair that provides lumber support. Do not sit cross-legs. Adjust your computer screen and mouse so as to work without strain.

Treatment

Exercises

Simple exercises like walking and stretching gently often relieve stiffness and pain. But never force yourself to do anything beyond endurance.

Rest

In most cases, rest relieves the normal lower back pain.

Massage

You can do it yourself or ask someone else to do it for you. But avoid a deep and hard massage as it may affect the acupuncture points if you have a history of sciatic pain.

Are you suffering from lower back pain during pregnancy? You would be completely cured even if you are a hopeless case.  Click Here Now to learn more about how you can get fast and permanent relief from your painful back problem.

Tens

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) works by passing a tiny electric current through the skin. This current is believed to block pain messages from reaching your brain. It may also stimulate your brain to produce natural pain inhibitors, called endorphins. Tens devices are about the size of a small radio and are connected to electrodes placed on the skin, usually on your lower back. Electrical impulses result in a tingling sensation, which some women find annoying. The side effects of tens are usually no more than some skin irritation where the pads are stuck to the back. The electrical impulses do not affect the baby. Most studies of tens in labor have found it to be only mildly effective in reducing labor pain.

Acupuncture

Some women find acupuncture helpful in reducing labor pain. There are different theories as to how acupuncture works. In Western medicine, the hair fine needles placed in the skin are believed to stimulate larger nerve fibers, which then block nerve activity in the smaller fibers that transmit pain sensations. It may also release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. There is conflicting evidence on just how effective acupuncture is in reducing labor pain. However, it does seem to reduce the chance that you will request epidural analgesia. If you feel strongly about avoiding an epidural, acupuncture may be helpful for you. However, you’ll need to find a licensed practitioner who will be able to be with you during labor, and to check the regulations at your hospital.

Hypnosis

There is some evidence that women who are susceptible to hypnosis may be able to reduce the sensation of pain through hypnosis. Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and concentration and is something that you can learn to do yourself (in which case it is called autohypnosis). While hypnosis is not harmful. it is expensive and only effective in women who are most susceptible to hypnosis. It may also only have mild effects on labor pain. If you want to try hypnosis, you should start inquiring about classes early in pregnancy.

Subcutaneous Water Injections

In this technique a small amount of sterile water is injected under the skin in two to four spots in the lower back. The procedure seems to be helpful for women who experience labor pain in their backs, especially if it is given in the early stages of labor. In two studies, treatments were found to provide a small to moderate reduction in pain intensity for up to 45 minutes after the injections. This therapy is safe and can be given by your care provider and may provide some pain relief in early labor. However, there is no evidence so far that water injections decrease the use of epidural analgesia.

Narcotic Analgesia

Narcotic medications, such as morphine and nalbuphine, can be used in labor. They are given either as a shot or intravenously. Narcotics slightly take the edge off the pain, but do not completely relieve it. They have the disadvantage of often causing drowsiness and nausea. Narcotics are most likely to be given in the active stage of labor. Most women can tolerate pain better when they are pushing because they can be active, and are less likely to need narcotics. You also want to be at your most energetic and alert during this stage so that you can push effectively. Some women use narcotics only for labor pain, while others use this type of analgesia as a way to handle pain until they request epidural analgesia (which is frequently delayed until you are more than 4cm dilated). Narcotics affect your level of alertness, and this will take a while to wear off.

Choice Of Medication

Most narcotic drugs are equally effective and have similar side effects. However, there are some that are possibly worse than others for the baby. Make sure you understand what medications you are being given during labor. One particular narcotic drug, meperidine should be avoided. In the body, this drug is converted to a substance called normeperidine, which can stay in your baby’s system for days and affect his or her ability to interact with others. Safer alternatives are nalbuphine and morphine, both of which are more quickly cleared from the baby’s system. However they may still make your baby drowsy and affect the baby’s heart rate patterns.

Since one of the side effects of narcotics is nausea, many care providers will automatically give you a sedative drug called promethazine together with your dose of narcotic. Although experiencing nausea is unpleasant, you may want to ask your care provider not to give you promethazine unless you develop nausea, since it will make you very drowsy with out easing pain.

Spinal Block

Spinal analgesia is often used to block pain during a cesarean delivery. Similar to an epidural, it will usually numb you to pain and light touch from the top of your belly down. It is unlike epidural analgesia in that a needle is placed in to the spinal fluid (rather than outside the spinal sac) and a small amount of local anesthetic is injected in to the fluid. Leaking of spinal fluid occurs with about 1 percent of spinals and can result in a bad headache. Spinal analgesia lasts only 1-2 hours and can’t usually be readministered.

Pudendal Anesthesia

If you don’t have an epidural or if your epidural is not working well (a rare occurrence), your care provider may need to numb your pelvic area for a forceps delivery or to repair a tear. A pudendal block numbs sensation in the pudendal nerve, which supplies feeling to the genitals and inner thigh. To place a pudendal block, your care provider will place his or her fingers inside your vagina to help guide the injection. A small amount of local anesthetic is injected beneath the vaginal wall.

Pregnancy massage is different from normal massage techniques, in that areas that create special problems for pregnant women are focused on.  Attention is paid to those joints and muscles that are most likely to be affected by all of the hormone changes in your body.  A massage can provide some wonderful back pain treatment, while at the same time doing a lot to decrease stress and anxiety you may be feeling.

Massage for back pain during pregnancy can be used for several purposes.  One thing it can accomplish is to reduce swelling in areas where fluids tend to collect.  It can also gently work out tense and sore muscles.  The key is to remember that big changes won’t happen overnight.  You will probably experience several massage sessions before you notice a lasting difference.  But then the difference should be substantial.

Between massage session, there are some other approaches to back pain treatment, so if you take good care of yourself by eating right and doing exercises to strengthen and stretch affected muscles, you’ll probably be surprised at how much more effective the next massage session will be.

Massage for back pain during pregnancy isn’t the only way massage can be applied in your situation.  Massage can also be used to prepare your body and mind for the labor process.  You might also consider having a massage therapist available during the labor itself.  They can do a great deal to help you relax during the process, and keep you calm so your adrenaline production remains low.  This is a factor in expediting labor.  If you are relaxed, it is much more likely to go by quickly.

There are many ways to approach back pain treatment, but once you have experienced massage, you will probably find that it is one of your favorite ways to relax and have your back pain be minimized for at least a few hours.  Ongoing treatments can help to reduce the incidences of back pain altogether.  You will learn how to relax on your own and avoid behaviors that can cause pain.

Massage for back pain during pregnancy is becoming an increasingly popular way to deal not just with the pain, but the pregnancy and labor process as a whole.  You might want to seriously consider finding a good massage therapist who can be with you for the entire process.  You’ll feel much more comfortable and relaxed, and before you know if, your baby will be there.

Lower or lumbar back pain is concentrated on the central lower back, just above the waist.  It is a common trouble area for back ache, even for those who aren’t pregnant.  Repetitive motion, or sitting and standing in any one position for too long can create tenderness in the muscles along the lower spine, resulting in pain.

Another even more common type of pregnancy back pain is pelvic pain.  It usually starts below the waistline and can extend as far down as the thighs.  When this type of pain becomes serious, rest alone may not be enough to cure it.  You might require medical attention.

Many kinds of back ache are easily avoided however.  You might need to make a few small lifestyle changes, but being free from pain is more than worth it.  Some things your can do to prevent or alleviate pregnancy back pain are: focusing on good posture.  Pregnancy can create posture problems as your center of gravity shifts to the front, so pay special attention and make sure you never arch your back.  Sleep on your side, using a pillow between the knees for additional support.  Also try to avoid any sudden or jerky movements when rising from a chair or your bed.

Try to avoid standing, but if you must stand, keep one foot raised on a step or box, and try to shift your weight from one foot to the other as often as possible.  When sitting, never cross your legs at the knees.  This shifts your posture to one side, creating strain on the opposing side of your back.  Generally, try to avoid very physical work, and try not to lift or carry anything very heavy, including children.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet, and follow a moderate exercise program, with exercises focused on strengthening your core muscle groups.  You will gain much more benefit from your exercise if your diet provides all the necessary fuel and nutrients for your body.  Some other beneficial exercises are swimming and yoga; just be sure that the instructor is aware that you are pregnant and makes appropriate adjustments.

You can also look into some alternative treatments, like homeopathy, massage or acupuncture.  Just be sure that the practitioner is accredited, and is also aware of your pregnancy.  If you’ve tried all of these things, and your back ache doesn’t go away, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.

Pregnancy back pain can be very unpleasant, but there are a lot of things you can do to prevent and treat it.  Preparation is also the best prevention in this case.  If you focus on your posture and exercise early on, your back will thank you as your pregnancy progresses.

There are many different types of pain relief for use in labour…

1.    Gas and Air (Entonox) – Entonox is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and is good for pain relief during labour as it doesn’t cause sleepiness. The gas takes about 30 seconds to take effect. For the entonox to work properly, it should be breathed in at the start of a contraction, which means that it will be at it’s maximum efficiency when the contraction is at it’s most painful. When the entonox has stopped being breathed in then the effects wear off within a minute. Gas and air can be used from early labour right through to the delivery of the baby and although it does relieve the pain, it doesn’t completely remove it.
2.    TENS – Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is best used during early labour. The tens machine has small pads that attach to the back and a low voltage electric current is passed across the pads and this in turn stimulates the body to produce it’s own natural pain relief. It can take up to 30 minutes before the effects are felt from the TENS machine, and the pain relief is moderate . Most women who opt for a TENS machine will hire it from the hospital or groups like the National Childbirth Trust.
3.    Injections – Pethadine and Meptazinol (Meptid) are the most common drugs given by injection, into the thigh or bottom, during labour, they are very similar to morphine and take around 20 minutes to start working. These drugs give good relief of pain and can last up to three hours. It the drugs are given too close to delivery though, they can make the patient and baby feel sleepy.
4.    Epidural – This is one of the most effective forms of pain relief and can provide complete freedom from pain throughout labour. An epidural can be given from early on in labour right up until the end of the second stage when the cervix has fully dilated. Epidurals are administered by anaesthetists, but  once they are in place, a midwife will take over. The patient will be asked to lie on their side or sit up and bend over a pillow, this opens the spaces in the spine, the  skin will then be made numb with a little local anaesthetic and then a small hollow needle is inserted into the back. A very fine plastic tube called a catheter is then threaded through the needle and secured into place with tape once the needle has been removed. The anaesthetic  is then administered through the catheter. It takes about 10-20 minutes for the epidural to become effective. A top up is sometimes needed for the second stage of labour, this means that the birth will be pain free, but it will still be possible to feel some kind of pressure when the baby is born.
5.    Complimentary Therapies – These include aromatherapy, acupuncture, reflexology or hypnosis. Aromatherapy oils can be used in massage to help relaxation. However, the essential oils used by aromatherapists are very powerful and should only be used in labour after consulting an aromatherapist . In acupuncture, fine needles are used to stimulate the energy channels of the body and the release of natural painkillers or endorphins.  Reflexology involves massaging various areas of the feet to help  stimulate channels of energy which connect with other parts of the body. Reflexology can be very helpful during labour  but needs to be carried out by a trained therapist. Self-hypnosis can be taught for use during labour by a hypnotherapists.  The aim is to make the pain more manageable, or minimise it.  Practice during pregnancy is advised so that it is more effective in labour.
6.    Water – Many women have found that soaking in deep warm water during labour allows them to relax, and gives some relief from the discomfort of contractions. Birthing pools are very popular now and can be used in either hospital or at home for pain relief and to help relax. The pool can be used until it’s time to give birth or can be used for giving birth, also gas and air can be used at the same time, giving extra relief.

Each type of pain relief has pros and cons, so it’s a good idea to discuss these with the midwife and birth partner, before labour begins.

Though it is not traditional in the west, the Chinese have been using acupuncture for back pain during pregnancy for thousands of years.

Acupuncture as it is practiced today is a safe and cost-effective way for pregnant women who are coping with back pain to find some relief.  It is important to find a well-trained practitioner however, because there are some acupuncture points that are forbidden during the nine months of pregnancy.  These are the points that move strong Qi energy through the pelvis, and can actually be stimulated to cause an abortion.

Acupuncture is recommended once a month to help stimulate the mother’s general health and to work on areas that need help or improvement.  Points are stimulated to help the mother feel relaxed and less anxious, and to minimize the transmission of toxins from mother to baby. This is meant to make the baby stronger and more resistant to disease.  During the last month of the pregnancy, it is recommended that the mother be treated on a weekly basis.

Acupuncture for back pain during pregnancy can easily be done on its own, or as part of a more holistic program.  Frequently, a mother will visit an acupuncturist to be treated for a number of pregnancy-related conditions.  These include fatigue, morning sickness and edema.  Acupuncture can also help mothers who are coping with back pain to relax and minimize the stress they are feeling that contributes to tension and pain.

If done on its own, acupuncture for back pain during pregnancy can be performed up to twice a week, if that is needed to alleviate symptoms.  If pain is acute, it can usually be dealt with over just a few sessions, but more generalized pain may take longer to treat.  A good acupuncturist will understand that an expectant mother coping with back pain may need to be treated on several fronts, since back pain is so frequently tied in with stress and tension.

Another way in which acupuncture for back pain during pregnancy is used, is by correcting posture.  This can be accomplished over a longer series of treatments, in which various points throughout the body are gradually brought into alignment.  Since many back problems during pregnancy are tied to incorrect posture due to changes in a woman’s center of gravity, correcting these imbalances can prove extremely beneficial.

Even though it is unfamiliar to many westerners, acupuncture has been used effectively for many thousands of years by the Chinese.  In particular, it is useful for pregnant women who are unable to use traditional medications that would normally be helpful in reducing pain.  Acupuncture accomplishes this completely naturally.

Period pain

As much as this is important for women to know guys should be aware of this also. Why? You may ask? Because you may have to look after your or someone else’s daughter one day. Another reason may be that you just want to love your wife or girlfriend and knowing some simple keys will mean the difference between peace and suffering for her.

What is period pain?

Period pain is what a female may experience when she has her menstrual cycle. The pain can come before or during her menstrual cycle and the intensity can vary from person to person. The pain may be slight cramps or it can be so debilitating she may have to check into a hospital.

Does every woman experience period pain?

No, and they shouldn’t! Most women I speak with have a belief that period pain is a phenomenon that all women go through but this is far from the truth. Period pain is a symptom of your body being out of balance and not a natural part of the menstrual cycle. Women should not experience any pain at all with their period whether it is breast tenderness, low abdomen cramps or any other pain.

What actually happens every month?

The menstrual cycle is a shedding of the uterus wall and it should happen without pain. Every month a woman’s uterus creates a lining of blood vessels to prepare a home for the anticipated fertilized egg. If a woman becomes pregnant the egg will feed off the wall of blood until a developed baby has grown. If pregnancy does not occur the uterus will shred the lining and this is what is called your menstrual cycle or period. This process should be pain free but for a lot of women its not.

Why pain occurs.

In Chinese medicine we talk about liver Qi stagnation, cold in the lower Jiao, cold in the channels, blood deficiency and stagnation of blood. These are all terms that will be the reason why a woman will experience period pain. Simply put, if the blood or energy is not flowing freely around the uterus a women will experience pain.

The Liver organ is the main culprit

The Livers job is to smoothly circulate energy (Qi) and blood around the body. It is also responsible for the suppleness of muscle and tendons, lubricated eyes and the ability to see as well as preparing a fertile ground within the uterus for a baby to grow. When the Liver energy is out of balance we will experience liver Qi stagnation and blood stagnation. And this takes us to why a woman will experience period pain. Liver Qi stagnation is caused usually by stress, the liver becomes heated and aggravated by emotional turmoil and then the Liver Qi will stagnate giving the body pain. Qi stagnation will inturn stagnate blood flow and then a stabbing type pain will be felt. To rectify this problem you could have acupuncture, massage if the symptoms are not to bad and Chinese herbs.

Cold in the lower Jiao or channels

If you could imagine a lake flowing nicely just before the cold snap of winter and then all of a sudden it freezes. “Well”, this is something like what happens with the blood that circulates around the uterus when it’s invaded by cold or cold gets into the acupuncture channels. When cold invades the body your blood will stagnate and this will give you very severe cramping.

The above symptoms are the main reasons why a woman will experience period pain. Other reasons may be dampness, meaning there is a type of mouldy by product developed in your body due to digestive system weakness and this prevents the blood from circulating. And another reason may be endometriosis.

Period pain can be prevented and can be treated without going on the pill or any other chemical intervention. If you have cold the pain will be stabbing, for this drink ginger tea with a little honey. If there is a cramping sensation this is liver Qi stagnation and in this case do something relaxing like walking in the park and look at the green grass and trees. Green soothes the liver. Also meditation and yoga Nidra will help ease tension. The gym is not recommended it is stressful on the body and will only make the pain worse. And if you have blood stagnation you can do both. The warmth of the ginger will help move the blood and relaxation will help free up any Qi stagnation.

Many women experience tiredness and dizziness after their period and this is because of lack of blood and the body’s inability to replenish the blood lost after a period. This subject will be spoken more about in another BOYF news letter.

Until next time,

Take care.

Kind regards,

Scott Cansdell

www.backonyourfeet.com.au

Types Of Back Pain During Pregnancy

In pregnancy, back pain is one of the common problems that women suffer from. There are two types of pregnancy backache; lower and pelvic back pain. At any stage of pregnancy, if you feel the back pain, you should immediately contact your doctor.

Lower Back (Lumbar) Pain

This troubles the central lower back, above the waist. This is similar to the back pain experienced out of pregnancy too. Prolonged sitting, standing, or repetitive lifting can aggravate this. Main cause of lumbar pain is tenderness generated in the muscles along the spine during pregnancy.

Pelvic Pain

This is more common than lumbar pain during pregnancy. It generates below the waistline and may extend up to the thighs. This may not be cured only through rest and might need medical attention.

Backache may be aggravated by physical strain, wrong posture, stress etc. Proper care should be taken to control this. Some of the ways are:

1. Avoid work requiring physical strain.

2. Avoid carrying heavy things and babies.

3. Do exercise, follow proper instructions.

4. Eat well and eat healthy food.

5. Maintain proper posture.

6. Use pillows for support while sleeping, sitting and driving.

7. Take care while getting up from bed or chair; avoid sudden jerky movements.

8. If you have to stand for a long time keep shifting your weight from one foot to the other.

9. Never sit with your legs crossed at the knees.

10. Go for alternate medicine like homeopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture etc. (but under certified practitioners only).

11. Take a warm bath.

12. Get some experienced person to massage your back.

13. Try swimming or yoga. But take care that the instructor gives you special care.

14. If nothing helps for your pregnancy back pain, just go to your doctor.

There are a couple of different theories as to why night back pain develops during pregnancy.  One theory is that it is caused by muscle fatigue from being active all day.  By the end of the day, your body becomes more fatigued, and thus you feel more discomfort toward the evening hours.

The second theory is that nocturnal back pain is due to water retention.  This can lead to edema and an increased volume of blood.  This additional water in the body can place pressure on the spinal nerves and muscles, resulting in backaches.

Some women have very severe back pain while sleeping during their pregnancy.  The most important thing you can do is to avoid sleeping on your back during pregnancy.  Lying on your back, or in the supine position, compresses major arteries and veins, namely the inferior vena cava and the aorta.  This decreases circulation and allows fluid pressure to build up in the pelvis, which places pressure on the spinal nerves.

As your fetus grows, it also puts more and more pressure on your arteries and veins.  The farther along  you are in your pregnancy, the more important it is to avoid sleeping on your back.  The healthiest sleeping position for you and your baby is on your sides.  Resting on your left side will place the least amount of pressure on your spine.

In addition to side sleeping, supporting the uterus can help alleviate night back pain.  To properly support your uterus, lay on your side with pillows under your abdomen and between your legs.  This will help to support your uterus and keep your spine in a neutral position.  There are several wonderful pregnancy pillows that can help to make sleeping much more comfortable.

It is also important to make special efforts during the day to adjust your posture in ways that will help prevent muscle fatigue.  Be sure to take frequent breaks from standing or sitting.  If you must sit or stand for long periods of time, elevate one foot on a low stool or foot rest.  Also, wear good, supportive shoes, and avoid wearing high heeled shoes, which place extra strain on the back.

It is also possible to manage pregnancy back pain at night by maintaining a regular exercise program.  Regular exercise will help strengthen and support the spine, therefore helping to minimize strain and muscle fatigue.  Exercise and postural adjustments will help to minimize night time back pain, but may not completely prevent it.

Many women find pain relief in alternative approaches such as acupuncture and massage therapy, though this relief may be only temporary.  There are a variety of gentle hands on techniques that can be performed at home, which are also beneficial for relieving pregnancy related back pain.

Unfortunately, anti-inflammatory medications such as motrin, advil, and aspirin are contraindicated during pregnancy.  The only pain reliever considered safe during pregnancy is acetaminophen.

Soaking in a hot tub or whirlpool is not recommended during pregnancy.  You may however find a warm, not hot, bath can soothe your sore back.  Try adding Epsom salt to a warm bath to help relieve pain.