PAIN & INFLAMMATION

Pain & Inflammation

Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. While acute pain is part of the body’s natural healing process, chronic pain or ongoing inflammation is often a sign that deeper systems are out of balance. Whether it’s from injury, poor circulation, unresolved inflammation, nerve sensitivity, or immune dysregulation—persistent pain can affect every area of your life.

Functional medicine and acupuncture work together to not only manage symptoms but also uncover and address the root causes—supporting long-term relief and resilience.

Common Pain & Inflammatory Conditions We Support:

  • Injury recovery (sprains, strains, repetitive stress)

  • Muscle pain and tension

  • Joint pain and stiffness (shoulders, knees, hips, hands)

  • Fibromyalgia and widespread pain

  • Neck, shoulder, and back pain (acute or chronic)

  • Migraines and tension headaches

  • Plantar fasciitis and foot pain

  • Arthritis and degenerative joint conditions

  • Nerve-related pain or postural imbalances

  • Unexplained pain syndromes

Why Inflammation Matters

Inflammation is a natural part of healing—but when it becomes chronic, it can interfere with tissue repair, immune function, and pain signaling. Ongoing inflammation may stem from:

  • Gut permeability and microbiome imbalance

  • Hormonal dysregulation (e.g., cortisol, estrogen)

  • Blood sugar imbalance or insulin resistance

  • Chronic infections or latent viruses

  • Environmental toxins or mold exposure

  • Unresolved trauma or nervous system activation

  • Nutrient deficiencies (like magnesium, omega-3s, or vitamin D)

Over time, this creates a “sensitized” state in the body where even small triggers can lead to pain, swelling, or muscle tension.

Our Approach to Pain

Instead of just suppressing pain signals, we look at the bigger picture—what’s causing the inflammation, how your body is processing stress, and where systems may be overactive or under-supported.

  • We review:

    • Injury history and areas of mechanical dysfunction

    • Inflammatory load and triggers

    • Digestive health and immune regulation

    • Sleep, stress, and nervous system tone

    • Hormonal balance and nutrient status

    • Inflammatory markers (CRP, homocysteine, cytokines)

    • Hormone and cortisol rhythm testing

    • Nutrient panels (magnesium, vitamin D, omega-3s)

    • GI and gut barrier function testing

    • Mycotoxin or chronic infection panels if appropriate

    • Anti-inflammatory dietary plans tailored to your needs

    • Nutrients and herbs to reduce pain and oxidative stress (curcumin, magnesium, omega-3s, boswellia)

    • Gut-healing and detoxification support when inflammation originates internally

    • Mitochondrial support for energy and muscle recovery

    • Nervous system regulation with adaptogens and sleep support

  • Acupuncture is clinically proven to reduce pain, improve circulation, and release endorphins and natural anti-inflammatory compounds. It’s especially effective for:

    • Neck, shoulder, and back pain

    • Joint pain and stiffness

    • Muscle tension and spasms

    • Migraines and tension headaches

    • Nerve-related pain and recovery after injury

    • Chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia

    Eastern medicine looks at pain as a disruption in qi and blood flow, often influenced by underlying patterns like stagnation, deficiency, or cold invasion. Acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, and bodywork are selected based on your unique presentation to restore movement, reduce pain, and support long-term balance.

Pain and inflammation are not just physical symptoms—they’re signals that the body needs support. Whether pain stems from injury, immune dysregulation, or systemic inflammation, a whole-body approach can help calm reactivity, restore balance, and improve function. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Dawna Ara to discuss your unique concerns and develop a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan for whole-body wellness.