Chronic scar pain can manifest in various ways. For some, the pain may be sharp and sudden, while for others, it may be a persistent dull ache. Something as simple as clothing brushing against the scar can cause discomfort, making everyday activities challenging. The reason behind this prolonged pain lies in the complexity of the body’s healing process. Nerves can be severed during surgery, and scar tissue can entrap these nerves, causing irritation. In some cases, scar tissue can extend beyond the initial wound area, leading to more widespread pain.

The reality is that this pain is not something you have to live with indefinitely. There are treatments available that can address the root cause of the discomfort and help you regain control over your body.

How Acupuncture and Injection Therapy Can Help

At Lucas Acupuncture, I specialize in treating chronic scar pain, especially for those who have had C-sections or hysterectomies. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from medical doctors around the world while teaching them acupuncture techniques. These experiences have broadened my understanding of alternative medicine, introducing me to advanced procedures that are making a significant difference in the lives of patients.

One such procedure is injection therapy. About 5 to 6 years ago, practitioners of Chinese medicine and acupuncturists in Colorado were granted the ability to offer injection therapy as part of their treatment plans. Having been exposed to this practice earlier during my international work, I was more than ready to integrate it into my services. Injection therapy can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with acupuncture, depending on the individual needs of the patient.

What is Injection Therapy?

Injection therapy involves the use of procaine—a local anesthetic commonly used to treat functional disorders, inflammatory conditions, and both acute and chronic pain. This method can be highly effective for addressing chronic scar pain, as well as other health issues.

There are different approaches to injection therapy:

• Local Therapy (Trigger Point Injections): These injections target specific areas of pain, such as around scar tissue, to relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Segmental Therapy: This approach focuses on treating nerve roots and peripheral nerves to address more systemic issues caused by nerve dysfunction. Procaine works by normalizing the autonomous nervous system, which can become dysregulated after surgery, leading to pain and inflammation.

For those experiencing ongoing pain after a C-section or hysterectomy, intradermal injections around the sacrum (the base of the spine) can be particularly effective. These shallow injections help treat various conditions, including:

• PMS
• Fertility issues
• Sore C-section scars or symptoms related to the procedure
• Post-hysterectomy recovery
• Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Low libido
• Bladder control issues
• General reproductive health maintenance

Why Choose Lucas Acupuncture?

At Lucas Acupuncture, my goal is to provide holistic, patient-centered care that goes beyond simply treating symptoms. I take the time to understand the unique needs of each individual and tailor treatments to address both the physical and emotional aspects of their health. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain from a past surgery or are seeking support for reproductive health, I am here to help you find relief and regain your quality of life.

Don’t let chronic scar pain or other post-surgical issues hold you back. Contact me at Lucas Acupuncture to explore how acupuncture and injection therapy can make a difference in your healing journey.

Call 303-947-6224 or email to schedule an appointment today.

In today’s world, there is an insatiable demand for products and procedures promising to turn back the clock. Regardless of economic fluctuations, billions of dollars are spent annually on treatments designed to make us look younger, slimmer, or more beautiful. From chin implants to fat transplants, arm lifts to ear plastic surgery, there’s a procedure for nearly every body part that might cause dissatisfaction.

Interestingly, many of these cosmetic procedures have medical origins. Plastic surgery, for instance, was initially a lifesaver for those disfigured by accidents, born with deformities like cleft palates, or injured in war. The field saw significant advancements following World War I due to the need to treat soldiers’ injuries. Botox’s history is similarly rooted in medical necessity. Discovered in the 1950s, it was first used to relax hypertensive muscles and treat spasms, and it still provides relief for patients with facial, neck, or shoulder spasms.

Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Chinese medicine, also didn’t begin with cosmetic intentions. However, certain points and techniques have shown remarkable “cosmetic” outcomes over time. As a practitioner, I find immense satisfaction in using minimally invasive techniques to help people maintain their youthful appearance. The beauty of acupuncture lies in its ability to harness the body’s natural processes for rejuvenation. With Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture, we address the internal causes of aging alongside the visible signs on the skin. This dual approach is the hallmark of Chinese medicine: treating wrinkles from both the inside and the outside.

Cosmetic acupuncture stands out as one of the least aggressive procedures available for maintaining youthfulness. Unlike treatments that introduce foreign substances into the body, acupuncture promotes health and vibrancy from within. It uses your body’s own mechanisms to foster a youthful glow, avoiding the need for toxins or invasive measures.

Chinese medicine offers a holistic path to beauty, creating an inner vitality that radiates outward. If you’re looking to enhance your youthful appearance naturally, consider making an appointment for cosmetic acupuncture today. Embrace the true essence of beauty with a treatment that nurtures your health inside and out.

Drawing upon my 25+ years of experience in the healthcare field, I present evidence-based insights and practical tips that empower readers to take charge of their health journey. From nutrition and exercise to mindfulness and stress management, this book is a roadmap to achieving optimal health and vitality. I am excited to share this valuable resource with those seeking a holistic perspective on wellness.

My new book: Dr. Martha’s 52 Weeks of Victorious Aging: Tips to Ensure a Happy and Healthy Year at any Age, is available right HERE!

Enjoy!

And I wish you and your circle of loved ones a most happy holiday season and healthy 2024 and beyond!

Dr. Martha

am also a Reiki Master including giving distant Reiki treatments

offer herbal medicine, supplements, and essential oil blends​

give great Gua Sha facial treatments and microneedling​

do Cosmetic Acupuncture on face and neck

give B12 injections and neural therapy for treating scars

and have a number of AT HOME therapeutic recording for you!

Want to know more? I’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.

​

AUTHOR: I have written several books about Cosmetic Acupuncture (Cosmetic Acupuncture Works! is one) and Chinese Medicine in general (Ear acupuncture/acupressure,Pulse Diagnosis – my clinical specialty). But my most recent book is a story about being a Catholic Daughter of a Catholic Mother and the trials, tribulations, and successes of such a life. I’ve called it a journal because each chapter ends with questions about your life!

SKIN CARE LINE CREATOR: Some years ago I knew that I needed some skin care products to use at my Cosmetic Acupuncture seminars. I wanted all natural products but they also had to “work” ….. they needed to have active ingredients that were also natural but which also do something! It’s called My Zen Skin Care because it not only is good for your skin but it’s good for your spirit – all natural, women-owned and operated, bunny safe, we recycle and reuse, and we donate a percent of our profits to the Cat Care Society and our local church food bank.

​

Contact me any time for answers to your questions!

Dr. Martha

Here are some facts that you need to know:

1. Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma. There are actually multiple types of skin cancer. The most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, while less common than basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, is more aggressive and accounts for the highest mortality rate. The good news is melanoma is a highly preventable form of skin cancer. By taking steps to minimize sun exposure and protecting the skin during sun exposure, most people will have a low risk of developing melanoma.
2. With early detection, the 5 year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. Early intervention is essential for effective melanoma treatment. One of the main reasons melanoma is associated with such a high mortality rate is that many melanoma cases are discovered in the advanced stages. But with early intervention, melanoma is very responsive to treatment so that makes regular skin checks imperative!
3. More than 2 people an hour die from melanoma in the U.S. Skin cancer prevention and early intervention are key to reducing the number of annual deaths related to this condition.
4. 1 in 5 Americans develop skin cancer before the age of 70. The risk of developing skin cancer and other skin health issues increases with age. From cosmetic changes to serious health concerns, it becomes increasingly important to visit a dermatologist regularly as we grow older.
5. 9500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the U.S. More people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other forms of cancer combined. Skin cancer is very common, and in most cases, it’s a highly treatable form of cancer. The sooner a dermatologist can diagnose skin cancer and begin treatment, the more likely patients are to make a full recovery. Regular self-screenings are essential, especially for patients who are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

THE MAIN MESSAGE? Protect your skin when you are in the sun, even on cloudy days, do regular skin checks yourself, see a dermatologist once a year for a full body skin check.

​

Someone said, I gave up worrying when I realized that it doesn’t either stop stuff from happening or make stuff happen but it DOES stop me from enjoying the good moment that I’m having right now.

Partly why this is so poignant for me right now is because I just had this conversation with my 16 year old grandson. He was telling me about religions that he had learned about including Buddhism, Stoicism, and others. We talked about living in the moment, not worrying, not obsessing about the past and I told him that if “I was worrying right now about something in the future, I would miss out on enjoying being with you right now.”

What is the basis of worry?

Anxiety … the feeling or fear that something bad is going to happen. It’s our brain’s red flag – telling us that something may be wrong. The problem is that sometimes anxiety is based on feelings from the past that trigger the feeling in the present. In other words, you’re safe, there isn’t any real danger; it’s just a feeling. Granted, it is a very uncomfortable feeling for sure!

Here are 3 tips to help reduce anxiety when it rears its head:

1. Make a list of 3 things that you can see or smell right now – at the moment you are having the anxiety.
2. Suck on a strong lemony sour candy or a candy like Hot Tamales.
3. Stick your face in a bowl of ice water. Brrrrr!
4. Practice having anxiety and letting it go. Remember how we used to practice Stop, Drop, and Roll in case of fire? We learned it so well that we didn’t even have to think about what to do if we were ever threatened by fire. You can do the same thing to help reduce anxiety: practice feeling anxiety, practice one of the hints that you know will help reduce it, and feel calmer.

WHY do any of these things? Because they cause you to use your other senses like paying attention to how something tastes or smells. You might say that it’s just distracting you but not really. These hints shock your brain into knowing that it’s okay, you are not in danger, your brain doesn’t need to be on extra high alert right now.

Contact me if you need support reducing anxiety or depression.

Dr. Martha

Breathe free naturally! I have the perfect herbal formula to deal with allergies. It’s the formula Te Xiao Bi Gan (also known as allergy clear or allergy peace in English).

Here’s what people are saying about this Allergy Formula:

+ I suffered from seasonal allergies and this product gave me great relief.

+ I’ve used this product for the last 2 allergy seasons and it has helped me incredibly against allergy symptoms.

+ Clears my stuffy head!

+ I got a cold after a trip. My eyes wouldn’t stop tearing and nose stuffy. I knew I needed this formula and glad the product came quickly!

+ Once it dried up all of my allergy mucous, I could stop using it. Glad to know there’s something that works and that I can use as needed.

The time tested formula is made from all natural herbs that reflect a wonderful fusion of science and tradition. It is non-drowsy and non-habit forming.

Here are 4 healthy habits that you can add to your wellness routine.

1. Take a “breathing break” …. no, not FROM breathing but from the shallow breathing that we tend to do when we’re stressed. Take a 1 and a half minute break (yep, just 90 seconds) now and then to take a few deep breaths. It can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, and lower blood pressure and your heart rate.
2. Move your body. Research has found that moving your body for just 5 to 11 minutes a day increases your life span.
3. Connect with a friend. Take just 5 minutes a day to feel seen and heard – and pass that same favor on to someone else. Even asking how the cashier at the grocery store is doing and sharing a bit about your day helps reduce depression and declining memory.
4. Prepare healthy snacks to eat every day; make healthy choices.

In the realm of holistic wellness, essential oils have emerged as a powerful tool for promoting physical and mental well-being. These concentrated plant extracts possess a myriad of benefits that can enhance various aspects of your life. In this blog post, we will delve into the captivating world of essential oils, exploring their potential to reduce stress, improve sleep, boost mood, relieve pain, and much more. Discover the transformative power of essential oils and unlock a new level of holistic self-care.

Reduce Anxiety and Stress:

In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety and stress have become common companions for many individuals. Essential oils offer a natural and effective solution for managing these challenges. Certain oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and bergamot, possess calming properties that can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and stress. Incorporating these oils into your daily routine through diffusers, inhalation, or diluted topical application can create a serene and relaxing environment that promotes inner peace and tranquility.

Promote Relaxation and Improve Sleep Quality:

Quality sleep is vital for optimal well-being, but for many, it remains elusive. Essential oils can be a game-changer when it comes to improving sleep quality. Lavender, known for its soothing scent, has been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep duration and quality. Other oils like clary sage, ylang-ylang, and vetiver also possess sedative properties that can help calm the mind and prepare the body for a restful night’s sleep. Consider incorporating these oils into your bedtime routine for a blissful and rejuvenating slumber.

Enhance Mood and Energy Levels:

Sometimes, a boost of positive energy and an uplifted mood can make all the difference in our daily lives. Essential oils have the power to invigorate and elevate mood. Citrus oils, such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit, are renowned for their refreshing and energizing qualities. Peppermint oil, with its invigorating aroma, can also provide a natural pick-me-up. By diffusing these oils or using them topically, you can infuse your space with a revitalizing ambiance that promotes a positive mindset and increased energy levels.

Alleviate Headaches and Migraines:

Headaches and migraines can be debilitating, affecting productivity and overall well-being. Essential oils offer a holistic approach to managing these conditions. Peppermint oil, in particular, has been shown to provide relief from tension headaches when applied topically. Eucalyptus and rosemary oils also possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate headache symptoms. Dilute these oils in a carrier oil and gently massage onto the temples or affected areas for soothing relief.

Provide Relief for Muscle and Joint Pain:

Whether it’s from an intense workout or a chronic condition, muscle and joint pain can disrupt daily activities. Essential oils can offer natural relief from these discomforts. Eucalyptus oil, renowned for its analgesic properties, can help ease muscle and joint pain when applied topically. Lavender, marjoram, and ginger oils also possess anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities. Incorporate these oils into massage blends or create soothing bath soaks for targeted relief and relaxation.

Aid in Focus and Concentration:

In today’s world of constant distractions, maintaining focus and concentration can be challenging. Essential oils can provide a natural boost to mental clarity and cognitive function. Rosemary oil, known for its stimulating properties, has been shown to enhance memory and concentration. Peppermint oil, with its invigorating scent, can also promote alertness and mental focus. Diffusing these oils in your workspace or using them in a personal inhaler can help create an environment conducive to improved focus and productivity.

Support Respiratory Health and Boost Immunity:

Keeping our respiratory system healthy and our immune system strong is vital for overall well-being. Essential oils can play a significant role in supporting these essential bodily functions. Eucalyptus oil, renowned for its decongestant properties, can help clear respiratory passages and provide relief from congestion and cough. Tea tree oil, with its antimicrobial properties, can help fight off common pathogens and support a robust immune system. Incorporating these oils into steam inhalations or using them in a diffuser can contribute to respiratory wellness and bolster immunity.

Conclusion:

The world of essential oils is a treasure trove of holistic wellness benefits. From reducing anxiety and stress to promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, enhancing mood and energy levels, relieving headaches and migraines, alleviating muscle and joint pain, aiding focus and concentration, and supporting respiratory health and immunity, essential oils offer a multitude of advantages for both your physical and mental well-being.

As you embark on your journey to incorporate essential oils into your holistic self-care routine, consider exploring the wide range of essential oil blends available at Acupuncture Woman. Each blend is carefully crafted to maximize the benefits of different oils, allowing you to experience their synergistic effects.

Acupuncture Woman presents a wonderful opportunity to discover new essential oil blends and elevate your well-being. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your holistic self-care journey. Visit our online store today and unlock the transformative power of essential oils.

For any inquiries or assistance, please feel free to reach out to us at drmlucas@acupuncturewoman.com. We are here to support you on your path to holistic wellness.

Dr. Martha

Banishing belly bloat: algae’s minerals have a diuretic effect that stimulates the body to decrease water retention and expel toxins. Why am I telling you this? Because I have this cool tip for you on how to get rid of belly bloat. Just soak 6 dried seaweed sheets in water for 5 minutes; place them on your tummy and cover with plastic wrap. Leave on for 10 minutes; remove. Then you can use my My Zen Skin Care’s Chen Pi Body Oil to do belly Gua Sha. It can help your stomach look flatter. I can also give you this treatment at both my Denver and Littleton locations.

While your metabolism may not be as lightning fast as it was when you were a teenager, you can give it a dramatic boost by just taking a deep breath before eating.

Spending 2 minutes pre-meal breathing deeply cuts stress hormone (cortisol) release which scientists at Harvard say allows your body’s mitochondria to convert more food into energy before it gets stored as fat! It’ll help strengthen your lungs too.

Did you know that for many years the American Heart Association has recommended that people eat fish rich in unsaturated fats at least twice a week? The unsaturated fats in fish are called omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients in fish may benefit heart health and reduce the risk of dying of heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have various potential health benefits, one of which is aiding weight loss. However, studies have found these effects appear to be modest, and they may not apply to everyone. What are other benefits?

1. It has lots of important nutrients

2. May lower risk of heart attack and stroke

3. May boost brain health

4. May help prevent and treat depression

5. Helps you get vitamin D

6. May reduce your risk of autoimmune diseases

7. May help protect your vision

8. May improve sleep.

I hope you have a great day!

Dr. Martha

Timing is everything. Nature knows this and teaches us if we are paying attention. From winter to spring we can witness a drastic change in our environment. As that fresh spring breeze blows in and the cold barren landscape transforms into a vibrant display of life, we may feel like getting outside and shaking off some of that winter sluggishness.

In Chinese medicine, Spring is liver time, which is a time of rebirth, growth and movement. It is also a perfect time for supporting our liver function with some gentle detoxification. In accord with Chinese Medicine theory, the regeneration of liver cells is measurably more prolific after the spring equinox. Our bodies know what to do. Liver function, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), includes regulating the movement of qi (energy) and blood in the body. It’s all about getting things moving again after nature’s slow season. 

From a western biomedical standpoint, the liver is mainly an organ of detoxification. The liver degrades old red and white blood cells and breaks down toxic chemicals, cleansing and refreshing the blood. It actively filters 1.3 – 1.5 liters of blood every single minute. It also synthesizes bile which carries toxins out of the body through the intestines. 

There are 2 main phases of detoxification in the liver that process contaminants like medications, alcohol, and environmental toxins. Phase 1 is responsible for transforming fat-soluble compounds into water-soluble compounds. Phase 2 converts pesticides, alcohol, toxic metals, excess hormones etc. into safer compounds that can then be eliminated by other organs.

Herbology is the internal medicine branch of TCM. We can support liver function and in turn our natural spring renewal process with the use of some Chinese herbs. With an understanding that the safest and most effective herbal therapy is a customized one, we can look at a few herbal detox superheros:

Turmeric: (jiang huang)

TCM categorizes this herb as a blood mover. It unblocks qi and blood stasis and eases pain.

Western pharmacology recognizes its blood-moving and anti-inflammatory properties as well. It is known to support both phase 1 and phase 2 of liver detox. A study on mice showed it also improved liver detoxification by lowering inflammatory markers, reducing oxidative stress and increasing glutathione (another important body detoxification product made in the liver).

Turmeric can be enjoyed as a food, seasoning, supplement, or in tea. ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder can be added to meals. Be sure to add a little black pepper to increase absorption. You can also grate fresh turmeric root into soups, salads and curries.

Schizandra Berry (wu wei zi ) 

This amazing medicinal herb is also known as 5 flavor berry because it exhibits all 5 flavors. It also remarkably enters all 12 meridians and therefore has multiple beneficial effects on the body. It is mainly thought of as having an astringent action, which can treat symptoms of liver and kidney deficiency by preventing loss of qi and yin fluids. Bio-chemically, it is known to support regeneration of healthy liver cells. It has been used to help induce regeneration of liver tissue after part of the liver was surgically removed. It also activates the phase 1 detox pathway, helps to decrease free radicals, protects cell membranes, and can assist in lowering stress-related increases of liver enzymes.

Small amounts of the berries can be eaten fresh or dried and there are also tinctures, powders and supplements. But why not relax with a cup of some medicinal and delicious 5-flavor tea?

Gold Coin Grass: (jin qian cao) 

Another herbal powerhouse to keep on hand for spring cleaning is Gold Coin Grass. TCM functions are to drain damp, remove heat and toxins, and eliminate stasis. In Western herbology, it is recognized for its ability to dissolve and prevent gallstones and promote bile secretion to help to move sediment and clear bile ducts. This is in addition to it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects

Gold Coin Grass is known for making a drinkable tea, but can also be taken as a supplement or tincture. It is not advisable for patients with diarrhea or those on anti-diuretic medications.

Listen to your body this spring. You may hear it calling for exercise, or emotional release. While you’re at it, try one of these 3 herbal superheroes and see what their powers can do for you!

To discover the full benefits of Chinese herbal therapy and how it can help you optimally adjust to the changing season, call Dr. Martha Lucas, L.Ac. to schedule your next appointment!

References:

https://www.liversupport.com/spring-ideal-time-clean-liver/

https://teelixir.com/blogs/news/herbs-detox-for-liver

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073929/

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2020/9535731/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0367326X99001021

https://www.chineseherbshealing.com/proven-herbal-remedies/gold-coin-grass.html