Text Neck, Tension & Headaches: The Modern Pain Epidemic

If you’ve ever ended the day rubbing your neck, stretching your shoulders, or reaching for headache relief after hours at a computer or scrolling your phone, you’re not alone. More people than ever are experiencing what’s commonly called “text neck”—a modern condition caused by spending long periods looking down at screens. Between smartphones, laptops, tablets, and long workdays, our bodies are under constant strain in ways they weren’t designed for.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we’re seeing an increasing number of patients dealing with chronic neck tension, tight shoulders, jaw discomfort, stress headaches, and even migraines linked to screen time and posture habits. The good news? Acupuncture offers a natural, effective way to help relieve the tension and restore balance.

What Is “Text Neck”?

“Text neck” refers to the repetitive stress and strain placed on the neck and upper back from looking down at phones or devices for extended periods of time. The human head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds in a neutral position—but as the head tilts forward, the pressure on the neck dramatically increases.

Over time, this strain can contribute to:

• Neck stiffness and soreness

• Shoulder tightness

• Tension headaches

• Jaw clenching or TMJ discomfort

• Upper back pain

• Poor posture

• Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands

• Increased stress and fatigue

For many people, the discomfort starts subtly and gradually becomes part of daily life.

Why Modern Life Makes It Worse

Remote work, long commutes, constant notifications, and screen-heavy lifestyles mean many of us rarely give our muscles a break. Even when we’re “relaxing,” we’re often scrolling on the couch with our shoulders hunched forward.

Stress also plays a major role. When we’re overwhelmed or mentally exhausted, we tend to tighten the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and jaw without realizing it. This creates a cycle of tension and pain that can become chronic over time.

How Acupuncture Can Help

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to help improve circulation, release muscle tension, calm the nervous system, and support the body’s natural healing response.

For patients struggling with text neck and tension headaches, acupuncture may help:

Relieve Muscle Tightness

Acupuncture can target areas of chronic tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back to help muscles relax and reduce stiffness.

Reduce Headaches Naturally

Many headaches stem from tight muscles, stress, and inflammation. Acupuncture may help decrease both the frequency and intensity of tension headaches and migraines.

Improve Circulation

Restricted muscles and poor posture can limit healthy blood flow. Acupuncture encourages circulation to affected areas, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients where the body needs them most.

Calm the Nervous System

Stress and burnout often show up physically in the body. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and supports the parasympathetic nervous system—the “rest and restore” state many people struggle to access.

Support Better Posture Awareness

As pain decreases, many patients notice it becomes easier to sit, stand, and move more comfortably throughout the day.

Small Habits That Can Make a Big Difference

Alongside acupuncture treatment, a few simple adjustments may help reduce daily strain:

• Raise screens to eye level when possible

• Take stretch breaks throughout the workday

• Avoid looking down at your phone for long periods

• Use supportive seating while working

• Stay hydrated

• Practice deep breathing to reduce jaw and shoulder tension

• Prioritize sleep and recovery

Even small changes can add up over time.

You Don’t Have to Live With Constant Tension

Many people assume neck pain and headaches are just part of modern life—but they don’t have to be. Whether your discomfort comes from desk work, stress, parenting, commuting, or nonstop screen time, your body deserves support.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we take a whole-body approach to helping patients feel better, move easier, and reduce the daily tension that so many people carry without realizing it.

If you’ve been dealing with headaches, neck stiffness, or chronic tension, acupuncture may help you finally get some relief—naturally.

Does My Insurance Cover Acupuncture? Here’s How To Find Out

One of the most common questions we hear at NJ Acupuncture Center is:

“Does my insurance cover acupuncture?”

The answer is: it might! More insurance plans than ever are offering acupuncture benefits, especially for pain management, stress-related conditions, migraines, orthopedic issues, and overall wellness support. But understanding your coverage can sometimes feel confusing if you’re not familiar with insurance terminology or where to look.

The good news? You do not have to figure it out alone.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand your acupuncture benefits and how our office can help make the process easier.

Step 1: Check Your Insurance Benefits

The fastest way to find out if acupuncture is covered is to look at your insurance policy details or call the member services number on the back of your insurance card.

When reviewing your policy, look for words or phrases like:

• Acupuncture

• Alternative medicine

• Complementary care

• Pain management benefits

• Physical medicine services

• Outpatient therapy

• Specialist visits

Some plans fully cover acupuncture, while others may cover a certain number of visits per year or require a copay.

Important Insurance Terms To Know

Insurance language can feel overwhelming, so here are a few common terms that may help:

Copay

This is the fixed amount you pay for each visit. For example, your plan may cover acupuncture with a $20 or $40 copay.

Deductible

This is the amount you may need to pay out-of-pocket before insurance begins covering services.

Coinsurance

Instead of a flat copay, some plans split costs with you after the deductible is met. For example, insurance may cover 80% while you pay 20%.

In-Network vs. Out-of-Network

Some acupuncture offices are considered “in-network” providers with certain insurance plans, while others may offer out-of-network benefits that can still reduce your costs.

Visit Limits

Certain plans only cover a set number of acupuncture visits annually.

Questions To Ask Your Insurance Company

If you call your insurance provider directly, here are helpful questions to ask:

• Does my plan include acupuncture benefits?

• Do I need a referral from my doctor?

• Is acupuncture covered for my condition?

• Are there visit limits?

• What is my copay or coinsurance?

• Have I met my deductible?

• Do I have out-of-network acupuncture benefits?

Writing down the answers can help you better understand your coverage before booking your appointment.

We Can Help You Check Your Benefits

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we know insurance can feel complicated. That’s why our team is happy to help guide you through the process.

If you’d like help verifying your benefits, you can simply:

• Call our office

• Text us a photo of your insurance card

• Reach out through our website contact form

Our team can often help determine whether your plan includes acupuncture coverage and explain what your benefits may look like before your first visit.

Don’t Let Insurance Confusion Stop You From Getting Support

Many people delay care simply because they assume acupuncture is not covered—but that’s not always the case. More employers and insurance providers are recognizing the benefits of acupuncture as part of a preventative, whole-body approach to health.

Whether you’re seeking supp

ort for pain, stress, sleep issues, migraines, burnout, hormonal changes, or overall wellness, acupuncture may be more accessible than you think.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we’re here to help make the process simple so you can focus less on insurance stress and more on feeling better.

Staying Strong in High-Demand Jobs: A Longevity Approach

Some careers don’t just require hard work—they demand constant energy, focus, physical stamina, and emotional resilience. Whether you’re a teacher, healthcare worker, first responder, business owner, therapist, parent, or someone balancing nonstop responsibilities, high-demand jobs can slowly wear down the body over time.

Many people don’t notice the effects immediately. Burnout, chronic stress, fatigue, poor sleep, muscle tension, and inflammation often build gradually until the body finally starts asking for help.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we believe longevity isn’t just about living longer—it’s about maintaining your quality of life while continuing to do the things that matter to you. Acupuncture can play an important role in helping the body stay resilient, balanced, and supported through the demands of everyday life.

Chronic Stress Impacts More Than Your Mood

When the body remains in a prolonged state of stress, the nervous system stays activated for too long. Over time, this can affect nearly every system in the body.

People in high-demand careers commonly experience:

• Chronic fatigue

• Trouble sleeping

• Muscle tension and headaches

• Anxiety or irritability

• Digestive issues

• Brain fog and lack of focus

• Frequent illness

• Hormonal imbalances

• Burnout and emotional exhaustion

The challenge is that many people normalize these symptoms because they’ve become part of daily life. But constantly feeling depleted should not become the standard.

A Longevity-Based Approach to Wellness

Longevity is about supporting the body before burnout becomes a bigger health issue. Rather than waiting until symptoms become severe, preventative care focuses on helping the body recover, regulate, and function more efficiently over time.

Acupuncture is often used as part of a longevity-focused wellness routine because it supports:

• Nervous system regulation

• Stress reduction

• Better sleep quality

• Healthy circulation

• Reduced inflammation

• Physical recovery

• Emotional balance

• Sustainable energy levels

When the body is better regulated, it becomes easier to handle the physical and mental demands of a busy lifestyle.

How Acupuncture Supports High-Performance Lifestyles

Helps the Body Recover From Chronic Stress

High-demand jobs often keep the body stuck in “fight or flight” mode. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system, allowing the body to shift into a more restorative state.

Supports Better Sleep and Energy

Poor sleep and exhaustion tend to feed off each other. Acupuncture can help improve sleep quality while also supporting more stable, natural energy throughout the day.

Reduces Physical Tension and Wear-and-Tear

Long hours sitting, standing, commuting, lifting, or working under pressure can lead to chronic pain and tension. Acupuncture may help relieve tight muscles, headaches, neck pain, back pain, and inflammation caused by repetitive stress.

Encourages Long-Term Wellness Habits

One of the biggest benefits of acupuncture is that it encourages people to slow down and reconnect with their health. Consistent wellness support can help prevent burnout before it reaches a breaking point.

Taking Care of Yourself Is Part of Longevity

People in demanding careers are often the last to prioritize their own well-being. But longevity requires maintenance. Just like you wouldn’t expect a car to run forever without care, the body also needs support to continue functioning at its best.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we help busy people create space for recovery, balance, and long-term wellness through personalized acupuncture treatments designed to support both body and mind.

Because staying strong isn’t just about pushing harder—it’s about giving your body what it needs to keep going for the long run.

Teacher Burnout In Spring Is Real: How Acupuncture Can Help You Reset

By the time spring is in full swing, many teachers are running on empty.

The excitement of the school year has faded, testing season is in full effect, behaviors can become more challenging, and exhaustion starts to build physically, mentally, and emotionally. Even teachers who love what they do often find themselves overwhelmed this time of year.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we work with many educators who say the same thing in the spring: “I’m completely burnt out.” The good news is that burnout is not something you simply have to “push through.” Acupuncture can help your body and nervous system reset so you can feel more balanced, rested, and supported.

Why Spring Burnout Hits Teachers So Hard

Teaching requires constant mental energy, emotional regulation, multitasking, and physical stamina. By springtime, months of stress begin catching up with the body.

Many teachers experience:

• Constant fatigue

• Trouble sleeping

• Anxiety or irritability

• Brain fog and lack of focus

• Headaches and tension

• Tight shoulders, neck pain, or back pain

• Frequent illness from a weakened immune system

• Feeling emotionally drained or overstimulated

Even during time off, many educators struggle to truly relax because their nervous systems have been stuck in “go mode” for months.

How Acupuncture Helps Reset the Nervous System

Acupuncture is designed to help the body move out of chronic stress mode and into a more balanced state. Treatments stimulate specific points in the body that help regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and encourage the body’s natural healing response.

For teachers experiencing burnout, acupuncture can help:

Lower Stress Levels

Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system and reduce the body’s stress response. Many patients leave treatments feeling lighter, calmer, and mentally clearer.

Improve Sleep Quality

Burnout and poor sleep often go hand in hand. Acupuncture can help improve sleep patterns so you fall asleep more easily, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more rested.

Ease Physical Tension

Hours spent standing, sitting at desks, grading papers, and managing stress physically affect the body. Acupuncture may help reduce tension headaches, neck pain, shoulder tightness, and lower back discomfort.

Support Emotional Wellness

Teaching is deeply emotional work. Acupuncture can help regulate mood, reduce feelings of overwhelm, and support emotional balance during especially stressful parts of the school year.

Boost Energy Naturally

When the body is constantly stressed, energy levels crash. Acupuncture works to restore balance and support healthier, more sustainable energy without relying solely on caffeine to get through the day.

Teachers Spend All Year Supporting Everyone Else

Teachers are constantly showing up for students, coworkers, and families—but often neglect their own health in the process. Spring is the perfect time to pause, reset, and give your body the care it deserves before heading into summer completely depleted.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we believe self-care for teachers is not a luxury—it’s essential. Whether you’re feeling physically exhausted, mentally overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or all of the above, acupuncture can help support your body through one of the most demanding times of the school year.

Because burnout may be common among teachers—but it shouldn’t feel normal.

Retired? How Acu Can Give Your Body What It Needs

Retirement is often painted as the reward after decades of hard work: slower mornings, more time with family, travel plans, hobbies, and finally the chance to focus on yourself. But for many people, retirement can also bring unexpected physical and emotional changes. A body that once ran on packed schedules and constant movement may suddenly feel stiff, tired, achy, or out of balance.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we often hear retirees say the same thing: “I finally have time to enjoy life, but my body isn’t cooperating.” The good news? Acupuncture can help support your body during this new chapter and give it exactly what it needs to feel stronger, calmer, and more energized.

Retirement Changes the Body More Than People Expect

Even positive life transitions can affect the nervous system and overall health. Many retirees notice:

• Increased joint pain or stiffness

• Fatigue and lower energy levels

• Trouble sleeping

• Digestive issues

• Increased stress or anxiety

• Feeling less active or mobile

• Chronic pain becoming more noticeable

• Muscle tension from years of physical wear and tear

When work routines disappear, the body sometimes slows down too much. Daily movement changes, stress patterns shift, and underlying aches that were once ignored can suddenly move front and center.

That’s where acupuncture can make a major difference.

How Acupuncture Supports Healthy Aging

Acupuncture works by helping the body return to balance. Thin, gentle needles stimulate specific points in the body that support circulation, reduce inflammation, calm the nervous system, and encourage the body’s natural healing response.

For retirees, acupuncture can help:

Reduce Everyday Aches and Pains

Whether it’s knee pain, back pain, arthritis discomfort, neck tension, or lingering injuries, acupuncture is known for helping reduce inflammation and improve mobility. Many patients report feeling looser, lighter, and more comfortable after regular sessions.

Improve Sleep Quality

Retirement should not mean tossing and turning all night. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling rested.

Increase Energy Naturally

Many retirees experience fatigue even without demanding schedules. Acupuncture can support better circulation, improved sleep, and reduced stress—all of which contribute to healthier energy levels without relying on caffeine or medications.

Support Mental and Emotional Wellness

Life transitions can bring emotional shifts, too. Retirement sometimes creates feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, or loss of routine. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and can help ease stress, anxiety, and overwhelm while supporting overall emotional balance.

Keep You Active

The goal of healthy aging isn’t just living longer—it’s feeling good enough to enjoy life. Whether you want to golf, garden, travel, play with grandchildren, or simply move comfortably through the day, acupuncture can help support mobility and recovery.

Acupuncture Is Gentle, Natural, and Personalized

One of the reasons so many retirees love acupuncture is because treatments are customized to the individual. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. At NJ Acupuncture Center, treatments are tailored to your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

Many patients also appreciate that acupuncture is:

• Drug-free

• Non-invasive

• Relaxing

• Safe for long-term wellness support

• Designed to work alongside other healthcare treatments

Your Retirement Should Feel Good

You spent years taking care of work, responsibilities, and everyone else around you. Retirement is finally your opportunity to take care of yourself, too.

If your body has been asking for more support, more rest, or more balance, acupuncture may be exactly what it needs.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we believe healthy aging should feel empowering—not limiting. Whether you’re looking to reduce pain, improve sleep, regain energy, or simply feel more like yourself again, acupuncture can help you enjoy retirement with greater comfort and vitality.

Why More Teachers Are Turning to Acupuncture for Mental Health Support

Teaching has always been demanding—but in recent years, the mental and emotional load placed on educators has reached an entirely new level.

Teachers are expected to manage classrooms, support students emotionally, adapt to constant changes, communicate with families, meet academic expectations, multitask nonstop, and remain “on” for hours at a time—all while often putting their own well-being last.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we work with many educators who are experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, sleep issues, physical tension, and emotional exhaustion. More and more teachers are turning to acupuncture as a natural way to support both their mental and physical health.

The Mental Load Teachers Carry Every Day

Teaching is not just mentally demanding—it’s emotionally demanding, too.

Many educators spend the entire day making hundreds of decisions, regulating emotions, responding to student needs, handling overstimulation, and carrying stress long after the school day ends.

Over time, chronic stress can affect the nervous system in significant ways. Teachers often describe feeling:

• Constantly overwhelmed

• Mentally overstimulated

• Emotionally drained

• Physically tense

• Unable to fully relax

• Exhausted but unable to sleep well

• Stuck in “survival mode”

For many educators, stress becomes so normalized that they forget what it feels like to actually feel calm.

How Acupuncture Supports the Nervous System

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body that help regulate the nervous system and support the body’s natural healing processes.

One of the biggest ways acupuncture may help teachers is by encouraging the body to shift out of fight-or-flight mode and into the parasympathetic nervous system—often called the “rest and digest” state.

When the nervous system is constantly overloaded from stress, the body can remain in a heightened state of tension and alertness. This may contribute to anxiety, poor sleep, headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty focusing.

Acupuncture treatments are designed to help calm that cycle.

Many patients report feeling:

• More emotionally balanced

• Less anxious and overwhelmed

• Mentally clearer

• More rested

• Better able to handle stress

• Physically lighter and less tense

Acupuncture for Teacher Burnout

Burnout among educators is incredibly common. Teachers often spend so much energy caring for students that there is little left for themselves at the end of the day.

Burnout can look like:

• Emotional exhaustion

• Lack of motivation

• Brain fog

• Increased anxiety

• Feeling disconnected or numb

• Difficulty recovering after work

• Physical fatigue that rest alone doesn’t fix

Acupuncture creates intentional time for the body and mind to slow down and reset.

Many teachers describe treatments as one of the only moments during the week where they are truly able to relax without needing to be responsible for anyone else.

Helping With Sleep, Anxiety & Physical Stress

Stress doesn’t only affect mental health—it often shows up physically, too.

Teachers commonly experience:

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Jaw clenching

• Headaches or migraines

• Lower back pain

• Fatigue

• Sleep disturbances

Long days spent standing, sitting at desks, carrying materials, working on computers, and remaining mentally alert can create chronic physical tension throughout the body.

Acupuncture may help improve circulation, release muscle tension, and promote deeper relaxation, which can positively impact sleep and overall well-being.

Supporting Emotional Regulation in High-Stress Environments

Teachers are constantly regulating not only their own emotions, but also helping students navigate theirs.

Over time, that emotional labor adds up.

Acupuncture may help support emotional regulation by calming the nervous system and creating space for the body to recover from chronic overstimulation. Many patients notice they feel more patient, grounded, and emotionally resilient after consistent treatments.

Teachers Deserve Support, Too

Educators spend so much of their lives supporting others—but their health matters, too.

Mental wellness is not a luxury. Rest is not laziness. Nervous system support is healthcare.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we believe teachers deserve spaces where they can pause, recharge, and care for themselves in a meaningful way.

Acupuncture offers a gentle, holistic approach to supporting mental and physical wellness—helping teachers feel calmer, more balanced, and better supported both inside and outside the classroom.

Expecting? Here's How Acupuncture Can Help Your Pregnancy Symptoms

Whether you’re newly pregnant or are in the throes of an uncomfortable third trimester, you know all too well the ups and downs of pregnancy.

Sure, it’s a total miracle that we are grateful for. But that doesn’t mean it is easy on our bodies!

Whether you’re struggling with prenatal anxiety, aches and pains from the added weight and pressure of your baby, pregnancy-related insomnia, nausea, restless leg syndrome, or a few other symptoms, we’re here to help.

Yes, acupuncture can and does help relieve many of the physical and mental woes that come along with the pregnancy territory.

According to the famed What to Expect website, science has studied that can relieve the following pregnancy symptoms:

• Morning sickness (acupuncture points around the rest can be targeted. to help reduce unpleasant nausea and vomiting that might come along, especially in the first trimester.) 

• Lower back and pelvic pain (You're bound to have some aches and pains as your uterus expands and you're gaining weight. According to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, acupuncture can help relieve this by targeting points on the ear. In fact, a study revealed that 80% of women in a group who had this type of treatment had a clinically significant reduction in pain, compared to 56$ of women who had "fake" acupuncture, and 36% of women who received no treatment.) 

• Depression (Hormones are bound to make your emotions feel a little out of whack, but actual depression while preggo is fairly common too, affecting nearly 25% of women. In a study from the journal titled Obstetrics & Gynecology, a clinical trial revealed that 65% of  clinically depressed pregnant women who received acupuncture specifically for depression responded to treatment, while only 44% of women who received general acupuncture or massage responded.) 

• Headaches (Restoring the balance of qi and blood flow can help to relieve the pain brought on by pregnancy-induced headaches.)

• Sleep Problems (Though pregnancy is exhausting, many women find it difficult to sleep. Acupuncture can help people restore their sleep cycles and get meaningful rest, whether they are pregnant or not.) 

There is a slew of other supportive articles too.

Here, WebMD outlines how acupuncture can help with pregnancy-related pelvic pain,

And here, Shape magazine discusses the safety of acupuncture while pregnant — where our very own Ani Baran, LaC is quoted!

If you’re looking to ease some of your pregnancy aches, pains, and symptoms, give us a call or click here to book today.

How Acupuncture Can Help with Seasonal Allergies: A Natural Approach to Relief​

If you find yourself reaching for tissues every spring or fall, you're not alone. Seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis, affect millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. While antihistamines and decongestants are common treatments, they can come with side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. For those seeking a natural alternative, acupuncture offers a promising solution.​

Understanding Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, mold spores, or grass. This reaction triggers the release of histamines, leading to the familiar and uncomfortable symptoms. Traditional treatments aim to block this response, but they don't address the underlying imbalance in the body's systems.​

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy, or "qi." From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, influencing the release of chemicals and hormones that modulate the body's immune response.​

Several studies have explored the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating seasonal allergies:​

• A randomized controlled trial involving 175 participants found that those receiving real acupuncture experienced significant improvements in symptoms like sneezing and nasal congestion compared to those receiving sham acupuncture. Additionally, participants reported enhanced quality of life during and after treatment. ​

• Another study highlighted that four weeks of acupuncture treatment was a safe and effective option for managing seasonal allergic rhinitis, leading to symptom relief and improved quality of life. ​

• Research also suggests that acupuncture can reduce the need for antihistamines, offering a complementary approach to traditional medication. ​

Benefits of Acupuncture for Allergy Sufferers

• Symptom Relief: Acupuncture can alleviate common allergy symptoms, including sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.​

• Reduced Medication Dependence: By managing symptoms naturally, patients may rely less on antihistamines and decongestants.​

• Improved Quality of Life: Patients often report better sleep, increased energy, and overall well-being following acupuncture treatments.​

• Minimal Side Effects: Unlike some medications, acupuncture has few side effects when performed by a licensed practitioner.​

What to Expect During Treatment

During an acupuncture session, the practitioner will insert sterile, thin needles into specific points on the body, typically including areas on the face, arms, and legs. The process is generally painless, and many patients find it relaxing. A typical treatment plan may involve one to two sessions per week over several weeks, depending on the severity of symptoms.​Main Line Health

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

Acupuncture may be particularly beneficial for individuals who:​

• Experience side effects from allergy medications.

• Seek a natural, holistic approach to managing allergies.​

• Have not found relief through conventional treatments.​

Seasonal allergies can significantly impact daily life, but acupuncture offers a natural and effective method for managing symptoms. With growing scientific support and a history rooted in traditional medicine, acupuncture may be the relief you've been searching for.​ If you're interested in exploring acupuncture for allergy relief, call us or click here to schedule a consultation with our experienced acupuncturists.

Let’s face it—stress is practically a part of modern life. Between work deadlines, family responsibilities, and the constant buzz of notifications, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You may notice it in your sleep, digestion, mood swings, or even that stubborn tension in your shoulders that just won’t quit. But have you ever wondered what’s happening behind the scenes in your body when you're stressed?

Enter: stress hormones.

What Are Stress Hormones?

When we’re under pressure, our body kicks into “fight or flight” mode, releasing hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. These hormones are helpful in small doses—they give us the energy to act in emergencies. But when stress is constant, our hormone levels stay elevated, which can lead to chronic issues like anxiety, fatigue, weight gain, and trouble sleeping.

This is where acupuncture comes in.

How Acupuncture Works for Stress

Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to restore balance and promote healing. While it might sound like magic, there’s solid science behind how it works—especially when it comes to regulating stress.

A growing body of research shows that acupuncture can help balance stress hormones, particularly cortisol.

The Science Behind the Needles

A 2013 study published in the Journal of Endocrinology found that acupuncture can reduce the body’s production of stress hormones, including cortisol. Researchers observed that rats treated with electroacupuncture had lower levels of CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone), which is one of the key messengers in the body’s stress response. Less CRH means a quieter stress response—and a calmer you.

Another study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2017) showed that just five sessions of acupuncture significantly reduced cortisol levels in patients with stress-related disorders, improving symptoms like anxiety and fatigue.

In simpler terms: acupuncture gives your overworked nervous system a much-needed “reset.”

More Than Just Hormones

The beauty of acupuncture is that it doesn’t just target one part of the stress puzzle. It works holistically—activating the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” mode), increasing feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin, and improving blood flow to the brain.

In a world that constantly tells you to “hustle harder,” acupuncture is your invitation to pause and recalibrate.

What to Expect During a Stress-Relief Session

If you’ve never tried acupuncture before, don’t worry—it’s a gentle and relaxing experience. During a session focused on stress relief, your acupuncturist will likely focus on calming points like Shen Men (Spirit Gate), Yin Tang (Third Eye), and areas along the heart, liver, and kidney meridians, which are believed in TCM to influence emotional balance.

Many people report feeling deep relaxation or even euphoria during treatment—and that sense of calm often lingers long after the session ends.

Consistency Is Key

Like any form of wellness care, acupuncture works best when it’s consistent. While you might feel better after just one session, regular treatments can help keep your stress hormones in check over time. Your acupuncturist can help you create a personalized plan based on your unique symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.

Ready to De-Stress?

If your stress levels are creeping higher and higher, acupuncture could be the natural reset your body’s been craving. It’s safe, effective, and backed by both ancient wisdom and modern science.

Let’s work together to bring your hormones—and your life—back into balance.

Book your stress-relief session today and start feeling more grounded, more energized, and more you.

Is it Fall allergies, or COVID-19?

We love everything about fall. Except, the allergies.

Pumpkins, cool air, falling leaves, scented candles, warm sweaters - we can’t get enough! But with it comes snifles, sneezes, eye irritation and dryness that we could seriously do without. Especially during a pandemic.

So, if your nose is runny, throat is sore and you’re panicking wondering, “Is this my allergies or could I have COVID? We can try to help. Recently, NBC reported some key differences we felt were worthwhile to share.

The NBC reporter spoke to Pam Angelillo, an allergy nurse at UConn Health. She said, “Ragweed season is pretty high right now and that will last pretty much until the end of September into October until we start to get some colder weather.” Combine this with the fact that mold-related allergies become more problematic when wet leaves to fall, and it can be quite unpleasant.

Discerning between allergies and COVID-19 can be a bit difficult, as Angelillo said, “I think it’s going to be difficult for a lot of people,” says Angelillo. “Allergies will not give you a fever.“

Though, “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some of the overlapping symptoms are a cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, headache, sore throat, and congestion or runny nose.”

Regardless of what YOU may think, though, it’s very important to note that the CDC encourages anyone who is exhibiting signs of COVID-19 to get a test to confirm a diagnosis.

To help alleviate allergy symptoms, NBC reports that, “Dr. Angelillo recommends over the counter medications, washing your linens frequently, taking a shower after any outdoor activity, and as nice as it may be to sleep with the windows open as it gets cooler at night, keep your windows shut.”

And, she advised wearing and washing your mask frequently can help keep pollen, which can exacerbate your allergies, at bay as well.

Oh, and don’t forget acupuncture!

If you test negative for COVID-19 and know you’re suffering from seasonal allergies, acupuncture can help to calm histamine reactions, restore healthy blood flow, and reduce inflammation. This can improve your allergy symptoms significantly. So call or click here to book an appointment, today!

Yes - Acupuncture Can Help with #2, Too.

Nothing is worse than a pain in the butt. Literally.

Though often not discussed, hemorrhoids are a problem that are believed to affect at least 50% of the US population at some time in their adult life. While most people keep them private, if you’re suffering — you’re far from alone.

Hemorrhoids can range from being itchy, to being extremely painful depending on the type (internal or external) and the size. Those who suffer from them are eager to find relief and treatment, and fast.  While conservative treatment is always recommended initially, unfortunately many patients need to undergo surgical treatment or repair known as a hemorrhoidectomy.

But before taking any of those steps, acupuncture can help.

Because a leading cause of hemorrhoids is inflammation and swelling (something acupuncture combats quite well) a simple, noninvasive treatment may be all you need for relief.

In fact, according to AcupunctureToday.com, in addition to the traditional approach of acupuncture treatment for hemorrhoids  —while utilizing one, or a combination of the Du Mai points 1 ,2 ,3, 4, 5 and 6 is effective, there is also a “One-Point, One-Minute Acupuncture” method that might do the trick, too.

Developed by Carolina Beth, LAC, the Dua Mai 4 point (also known as Mingmen or Life’s Gate) is utilized. Located within the lumbar region near the second lumbar vertebra, it’s a powerful point also known to be used for importance, menstruation issues, diarrhea, and back pain. Manipulation of this point via acupuncture “increases the vital Yang energy of the patient, a therapeutic effect, which is very useful in this treatment of hemorrhoids,” says Beth.

Using her technique, the point is manipulated for one minute only, with the needle being stimulated by steady movement back and forth for the entire sixty seconds.  Beth shares two case studies that demonstrated the reported effectiveness, including a 62 year old woman who struggled with hemorrhoids  since pregnancy at age 26. With only one session, she reported being free of any symptoms over the course of the next seven months.

If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, give us a call and make an appointment. While our approach might be a bit different — we are eager to help restore health and happiness to all our clients.

Reasons to Incorporate Acupuncture in your Fall Routines

The kick-off of fall looks quite different than most of us remember. Back to school is … different. Football Sundays look…different. Pretty much everything is not what we’re used to and if you’re anything like us, you’re craving a sense of normalcy.

Let us help.

By incorporating acupuncture into your fall routine, you’ll not only be practicing self-care by prioritizing your health and wellness but you'll likely also reap these benefits, too.

• Relaxation.

• Alleviation of symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Improved circulation.

• Reduced pain.

• Improved digestion.

• Better sleep.

• Improved mood.

• Reduction in allergy symptoms.

• Alleviate menstrual symptoms and pain.

• Help assist your fertility efforts.

• Strengthen the immune system.

If you’re looking to incorporate acupuncture into your self-care routine, we would love to help. Call or click here to book your appointment today!

HGTV Star Credits Acupuncture for Her Third Pregnancy

In a clip from her new show Christina on the Coast, HGTV star Christina Anstead said, “I know some people are going to think that all of this is a bit out there, but let me tell you, it works.”

What was she talking about? Acupuncture, of course.

Yep, Christina credits acupuncture for helping her to achieve her third, healthy pregnancy that resulted in her soon-to-be one-year-old son, Hudson.

In a recent article from People Magazine, Christine previously told them she “ 'didn’t think I could get pregnant anymore” ‘ because of her PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) diagnosis Her first child was conceived naturally with her ex-husband, Tarek El-Moussa, but her second came after two failed IVF treatments and a miscarriage. She added that while she can’t be 100% sure acupuncture was the solution her body needed, People reports she said that she found the practice’s stress-reducing effects “fascinating.”

She also said, “‘When I first worked with Sheila [her acupuncturist'] I told her I was having a lot of trouble getting pregnant, and then I had polycystic ovaries, and Sheila told me she could get me pregnant, and six days later I conceived Hudson.’”

In the episode, Christine tries to convince her best riend Cassie Zebisch to give acupuncture a try, and after a bit of convincing, she obliges.

The end result? She was relaxed and quiet within a few minutes.

We love helping women achieve their fertility goals, as well as turning non-believers into believers!

Call us or email us today to schedule your appointment!

Overindulge during Quarantine? Let us help.

The past four months have brought unprecedented circumstance, and have turned our lives upside down. For many of us, COVID-19 has made our routines that we knew and loved and thrived with seemingly nonexistent. We are working from home, caring for our children, not leaving our houses, missing our friends and for many — our healthy habits may have taken a hit.

Whether you’ve gained a few pounds from overindulging or lack of exercise while quarantined (which is totally understandable!) or are looking to take control of your health and your body in new ways, we’re here to help!

Acupuncture for Weight Loss

Scientists have found that acupuncture and weight loss are related in the way that acupuncture treatments can help to reduce leptin, the hormone which regulates fat storage and increases ghrelin, the hormone which controls meal initiation.

Additional findings have concluded that acupuncture for weight loss also helps in liver functionality (the part of our body which is also responsible in part for effective digestion, breaking down fats and absorbing nutrients).

Cyro-Slimming

Our coveted cryo-slimming device uses thermal shock which preserves the surrounding non-fat tissue, resulting in a much more dramatic slimming effect.

The device we use is incredibly safe (or else we wouldn’t use it!) and each session lasts about 30 minutes alternating between heat, a longer period of cold, and then heat again. This is all done manually by our technician and feels like a massage.

Results will vary from client to client, but scientific research and clinical trials have proven this approach reduces fat cells. The cells are destroyed during the treatment, and most are then eliminated from the body within 2-3 weeks. We typically will provide treatment once every two weeks, to allow enough time for elimination and your metabolism to send the fat cells out on their merry way.

Call us or click here to book your next acupuncture or cryo-slimming session!

Virtual Acupuncture? During COVID-19, Anything Goes

Here at NJ Acupuncture, we keep up with all things acupuncture. So we were pleasantly surprised when we saw a recent article in Bustle that discussed a virtual acupuncture experience.

While we wholeheartedly believe in the power of real, authentic in-person acupuncture and are offering safely following all COVID-19 precautions, we were so interested in this experience.

Here’s what happened.

Pre-pandemic Bustle writer Kaitlyn Wylde had intentions of seeking acupuncture treatment for her chronic migraines. Given the circumstances now, however, she opted for Virtual Acupuncture via Zoom. (Something we don’t provide or recommend, but a fascinating experience nonetheless.)

While Zoom-ing with a Philadelphia based acupuncturist, she was, directed in performing self-acupuncture, “placing stickers with itty bitty needles attached to my feet, ears, and knees.”

She explained, “Despite Mavros' best efforts at letting me know if I was hot or cold as I moved the screen down to my legs, I was never exactly confident that I got the right spot.”

The acupuncturist also noted that while virtual acupuncture “still has positive effects” it is “undeniably different.”

Once placed, Kaitlyn was instructed to take a 30 minute nap, then remove the sticker-needles. The results?

She said. “When I awoke from my late-morning snooze, I did feel as though my migraine had loosened up a bit. After my first experience with acupuncture, I can see the benefit of doing it in person; I kept finding myself wanting to surrender to the treatment.” She said while she did awaken feeling better, she was confident she’d be more comfortable if she was able to see her acupuncturist in person.

If you’re considering acupuncture, please know our office is providing a safe, sanitized space for all your acupuncture needs.

Backache? You're Not Alone. Improve your WFH Posture.

As we approach over four months of working from home, quarantining, and social distancing, the community at large can agree that we’ve never done so much sitting in our lives.

Whether you’re sitting at your desk, working from your couch or bed, or are binging in Netflix, our now more-sedentary-than-ever-before lifestyles can wreak havoc on our musculoskeletal system (and more) and cause physical pain. When you factor in lack of movement, changes in nutrition, stress, lack of routine, and missing out on social opportunities it can feel as though your life has been turned upside down (because it has!) The last thing you need is a back or neck ache on top of it.

Ergonomics (pretty much how you sit when you’re working) is super important, especially now that we’re at home. How you sit can directly impact your posture, circulation, and pressure on your joints and muscles.

A recent post by Time magazine highlighted these issues in their April post titled, “Getting Back Pain While Working From Home? An Ergonomics Expert Offers Advice.” They offered the following 10 tips.

1. View your computer screen with a straight neck.

2. Put your screen sideways to a bright window.

3. View any paper documents with a straight neck.

4. Put your keyboard and mouse or touchpad at a comfortable height in front of you.

5. Don’t use a soft, squishy wrist rest.

6. Alternate between typing/mousing and using voice input.

7. Sit back in your chair.

8. When sitting, rest your feet flat on either the floor or foot support.

9. Limit the time you work on your bed.

10. Avoid prolonged standing for computer work.

You can also look into purchasing posture-friendly supports, and try to change up where you work from time to time. Be sure to take lots of water breaks, walking around your home to get in some movement, or even set a timer on your phone to go off every 20 minutes, reminding you to move and take a breath!

As you incorporate these new tips, we at NJ Acupuncture Center are here to help you heal and minimize your existing back and neck pain. Call or click here to schedule an appointment today!

Acupuncture for Cancer Pain

Unfortunately, the incidence of various cancers throughout the country is consistently increasing and is quite common. In 2018 alone it was estimated that 1,735,350 new cases of cancer would be diagnosed in the United States and that 609,640 people would die from the disease.

A cancer diagnosis can turn your life upside down, with many medical appointments, treatment sessions, therapies, side effects, and symptoms. One of the more common and heartbreaking symptoms is pain which can significantly alter your quality of life.

We are very grateful that acupuncture can help with cancer-related pain, and research supports that it can, too.

A recent study published by JAMA Oncology included over 17 trials across 1,111 patients battling various cancers who received acupuncture and acupressure treatment. The results showed that these alternative therapies are associated with reduced cancer pain and decreased use of pain medications, which can have unpleasant and sometimes dangerous side effects of their own.

(In fact, decreased use of pain medications is one of our driving forces here at NJ Acupuncture Center — as we witness the growing opioid epidemic and are dedicated to improving patients’ pain without pharmaceuticals. )

If you or a loved one are struggling with cancer-related pain, we are ready and willing to help support you along your journey.

Hydrafacials and Cryoslimming are Back!

We are thrilled to announce that beginning next week we will be offering Hydrafacials and Cryoslimming again! (In addition to acupuncture and massage, of course!) We can not wait to give your skin and body the extra TLC it deserves after quite some time spent at home. As always, we'll be taking every precaution for your health and safety. We can't wait to see you!

About the Hydrafacial: HydraFacial! In only 3 steps and 30 minutes, literally everyone, regardless of skin type or tone, can benefit from this state of the art facial because it does the three things that all healthy skin needs: cleanses, extracts, and hydrates.

About Cryoslimming: This non-invasive method alternates between using warm and cold treatments applied directly to the skin that works to breakdown fat cells and reduce body fat.

Call or click here to book today!

Feeling Anxious Before an Operation? Acupuncture Can Help.

Facing an upcoming operation or procedure can be anxiety-inducing. With so many questions, uncertainties and concerns, it’s common to be feeling scared, nervous or anxious. It’s also quite normal to feel stressed out or worried about what your recovery will be like.

How will you feel? Will there be pain? What will your limitations be?

While we, unfortunately, can’t be there to hold your hand, you may be surprised to know that acupuncture can help you to relax and recharge both before and after an operation.

Here’s how.

According to a study published by Cision entitled Acupuncture and Surgery: Relieve Anxiety Before and Reduce Discomfort After, Dr. Constance Chen (a plastic surgeon and breast specialist) explains, “Acupuncture can effectively reprogram the body to switch from the 'fight-or-flight' stress response to rest and relaxation.”

She adds, “The precise mechanism that causes this effect isn't known but it may be due to acupuncture increasing the body's production of endorphins, the natural hormones that counteract inflammation, pain, and stress.”

The study further explains that in some studies, “ perioperative acupuncture has been found to reduce stress and anxiety before surgery, reduce the need for opioids during surgery, and decrease both pain and post-operative nausea and vomiting after surgery.

Perhaps even more interesting?

According to the article, acupuncture performed DURING surgery, “in combination with conventional anesthesia can reduce the dose of opioids needed and provide a more comfortable post-operative experience than anesthesia alone.” And then after surgery, “Acupuncture can help alleviate pain and reduce the amount of medication needed to control it. Post-operative acupuncture may also promote the recovery of the immune system, bladder function, and the gastrointestinal tract.”

This is just even more evidence of the incredible healing powers of acupuncture. If you’re facing an upcoming surgery and would like pre or post-operative acupuncture, call our office or click here to book an appointment today!

Acupuncture for Acne, Again!

At NJ Acupuncture Center we are firm believers in the healing powers of acupuncture for skin problems — especially acne. We’ve seen the results for ourselves, but it always feels good to see it covered and discussed elsewhere.

Just last week, Women’s Health interviewed experts on the topic. Here are some highlights from the article, which was shared as part of their Acne Week 2020 series.

Facial acupuncture could help acne by addressing underlying causes like hormonal imbalances.

As we’ve previously explained, acupuncture can help with a slew of hormonal issues that are related to women’s health and for many, this encompasses skin issues as well. By restoring the balance of Qi, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation and less stress, acupuncture can help restore the balance that may enable the skin to clear.

Identifying the Root Cause

In order to best treat the patient, it’s imperative to uncover the root cause. Then, it can be treated in a targeted way. The article explains, “In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the region of your face where you’re breaking out (think: your chin vs. your cheeks) can be an indicator of the root cause,” so a thorough initial assessment is key.

It Requires Consistency

Like most good things in life, acupuncture treatment for acne will require a bit of consistency in order to provide lasting improvement. Similar to what the article states, we recommend coming in once to twice a week for about 2-3 months, and then twice a month maintenance treatments over time.

If you’re struggling with acupuncture and are interested in pursuing a minimally invasive and holistic approach, call to schedule a consultation and appointment today!