allergy acupuncture spring hay fever

Hay Fever: More than a Runny Nose

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Spring is a beautiful time of year, but for many Australians it also means the return of hay fever — sneezing, itchy eyes and a nose that just won’t stop running.

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, happens when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances in the environment.Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, mould and animal dander.

When exposed to an allergen, the lining of the nose becomes irritated and inflamed. This can cause:

  • Frequent sneezing
  • A runny or blocked nose
  • An itchy nose or throat
  • Red, itchy or watery eyes
  • Post-nasal drip

Some people experience hay fever mainly during pollen season, while others have symptoms throughout the year.

How does Chinese medicine understand hay fever?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the Lungsystemis closely connected with thenose and the body’s interaction with the external environment. When this system is not functioning well, a person may be more prone to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion and watery discharge.

But Chinese medicine doesn’t consider every case of hay fever to be the same.

Different people, different patterns

A practitioner may look at:

  • Whether the nose is runny or blocked
  • Whether the discharge is clear, watery, thick or coloured
  • Whether the eyes are itchy, watery or red
  • Whether the person tends to feel hot or cold
  • Energy levels and sleep
  • Digestion
  • How often symptoms occur
  • Weather and seasonal changes
  • The tongue and pulse

This is called pattern differentiation, and it helps guide an individual Chinese medicine treatment plan.

What can make symptoms worse?

From a biomedical perspective, symptoms tend to worsen when exposure to the person’s allergens increases — for example during high pollen periods or with exposure to dust mites, mould or animals.

Chinese medicine also considers how symptoms change with the person’s environment and overall presentation.

For example, a practitioner may ask whether symptoms become worse with windy weather, sudden temperature changes or particular seasons, or whether they are more noticeable when the person is tired or run down.

These observations are used to understand the individual’s TCM pattern rather than to identify the medical cause of the allergy.

How may acupuncture help?

Acupuncture has been studied as a complementary treatment for allergic rhinitis.

Treatment usually involves selecting acupuncture points according to the person’s symptoms and overall Chinese medicine pattern. Points around the face may be combined with points elsewhere on the body.

What about Chinese herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine also uses pattern differentiation.

Traditionally, different herbal approaches may be considered when symptoms are dominated by clear watery discharge and sneezing, compared with presentations involving more congestion, heat or irritation.

Chinese herbal medicines contain active substances and can cause adverse effects or interact with medications. For this reason, herbal treatment should be individually assessed by an appropriately qualified practitioner, particularly for people who are pregnant, have other medical conditions or take prescription medicines.

Looking at the whole picture

Hay fever may look simple from the outside, but the way it presents can be very different from person to person.

Chinese medicine takes these differences into consideration when developing an individual treatment plan.

At Diamond Bridge Clinic, our registered Chinese medicine practitioners can assess your symptoms, general health and individual Chinese medicine pattern and discuss whether acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine may be appropriate as part of your care.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Spring: Seasonal Health & Wellbeing

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As winter begins to loosen its grip and the longer days return, we start to notice a change in the environment around us. Here on the Gold Coast, August can already bring warmer, brighter days — but also sudden changes back to cool temperatures at night.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these transitions between seasons have long been considered important times to pay attention to our health.

 Spring: a time of expansion and movement

Within traditional Chinese medicine theory, spring is associated with the Liver system, the Wood element, and a natural movement of energy upwards and outwards.

Classical Chinese medicine describes this seasonal quality through the idea of fā (发 / 發) — to issue, unfold, develop or bring forth. We can see this reflected in nature: plants begin to grow, days become warmer and activity increases.

From a TCM perspective, the same seasonal movement is considered when assessing changes in the body.

Why can the transition from winter feel uncomfortable?

Traditional Chinese medicine has historically placed considerable importance on protecting the body from climatic influences such as Wind and Cold. This is one reason traditional seasonal health practices recommend adapting clothing to the conditions rather than dressing for summer as soon as the first warm days arrive.

The Liver, tendons and the spring season

In Chinese medicine theory, the Liver is traditionally said to “govern the tendons” and is associated with the smooth movement of Qi throughout the body. Pains and aches can be a manifestation of a stagnated Qi movement, typical for this season.

The pulse traditionally associated with spring is described as becoming somewhat more wiry (弦, xián). Importantly, this is a concept from the traditional Chinese diagnostic system and should not be interpreted in the same way as a biomedical cardiovascular measurement.

During this season, a Chinese medicine practitioner may therefore pay particular attention to signs of tension, stiffness or restriction when forming an individual TCM pattern diagnosis.

What about mood, anxiety and blood pressure?

Traditional Chinese medicine also associates the Liver system with emotional regulation, particularly frustration, irritability and the ability of Qi to move freely.

For this reason, practitioners traditionally pay attention to changes in mood, agitation, sleep and feelings of tension during the transition toward spring.

However, TCM seasonal theory should not be interpreted to mean that spring itself causes anxiety or high blood pressure, but the expansive movement of Spring affect us in every aspect of our lives.

Working with the season

Seasonal self-care does not need to be complicated.

As the weather begins to change:

• Dress for changing temperatures, particularly during cooler mornings and evenings.
• Keep moving — walking, this is a good time to travel and expand yourself in every aspect.
• This is the only season when TCM recommends to eat some sweets, make the most of it!.
• Notice persistent or unusual changes in your physical or emotional health rather than assuming they are simply “seasonal”.
• Seek appropriate healthcare assessment when symptoms are persistent, severe or concerning.

If you are interested in understanding how Chinese medicine approaches seasonal health and your individual pattern, you are welcome to speak with our practitioners or book an appointment at the clinic.

This information describes concepts within traditional Chinese medicine and is provided for general educational purposes. Traditional Chinese medicine terminology and diagnostic concepts are not equivalent to biomedical diagnoses. Individual assessment is required to

Pain Management

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At Diamond Bridge Clinic, we provide a holistic approach to pain management on the Gold Coast using acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine

Understanding Pain

Pain can arise from many different causes and affect people in different ways. Some pain develops suddenly after an injury, while other pain may persist for months or years and impact daily activities, sleep, mobility, and overall wellbeing.

Common Types of Pain

We commonly see patients presenting with:

  • Neck and Back pain
  • Joint and Arthritic pain
  • Sciatica and nerve-related pain
  • Muscle strains and sports injuries
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Shoulder pain and frozen shoulder
  • Knee Pain
  • Tennis and golfer’s elbow
  • Post-traumatic pain following injury
  • Digestive or abdominal discomfort associated with functional disorders

In traditional Chinese medicine, pain is often understood as a disruption in the normal flow of Qi and Blood through the body’s channels and tissues

The Chinese Medicine Perspective

Different patterns may contribute to pain, including:

Qi Stagnation

Often associated with tension, stress, restricted movement, or pain that fluctuates in intensity.

Blood Stasis

Frequently seen in long-standing pain, traumatic injuries, post-surgical discomfort, or pain that is fixed and localised.

Bi Syndrome (Channel Obstruction)

Pain affecting muscles, tendons, and joints may be associated with obstruction of the channels by factors such as wind, cold, dampness, or heat. Symptoms may include stiffness, heaviness, swelling, or reduced mobility.

Deficiency Patterns

Chronic pain may sometimes be associated with reduced nourishment of the muscles, tendons, joints, or nervous system, resulting in weakness, recurring discomfort, or delayed recovery.

Relief

Pain management treatment aims to improve the circulation of Qi and Blood, support mobility, and promote overall wellbeing.

Chinese herbal medicine may also be incorporated into a treatment plan where appropriate. Herbs are selected according to the individual’s presentation and are traditionally used to support circulation, address patterns of obstruction, promote recovery pain management .

Contact Diamond Bridge Clinic to learn more about whether Chinese medicine may be suitable for your individual needs.

Back Pain and Traditional Chinese Medicine

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“Low back pain (LBP) has the highest prevalence globally among musculoskeletal conditions and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 6Australians have back problems.”(Australian Back Pain Statistics (2025), n.d.)

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints and can affect people of all ages. It may develop suddenly after an injury or gradually over time. In some cases, even a simple movement such as coughing, sneezing, bending, or lifting may aggravate an underlying issue.

Common contributing factors may include:

  • Muscle strain or ligament sprain
  • Poor posture or repetitive movements
  • Incorrect lifting or twisting
  • Sports or workplace injuries
  • Disc-related irritation
  • Age-related degenerative changes
  • Arthritis and joint stiffness
  • Stress and muscle tension

Symptoms may range from localised stiffness and aching to pain radiating into the buttock or leg, sometimes accompanied by cramping, tingling, or numbness.

Back Pain from a Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pain is often understood as a disruption in the smooth flow of Qi and Blood through the channels and tissues of the body. When circulation becomes impaired, discomfort, stiffness, or restricted movement may occur.

Different patterns may contribute to back pain depending on the individual presentation. These can include:

  • Qi and Blood stagnation following injury or overuse
  • Cold and Damp accumulation affecting the channels
  • Muscle tension associated with stress
  • Kidney deficiency patterns associated with chronic or age-related weakness

The aim of treatment in TCM is to support the body’s natural balance and encourage the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood.

Acupuncture for Back Pain

At Diamond Bridge Clinic, practitioners take an individualised approach to assessment and treatment. During the consultation, practitioners may ask questions such as:

  • Where is the pain located?
  • Is the pain sharp, dull, fixed, or throbbing?
  • Is it worse with movement or after rest?
  • What aggravates or relieves the pain?
  • Is there any numbness or tingling?
  • Does the pain radiate into the leg and foot?
  • How long have the symptoms been present?

These are some of the questions your practitioner might ask, and together with physical assessment and Chinese medicine diagnosis, help build a clearer understanding of the condition and guide treatment planning.

Acupuncture treatment may be used as part of a broader management approach for back pain. Depending on the presentation, treatment aims may include:

  • Supporting mobility and muscle relaxation
  • Assisting circulation to affected areas
  • Helping manage pain, tension and inflammation.
  • Supporting general wellbeing and recovery

Improvements in sleep, mobility, or overall comfort following treatment is common, although responses vary between individuals.(Urits et al., 2021)

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine may also be incorporated into treatment when appropriate. Herbal prescriptions are traditionally formulated according to the individual’s pattern diagnosis rather than based solely on symptoms.

Formulas may be selected with the intention of:

  • Supporting the circulation of Qi and Blood
  • Addressing Cold or Damp patterns
  • Supporting recovery after strain or injury
  • Nourishing and supporting the body in chronic conditions

Herbal medicine should always be prescribed by a qualified practitioner after an appropriate consultation.

Frequently asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

Research suggests that acupuncture may assist with pain management through several physiological mechanisms. These may include modulation of the nervous system, changes in local circulation, and stimulation of the body’s natural regulatory responses.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture is also understood as helping restore the smooth flow of Qi and Blood through the channels and tissues of the body.

Responses to treatment vary between individuals and depend on the nature and duration of the condition.

How often should I do Acupuncture?

Treatment frequency depends on the individual condition, its severity, and how long symptoms have been present

In the first few treatments we usually recommend 2 treatments a week. This is because even If you experience a significant improvement, this could last a short period of time. Repetition of treatment is called “Acupuncture dose” and it is fundamental to achieve the best possible results. After 2 to 4 treatments sessions can be extended weekly and eventually fortnightly once symptom relief is significant and long lasting.

Cares after treatment

It is common that after treatment we become overconfident and return to the practices that injured us in the beginning. Your practitioner will advise you on careful movement, picking up things, how to exercise, and other lifestyle cares for a sustained and effective outcome.

If symptoms change significantly or require further investigation, patients may also be advised to seek additional medical assessment.

References

Australian Back Pain Statistics (2025). (n.d.). Retrieved May 26, 2026, from https://www.sleepsociety.com.au/blog/australian-back-pain-statistics

Urits, I., Wang, J. K., Yancey, K., Mousa, M., Jung, J. W., Berger, A. A., Shehata, I. M., Elhassan, A., Kaye, A. D., & Viswanath, O. (2021). Acupuncture for the Management of Low Back Pain. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 25(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-020-00919-y

Acupuncture treatment of Skin conditions, Rashes, hives, eczema.

Acupuncture for Skin Conditions | Gold Coast

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Acupuncture for Skin Conditions Gold Coast is a holistic approach offered at Diamond Bridge Clinic for patients experiencing acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and other common skin concerns. Traditional Chinese medicine views the skin as closely connected to overall health, including digestion, stress levels, circulation and environmental influences.

Understanding Common Skin Conditions

Skin concerns such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis are common and can affect people at different stages of life. Environmental and seasonal factors may influence these conditions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where changes in humidity, temperature, wind and pollen levels can contribute to skin irritation, dryness, itching and flare-ups in susceptible individuals.

From a TCM perspective, skin conditions may be linked to internal imbalances, including factors related to digestion, stress, or hormonal changes. Practitioners may assess patterns involving systems such as the Liver, Blood and overall circulation to guide treatment.

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are commonly used in TCM to support general wellbeing, circulation and balance within the body. Some people choose these therapies as part of a broader approach to managing ongoing skin concerns.

For example:
• Some individuals with dry or irritated skin may also experience other symptoms such as dryness or fatigue
• Others with breakouts may notice a relationship with stress or emotional tension
• In some cases, digestive or energy patterns may also be considered

Treatment approaches are tailored to each person and may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary advice and lifestyle recommendations.

If you are experiencing ongoing skin concerns, it is important to consult with a qualified health professional to determine appropriate care options for your individual situation.

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 Diamond Bridge Clinic – Mermaid Beach // Beenleigh

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 (07) 5575 4337 // (07) 3807 0067

Pollen. Allergy. Sinus problems.

Seasonal Allergies and Sinus Health in Spring – A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

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In Traditional Chinese Medicine, spring allergies are viewed as a reflection of imbalance between the body and the environment. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring corresponds to the Wood Element, associated with growth, movement, and renewal. It is also the season most influenced by the Wind. It is seen as a primary external factor that can carry other pathogenic influences like Cold, Heat, or Dampness into the body. These factors can disturb the balance of Qi, especially in the Lungs and Liver, leading to symptoms such as sinus congestion, headaches, and allergic reactions.

In TCM theory, allergic symptoms and sinus congestion may be viewed as a reflection of disharmony between the body and the external environment. Several pattern imbalances are commonly considered in cases of sinusitis and seasonal allergies:

🌱 Wind-Cold Invasion – often associated with clear nasal discharge, chills, aversion to cold, and sneezing.
🌱 Wind-Heat Invasion – may present with yellow nasal discharge, sore throat, and a sensation of heat or irritation.
🌱 Dampness Accumulation – can arise from humid weather or internal factors such as diet and digestion, contributing to heaviness and congestion.
🌱 Spleen Qi Deficiency – when the Spleen’s function is weakened, dampness may accumulate, leading to persistent nasal symptoms.
🌱 Lung Qi Deficiency – may make the respiratory system more sensitive to external influences such as wind or pollen.
🌱 Phlegm-Heat – may manifest with thick, coloured nasal discharge and pressure in the head.

From a TCM perspective, understanding which of these patterns is predominant allows a practitioner to tailor an individualised care plan. This may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal formulas, and dietary and lifestyle recommendations designed to support balance, strengthen the body’s Qi, and harmonise its response to seasonal changes.

At Diamond Bridge Clinic, our registered practitioners conduct a thorough assessment — including tongue and pulse observation — to determine your unique TCM pattern and provide guidance that aligns with your overall wellbeing.

If you are noticing increased sinus or allergy symptoms during this spring season, due to grass, seeds or pollen, consider consulting a qualified TCM practitioner to explore supportive approaches for your health.

If you wish to explore supportive care, you can book a consultation here