Head and Neck Acupuncture: RESILIENT BLOOM

Services include gua sha, cupping, micro-current,  red light therapy and acupuncture.. 

All of these modalities work therapeutically together to bring blood and qi to the muscles, relieve muscle tension and pain, release fascial tension, drain the lymphatic system, and reset the nervous system. Like the other modalities used at Integrative Dental Arts of WNY, it is a way to create support and opportunity for the brain to fill in gaps caused by trauma so that we can regain function well through autonomic nervous system self regulation and create resiliency. 

Facial Acupuncture is an effective modality for head, neck and shoulder pain and tension which can be the source of headaches, jaw pain and can improve sleep.  It is also used to address facial pain and tension, because tension can be carried not only in the masticatory (chewing) muscles but also in the muscles of facial expression, 

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves scraping the skin with a smooth, flat tool made of bone, jade, or another material. The tool is used to apply pressure and friction to the skin, which helps to release tension and promote circulation.

During a gua sha session, the practitioner applies a special oil or lotion to the skin to help the tool glide smoothly. They then use the tool to scrape the skin in a specific pattern or direction, which can create redness or bruising in the treated area.

The goal of gua sha is to stimulate the body's natural healing response and promote the flow of qi (pronounced "chee"), or life energy, throughout the body. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including muscle pain, tension headaches, and respiratory issues.

Gua sha is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner, although it may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your practitioner before starting gua sha treatment.

Facial cupping is a therapeutic treatment that involves using small silicone or glass cups to create suction on the skin. The cups are placed on specific points on the face and moved in a gliding motion to create a gentle vacuum effect.

The suction created by the cups helps to increase blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system, which can reduce puffiness, improve skin tone and texture, and promote overall relaxation. The treatment can also help to improve circulation to the facial muscles, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Facial cupping is typically performed by a trained practitioner and can be used in conjunction with other facial treatments, such as acupuncture or gua sha. The cups used in facial cupping are smaller and gentler than those used in traditional cupping, which is used to treat other parts of the body.

Facial cupping is generally considered safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your practitioner before starting treatment. Additionally, the practitioner should use caution when treating certain areas of the face, such as around the eyes, to avoid causing any damage or discomfort.

Facial microcurrent is a non-invasive  therapeutic treatment that uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and tissues of the face. During the treatment, small electrodes are placed on the skin, and a gentle current is applied to the muscles to help lift and tone the facial muscles.

The electrical current used in facial microcurrent is similar to the natural electrical impulses generated by the body's cells. This helps to increase blood flow, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and improve overall skin health. The treatment can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and tone, and promote a more youthful, radiant appearance.

Facial microcurrent is generally considered safe and painless, with few side effects. The treatment is typically performed by a trained practitioner and can be used in conjunction with other facial treatments, such as acupuncture or facial massage.

However, facial microcurrent may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your practitioner before starting treatment. Additionally, the treatment should not be performed on individuals with pacemakers or other implanted medical devices.

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), has gained popularity for its potential benefits on the skin and overall health. Here are some potential benefits of red light therapy on the face and head:

Skin Rejuvenation: Red light therapy stimulates the production of collagen, a protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and improve overall skin texture, making the skin look more youthful.

Acne Treatment: Red light therapy has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce acne lesions by targeting the bacteria that cause acne. It also helps in reducing inflammation and redness associated with acne.

Wound Healing: Red light therapy promotes wound healing by increasing blood circulation to the area and enhancing cellular repair processes. It can accelerate the healing of wounds, cuts, and abrasions on the face and scalp. 

Pain Relief: Red light therapy has analgesic effects and can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various conditions such as headaches, migraines, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders when applied to the head.

Improved Circulation: By increasing blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues, red light therapy can enhance circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells and removing waste products more efficiently.

Reduced Inflammation: Red light therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can benefit conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis when applied to the face.

Facial pain and tension, jaw pain and tension, head and neck pain and tension, Bells Palsy, Trigeminal Neuralgia, loss of facial tone and blood supply.

A significant improvement can be realized after approximately 10 sessions but changes can be seen and experienced almost immediately.  After the initial set of treatments are complete maintenance  treatment, every 4-6 weeks, support the initial results.

Dr. Kagan was certified to practice acupuncture under her dental license in 2013 at the Tri-State College of Acupuncture in NYC. She then practiced acupuncture at a TMJ and Sleep Clinic in Manhattan, The Gelb Center. Most recently she completed a FACIAL Acupuncture specialty program through Pacific College. It was an arduous  but extremely rewarding program and she is extremely happy to offer her patients this potent and ancient, yet timely, medicine.

1. What is head and neck acupuncture? H&N acupuncture is a holistic practice that involves inserting tiny needles into specific points on the face and body to improve circulation and promote overall health and wellness. other practices such as Gua Sha, cupping, micro current, and LED light can also be used.
2. What are the benefits of H&N acupuncture? Facial acupuncture can help improve skin tone and texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and promote overall relaxation and well-being. It can also help reduce stress, improve digestion, and boost the immune system. And most importantly relieve facial, head, neck and shoulder pain and tension,
3. Is H&N acupuncture safe? H&N acupuncture is generally safe and has minimal side effects. However, it's important to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with your acupuncturist before starting treatment.
4. How long does a H&N acupuncture session last? Sessions typically last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the individual's needs and goals.
5. How many sessions are required for optimal results? The number of sessions required can vary depending on the individual's goals and the condition of their skin. Generally, a series of 10-12 treatments is recommended for optimal results, with maintenance sessions recommended every 4-6 weeks.
6. Does H&N acupuncture hurt? Most people find it to be relatively painless, with only a slight sensation or tingling at the insertion points. If you experience any discomfort during treatment, let us know immediately.
7. Is there any downtime after treatment? There is typically no downtime after  treatment, although some people may experience slight redness or bruising at the insertion points. It's important to avoid harsh skincare products and direct sunlight for at least 24 hours after treatment.