Alternative Medicine Resources

About one of every nine Americans suffers from migraine headaches.  Acupuncture in Philadelphia is perhaps most well-known for its ability to treat pain, and so many migraine sufferers across the country seek out acupuncture treatment for relief.  Acupuncture is used to treat and prevent many kinds of headache, but migraine management and acupuncture is probably the area that is most well-researched.

Acupuncture has been shown to be very effective and efficient in relieving headache and migraine intensity and frequency.  Not only has acupuncture proven to be effective, but acupuncture proved to be superior to conventional drug therapies for the prevention of migraine attacks.  Acupuncture research has also revealed that acupuncture helps to reduce disability associated with migraines, such as missed work or social events.

A study entitled Acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care: large, pragmatic, randomized trial published in the March 27th issue of the British Medical Journal, the most influential, peer-reviewed medical journals in the world, explored the use of acupuncture by headache patients already receiving conventional care.

Patients received up to 12 acupuncture sessions during a three month period, and patients were evaluated before acupuncture (baseline), at three months and at 12 months.  After receiving only up to 12 sessions in an entire year (and those all grouped together within just a 3 month period of that year), it was found that the acupuncture group had a 34% reduction in baseline headache score, compared with only a 16% reduction in the control group.  In addition, the acupuncture group experienced “the equivalent” of 22 fewer days of headache per year, 15% fewer days off sick, 25% fewer visits to general practitioners and used 15% less medication.  So not only was acupuncture effective- it provided savings in both cost and productivity.

“Acupuncture for Patients with Migraine” was published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (the most widely circulated, peer-reviewed medical journal in the world) in their May 4, 2005 issue.  This study divided patients into an acupuncture group, sham acupuncture group and a waiting list control group.  Acupuncture patients received 12 sessions over an eight week period, and sham acupuncture patients were needled in locations that do not correspond to traditional points.  The four weeks prior to treatment, and the four weeks following treatment were compared for number of days with moderate to severe headaches.

The study found that 51% of the acupuncture group had a reduction in headache days by at least 50%, compared to only a 15% reduction in the wait list group.  More interestingly, 53% of the sham acupuncture group- the group where acupuncture was performed in a non-traditional manner- had a reduction of headache days by at least 50%.

There is no definitive way to resolve lower back pain but the use of lower back pain acupuncture Miami to treat this condition has increased dramatically in the past few decades, based in a large extent to placebo-controlled studies that have validated it as a reliable method of pain relief. The results of a recent study published in the Clinical Journal of Pain provide further proof that acupuncture is a safe and effective procedure for low-back pain, and that it can maintain positive outcomes for periods of six months or longer without producing the negative side effects that often accompany more traditional pain remedies.

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people see a health care provider or even an acupuncturists for that matter. It has been estimated that up to 80% of the world’s population will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives, with the lower back as the most common location of pain. Although most episodes of low back pain last less than two weeks, research has shown that recurrence rates for low back pain can reach as high as 50% in the first few months following as initial episode.
In 1990, Dr Li Junxue stated about the treatment of back pain in Traditional Chinese Medicine as follows: “Back pain is not looked upon as a disease but as a symptom or syndrome. This syndrome can be further classified into several different types according to their pathological mechanism and clinical manifestations. Though they all belong to the category of back pain, the treatment for each type is very different, especially when they are treated with herbal medicine. Correct differentiation and classification are the basic requirements for good clinical results, and a specific prescription may effectively cure one type of back pain but does not work very well in another type. In the clinic, a practitioner will firstly examine the patient by the four methods of examination (observation; listening and smelling; inquiring; taking the pulse and palpation). He then analyzes all the clinical findings and the patient’s physical condition, in order to fully understand the pathological state – its cause, nature and location, and the contrast between Zheng Qi and Xie Qi. As a result of this analysis, the practitioner is then able to make a final diagnosis. Both in the ancient and modern literature, there are many discussions of back pain. Generally speaking, the Kidney is the main zangfu organ, and the Taiyang and Shaoyin channels are the main channels responsible for back pain. If the back pain is due to pathological changes in the zangfu organs, it mainly manifests as deficiency, and if the pathological changes are in the channels it mostly results from wind, cold, dampness or heat”.

The heart of the concept of traditional chinese medicine in fort lauderdale such as acupuncture is that there is Qi also known as chi is a physical “energy force” that exists in every part of the living world. The flow of Qi in the channels of humans is familiar to anyone has seen the lines on the body of an acupuncture chart or model. Most practitioners believe that these Qi meridians exist as a separate system although sometimes in conjunction with the nerve and blood systems. These channels of energy are named after the body’s organs in order to describe a system of how one portion of the body works. For example, the liver in oriental medicine is described not as a physical organ as much as its role in moving Qi throughout the body.

Acupuncture, as it is known in the United States, is actually a mixture of herbology, acupuncture and other healing arts. A practitioner may or may not use needles, herbs, magnets, crystals or his or her own Qi. Each of these modalities has its own rich tradition and it is not necessary for a practitioner to use all of them.

Acupuncture itself is the placing of very thin stainless steel needles into appropriate points around the body. The needle may go from 1/5 of an inch to 3 inches into the body depending on the treatment and the part of the body. We cannot say that this is always painless but it is certainly less than the hypodermic syringes we are all afraid of. Any pain usually dissipates within a few seconds. In its place may be a distending or slight heat sensation. The needles may go in the abdomen, arms or legs, head or in the ears. There are two notable recent offshoots of traditional acupuncture. Ear acupuncture says that all the organ functions can be seen in the ear. Even smaller needles are precisely placed in different sections of the ear for treatment. Scalp acupuncture is used extensively in China and elsewhere for the treatment of stroke and other cerebral originating diseases. The needles are inserted horizontally and often vibrated to affect the different lobes of the brain.

What can I expect from my practitioner?
Oriental Medicine is the dominant form of medicine for much of the world’s population and has been so for thousands of years. To paraphrase Mark Seem (acupuncturist and writer), each patient seeks treatment on three levels. The first is for aches and pains, the second for systematic problems of the organs and the third for the deeper issues of life and existence. Oriental Medicine can address each of these and your practitioner may choose to treat you in any one, two or all of these levels. To generalize greatly: acupuncture is very good at pain, herbs at system “re-structuring”, while the deeper issues are best dealt with a combination of acupuncture, herbs and a skilful practitioner. Many people may be surprised that Oriental Medicine does indeed have a psychology. It posits that the functioning of the Qi on the organs can influence emotions, moods and personality and vice versa.

Defined as air or breath and by extension a life force or spiritual energy, Qi in Manhattan acupuncture is a part of everything that exists all around. It is a fundamental concept of everyday Chinese culture. References to qi or similar philosophical concepts as a type of metaphysical energy that sustains living beings are used in many belief systems.

Philosophical conceptions of qi date from the earliest recorded times in Chinese thinking. One of the important early figures in Chinese mythology is Huang Di or the Yellow Emperor. He is often considered a culture hero who collected and formalized much of what subsequently became known as traditional Chinese medicine. Although the concept of qi has been very important within all Chinese philosophies, their descriptions of qi have been varied and conflicting.

The etymological meaning of the qi ideogram in its traditional form is “steam rising from rice as it cooks” is interpreted as indicating the link between matter and the energy it develops. Matter and energy are said merely to be different states of the same fundamental substance.

Qi in traditional Chinese medicine
Theories of traditional Chinese medicine assert that the body has natural patterns of qi associated with it that circulate in channels called meridians in English. Symptoms of various illnesses are often seen as the product of disrupted or unbalanced qi movement through such channels (including blockages), deficencies or imbalances of qi, in the various organs. Traditional Chinese Medicine seeks to relieve these imbalances by adjusting the flow of qi in the body using a variety of therapeutic techniques. Some of these techniques include herbal medicines, special diets, physical training regimens (qigong), massages to clear blockages, and acupuncture, which uses fine metal needles inserted into the skin to reroute or balance qi. Traditional Asian martial arts also discuss qi. For instance, internal systems attempt to cultivate and direct qi during combat as well as to ensure proper health. Many other martial arts include some concept of qi in their philosophies.

Philadelphia acupuncture and Oriental Medicine have always considered the connection between mind and body to be inseparable. Along with the ancient descriptions of external environmental disease factors, such as Wind, Heat, and Cold, internal causes of disease were considered to be due to emotions. Anger, fear, sadness, worry, and joy were correlated to each of the five Yin organs of the body. Imbalances within these organs could be the origin of the emotion, or the emotion could injure the corresponding internal organ over time.

The Western viewpoint of “more is better” has taken a toll on mental health. While some chose to work hard and play hard until exhaustion, others will suffer from over-thinking, worrying about every detail of life. This lifestyle causes the mind and body to become tied-up inside, creating anxiety and depression. Acupuncture can help treat these mental-emotional disorders by helping you to “un-do”. The needles create a deep state of relaxation during the treatment, allowing true rest and healing of both mind and body.

Anxiety comes in a variety of forms, from mild worrying about an upcoming speech or exam to phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, a nervous stomach, and even panic attacks. Some anxiety is a normal healthy response to the stresses of daily life and new situations; however, anxiety that occurs randomly or in an excessive manner is a sign for concern. Fortunately, acupuncture can help balance both the mental and physical manifestations of this condition returning you to an easy-going life.

When anxiety occurs, you may experience the obsessive thoughts circling the fearful situation you are experiencing, and physical symptoms such as chest pain, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath, stomachache, nausea, or headache. Depending on the exact manifestations of your anxiety in conjunction with an observation of the pulse and tongue, an acupuncturist can determine which Oriental Medicine pattern of anxiety you are experiencing.

Most conditions of anxiety are related to imbalances of the Heart and Kidney, referring the energetic aspects of these organs.  The Heart organ is considered a very Yang energy organ, constantly pumping the blood throughout the body. Over-excitement of the Heart due to excessive joy or an imbalance of Fire within the body can create Heat in the Heart, leading to anxiety and insomnia. The Kidney is the Water organ and functions to balance the Fire of the Heart helping to contain an excess of Fire. If the Kidney is deficient, the Heart Fire can rise up disturbing the mind.

Acupuncture treatments for anxiety can use both body and auricular acupuncture. Body acupuncture points may include Heart 7, Kidney 6, and Spleen 6 to harmonize the Heart and Kidney and nourish the cooling Yin energy of these organs. In cases of excessive Heart Heat, the points Heart 8 and Heart 9 may be used to sedate the Fire within the Heart. Auricular points, such as Shenmen (Spirit Gate), can effectively reduce anxiety; in some cases, retaining ear tacks or small magnetic balls at this auricular acupuncture point can prolong the effects between treatments.

Recently a number of clients have asked about the relationship between acupuncture in orlando and fertility. Planning a pregnancy is an exciting time in a person’s life since it is filled with new expectations, experiences and discoveries; it is also a time of reflection as well as one of looking towards the future, and an ideal time to explore optimal health. For over 2,500 years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners have been examining the most effective ways to help naturally boost fertility as well as to ameliorate imbalances that contribute to reproductive difficulties. The practice of TCM includes acupuncture, nutrition, herbal medicine and gentle energy building exercises.

There are many different factors that play a role in determining the chances of conception and carrying to term. Some of these factors require aggressive treatment or are irreversible such as menopause, and should be ruled out. However, much of the time, natural medicine and moderate lifestyle changes have powerful results without any adverse side effects. Additionally, acupuncture is regularly utilized in conjunction with Assisted Reproductive Therapies to increase their effectiveness.

It is important for the prospective mother to become intimately familiar with the body’s rhythms and cycles. This can be done by charting early morning temperatures, examining cyclical changes throughout the menstrual cycle, and using non-invasive home test kits to determine hormonal shifts. This serves several purposes: one is to know the time during the menstrual cycle when conception is most likely to produce ovulation; another is to bring to light the underlying blockages or deficiencies that need to be addressed. Lastly, it helps women to be in touch with their bodies. Patients are encouraged to become curious observers of the interconnected nature of all life. This is elegantly demonstrated as body temperature, fluids, and emotions all ebb and flow together.

A balanced diet is of utmost importance where reproductive health is concerned. Reduce the intake of caffeine, alcohol, sugar and foods high in saturated fat, while eating plenty of color rich vegetables and essential fatty acids is the key to health. Only buy organic foods to avoid pesticides and additives. If one eats meat and dairy, choose those that have not been hormone fed. More specifically, there are foods and herbs that facilitate balance, based on each individual’s needs. Chinese medicinal herbs – with over 25 centuries of continual use – can be safe, effective and nourishing when prescribed by a Nationally Board Certified Herbalist. Additionally, incorporating gentle energy building exercises – such as Tai qi, Qi gong, or Yoga – nourish the spirit, calm the mind and strengthen the body.

Through acute observation and analysis the TCM practitioner is able to assess disharmony. The strength of Traditional Chinese Medicine is that it takes into consideration every aspect of one’s life, including factors such as sleep patterns, stress level and digestion. There are a lot of imbalances that seem unrelated reveal underlying patterns of disharmony that can contribute to infertility. Acupuncture works by treating the “root” of the problem as well as the “branch” to enhance overall functioning. In real meaning, acupuncture gives the body an opportunity to properly attune itself rather than only suppressing symptoms.

Today scientists are attempting to translate the effects of this ancient medicine into modern biophysical terms as more research comes out in support of acupuncture’s effect on fertility. A lot of western medical theory holds that acupuncture initiates electromagnetic signals via the nervous and endocrine systems, to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for the hormonal activity that is directly connected to ovulation, menstruation and conception. Furthermore, by mediating the sympathetic nervous system (which is easily and often over-taxed due to stress), acupuncture stimulates vasodilation and effects blood flow to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. This, in turn, increases the viability of the ovum, thickens the uterine lining, and assists implantation of the fertilized egg – while decreasing the likelihood of miscarriage.

It is important to note that statistics show at least 30% of infertility cases are caused by male factors and another 30% involve a combination of both male and female. A recent study indicates that acupuncture improves sperm count, motility and quality.

Traditional Chinese Medicine’s goal is to harmonize the entire being, tilling the soil for the creation of an overall environment that nurtures growth and well-being. Acupuncturist works in partnership with their patients to address specific needs and objectives.

If you are a bit nervous about trying out an manhattan acupuncture session you are not alone. Since Western medicine uses needles in a different and sometimes painful ways, it is natural for us to imagine the pain of becoming a human pin-cushion. In Western medicine, needles are used to inject medicine or to withdraw fluids from the body. The needles are hollow and the tip is beveled and sharpened so that it can cut the skin upon entry. In comparison to Acupuncture needles, Western needles are huge because the diameter needs to be large enough to transfer the thick fluids of the body.

The needles are usually inserted by placing them in a “tube-like” holder to keep them from bending upon insertion, and then the doctor will “tap” the top of the holder to insert the thin needle to the desired depth. The holder is then removed, leaving the actual needle in place. The needles are left in place for a prescribed period of time before removal. Depending on the treatment plan, one to several dozen needles could be inserted in various points.

While Western patients are mostly concerned about the needles, the real treatment begins with the diagnosis. In some training clinics, the “teaching” doctor will review all data and make the diagnosis, marking the insertion points, and then the students will do the needle insertion, simply following the doctor’s instructions.

A Manhattan Acupuncturist’s Diagnosis

Much like the first visit to a Western doctor, the visit starts with medical history forms. It is important to answer all questions accurately to assist the medical staff in evaluating your condition. Acupuncture is part of “Traditional Chinese Medicine”, which is typically a more holistic approach than Western medicine, so questions which may seem unrelated to your reason for making the visit are often important to the diagnosis. After reviewing your records, the physician will visit and begin the diagnosis.

Most clinics will do the customary stethoscope routine, along with letting you describe your condition verbally. Then, depending on your condition, may do a rather extensive tongue examination and an unusual pulse examination. The Chinese pulse examination is a major diagnosis technique for traditional Chinese medicine. It is a method of establishing the condition of the “meridians” or pathways of “qi” within your body.

Then, using all of the information gathered from the diagnosis, the physician will determine the “cause” of the symptoms that you have described (the reason for your visit). Needles will then be inserted into very specific acupoints that will help bring the body back into “homeostasis” or balance, thus removing the source of the symptoms.

Allow at least an hour for the first visit. The actual treatment will last around 30 to 40 minutes and it may take several visits to make progress, depending on the seriousness of the condition and the length of time it has been causing you discomfort. As with any treatment plan (Western or Eastern), make certain your questions are answered to your satisfaction, and the treatment plan seems reasonable based on your condition.

If you have tried Western medicine for many years with no progress, it may take more than a single visit to an Acupuncturist to see results, yet you don’t want to make an acupuncture treatment a weekly event for the rest of your life to heal a sore elbow.

Acupuncture new york originates from ancient Chinese medicine so basically it is also important to study about Chinese medicine and theories that surrounds this most ancient and useful form of alternative medicine. Chinese medicine sees the body as a small part of the universe which is subject to universal laws and the principals of harmony and balance. It does not draw a sharp line compared to Western medicine. The Chinese system believes that mental and emotional states are every bit as influential on disease as purely as any physical mechanisms. Chinese medicine uses different symbols and ideas to discuss body and health. If Western medicine describes health in terms of measurable physical processes made of chemical reactions, Chinese medicine on the other hand uses ideas like chi, yin and yang, the organ system and the five elements to describe the body and health. Here are some of the basic terms used in Chinese medicine:

• Yin and Yang, according to Chinese philosophy is the universe and the body that describes two separate complimentary principles that of which is yin and yang. The two principles are always interacting, opposing, and influencing each other and their goal in Chinese medicine is not to eliminate either yin or yang, but to allow the two to balance each other and exist harmoniously together. For example, if a person suffers from symptoms of high blood pressure, the Chinese system would say that the heart organ might have too much yang, and would recommend methods either to reduce the yang or to increase the yin of the heart, depending on the other symptoms and organs in the body. Therefore, acupuncture therapies seek to either increase or reduce yang, or increase or reduce yin in particular regions of the body.
• Chi is another fundamental concept of Chinese medicine which is the fundamental life energy of the universe. It is invisible and is found in the environment in the air, water, food and sunlight and in the body it is the invisible vital force that creates and animates life. Every individual is born with inherited amounts of chi, and we also get acquired chi from the food we eat and the air we breathe. The level and quality of a person’s chi also depends on the state of physical, mental and emotional balance. Chi moves through the body along channels called meridians.
• The Organ System in the Chinese system is compose of twelve main organs which is the lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, heart, small intestine, urinary bladder, kidney, liver, gallbladder, pericardium, and the “triple warmer”. The latter represents the entire torso region. Each organ has chi energy associated with it, and each organ interacts with particular emotions on the mental level. With twelve organs, there are twelve types of chi which can move through the body, and these move through twelve main channels or meridians. Chinese doctors attach symptoms to organs. Symptoms are caused by yin/yang imbalances in one or more organs so an unhealthy flow of chi to or from one organ to another. Each organ has a different outline of symptoms it can manifest.

A lot of you may probably be wondering what an acupuncture center in Bellingham is. What kind of treatment does this kind of facility offer? To understand a little about acupuncture center, here is a little idea. Acupuncture center is healing facility that focuses on the holistic principles of traditional Chinese medicine or TCM. If you are not aware yet, acupuncture is a form of alternative treatment that involves the insertion of tine and sterile needles into various parts of the body known as systemic meridians. This form of treatment is renowned for treating pain, tension and chronic conditions. To find relief for any number of ailments like headaches, muscle pain and even infertility, any individual can choose to visit acupuncture centers. Most acupuncture centers offer a variety of treatments that are holistic in approach and these include aromatherapy and herbal remedies.

If you are a patient visiting an acupuncture center, you would have to explain your health problems to the acupuncturists and you will receive information about the procedure. Depending on your condition, you will be instructed to sit in a chair or lie on a table in preparation for a treatment. Initially, an acupuncturist would insert as many as 200 needles into the skin at fixed locations in an effort to promote the flow of energy. With acupuncture sessions, your body will restore its balance and energy to promote its overall wellness. This is according to the Traditional Chinese Medicine.

A lot of acupuncture centers offer a plethora of holistic health treatment options. Some acupuncture center feature chiropractic services, herbal medicine and aromatherapy treatments. Plus, many facilities offer magnetic, heat or light therapy suited to treat a number of ailments. A lot of individuals receive such treatments for sore muscles, arthritis, back pain and even chronic health conditions like cancer.

In a majority of states and countries, acupuncturists who work in an acupuncture center are required to hold a license. Acupuncturists must complete three-to-four year master’s degree programs from accredited institutions. They must pass extensive licensing exams administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in order to practice in most regions of the United States. For newly licensed acupuncturists, joining established practices with other professionals can be helpful on getting them started in the business. But there are some who are successful at opening their own acupuncture centers.

When choosing a healing center, it is extremely important to consider an acupuncturist’s credentials. Only licensed professionals are trained in safe and sanitary procedures and have shown extensive knowledge of laws and ethical medical procedures. The ones who pursue to continue their education to stay-up-to-date on practical and technological advances in the field are the most trustworthy acupuncturists. They do this so that they will be able to provide the best services to their clients. Getting information and other facts about an acupuncture center can be achieved by visiting the facility’s website or speaking with the receptionist at the actual center.

The concept of Miami acupuncture health is that each acupuncturist should take the time to listen to their patients. Each patient’s well being is affected by his or her lifestyle, emotions, attitude, diet, habits and environment. All of these factors can contribute a lot to health issues that makes every person’s needs different. Addressing the different health issues and taking into consideration the different factors will help promote a good health and balance lifestyle for each individual.

Acupuncture health is a natural form of healing and it has many benefits. Acupuncture treatment alone can help provide drug-free pain relief. It effectively treats a wide range of acute and chronic ailments like back pain, menstrual cramps and others. It is also believed to treat underlying disease and illnesses as well as their symptoms. It can assist in the prevention of diseases and illnesses and maintain a person’s overall well-being. It provides a holistic approach to treating illnesses and diseases by linking the body, mind and emotions.

Acupuncture Treatment Benefits

In some countries like the United States and UK, acupuncture is one of the most well established and popular complementary forms of therapies. Approximately, three million people are undergoing treatment each year and this has been stated in the NHS Direct-health Encyclopedia 2008. Many people seek acupuncture treatment to treat specific symptoms or health conditions. It is also prescribed to work alongside with conventional forms of medical treatment or it can be used as a natural medicine alone without the use of drugs.

Thanks to extensive research and practice, it has shown that acupuncture is effective in treating certain conditions such as tiredness, stress, anxiety, depression, arthritis, rheumatism, musculo-skeletal problems, backache, high blood pressure and other circulatory problems, headaches and migraines, asthma and breathlessness, digestive problems, insomnia, gynecological problems and infertility, skin conditions, allergies and addictions.

Acupuncture health is directed at restoring the overall energy balance that will help deal with any health condition and also help the person feel better in a general and holistic kind of way. There have been increasing reports about patients having increased energy, normal sleep, vitality and a more normal appetite. With this kind of outlook in life, any individual treated with acupuncture can have a chance to greater confidence and greater enjoyment of life.