I know this is off topic in the shingrix vaccine comments but I agree with you, anything that helps us feel better is worth a try. Not sure I’ll ever completely understand how acupuncture works but it is the only thing that put an end to my neck/shoulder muscle spasms and the nauseating headaches they caused. So I’m really happy to see you’re having the same relief benefits.

My first experience with acupuncture was actually in my previous PCP’s office. She was an OD and had a certificate in acupuncture. I’d never had it done before but was willing to try. I had no expectations but figured it was worth a try. I was shocked at the immediate difference in my neck! That treatment lasted 6 weeks. But I didn’t want to return to my doctors office because it’s a huge clinic, risk of exposure to sick people and all that…plus, just trying to schedule an appointment for her service was difficult…and then all the insurance hoopla. I paid out of pocket but of course, in a clinic, it all had to be processed through billing and insurance.

Now armed with the knowledge that this indeed worked, I searched my area for a certified/licensed practitioner. My clinician is similar to yours in her education. It’s pretty extensive and felt very comfortable with her regarding professionalism, knowledge, cleanliness, etc. She also has a degree in Oncology Acupuncture and a member in the Society for Acupuncture Research and the Society for Integrative Oncology. She helped me immeasurable during my of AML chemo. But with chemo and the severe neutropenia that causes, my oncologist/hematologist felt it was now too risky. Even though the needles are sterile, it’s still another potential port of entry for bacteria I couldn’t fight.

After my bone marrow transplant I was on meds which left me further immuno compromised. So I haven’t had an acupuncture treatment for 2.5 years. With my last checkup at Mayo 3 weeks ago, the lids on my huge pill box have closed for ever! Yesss. So my transplant doctor gave me two thumbs up to ‘proceed with caution’! I’m looking forward to resuming the sessions.

It’s interesting about the benefit to your sinuses. I’ve wanted to encourage my daughter to see an acupuncturist for her ongoing sinus pressure issues.

Have you also tried deep tissue massage for relief?