 What is the Vagus Nerve?The vagus nerve, also known as the tenth cranial nerve or CN X, is one of the most important components of the human autonomic nervous system. It is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves, extending from the brainstem to the abdomen and affecting various bodily functions. The term "vagus" is derived from the Latin word for "wandering," reflecting the extensive reach of this nerve throughout the body. The vagus nerve plays a pivotal role in regulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" functions. It helps manage several involuntary activities, including:
How can acupuncture help?Research suggests that acupuncture may influence the vagus nerve, thereby affecting the autonomic nervous system. Here are some of the key findings:
²Meira do Valle SS, Hong H. Acupuncture Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder by Activating the Vagus Nerve and Improving Heart-Rate Variability and Heart-Rhythm Coherence, A Case-Series Study. Med Acupunct. 2024;36(1):21-26. doi:10.1089/acu.2023.0036 ³1.Boehmer AA, Georgopoulos S, Nagel J, Rostock T, Bauer A, Ehrlich JR. Acupuncture at the auricular branch of the vagus nerve enhances heart rate variability in humans: An exploratory study. Heart Rhythm O2. 2020;1(3):215-221. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hroo.2020.06.001 What is the experience like during an acupuncture treatment?Stimulation of the Vagus Nerve: Acupuncture needles inserted at specific points can stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and stress response. Dr. Zamora takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and addresses specific conditions to best serve them. What are patients saying?“I’ve only been twice to acupuncture with Dr. Zamora but so far, I really like the practice. I think she’s very thorough. She listens and you never feel rushed in your session and I am looking forward to the benefits from future sessions at this practice. I would encourage anyone who’s having issues or problems to make an appointment with Dr. Zamora’s practice.” (L.C. March 2025) Contact Us:Are you ready to take your wellness to the next level? Contact us today at 480-300-5767 or visit www.AZACU.com to schedule your appointment with Dr. Zamora. With personalized treatment plans designed just for you, we can help you achieve a new level of wellness.. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you!
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 How to Prepare for An Acupuncture TreatmentAcupuncture is a holistic healing practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments and promote overall well-being. Proper preparation can enhance your experience and maximize the benefits of the treatment. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your acupuncture session: Choose a qualified practitioner: Dr Zamora is Board certified by the NCCAOM, is a licensed acupuncturist for Arizona, clean needle certified, a member of Asian Medicine Acupuncturists of AZ, and acupuncture point injection technique certified. Read Reviews: Check out our website and Google for our Reviews! Zamora Acupuncture is highly rated. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Refrain from consuming caffeine and alcohol at least 24 hours before your session, as these substances can affect your nervous system and interfere with the treatment. Eat Lightly: Have a small, balanced meal or snack about 1-2 hours before your appointment. This helps maintain your energy levels and prevents dizziness or nausea. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after the treatment to help flush out toxins and support the healing process. Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to acupuncture points, often located on your arms, legs, and abdomen. Mental and Emotional Preparation
What to Expect During the Session?
Post-Treatment Care for AcupunctureTaking care of yourself after an acupuncture session is crucial to enhance the benefits of the treatment and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some tips to guide you in post-treatment care: Rest and Relaxation
What are patients saying?“Dr Zamora is FANTASTIC! I was traveling from out of town with extreme pain from a pinched nerve in my neck and she got me in the same day to help relieve my pain. I subsequently came back the next day for follow up session to which she offered to come in on her day off to continue my care. Her dedication and service from her and her staff are unmatched!! Trust she will treat you with the utmost care!!!” (R.C. May 2025) Contact Us:Are you ready to take your wellness to the next level? Contact us today at 480-300-5767 or visit www.AZACU.com to schedule your appointment with Dr. Zamora. With personalized treatment plans designed just for you, we can help you achieve a new level of wellness.. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you!
 IntroductionImagine moving freely without discomfort by addressing the source of your pain. Knee pain can affect your daily life, but real relief is possible. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing a comprehensive approach, you can take control of your knee health. Whether it's through lifestyle changes, therapeutic exercises, or holistic treatments, the journey to pain-free movement is within reach. What is Knee Pain?Knee pain means feeling discomfort or soreness in or near your knee joint. It can happen because of an injury, using your knee too much, or conditions such as arthritis. You might notice swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth, weakness, or your knee feeling unstable. Some common reasons for knee pain are injuries to ligaments or cartilage, tendonitis, and osteoarthritis. How you treat knee pain depends on what is causing it, but options include self-care, medicine, physical therapy, or sometimes surgery. How can Acupuncture Help?Acupuncture stimulates nerves and muscles, promoting the natural healing processes. Additionally, it can help reduce pain by releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Acupuncture also improves blood circulation, which can further alleviate pain and inflammation. Dr. Zamora's expertise in acupuncture makes it a powerful tool for knee pain relief. Patients often experience reduced pain and improved mobility after sessions. Additional Tips for a Holistic Approach to Knee PainHeat therapy is a simple and effective way to soothe aching knees. Applying warmth to the affected area can improve blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce stiffness. You can use a warm towel, heating pad, or a hot water bottle. Aim for about 15-20 minutes of heat application a few times a day. This relaxation technique can be particularly beneficial after a long day or strenuous activity. Engaging in gentle exercise and stretching is a highly effective method for enhancing flexibility and fortifying the muscles that support your knees. Activities such as yoga, along with exercises like squats, lunges, and hamstring curls, can strengthen the muscles surrounding your knee. What you eat can have a significant impact on your knee health. Nutrient-rich foods can help reduce inflammation and strengthen joints. Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, to support joint health. Leafy greens, berries, and nuts are also excellent choices, providing antioxidants and essential vitamins. Maintaining a balanced diet not only helps in managing pain but also contributes to overall well-being. What are Patient's saying?"Amazing staff and doctor; so accommodating and they genuinely care about their patients." (K.T. May 2025) Contact UsIf chronic knee pain persists despite trying these natural remedies, it may be time to seek professional help. Contact Zamora Acupuncture at 480-300-5767 or visit www.azacu.com. Dr. Zamora offers personalized treatment plans designed to address your specific pain concerns. With her guidance, you can embark on a journey towards a pain-free life. *Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. The information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.*
 What is Holistic Health?Holistic health is an approach to wellness that considers the whole person, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, rather than just focusing on symptoms or isolated parts of the body. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of these dimensions and recognizes that they all contribute to overall well-being. How does Acupuncture Enhance Holistic Health?Acupuncture is based on the concept of balance within the body. It aims to restore the flow of qi (energy) and balance the body's energy pathways, known as meridians. This balance is crucial in holistic care, which focuses on treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. By stimulating the body's natural relaxation response, acupuncture helps decrease the production of stress hormones, promoting mental and emotional well-being. This aligns with holistic care's goal of addressing mental health as a component of overall health. One of the most well-known benefits of acupuncture is its ability to manage pain effectively. By stimulating the nervous system, acupuncture can release endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and improve circulation. This makes it a valuable addition to holistic care plans for conditions such as chronic pain, migraines, and arthritis. Acupuncture has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells and enhancing overall immune function. This is particularly important in holistic care, where maintaining a strong immune system is essential for preventing illness and promoting long-term health. Adequate sleep is a cornerstone of holistic health. Acupuncture can help regulate sleep patterns by addressing underlying issues such as stress, anxiety, and pain. Improved sleep quality enhances the body's ability to heal and rejuvenate, contributing to a more balanced and healthy lifestyle. By incorporating acupuncture into holistic care, individuals can experience a more comprehensive approach to health that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Dr. Zamora has expertise in public health and health promotion, recognizing the significance of addressing the whole person rather than just the symptoms. What are patients saying?“Great acupuncturist! I came in an acute episode of back and hip pain and had immediate relief. Probably a good 25% after the first treatment. I like that she specializes in these areas as well. After about 3 total I wasn’t having any back pain, and we’re still working on the hips and other areas. I can highly recommend!” (T.W. May 2025) Contact Us:Are you ready to take your wellness to the next level? Contact us today at 480-300-5767 or visit www.AZACU.com to schedule your appointment with Dr. Zamora. With personalized treatment plans designed just for you, we can help you achieve a new level of wellness.. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you!
 How is "postpartum" defined?Postpartum refers to the period of time after a woman gives birth. It typically lasts for six to eight weeks, but can extend for up to a year. During this time, the mother's body recovers from pregnancy and childbirth, and she adjusts to caring for her newborn. Postpartum is also a time of significant emotional change for many women, as they may experience mood swings, fatigue, and anxiety. The Chinese term Zuo Ye Zi is the first 30 days of rest after childbirth. In addition to resting, postpartum nutrition will be important in restoring your energy as a new mother. How can Acupuncture help?Acupuncture can be a beneficial complementary therapy during the postpartum period, offering support for both physical and emotional recovery. It can help with a range of postpartum issues, including lactation problems, pain, emotional well-being, and hormone regulation. Dr. Zamora is here to assist you from preconception through pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Postpartum Nutritional Guidelines
Warming Postpartum TeasGinger Tea- Ginger tea can be taken daily to improve digestion and warm the yang. Peel ginger, slice about an inch into thin slices, and boil for 10-20 mins. Drink warm before meals. Add honey or lime for extra flavoring. Stinging Nettle- Nettle is a great source of iron and vitamin K. It can ease postpartum fatigue, reduce bleeding, increase breastmilk, and reduce hemorrhoids. You can find stinging nettle in the grocery store in the tea aisle. Chinese Red Date and Goji Tea- Both will help restore the liver and kidney energy while also being high in vitamin C. To make the tea: Use 10 jujubes (Chinese Red Dates) and 20 wolfberries (Goji). Rinse and put them in a saucepan with two liters of water; bring to boil. Simmer and cook for around 45 minutes. Turn off the saucepan and let it cool. Serve warm. You can eat the berries or strain. Blood and Qi Building Foods
Postpartum Restorative Chicken SoupIngredients Organic Free range chicken 3-4 slices fresh ginger Apple cider vinegar 1 leek, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 1-2 carrots chopped 1 small onion, diced (if tolerated by baby) 1 tomato, diced Alfalfa sprouts or kale, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 3 bay leaves 1 tbsp pepper or cumin Fresh herbs: Choose any or all: 1 large sprig of rosemary, half a bunch of parsley, 1 large sprig of sage, 2 large sprigs of thyme, chopped Directions:
What are patients saying?“The facility is spotless. Dr Zamora is gentle & caring. I find the online booking very easy & convenient. I’ve had good results.” (S.B. June 2025) Contact Us:Contact us today to experience outstanding postpartum care that nurtures your well-being and supports your journey. We are located in North Scottsdale and serve all surrounding areas. Call us at 480-300-5767 or visit our website for online booking at www.azacu.com.
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Dr. Kourtney Zamora, D.AcNorth Scottsdale Acupuncturist, Doctor of Acupuncture, Master of Acupuncture, Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Health Promotion. Archives
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