This cold hands case study involves a 46-year-old woman who came to our clinic two years ago complaining of constantly cold hands and feet. It did not matter the season, summer or winter; her hands and feet stayed cold all the time.
History of Cold Hands
Our patient was active – she played tennis twice a week – and did yoga at home. But leading an active physical life did nothing to improve her cold extremities. Her body’s core did not tend to get cold. She was not one to wear extra sweaters around the house. Her body temperature, besides her hands and feet, was normal.
Some people develop cold extremities as they get older. Our patient had cold hands and feet for as long as she could remember, dating to when she was a little girl. She had come to terms with the condition and never expected any improvement. But one day, a friend mentioned she had been exploring a local acupuncture clinic’s website (ours) and saw that they treated cold hands and feet. She was intrigued and scheduled an appointment.
Cold Hands Case Study
Our intake exam revealed some interesting facts. First, as expected, our new patient was healthy, with no chronic health conditions. She occasionally had trouble falling asleep and was prone to bloating after eating dairy. But overall, there were no red flag issues of concern.
Second, it was clear that her cold extremities resulted from Qi stagnation in the channels of her arms and legs. Channels are like roads that allow the body’s energy, called Qi, to flow. For no good reason, some people will have a constitutional tendency towards blockage in these pathways leading to cold hands and feet.
Treatment Strategy
The treatment strategy in this cold hands case study was to re-open the blocked channels to allow Qi to flow smoothly to the hands and feet. We selected points on the Yang Ming channels of the arms and legs, including Li15, Li11, Li10, Li4, ST31, ST34, ST36, and ST41. We also included the Qi circulating point LV3 and calming points GV20, Si shen cong, and Yintang.
She loved the treatments – they were relaxing to her. And following her second treatment, she began feeling warmth in her hands and feet. The results seemed like magic, something she had never experienced before. In addition, she appreciated the intuitive nature of the treatment strategy – opening channels to allow the free flow of Qi to the extremities.
Excellent Results With Acupuncture
After just six treatments, her hands and feet felt significantly warmer. Unfortunately, a month-long work trip kept her away from treatment. Upon returning, she reported that her extremities were still feeling better but would like to come in for treatment once a month to help maintain her circulation and promote overall health. She’s been coming in for monthly maintenance every since.
Next Steps
If you have chronically cold hands and feet and are intrigued by this cold hands case study, come in and try acupuncture.
BOOK NOW to schedule an appointment online.
Watch Video About Our Cold Hands and Feet Treatment.
Learn about all the conditions we treat.
