Pain Management

Acupuncture provides pain relief.

In the treatment of pain, clinical evidence and scientific research indicate that acupuncture helps reduce or eliminate acute and chronic pain of the soft tissues (muscle and tendon), joint pain (arthritis and degenerative joint disease), pain of the internal organs, as well as headache pain (tension, hormonal, cluster and migraine).

Read more to learn what our clients are saying.


Acupuncture for Pain Management

Millions of people suffer with back pain. It is the number one reason for missed days from work. Back pain is probably the top reason that people seek out acupuncture treatment. A meta-analysis of studies on the treatment of back pain with acupuncture published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, April, 2005, concluded that acupuncture provided true pain relief.

“For people with chronic low back pain, this analysis shows that acupuncture is clearly effective in providing considerable pain relief.” -Eric Manheimer, study author and director of database and evaluation for the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine.

Acupuncture is an effective and safe way to relax tight muscles, release muscle spasms, relieve pain and restore normal range of movement of the musculature and joints.

Pain syndromes can develop from trauma, repetitive movement syndrome, chronic inflammation such as in fibromyalgia, poor posture, musculoskeletal conditions, and degenerative disorders such as arthritis.

One of the primary functions of the muscles is to protect the complex system of nerves that extend from the spinal column to every part of the body from the surface of the skin to the deepest organs. When an injury occurs, pain signals travel to the brain both to inform the involuntary muscles to withdraw from the cause of the trauma; to contract to protect the nerves from further damage; and to elicit the production of endorphins (natural chemicals that modulate pain). This muscle contraction, or spasm, can persist long after the initial threat of injury is past.

Acupuncture needles are very thin, delicate needles that are easily tolerated in areas of muscle tension and spasm. Most clients experience a measure of relief from symptoms after the first treatment. Each treatment builds on the previous treatments and the number of visits will depend on whether the pain is due to an acute episode, a “flare-up” of an underlying condition, or a chronic condition.

Far Infrared Heat for Pain Management

Used in conjunction with acupuncture, Far Infrared (FIR) radiant heat therapy is used to treat musculoskeletal disorders, pain syndromes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and injuries. Infrared heat works by deeply penetrating muscles, joints and tissues and improving blood circulation and oxygen flow. It promotes relaxation and relieves stress. It is used by athletes to increase blood flow to muscles both before and after training to improve performance and increase athletic endurance.

Far Infrared heat raises the core body temperature (as opposed to the surface temperature) which causes an increase in the metabolic rate of the body and leads to overall improved function. In terms of Chinese Medicine, this builds the Yang Qi which maintains internal heat. In people with a Cold condition (with symptoms of always feeling cold with difficulty getting warm, significant or chronic fatigue, cold hands and feet, pale complexion, blueish tint to the lips), this treatment is excellent to warm the whole body and build energy.

Microcurrent Electrotherapy for Pain Management

Microcurrent ElectroTherapy (MET) is a highly effective treatment when used in conjunction with acupuncture in the treatment of pain.

Pain syndromes can develop from trauma, repetitive movement, chronic inflammation, poor posture, various musculoskeletal conditions, as well as degenerative diseases like arthritis and fibromyalgia. When an injury occurs, trauma causes local congestion and inflammation. This reduces local electrical conductivity and impairs cellular repair.

MET is a gentle treatment that appeals to elderly, sensitive, and chronic pain patients, and is ideal for infants and children. It can be offered as an alternative to the use of acupuncture needles in needle-phobic patients.

Conditions that respond well to MET include:

  • Sports Injuries
  • Back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Neck pain
  • Joint pain
  • Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Repetitive Movement Syndrome
  • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
  • Neuralgia
  • Gastrointestinal Pain
  • Shingles
  • Bone fractures
  • Soft Tissue Injuries
  • Wound healing
  • TMJ Dysfunction

At Acupuncture Arts East, we use the Acutron Mentor ElectroMedical device from EastWestMed.


What our clients are saying

Head Pain

Susan, I just wanted to let you know how much you’ve helped me and how thankful I am. When I first came to see you six months ago I was having terrible constant headaches. These headaches lasted for weeks and sometimes months. I knew that there had to be a better solution than taking the Tylenol with codeine that the doctors prescribed for me. After about four acupuncture treatments I noticed a great improvement. Now my headache frequency has been reduced to only certain occasions. I now know what triggers them and I can compensate for it. I had honestly forgotten what it felt like not to have a headache! Thanks, again.” DW

I have intractable transformed migraines and have been to so many doctors who couldn’t help me. They wanted me to go on narcotic pain pills for the rest of my life. But acupuncture has already helped reduce my migraines in just four weeks. Susan, thank you for helping me so much.” PB

I suffered from daily severe head pain for two-and-a-half years after a fall on the ice in which I hit the back of my head. I saw a neurologist who diagnosed occipital neuralgia and arthritis of the neck. He prescribed pain medication and gave me cortisone injections which did help but the pain was not fully under control and he had to increase the dosages which caused side-effects.

When I began treatment with Susan, I felt comfortable and relaxed with her kind manner, her quiet listening, her careful explanations, and her knowledge. After the first few visits the pain began to subside and over a period of months, I was able to decrease the dosage of medications. My symptoms largely disappeared until I was taking no medication. Goodbye side-effects!

I highly recommend Susan to someone suffering from chronic pain.” REL

Neck Pain

My story begins in June 2015 when I woke up one day with pain in my left shoulder and arm with numbness in the hand. After an MRI and a consult with a neurosurgeon, I was given 50/50 odds that I may not play golf again, as I was diagnosed with multiple cervical bulging discs. The good thing is that the discs were contained and not herniated or ruptured.

After some research, I decided to begin a series of multiple therapies. These included chiropractic, physical therapy and, for the first time for me, acupuncture.  All of these took place over a three month period and each was twice a week.

Over time there was some gradual improvement and some set backs. Nearly four months after the first sign of pain, I enjoyed my first day of being pain-free and have been pain-free now for nearly two months. Of course, to be back playing golf again is a miracle indeed.

I owe many thanks to my team of therapists who worked together and shared information in hopes of healing.

In my opinion, there is no way I would realize my success today if it were not for Susan Kane and her incredible skill in acupuncture and acupressure. I firmly believe that it was her work that allowed the other therapies to be effective.

Susan has a unique personality where she always started each session with how I was doing and took detailed notes and was genuinely interested. It was through this constant communication that she could decide on the planned treatment for the day.

I am indeed blessed that I found Susan and am thankful for her skill, determination and healing power.”
JH

I suffer from chronic neck pain from a bulging disc (herniated disk). I’ve been in pain for approximately twenty years now. Since I’ve been coming for acupuncture the pain has been reduced tremendously. I was skeptical at first but I am glad I gave acupuncture a chance. I have been able to decrease the amount of pain medication that I was taking daily. Susan is a godsend!” JB

Back Pain

I didn’t realize how much pain I had until I didn’t have it!” PS

I am an active 64-year old busy jogging, weight lifting, x-country skiing, hiking, swimming, etc. – you get the picture. It is important for me to be as close to 100% physically in order to be able to do what I love to do. I suffered, on a regular basis, lower back pain and had chiropractic care for over 15 years yet was ‘not right’ for long periods of time resulting in painful exercising or, even worse, no exercise at all. I also went through months of foot discomfort with painful plantar fasciitis. I tried acupuncture and have found a healthy, drug free way to cure my ills.

Susan Kane’s careful, thorough, professional care is wonderful. Susan listens and treats accordingly, every time. When each session is completed I feel as though everything is in its right place. An overall feeling of balance. Hard to describe but it is awesome and highly recommended.” LM

I have suffered from lower back problems for thirty years. From time to time, the back flares up and I find it impossible to function, both professionally and socially.

My latest flare-up was during March 2004. I was referred to orthopedic surgeons who diagnosed my condition as severe spinal stenosis with three bulging discs. They advised that surgery was the most prominent course to take. I rejected it and told the surgeons that I would consult with my physical rehabilitation physician with whom I had dealt in the past. He and I settled on a program of physical therapy and acupuncture.

I had 12 sessions of physical therapy and continued the exercises on my own at home. I then joined a fitness center for a program of back and stretching exercises, weight machines and treadmill. Simultaneously, I consulted with Susan Kane and began a series of acupuncture sessions of once a week for three months. Thereafter, I had acupuncture every other week. The relief I obtained from acupuncture was outstanding. I no longer experience pain and I find that my sleep is no longer interrupted as was the case prior to beginning treatment.

There is no doubt in my mind that the acupuncture with Susan has been extremely helpful and I intend to continue treatment for the foreseeable future. I might add that an arthritic condition which caused pain in my hands has also responded with considerable relief. I am now able to button the buttons on my shirts, especially the top one.” CE

Hip and Leg Pain

It all started with severe pain from my buttocks down my right leg to my ankle. It was very uncomfortable. My sister, who has serious back problems, suggested I go for acupuncture treatment. At first, I was skeptical. The thought of needles in my body didn’t sound too pleasant but she assured me there was no pain. What really changed my mind was that I couldn’t lie down because it would hurt more. I had to sleep in a recliner. So I made an appointment with Susan.

After the very first treatment I felt better. The pain from the buttocks to the knee disappeared. I have had 4 visits to date and I can truly say I’m almost pain-free and I am back to sleeping in my bed. Acupuncture is the best thing I have ever done.” CD

Thank you so very much for relieving the pain in my hip. I had been on anti-inflammatory medication and had been going to physical therapy for nine months with absolutely no relief. I was diagnosed with sciatica, a bulging disk and bursitis of the hip. After the first acupuncture treatment I slept well and was pain-free most of the night! I thought it was all in my mind but after that it has only gotten better with each treatment. I now sleep all night without pain, the first time in over a year! Thank you for introducing me to a whole new concept in medical care.” MM

Knee Pain

I started seeing Susan in June 2010. I had been diagnosed with arthritis in my knee earlier that year and then I found out that I have an autoimmune disease. I came to Susan with bilateral knee pain, tingling in my lower legs and arms, random pain in my hands and forearms, and I was an emotional wreck worrying about all my health issues. After my third acupuncture treatment I felt 80% better. By my fifth treatment I realized I hadn’t even thought of my pains and tingling for several days. I will now be going on a maintenance program of acupuncture every 3 to 4 weeks after just seven treatments. I can’t say enough about what acupuncture has done for me. I am no longer taking ibuprofen daily for knee pain nor have I started taking my medication for my autoimmune disease. Acupuncture has helped me get back to a pain-free life and I no longer worry about my health issues. I can’t thank Susan enough for her help.” DC

Two years ago I had knee pain resulting from torn cartilage. It required a total knee replacement. I saw Susan for pain relief before and after surgery and it helped greatly.”  HS

Chronic Post-surgical Abdominal Pain

Susan is a remarkable healer. She used her acupuncture skills to calm a severe flare-up of chronic pain due to abdominal scarring post-surgery. I am now pain-free and vigorously exercising daily once again. She is so skilled, caring, and compassionate; a wonderful person and acupuncturist.” JF

Arthritis Pain

I want to send a heartfelt thank you for helping me over the last year. I’ve had psoriatic arthritis for the past fifteen years, and the flare-ups started again last spring which were made worse by the damp weather. My joints hurt all over and I was barely able to walk up and down steps. The staircase in my house became something I dreaded. I had been helped by a practitioner in Chinatown before so I knew acupuncture could help. But I also knew that not every acupuncturist is the right match for my needs. I knew you were good within the first couple of points and I knew I had found my new acupuncturist! I love the calmness of your practice. I always feel so much better physically and mentally when I leave your office. Thank you for helping me solve my pain issues nonpharmacologically. My joint issues have largely resolved and I have less pain, less swelling, and better range of motion. I am much more active this spring compared to last year. Thank you!” ML

Facial Neuralgia

Five years ago I ended up with neuralgia in my face. The pain was so unbearable that when the nerve started to spasm it would drop me to my knees and I would pray to God to help me with the pain. No doctors could help me with that pain. I even went to dentists to have teeth removed but they could not find any problem with my teeth. I was at the end of my rope with pain and I was ready to have the whole nerve removed from the side of my face. Then I came to Susan for acupuncture. She put those needles in my cheek and I felt a tremor go through the whole side on my face. All the pain disappeared with one treatment. Susan saved me from having teeth pulled and the nerve removed. I can’t thank her enough for her concern and ability to help people in pain.” TY

I went to see Susan after developing Bells Palsy as a symptom from contracting Lyme disease. The entire left side of my face was numb, my eye drooped, and it was difficult to eat, drink and speak. I saw immediate results after the first treatment of acupuncture, and after the fifth treatment over two weeks, I was free of all complications. This happened within a fraction of the time compared to the several months of recovery that my doctor had predicted.” CE

Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Suffering from TMJ and having seen doctors, oral surgeons, and a chiropractor with little to offer for treatment other than muscle relaxers, pain pills, and anti depressants (for stress), I found myself seeking out acupuncture.

At my first visit, Susan approached me with such kindness. Not only did she explain everything, she was very methodical and caring. I felt very comfortable, and relaxed being there. I didn’t know what to expect but I immediately felt the muscles in my face relax. It has been a long time not being able to eat, talk, or open my mouth without severe pain.

The day after my first session, I was relieved of all pain on the right side and partially on the left. My second visit eliminated the tight muscles and pain completely on the left side. My physician, out of curiosity, inquired about what I did to get better so quickly. I told him I had acupuncture. He was amazed and said, “You must have had a really good one”, to which I replied, “No – I had the best!”

I am now pain-free for the first time in over two months. I am now able to eat normally again. It is because of her that I am well. No medications could ever do such a wonderful job as Susan has done.

I will most certainly be contacting Susan in the near future to help with sinus and allergy problems. Thank you, Susan. You are my Blessing!” LP

Shoulder Pain

What brought me to Susan was a very sore shoulder. I had two cortisone shots but it was aching again. After five acupuncture treatments there was no pain, even with being active. I am 78-years-old and now I am doing real labor in my garden with the shovel and wheelbarrow moving rocks and it doesn’t hurt!” KL

Trigger Finger and Hand Pain

Susan, I want to share with you that my hand is so much better! It doesn’t cramp at all now and I don’t drop anything. We had success! I just wanted you to know how good it feels.” DH

I have arthritis in both thumbs and it was painful to use them. After about six acupuncture treatments the pain began to subside and the strength in the muscles began to return. After ten treatments I was able to use a stapler again! On a maintenance program of acupuncture the use of my thumbs and hands is dramatically improving. I didn’t realize how little use of my hands I had until they began to get better!” JC

Shingles

At the end of October, 2000, I began to feel pain when I touched my left eyebrow. Within a week my forehead became very painful. My doctor diagnosed a bacterial infection and prescribed antibiotics. In two days time I was worse having blisters on the left half of my forehead. I went back to the doctor and he diagnosed shingles. My eye was swollen almost completely shut. I was immediately referred to an ophthalmologist who found two lesions on the eyelid causing constant pain and tearing. I was given cream and eye drops for the pain and told that I could expect to be in pain for up to three months and there was no cure or further treatment. I cried all the way home.

I could not sleep at night because the pain was so great. The blisters continued to spread onto my scalp causing unbelievable intense pain. I could not touch my hair or face. Soon, the pain began shooting down my face towards my jaw, and upwards over my head to my neck.

Susan began treating me immediately. After the first treatment I was able to sleep well for the first time in two weeks and the swelling of the eye went down and I could open my eye. After every treatment I felt a marked improvement, sometimes immediately, other times within twelve hours. Each treatment further reduced the pain and swelling in my cheek and eye area. We were able to stop treatment after only four or five weeks, far different from the initial prediction of three months. I tell everyone about this remarkable treatment and will wholeheartedly refer anyone suffering from this miserable ailment to Susan Kane for acupuncture.” BC

Plantar Fasciitis and Foot Pain

I had nerve pain under my third toe for several months. I went to my Food and Ankle doctor who did a series of cortisone injections (8). It gave me a good result for several months but then the symptoms returned. I went through another series of injections. Again the pain returned after a few months. Then I tried acupuncture with Susan Kane. Right away I had relief and milder episodes. I have been pain-free for several months now.” REL

About twenty years ago I came to Susan for acupuncture for plantar fasciitis. I had gone for a cortisone injection and it didn’t help. I tried orthotics and that didn’t work. After three acupuncture treatments the pain went away and I haven’t had a problem with my foot since. The only thing that worked is acupuncture. Now I am coming back to Susan for treatment of lower back pain.” LC