Downtown Seattle Services: Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy
What is Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy (PIT)?
The injection of sterile botanical substances such as herbal extracts, homeopathic medicines, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. This may also include regenerative therapies such as prolotherapy, mesotherapy, and neural therapy.
Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy (PIT) utilizes Traditional Chinese Medicine’s meridian system by stimulating acupuncture points with the injection of small amounts of medical and/or botanical substances therefore obtaining a dual effect of acu-point stimulation and the pharmacological effect of the substance injected.
It is clinically proven to be more effective than injection into a "random" location. Acupuncture points have greater attenuation, higher vascularity, and higher profusion rate.
Schedule online. It's easy, fast and secure.
If you suffer from acute or chronic pain, especially in the shoulder, back, knees, or neck, Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy (PIT), may be a solution for you.
We also use PIT techniques in many of our weight loss protocols, cosmetic/esthetic acupuncture programs, and even our B-12 injections.
What is PIT?
It’s an integrative therapy that blends the best of Chinese medicine with conventional and homeopathic medicine.
PIT-certified acupuncturists inject natural therapeutic substances, such as homeopathic remedies like Traumeel, or vitamins like B-12, into acupuncture points specific to your wellness needs.
By stimulating powerful acupuncture points with proven natural substances, we can affect the body on a deeper level and create a healing climate.
We understand a lot of people
(ourselves included!)
get nervous when they hear the word "injection"
Let us reassure you,
the needles we use are of the smallest size
and finest quality available,
resembling no other hypodermic
you may have encountered.
This is a gentle modality that works with the
body in order to achieve optimal health.
Sometimes referred to as “biopuncture,” PIT earned well-deserved attention in early 2011 and again in 2014 when Dr. Mehmet Oz featured the therapy on his television show.
To use PIT as a therapy, licensed Acupuncturists must complete a minimum of 24 additional hours of academic and clinical training beyond their traditional education to become certified in this technique.
Why we use acupuncture point injection
-Combines principles of acupuncture as an energetic medicine with modern injection therapies
-use whole body approach to care
-lasting effects
-medication directed to targeted areas
-rapid initial effect
-no “first” pass effect (bypassing GI tract)
We are using PIT to effectively treat so many symptoms and conditions!
-acute pain and inflammation
-chronic pain and inflammation
-autoimmune disorders
-fatigue syndromes (including post-vial)
-sports injuries
-Gynecological conditions
-chronic fatigue and latent viruses (like EBV and Shingles)
-Flu and Common Cold
-Pediatric Issues
-including malnutrition and chronic infections
-Neurological Issues
wind stroke, epilepsy, bells palsy
-Psychological Issues
anxiety, depression, and insomnia
-Contagious diseases
hepatitis, herpes simplex
-Pain Management
myalgia, neuralgia, headaches, back pain, sciatica, “bi-syndromes,” gynecologic, gastric, abdominal, and more
-Dermatologic
psoriasis, eczema
-GI Issues
diarrhea, IBS, Crohns, gastritis, ulcers
-Respiratory Issues
common cold, asthma, bronchitis
-Cardiovascular Issues
hypertension, hypotension, CHD
-Endocrine Disease
Diabetes, Hypothyroidism
-Urogenital Disease
prostatitis, sterility, impotence
-Sensory Organ Issues
Tinnitus, Toothache, Conjunctivitis
Other Issues:
-addiction, stop smoking, weight loss, even hangovers!
Trigger Point Injection Therapy
Myofascial trigger points are tiny contraction knots that develop in an injured or overworked muscle.
Sarcomeres are microscopic units of muscles that contract, by interlocking, to make the smallest of movements.
A trigger point exists when overstimulated sarcomeres are chemically prevented from releasing their interlocked state.
Trigger Point Injection works by changing the muscle’s chemistry. It bathes the area in balancing compounds to allow the release of the sarcomeres to produce immediate, and lasting, relief.
Effective Scar Treatments! It’s MORE than cosmetic (but it works for that too!)
-Neural Therapy was originally developed in Germany by the Huneke brothers in the EARLY 1900s!
-Neural Therapy is the injection of procaine into specific areas (usually scar tissue)
-It is based on the theory that trauma can produce long standing disturbances in the electrochemical function of tissues
-A correctly administered Neural Therapy Injection can instantly and lastingly resolve chronic pain
-Injected procaine revitalizes tissue by restoring cell signaling and balancing chemistry
Lipotropic & B-Complex Injections
B-1 Thiamin: helps fuel your body by converting blood sugar into energy. It keeps your mucous membranes healthy and is essential for nervous system, cardiovascular, and muscular function.
Signs of B-1 deficiency include: headache, convulsions, cardiac arrythmia, and anaphylactic shock.
B-2 Riboflavin: works with other vitamins in the B complex to process calories from carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Your body needs it for growth, red blood cell production, healthy skin, and vision.
Symptoms include: eye problems including color blindness and macular degeneration, alcoholism, and heart conditions.
B-6 Pyridoxine: helps brain function and helps the body convert protein into energy. Research has shown that B-6 works with folate and B12 to reduce levels of homocysteine in the blood. Elevated homocysteine levels can increase a person’s risk for a heart attack.
Symptoms include: morning sickness, vertigo, dermatitis, anemia, leukopenia, numbness and tingling. Low levels are also found in those receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
B-12 Cobalamin: There are several forms of B-12, we are going to discuss three of them (we only use two in our clinic)
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Cyanocobalamin – Synthetic, inactive form, if orally consumed must have sufficient intrinsic factor. It is the only FDA approved form of B-12 (so is more expensive) but it contains a cyanide group (yes, CYANIDE!). It is contraindicated for those with glutathione deficiency, cyanide toxicity (smokers), and renal failure. This form of b-12 must be methylated in the body to be active, so those who have genetic mutations that reduce methylation (MTHFR) should also avoid this form.
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Methylcobalamin – one of the two coenzyme forms of B-12. Evidence indicates that this form of B-12 is more bio-available over cyanocobalamin, and is retained in higher amounts in human tissues. This form is specifically needed for nervous system health.
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Hydroxocobalamin – Most bio-available form and retained even longer than methylcobalamin in the body. It is best for tissue and tendon repair (as opposed to methylcobalamin for nerve repair) and is best for cyanide detoxification because it binds to cyanide and eliminates it through the kidneys. Because of its ability to bind to cyanide, it is best for smokers who have high levels of cyanide in their bodies.
We offer a few different B-complex options as well as both methylcobalamin and hydroxocobalamin in injectable forms. Your practitioner will work with you to determine the best combination for your health!
Lipotropics: compounds which help the liver to process fat
MIC + B-12 Injections to break down fat systemically.
M – Methionine: Essential amino acid
I – Inositol: synthesized from glucose, assists in breaking down fats.
C – Choline: Essential nutrient that regulates homocysteine. When deficient can case fatty liver disease and muscle damage.
B-12: Excellent for fat burning and weight loss.
Typically, we will do weekly Lipotropic injections for 8 weeks and then re-assess.
Injection sites include using the acupuncture point Stomach 36 (Zu San Li or Leg Three Mile) for systemic effects including weight loss and deficiencies, and also local mesotherapy over the liver for fatty liver disease.
We also utilize this injection for fertility!
You can schedule a B-12 injection here, or if you are interested in other injections, schedule a free consultation to see how PIT might help you!
Availability of compounds varies, but below is a list of what we typically have available.
B-12
Boost Energy, Cleanse & Regulate Body, And Even Shed Unwanted Body Fat With Vitamin B12 Shots
Methylcobalamin – one of the two coenzyme forms of B-12. Evidense indicates that this form of B-12 is more bio-available over cyanocobalamin, and is retained in higher amounts in human tissues. This form is specifically needed for nervous system health.
Hydroxocobalamin – Most bio-available form and retained even longer than methylcobalamin in the body. It is best for tissue and tendon repair (as opposed to methylcobalamin for nerve repair) and is best for cyanide detoxification because it binds to cyanide and eliminates it through the kidneys. Because of its ability to bind to cyanide, it is best for smokers who have high levels of cyanide in their bodies.
Boost Energy, Cleanse & Regulate Body, And Even Shed Unwanted Body Fat With Vitamin B12 Shots
M I C
Lipotropic injection consisting of Methionine, Inositol, and Choline - typically combined with B-12.
These are compounds that catalyze the systemic breakdown of fat in the body.
Used for hormonal balance restoration in conditions like PCOS, to break down systemic fat like in cases of high cholesterol, and in combination with diet and exercise for weight loss.
Used MIC before but didn't get results? We can add procaine to the injection which will cause local vasodilation to help your body to absorb the nutrients better.
B-Complex
B-Complex has been shown to improve the metabolic process, while also stimulating immune and nervous system function.
A "B-Complex" is very commonly used do to their synergistic effect. The B Vitamins work so closely with one another that a deficiency in any one B Vitamin can lead to poor functioning of any or all of the others even if they are otherwise in good supply.
Compound availability varies, but our B-Complex injection typically contains B1 Thiamine, B3 Niacin, B2 Riboflavin, B5 Dexpanthenol, and B6 Pyridoxine - then we add B12 in either hydroxo or methyl form depending on the needs of the patient.
We can also add the MIC injection for Inositol and Choline which are not "true B Vitamins" but closely associated with, and when available, we can also add Biotin and Folate if indicated.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D help in Supporting Muscle Function, Bone Health, Immune Function, and much more!
New studies indicate that Vitamin D levels should be 30 or higher, Some studies even indicate 70 or higher, especially in Cancer patients (2014 Study here and here).
Sulfonated Vitamin D can only be synthesized by sunlight stimulating your skin, but for many reasons, we may not be getting enough. If levels are low, oral supplementation and even injections can be helpful.
Important especially in winter months where we need strong immune systems to fend off cold and flu viruses while also not getting enough natural sun exposure.
We often couple these injections with our immune boosting protocols.
Sarapin
Safe, effective alternative to steroids
Procaine
Lidocaine
Traumeel
zeel
For degenerative pain
Gelsemium
For Nerve Pain
spascupreel
Relax muscle spasms
Calmvalera
Stress, Anxiety, Insomnia
Sarapin is an FDA approved and AMA recognized prescription compound that has been effectively used for a variety of types of pain for over 70 years,
It reduces pain, inflammation, and specifically anesthetizes C-fibers without affecting motor function nor surrounding tissues.
It is a great alternative to steroid injections because of its safety profile while still yielding great results.
Restores normal nerve function and normalizes cell membrane potential.
P-aminobenzoic acid "PABA" which is part of the folic acid molecule and dimethylamineoethanol "DMAE."
We use procaine for two main functions:
1. It is a vasodilator, so it can be added to other nutrient injections to increase absorption.
2. Neural Therapy - Neural Therapy was developed in Germany in the early 1900s. It involves the injection of procaine into scars, trigger points, acupuncture points, tendon and ligament insertions, peripheral nerves, autonomic ganglia, the epidural space, and other tissues to treat chronic pain and illness.
We utilize it mainly for scar tissue and adhesions. The injection of procaine has the incredible ability to allow the cells to communicate again - it helps tissues to heal (both locally and globally).
You can read more about Neural Therapy here.
Local anesthetic with an interesting ability to deactivate trigger points.
Lidocaine can be used by itself, or in conjunction with other compounds to treat pain.
As a local anesthetic, it "technically" lasts for 30-40 minutes, however we clinically observe that pain remains reduced unless the affected area is re-aggravated.
We typically combine lidocaine with the homeopathic Traumeel for Trigger Point Injections to deactivate the trigger points which relaxes the muscle and reduces pain.
We also add either hydroxocobalamin for healing of tissues or methylcobalamin for the healing of nerves.
Viable alternative to cortisone injections. (study)
Traumeel injections are a non-cortisone treatment for musculoskeletal pain, and a safe alternative to both corticosteroids and NSAIDs.
This homeopathic preparation is composed of natural botanical and mineral extracts, and can be administered through injections, tablets, drops, ointments, and gels.
We use injectable Traumeel by itself, or in conjunction with other homeopathics like Gelsemium for nerve pain or Zeel for degenerative pain. We also often combine it with lidocaine for trigger point deactivation and either methylb12 or hydroxob12 for nerve or tissue healing, respectively.
Zeel is a homeopathic solution used for treating pain, inflammation, and stiffness associated with arthrosis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatic joint diseases. Often used in combination with Traumeel, Zeel can provide temporary relief of mild to moderate pain. It is a safe alternative to oral NSAIDs and is often used in pain management.
Zeel contains only natural botanical and mineral extracts, including arnica, belladonna, comfrey root, and echinacea, and is administered into the joints via injection.
The mechanism of Zeel’s activity in the body is not well understood, but it is believed that the solution inhibits a cartilage-destroying enzyme. This enzyme, leukocyte elastase, is released during inflammation and eats away at the joint tissue.
Zeel’s plant extracts, arnica montana and rhus toxicodendron, stimulate the release of growth factors that protect cartilage and promote natural healing.
Hevert® Gelsemium comp. is a homeopathic drug indicated for the improvement of painful nerve conditions, such as post-herpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, sciatic nerve pain, and even migraine headache.
It can be used by itself, or in combination with other homeopathics like Traumeel, and other compounds like lidocaine for pain relief.
Spascupreel® Injection Solution is indicated for the relief of spasms (as the name suggests) of the smooth musculature of the gastrointestinal and the urogenital tract as well as general muscle spasms.
Great for colicky intestinal pain caused by gas and indigestion.
Often combined with Traumeel and lidocaine for pain and muscle spasm relief in the back, and other areas.
Hevert® Calmvalera™ comp. is a homeopathic drug indicated for the treatment of nervous disorders such as restlessness and sleep disorders, mild depressive states, and mental exhaustion.
We use this compound on acupuncture points whose natures are to calm the nervous system to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and to help with sleep.
By combining the functional actions of both the compound and the points, we get a synergistic effect that is more powerful than either modality on its own.
Lymphaden
Lymphatic drainage and health
Hepar-Comp
Liver detox, stress
Engystol & Gripp Heel
Fighting and preventing viral infections
Cosmetic Injections
We combine two products by Guna, "MADE" and "Collagen" to give you homeopathic injections that can lessen deep lines and wrinkles.
This natural remedy helps restore your skin by accelerating your metabolism and blood circulation; removing toxins and other wastes from your skin; restructuring and providing a fine balance to your body’s immune system, and acting as a source of nutrients and tissue that your body needs to create healthy skin.
MADE and Collagen homeopathic injections also treat skin conditions like hormonal acne, chronic acne, inflammatory acne, and chronic skin allergies that cause itchy skin, rashes, and blemishes.
We also utilize procaine for deeper scars, and medical microneedling.
Hevert® Lymphaden™ comp. is a homeopathic drug indicated for the improvement of conditions such as swelling of the lymph nodes, and lymphatic edema.
It promotes metabolic processes and activates lymph outflow from the tissues resulting in elimination of toxic substances from the inter cellular space.
Because it helps to move the lymph, it is effective for reducing inflammation, reducing pain, systemic detox, and helping the immune system.
Stimulation of the detoxicating function of the liver in acute and chronic diseases of the liver and gallbladder.
What is most interesting about this compound is that is seems to work very well with pathologies of the liver in both terms of Western and Eastern Medicine.
In Western Medicine, we are talking about the literal liver and gallbladder, and their associated physiological functions.
In Eastern Medicine we talk about the liver in terms of several other functions, signs, and symptoms including stress, irritability, distending pain, and even certain types of indigestion.
Herpar-Comp has been likened to a homeopathic form of the Chinese Herbal Formula "Xiao Yao San" which is a great formula to relieve stress and anxiety.
Engystol is used to strengthen the infection defenses of the body. It can be taken after the onset of symptoms, as well as for prevention and chronic treatment.
Gripp Heel strengthens the immune system and stimulates phagocytic activity. It is typically taken at the onset of a viral infection like the cold or flu to help recover more quickly and more completely.
We use these compounds together to bolster the immune system in those who are immune compromised, and for the general public during cold/flu season.
We also use them, in differing amounts for quicker recovery if a virus is caught.
We also use Engystol to prevent herpes simplex breakouts for both maintenance control, as well as a prophylactic for microneedling procedures.
Fine lines, Wrinkles, and Acne Scars
Breviscapine
Brain health and circulation.
Astragalus
Anti-aging, Energy, and Allergies
Andrographis
Antibacterial
Adrographis is a Chinese Herb also known as Chuan Xin Lian.
It has both an antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory effect.
It is used to treat symptoms of bacterial infections of the respiratory and urinary tracts.
Glutathione
Detox.
Breviscapine is a Chinese Herb also known as Deng Zhan Hua Su.
It is used to promote the microcirculation in the brain and thus is effective at treating brain fog, poor memory, post stroke symptoms, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Astragalus is a Chinese Herb also known as Huang Qi.
We use this injectable herb primarily to increase energy and to reduce symptoms of allergies like sneezing and hay fever.
It also has anti-aging and longevity properties.
Major antioxidant in the body - Glutathione (GSH) is a scavenger, it circulates the body and "picks up" any metabolites, wastes, and "toxins" that it finds to be excreted from the body.
It is particularly helpful in chronic conditions and latent pathogens like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic Epstein Barr, and Chronic Lyme.
We use Injectable Glutathione and oral NAC in combination to support these detox pathways (plus an methyl support when needed for certain Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, SNPs).
Bloodwork showing a 2:1 ratio of Neutrophils to Lymphocytes is predictive of chronic inflammation and/or a latent pathogen (like EBV and Lyme), so when we see this in bloodwork, we typically will suggest injections of GSH, Oral NAC, and/or a Glutathione Phototherapy Patch.