Acupuncture Physical Medicine integrates classical meridian acupuncture with proven techniques and principals from Osteopathic Physical Medicine – especially Trigger Point Therapy and acupuncture Myofascial Release techniques.  Both trigger points and myofascial constriction can contribute heavily to pain conditions and functional disorders.  Trigger Point theory and therapy was pioneered by Janet Travell, MD.  Interestingly, Travell was the White House physician to former President John F. Kennedy.

Classical Osteopathic Medicine is based on the premise that if one’s structure is compromised, then function will be compromised, AND, if we can improve or restore structure, then we can improve function.   In the case of Acupuncture Physical Medicine, the structure we can affect is the myofascial network (ie muscles and connective tissue).  We do this by releasing taut, spasmed muscles back to their resting length – or as a mentor, Mark Seem, PhD has said, we "untie muscular strait-jackets".   Why is this important?  Simple - taut, spasmed muscles and trigger points cause and amplify many pain syndromes and functional disorders - and, as often as not, they are overlooked.  Indeed, a practitioner must skillfully and methodically examine a patient with one’s hands to determine such sources of pain or dysfunction  –  with the exception of old-school osteopathic doctors this sort of detailed, hands-on examination is rarely done anymore.

Additionally, trigger points and myofascial constriction often mimic other conditions.  For instance, trigger points can cause tinnitus, sinus pain, tooth pain, TMJ, headaches, and aching pain with reduced range of motion [ROM] in shoulders, necks, hips, tennis elbow, and many other conditions.  The good news - trigger points and myofascial constriction can be addressed safely and effectively. 

Trigger Points in sternocleidomastoid muscle mimicing migraine headache pain. 

Why take a drug or risk surgery unless absolutely necessary . . .