Dr Maggie Ju Acupuncture London Chelsea, Kensington, and Richmond

Abdominal adhesions, characterized by the formation of scar tissue between abdominal tissues and organs, can have various causes, including abdominal surgeries, inflammation, and infections. While many adhesions are asymptomatic, they can lead to chronic abdominal pain, pelvic pain, female infertility, and intestinal obstruction. Diagnosing adhesions can be challenging as they do not show up on common imaging techniques, necessitating exploratory surgery for detection. Surgical intervention is often required to alleviate symptoms, but it carries the risk of forming additional adhesions. However, an alternative therapy called acupuncture has shown promise in the management of abdominal adhesions. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves stimulating specific points on the body using thin needles. The practice is believed to enhance nerve function, improve blood flow to the abdomen, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain, although further research is needed to

Female infertility is a growing concern on a global scale, and numerous studies have explored the potential benefits of acupuncture in addressing this issue. With advancements in scientific and medical technologies, research focused on acupuncture's effectiveness in treating female infertility has witnessed a surge. The findings thus far have consistently indicated that acupuncture can have a positive impact on the treatment of female infertility. One key aspect of acupuncture's mechanism of action in enhancing female fertility lies in its ability to regulate reproductive hormones. There are five crucial hormones involved in the reproductive process: GnRH, FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone. Maintaining a delicate balance of these hormones at the appropriate levels is vital for the proper functioning of the reproductive system and successful conception. However, when these hormones become imbalanced and their levels fluctuate, women may experience difficulties in getting pregn

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a condition characterized by a decline in ovarian function before the age of 40, which is a significant contributor to female infertility. This condition is marked by elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), along with low levels of estradiol (E2). Common symptoms of POI include menstrual disturbances, as well as menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. Additionally, POI increases the risk of decreased bone mineral density and cardiovascular disease. The incidence of POI is estimated to be around 1%–5%. The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has established guidelines for the diagnosis of POI. According to these guidelines, the diagnostic criteria include age younger than 40, oligo/amenorrhea for at least 4 months, and FSH levels higher than 25 mIU/ml on two occasions separated by at least 4 weeks. While the exact causes of POI remain unclear, they may

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced in the brain that plays a crucial role in the development of follicles in the ovaries, leading to the production of estrogen and progesterone. When the ovaries are not functioning optimally, they fail to respond to the stimulation provided by FSH. In such cases, the brain compensates by increasing the production of FSH, thereby urging the ovaries to work harder. Consequently, the level of FSH in the body becomes elevated. For women who desire to conceive, it is essential that their ovaries are functioning properly and producing eggs. A normal range of FSH levels indicates healthy ovarian function. Conversely, if FSH levels are low within the normal range, it signifies that the ovaries are functioning effectively. Research suggests that acupuncture can be beneficial in improving ovarian function and reducing FSH levels. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the existing evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is a substance that is produced in small ovarian follicles measuring less than 4 mm. These follicles are so tiny that they cannot be detected through ultrasound imaging. As the follicles grow, the production of AMH decreases and eventually ceases. In fact, follicles larger than 8 mm produce almost no AMH at all. Consequently, the levels of AMH in the blood remain relatively constant. Researchers have utilized the measurement of AMH in the blood as a means to assess the size of the pool of developing follicles in women. This pool size is greatly influenced by the number of remaining non-growing follicles. Hence, AMH levels are believed to reflect the size of the remaining egg supply, commonly referred to as "ovarian reserve." Due to its consistent levels, the AMH test can be conducted on any day of a woman's menstrual cycle. Women with a limited number of remaining follicles typically exhibit low levels of AMH. As a woman ages, her AMH levels d

Acupuncture has gained wide recognition as a valuable adjunct to in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. Numerous studies have explored the positive impact of acupuncture on female infertility and its ability to enhance the success of IVF procedures. A recent review has carefully examined this phenomenon and revealed compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of acupuncture. Specifically, six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted over the past three years involving IVF-ET (embryo transfer) patients demonstrated significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates among those who received acupuncture compared to those who did not. For instance, one study demonstrated that acupuncture can improve the production of high-quality embryos in IVF patients. Another study revealed that acupuncture treatment leads to increased levels of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) in IVF patients, facilitating enhanced blood flow in the endometrial artery. These physiological changes are crucial for s

Tension-type headaches are the most prevalent form of headaches, occurring frequently and having a detrimental impact on a patient's quality of life. On the other hand, migraines are severe and episodic in nature. Extensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses have consistently shown that acupuncture provides significant relief in terms of reducing pain intensity and frequency of headache attacks when compared to standard care, medical management, and sham acupuncture. Acupuncture plays a pivotal role in the treatment and prevention of tension-type headaches, migraines, and other chronic headache disorders. Its effectiveness has been well-documented in various studies, highlighting its potential as an alternative therapeutic option. Additionally, cost-effectiveness analyses conducted in the United Kingdom and Germany have indicated that acupuncture is a viable and economically feasible treatment choice within these countries. Recognizing its therapeutic benefits, the European Feder

Endometrial receptivity (ER) refers to the ability of the endometrium, or uterine lining, to accept embryos for implantation, which is a crucial step in achieving pregnancy. ER undergoes changes throughout the menstrual cycle, and there are only a few days when the uterine lining is optimal for embryo implantation. This timeframe, known as the implantation window, typically occurs 6-10 days after ovulation, which falls between the 20th and 24th day of a normal menstrual cycle. Research has indicated that a thin endometrium is closely associated with a low pregnancy rate. When the average size of follicles reaches 18 mm and the endometrial thickness is less than 7.0 mm, embryo implantation is greatly affected. While higher-quality embryos are typically selected for transfer in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles, only a few of them successfully implant. Studies have shown that up to 75% of pregnancy losses can be attributed to implantation failure, with two-thirds of

The rib cage, also known as the thoracic cage, is a vital structure comprised of the vertebral column, ribs, and sternum. Its main function is to protect the heart, major blood vessels, and lungs from potential damage. With 24 ribs in the human body, the rib cage is supported by various muscles in the neck, thorax, abdomen, and back, and it is covered by both fascia and skin. Rib cage pain can occur in different forms, such as sharp, dull, or achy sensations, and can be caused by heart and lung conditions, rib fractures, and other bone-related issues. Understanding the underlying causes of rib pain is crucial, and consulting a doctor is recommended. In some cases, rib cage fascia inflammation and muscle spasms are responsible for the discomfort. Muscles Attached to the Rib Cage: Intercostal Muscles: These muscles are located between the ribs and play a crucial role in the movement of the rib cage during breathing. They consist of three layers: external, internal, and innermost intercos

Women primarily produce progesterone in the ovaries. Following ovulation, the production of progesterone increases rapidly. Its concentration reaches its peak during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, particularly from day 19 to day 22. Progesterone plays several essential roles in the female reproductive system. It prepares the inner lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. Additionally, it inhibits further ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to penetrate. If fertilization does not occur, the level of progesterone drops, leading to the onset of menstruation. However, in the event of fertilization and successful implantation, the placenta generates a significantly higher amount of progesterone during pregnancy. Throughout this period, progesterone plays a crucial role in preventing miscarriage. It achieves this by reducing the maternal immune response, enabling the acceptance of the p

Acupuncture for Orofacial Pain Orofacial pain, also known as facial pain, refers to a discomfort experienced in the front part of the head, including the oral cavity. It is a common issue seen in primary care settings. A study conducted in British primary care involving 2,504 adult patients found that nearly a quarter of them reported orofacial pain. The most frequent cause of orofacial pain is dental problems, such as tooth decay, periodontal diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and neuropathological conditions. Patients with orofacial pain often experience elevated anxiety levels, and there is a correlation between anxiety and the intensity of the pain. Managing orofacial pain can be challenging, and it typically involves the use of medications and complementary therapies. Acupuncture has been recognized by dentists as an effective method for relieving orofacial pain. The UCLA School of Dentistry offers a unique program based on evidence and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder that affects many reproductive-aged women, often leading to menstrual irregularities and infertility. It is estimated that up to 15% of women in their reproductive years experience PCOS. In recent years, acupuncture has gained increasing popularity as a potential treatment option for PCOS. Research has indicated that acupuncture can have positive effects on ovulatory dysfunction, infertility, and other symptoms associated with PCOS. One of the key benefits of acupuncture for PCOS is its ability to improve ovulation rates, pregnancy rates, insulin resistance, negative emotions, hormone imbalances, and lipid metabolism dysfunctions. By normalizing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, which plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle, acupuncture aids in the restoration of regular menstrual periods. Recent reviews have provided encouraging evidence supporting the use of acupuncture in PCOS treatment. Fo

Acupuncture, a traditional, complementary, alternative, or integrative medicine therapy (TCAIM), has gained significant recognition and popularity in Australia and New Zealand. Among its various applications, acupuncture plays a crucial role in promoting women's health. A survey conducted recently revealed that 93% of practitioners have provided acupuncture treatments specifically tailored for women's health within the past 12 months. These findings highlight the widespread use of acupuncture in addressing women's unique health concerns. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) style of acupuncture, which incorporates principles of balancing energy flow and promoting overall well-being, emerged as the most commonly employed acupuncture style, accounting for 86% of treatments. This approach aligns with the holistic perspective of TCM, focusing on restoring balance and harmony within the body to alleviate symptoms and enhance health. The survey further revealed that acupuncture tre

The eyelids, which serve as protective covers for the eyes, play a crucial role in safeguarding them from debris and potential harm. These lids are adorned with lashes that possess short, curved hair follicles along their edges. These follicles house oil glands that can occasionally become obstructed or irritated, leading to a condition known as blepharitis—an inflammation of the eyelids. Typically affecting both eyes, blepharitis primarily manifests along the eyelid margins. Blepharitis is often a chronic ailment that proves challenging to treat effectively. It can cause discomfort and diminish the aesthetic appearance of the eyes. However, it is important to note that blepharitis generally does not result in permanent damage to eyesight, nor is it contagious. A range of symptoms may indicate the presence of blepharitis, including watery and red eyes, a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, itchy eyelids, redness, swelling, and inflammation of the eyelids, flaking skin around the

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that affects the colon and rectum, leading to inflammation and the development of small ulcers on the lining of the colon. This inflammation can result in symptoms such as recurring diarrhea, abdominal pain, urgency to empty the bowels, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the extent of inflammation in the rectum and colon. While traditional treatment options exist, alternative therapies like acupuncture have gained attention in recent years as potential complementary approaches. Acupuncture, a practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used in China for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, and its popularity has been growing in Western countries as well. In this context, a study was conducted to investigate the effect of acupuncture on patients with ulcerative colitis. The study involved 29 patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis, with an ave

Ankle and foot pain can be debilitating, causing a significant impact on one's daily life and overall well-being. Whether it stems from repetitive use disorders like Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis or is the result of an injury such as a sprain or fracture, finding effective pain relief is crucial. In recent years, acupuncture has emerged as a promising treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions, and research suggests that it can effectively alleviate ankle and foot pain. Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture in managing pain for a range of musculoskeletal issues, including headaches, neck pain, elbow pain, and wrist pain. With regard to foot and ankle pain, a systematic review was conducted to assess the impact of acupuncture on pain intensity, functional status, and overall quality of life in adults. The review included four randomized controlled trials (RCTs), involving a total of 211 participants. The findings of the systematic

Acupuncture is a treatment method that has shown promise in alleviating the side effects of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a widely used cancer treatment that involves the use of medication to destroy cancer cells. Although there are various types of chemotherapy drugs, they all function by inhibiting the reproduction of cancer cells, thereby impeding their growth and spread within the body. Unfortunately, chemotherapy can also harm healthy cells in the body, including blood cells, skin cells, nerve cells, and stomach cells. Consequently, patients often experience several side effects as a result of this treatment. Common side effects of chemotherapy drugs include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, fever, mouth sores, pain or numbness, constipation, easy bruising, and bleeding. However, emerging research has revealed that acupuncture can effectively alleviate cancer pain and mitigate the side effects associated with chemotherapy. Studies have indicated tha

Mast cells are a crucial type of immune cells in the human body that play a significant role in the progression of numerous diseases. They serve as regulators of protective host immunity. Acupuncture, on the other hand, has been proven to be an effective analgesic therapy. Acupuncture points, also known as acupoints, are characterized by a high concentration of subcutaneous mast cells (MCs), and their activation has been found to play a crucial role in the initiation of the analgesic effect. Recent studies have revealed that subcutaneous mast cells are involved in the mechanism of analgesia induced by acupuncture. The high density of skin mast cells in acupuncture points makes them highly sensitive to mechanical stimulation. The accumulation of mast cells and the dense arrangement of collagen fibers, microvessels, and nerves form the basis for acupoints as the reaction sites of acupuncture. During acupuncture manipulation, the activation of the mast cells occurs via the collagen networ

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a condition characterized by degenerative joint disease, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and dysfunction. This chronic knee pain can have a severe impact on the quality of patients' lives. Although painkillers can alleviate pain and modify disease progression, they have numerous adverse side effects. Fortunately, acupuncture has been found to be a highly effective way of reducing arthritic knee pain without any adverse side effects. Research has proven this. For instance, one paper analyzed eleven randomized clinical trials (CTs) involving 2484 patients with knee arthritis. The meta-analysis showed that acupuncture had a beneficial effect on knee osteoarthritis by reducing pain and improving patients' functional activities. The authors concluded that acupuncture has a beneficial effect on pain relief and improves functional activities. Therefore, this treatment can be recommended as a beneficial alternative therapy for patients with KOA, esp

Chronic neck pain is a prevalent and serious health issue worldwide, often accompanied by restricted neck movement, dizziness, anxiety, and insomnia. Fortunately, acupuncture has emerged as an effective treatment for chronic neck pain. A review was conducted to summarize the latest scientific evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating acute, subacute, and chronic neck pain. The review included 27 studies that represented individuals with various types of neck pain. Three studies involved individuals with whiplash-associated disorders, five studies explored chronic myofascial neck pain, five studies focused on chronic pain due to arthritic changes, six studies involved chronic non-specific neck pain, two studies addressed neck pain with radicular signs, and six studies focused on subacute or chronic mechanical neck pain. The review revealed that acupuncture was beneficial for pain intensity at immediate-term follow-up compared to sham acupuncture, short-term follow-up comp

Chronic shoulder pain is a prevalent form of musculoskeletal pain. It is commonly caused by conditions such as rotator cuff strain or tear, biceps tendinitis, subacromial bursitis, glenohumeral osteoarthritis, impingement syndrome, and adhesive capsulitis. Acupuncture has been identified as a safe and effective therapy for treating chronic shoulder pain. A randomized trial conducted in Germany involved 424 outpatients who suffered from chronic shoulder pain for more than six weeks. The study showed that acupuncture significantly reduced shoulder pain and improved shoulder movement at three months post-treatment and immediately after the end of treatment. In another clinical trial, researchers studied the effects of acupuncture on shoulder pain in patients aged 25 to 83 years. Six months after treatment, the acupuncture group showed a significantly greater improvement in pain intensity compared to the control group. This suggests that acupuncture can provide effective long-term relief f

Sciatica is a common type of neuropathic pain that is characterized by a shooting pain radiating from the lower back down to the leg, sometimes accompanied by numbness and muscle weakness. This condition is often caused by the compression of the spinal nerve root by a disc herniation, which accounts for 85% of all cases. Unfortunately, a significant number of patients with sciatica suffer from persistent pain lasting a year or more due to the lack of effective treatments. This may eventually lead to neurological deficits and functional disability, significantly impacting their quality of life. Acupuncture has been recommended as an effective method for pain relief in patients with sciatica. A recent review aimed to assess the published clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture therapy for treating sciatica. The review analyzed a total of 30 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), involving 2,662 participants. The results showed that the clinical efficacy of acupuncture w

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is characterized by pain occurring in the pelvic region for more than six months, and can be either cyclic or non-cyclic. It can be associated with various factors, including lower urinary tract, reproductive system, bowel, and muscular. CPP is more common in females than males, with a prevalence rate that may be twice as high. In fact, non-cyclic CPP in females has an annual prevalence rate that is as frequent as that of migraine, back pain, and asthma. Acupuncture is a widely practiced treatment modality for various diseases, particularly in pain management. In a previous large-scale study involving 17,922 patients, acupuncture intervention was found to be more effective in reducing pain compared to sham and no acupuncture intervention for back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic headache. A more recent updated analysis involving 20,827 patients has also demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture for non-specific musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthriti

Pain is an inevitable part of life that can have a significant impact on one's quality of life. The experience of pain involves the transformation of pain stimulus into a nerve signal that is sent to the brain. The pain sensation and pain response are produced by integrating and processing this information in the brain. Several neurotransmitters, such as opioid peptides, γ-aminobutyric acid, norepinephrine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and glutamate, are involved in pain modulation. While painkillers can be effective in managing pain, they also have potential side effects such as addiction, drowsiness, and damage to brain function. Consequently, many people are turning to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, which is known for its few side effects. Acupuncture has gained popularity as a method of pain management around the world. Originally from China, acupuncture has been shown to have positive analgesic effects in many studies. Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated that the ne

Chronic knee pain is a common condition that affects people of all ages, especially the elderly. It can be caused by various factors such as injuries, overuse, and degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis. The pain can be debilitating, causing difficulty in performing daily activities and reducing the quality of life. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative therapy for chronic pain. Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture on knee pain, with promising results. A systematic review of five randomized controlled trials involving 1334 patients with chronic knee pain or knee osteoarthritis compared the effects of acupuncture with sham acupuncture or no intervention. The results showed that acupuncture was significantly superior to sham acupuncture and no additional intervention in improving pain and function in patients with chronic knee pain. The differences were still significant at lon

Acupuncture, a form of alternative medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, has been widely used to relieve pain in clinical settings. Due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects, it has become a popular treatment option for various pain conditions. A recent systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of acupuncture on hand and wrist pain intensity, functional status, and quality of life in adults. The study findings indicated that acupuncture may be effective and safe for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in hand-and-wrist conditions. The systematic review examined the results of several trials on different conditions. One trial focused on cryotherapy-induced pain and showed significant pain reduction post-treatment. Another trial looked at rheumatoid arthritis and found significant pain reduction and function improvements post-treatment and in the short-term. A third trial focused on carpal tunnel syndrome and dem

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two of the most common joint conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is caused by the gradual loss of joint cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the lining of the joint capsule. Both conditions can result in pain, stiffness, and mobility reduction, and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Traditionally, painkillers have been used to manage joint pain associated with these conditions, but long-term use of painkillers can lead to many side effects, some of which are serious. Therefore, patients have been seeking alternative treatments for pain management, and acupuncture is one of the therapies that has gained attention in recent years. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that originated in ancient China. Acupuncture is believed to work by stimulating the body's natural healing processes, such as releasing endogenou

Prostatitis is a condition that affects many men, causing chronic pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). Recent research suggests that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for this condition. A review of twelve trials studying the effect of acupuncture on chronic prostatitis found that acupuncture had a significant effect in reducing pain associated with the condition. The study also found that acupuncture was safe, with no serious adverse effects reported. Acupuncture may work to alleviate the symptoms of CP/CPPS through a variety of mechanisms. One possible way is by regulating immunity. Acupuncture has been found to decrease the level of pro-inflammatory factors, increase the level of anti-inflammatory factors, and regulate the level of inflammatory regulatory factors in the body. This

Migraine is a common neurological disorder affecting millions of people around the world. The condition is characterized by recurrent headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. The exact cause of migraine is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to the activation of the trigeminovascular system, which triggers an inflammatory response that results in pain and other symptoms. In recent years, acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological treatment for migraine. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression. Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of migraine. One review analyzed data from 40 trials involving different types of migraine, including migraine without aura, chronic migraine, pediatric migraine, pure menstrual and menstrually related migraine, and acute migrai

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years to treat various conditions. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using acupuncture to treat premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a condition that affects women under the age of 40 and can lead to infertility. In this article, we will explore how acupuncture works to treat POI and what recent research has discovered about its effects. POI is a condition in which the ovaries stop functioning properly before the age of 40. This can lead to infertility and other health problems such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. The exact causes of POI are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetics, autoimmune disorders, and environmental factors. Treatment options for POI are limited, and often involve hormone replacement therapy or fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization. Acupuncture is a holistic approach to healing that involves the insertio

You Might Be Overlooking the Role of Fascia in Your Pain and Stiffness When we experience pain or stiffness in our bodies, we tend to attribute it to tired muscles or stiff joints. However, there is a part of our body that we often overlook in this context: the fascia. The fascia is a network of thin connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, bone, muscle, blood vessel, and nerve fiber in place. Despite its crucial role in our body's movement and structure, fascia received very little attention until recently. One of the fascinating aspects of the fascia is that it has nerves, making it almost as sensitive as skin. When it is stressed, it tightens up. Although fascia appears to be one sheet of tissue, it is actually made up of multiple layers with liquid in between called hyaluronan. It is designed to stretch as we move. However, certain factors can cause fascia to thicken and become sticky, which can limit our mobility and cause painful knots to develop. Factors that