Zhu’s Scalp Acupuncture is a complete and separate system of acupuncture that unites Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern neuroscience. Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness is one of the very few clinics to offer this revolutionary therapy.

Zhu’s Scalp Acupuncture (ZSA) at Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness is a premier treatment for acute and chronic central nervous system (CNS) disorders. ZSA is a comprehensive therapeutic system that unites classical acupuncture theory, modern neuroanatomy and exercises collectively known as Daoyin. In ZSA, neural regulation is accomplished via specific therapeutic zones on the scalp. ZSA facilitates the reactivation of dormant neural pathways, promotes neuroplasticity, and offers a potent intervention for a wide array of complex conditions ranging from ischemic stroke and spinal cord injury to pediatric developmental delays.

During ZSA treatment, Dr. Carey uses specialized needles that are shorter and thinner than standard acupuncture needles, enhancing patient experience and comfort. ZSA treatment at Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness is renowned for its rapid effects, often producing observable improvements in movement or pain relief within seconds or minutes of needle stimulation. Extensive clinical research supports its application across various neurological domains.  ZSA is particularly effective in treating hemiplegia, aphasia, and post-stroke spasticity.

Zhu’s Scalp Acupuncture (ZSA) at Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness combines two paradigms: classical acupuncture theory and contemporary neuroanatomy. This synthesis identifies the scalp as a highly efficient interface for regulating the brain and broader nervous system.

While scalp needles are being stimulated by Dr. Carey, the patient is encouraged to perform movements related to their impairment. For example, if a patient has a paralyzed leg, they are asked to attempt lifting the leg, visualizing the movement, or walking while the needles are manipulated. If the patient is too weak to move, our clinical team may perform passive range-of-motion exercises, or the patient may engage in active mental visualization of the movement.

Dr. Carey’s multidimensional treatments leverage the brain’s inherent neuroplasticity. Our ZSA treatments send signals from the CNS to the periphery, while the tailored physical movement sends feedback signals from the periphery back to the CNS. This “re-wiring” process encourages the recruitment of healthy neurons to assume, restore and recover the functions of damaged areas.

Chen et al. (2019) defined Daoyin exercise in this way: “Dao” (导) means to guide Qi, the internal vital energy of the body, to create an internal balance, and “Yin” (引) means to stretch the body to gain strength and flexibility. Daoyin exercise includes modern movements of Qigong and Tai Chi, and has a long tradition of integration with Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Dr. Carey incorporates the concept of Daoyin into his practice to include both physical and mental exercises. Physical Daoyin works on the body akin to contemporary physical rehabilitation exercises, bodywork, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, singing, dancing, etc. Mental Daoyin works on the mind and includes breathing, meditation, memory and cognitive exercises, etc. Treatments include a tailored type of Daoyin, whether you have a respiratory disease, a heart problem, a sleep disorder, pain, sports injury, a stroke or any paralysis. The combination of ZSA and Daoyin makes the treatment more effective.

At Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness, we honor Professor Zhu’s insight that needles provide the “spark” for neuroplasticity while the combined Daoyin rehabilitation exercises provide the “fuel” for a functional recovery. This makes ZSA treatment at Old Bridge Acupuncture and Wellness a minimally invasive, highly effective treatment for patients with complex neurological and seemingly hopeless conditions.

Reference: Chen, X., Cui, J., Li, R., Norton, R., Park, J., Kong, J., & Yeung, A. (2019). Dao Yin (a.k.a. qigong): Origin, development, potential mechanisms, and clinical applications. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/3705120

We are out of network with most insurance companies and do not bill third party or private insurance directly. We can provide you with a super bill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. The good news is, that you are the one in charge of what procedures you get, not an insurance company, and Zhu’s scalp acupuncture is very affordable.

Zhu’s Scalp Acupuncture treatment is comfortable and patients confirm that minimal discomfort is experienced during treatment. In addition, Dr. Carey combines treatments with gentle Daoyin guided exercises that help patients relax and harmonize their body, mind and spirit.