Laurel Highlands Acupuncture

12/14/2025

For those following the recent story about NFL player TJ Watt’s dry needling injury who have questions about acupuncture vs. dry needling, I’d like to share information about this topic for educational purposes. I frequently speak with patients who are understandably confused about this topic so this seems like an appropriate time to share.

What is "Dry Needling"?

"Dry needling" is acupuncture described in modern biomedical terminology. The technique of needling deeply into tender areas (ashi points) in muscular regions of the body while using stimulating methods has for centuries been an aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training and is not a modern concept. The difference is that acupuncture licensure generally requires approximately four years of education and training at a masters degree level accredited school and standardized testing from a national board (NCCAOM). Upon graduation acupuncturists will log around 1000 clinic hrs, seeing approximately 500 patients. In contrast, dry needling certifications can be obtained by non-acupuncturists in some states with as little as 40 hours of training. This level of training does not meet the minimum standards to be licensed to perform acupuncture in Pennsylvania. Most states have acupuncture boards which determine a minimum standard of training to ensure public safety. When lower standards are adopted by non-acupuncturist healthcare practitioners the risk to public safety increases. Please be aware that acupuncture is not currently in the scope of practice for Physical Therapists in the state of Pennsylvania. Although the recognition of the effectiveness of acupuncture by other healthcare professionals, is welcomed, in the interest of public safety, we encourage those interested in acupuncture to seek out a state licensed acupuncturist who has obtained the educational and training standards required by the state of Pennsylvania.

Kenneth Greep L.Ac

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47289609/tj-watt-pittsburgh-steelers-collapsed-lung-injury-recovery-line-dry-needling-treatment-explained-questions

Is dry needling common for NFL players? How long will the Steelers' star be sidelined? Here's what we know.

03/20/2025

Spring Equinox & Your Body: A Time of Renewal

As the Spring Equinox arrives, nature awakens, and so do our bodies. This powerful shift in seasons brings longer days, warmer energy, and a surge of vitality—but it can also stir up imbalances. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is ruled by the Wood element and the Liver, which governs the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and emotions.

How the Spring Equinox Affects Your Body:
- Energy Shifts: You may feel a burst of creativity and motivation, but also restlessness or irritability if your Liver Qi is stagnant.
- Physical Symptoms: Headaches, allergies, fatigue, or digestive issues can arise as your body adjusts to the seasonal transition.
- Emotional Impact: Spring can heighten emotions—anger, frustration, or even excitement—as the Liver works to maintain balance.

How Acupuncture Can Help:
Acupuncture is a time-honored TCM practice that can support your body during this seasonal shift. Here’s how:
- Balances Energy: Acupuncture regulates the flow of Qi, easing stagnation in the Liver and promoting harmony.
- Relieves Symptoms: It can alleviate headaches, allergies, and digestive discomfort by targeting specific meridians.
- Calms the Mind: Sessions help reduce stress, irritability, and emotional overwhelm, fostering inner peace.
- Boosts Vitality: By enhancing circulation and energy, acupuncture helps you embrace spring’s vibrant energy.

Embrace the Season: Book an acupuncture session to align your body with spring’s renewing energy. Pair it with mindful practices like stretching, eating seasonal greens, and spending time in nature to fully bloom into the season.

03/17/2025

Have you ever wondered about those circular marks on athletes like Michael Phelps or celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow? That’s the result of cupping therapy—an ancient healing practice.

What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is a traditional healing method that uses suction cups placed on the skin to promote relaxation, improve blood flow, and ease muscle tension. Dating back thousands of years, it’s been used in cultures from China to Egypt to help with everything from pain relief to overall wellness.

Why Try It?
Here are just a few potential benefits:
- Relieves muscle stiffness and soreness (perfect for athletes or anyone with a desk job)
- Boosts circulation and supports your body’s natural healing process
- Offers a relaxing, non-invasive way to rejuvenate

Is It Safe?
When done by a trained professional, cupping is generally low-risk. Yes, those circular marks might look intense, but they’re not painful bruises—they fade in a week or two and are a sign of increased blood flow to the area.

Curious to Learn More?
Drop a comment below or send us a message to find out how cupping therapy could fit into your wellness routine. And if you’ve tried it before, share your experience—we’d love to hear from you!

03/11/2025

Did you know acupuncture can play a supportive role in stroke recovery?
By promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and aiding neuroplasticity, it can complement traditional rehabilitation therapies. At our clinic, we’ve had success helping patients improve their symptoms and overall well-being on their recovery journey.

Some see acupuncture as a complement to traditional rehabilitation methods. Learn about the potential benefits and risks of getting acupuncture after a stroke.

03/09/2025

We’ve had great success treating migraines using Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Our holistic approach addresses the root causes, helping reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Ready to find relief? Contact us;
laurelhighlandsacupuncture.com

https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/understanding-migraineacupuncture-and-migraine-finding-a-combination-that-sticks/

If you're considering treating migraine with acupuncture, take a look at this guide to understand how it works and what it can do for you.

03/08/2025

At the heart of TCM lies a holistic approach to living in harmony with nature and nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. Through practices like acupuncture, herbal remedies, tai chi, and mindful nutrition, TCM guides us toward true wellness and balance.

•Wellness– Prioritize your health with ancient healing traditions.
•Kindness– Extend compassion to yourself and others.
•Inner Peace– Find calm amidst life’s storms.
•Health– Strengthen your body’s natural energy (Qi).
•Balance– Restore harmony within and around you.

Let’s walk the path of healing and serenity together. Share this post to spread kindness and inspire balance in someone’s life today. 🌿

03/07/2025

If you are looking for immune supportive therapies, consider adding
moxibustion to your routine. Moxa is used both directly and indirectly,
depending upon the intended effects. Moxibustion exerts its therapeutic effect
by modulating the microbiome and intestinal mucosal immunity. It is used to
great effect in tandem with acupuncture points, enhancing and maximizing the
effects of the acupuncture needles.

03/05/2025

🌿Herbs are central to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). 🌿
For example; Ginseng (ren shen) boosts energy and qi, licorice root (gan cao) harmonizes and aids digestion, and goji berries (gou qi zi) nourish the liver and kidneys. For colds and flu, ginger (sheng jiang) warms to dispel chills, while honeysuckle (jin yin hua) clears heat and toxins during fever.
Each herb’s properties—warm or cool, bitter or sweet—restore balance, but here’s the key: herbs must match your unique constitution. Taking the wrong ones could disrupt your body’s harmony. That’s why seeing a licensed TCM practitioner is essential—they’ll assess your needs and craft a personalized plan, especially vital during cold and flu season. Don’t guess; consult a licensed practitioner!
Visit us at laurelhighlandsacupuncture.com



https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-and-flu/cold-and-flu-season-remedies-from-traditional-chinese-medicine-doctors

Want to boost your immunity with natural treatments? TCM has you covered.

03/04/2025

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced for over 2,500 years! 🌱 Rooted in ancient wisdom, it uses natural methods like herbs, acupuncture, and qigong to promote balance and healing. ✨ A timeless approach to health that has stood the test of centuries.

03/03/2025

Meridian pathways are like rivers. When a river flows, it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In the same way, meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle. When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys good physical, mental and emotional well-being.

03/02/2025

Acupuncture is an effective form of medical treatment that has evolved into a complete holistic health care system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have used this non-invasive treatment method to help millions of people become well and stay well. Visit laurelhighlandsacupuncture.com to learn more.

03/01/2025

🌿 Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Natural Solution Backed by Research 🌿

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and wrists. If you're looking for a drug-free, holistic approach to managing your symptoms, acupuncture may offer significant relief.

Research supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for CTS:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31634868/

Why acupuncture?
•Reduces pain: Acupuncture targets specific points to help relieve pain and discomfort associated with CTS.
•Reduces inflammation: Acupuncture stimulates the body's natural healing processes, reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.
•Improves function: Regular acupuncture treatments can enhance hand and wrist mobility, improving overall function.

If you're considering acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome, our clinic is here to help. With personalized treatments based on the latest research, we focus on your well-being and long-term relief.

Laurelhighlandsacupuncture.com

Laurel Highlands Acupuncture located in Uniontown, Pennsylvania (PA) offers Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) services such as, but not limited to, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional guidance, Asian bodywork (Tuina), acu-facial, acu-detox. All services....