There are a number of medications that promote the overgrowth of yeast cells, either because they kill beneficial bacteria, or because they interfere with normal hormone functions. These medications include: antibiotics; chemotherapy; hormone replacement; corticosteroids; and oral contraceptives. Improper diet, such as over-consumption of yeast products, sugar, or alcohol, also can promote yeast growth. In traditional Chinese medicine, these foods disturb the balance of the Spleen, produce Phlegm, and create the perfect environment for yeast overgrowth.

Those people with immune system or endocrine gland disorders are more prone to candidiasis, such as patients with AIDs, cancer, or diabetes.

In Chinese medicine, balance is the most important concept in maintaining health. Yin and Yang, the eternal opposites of the universe, also form the basic substance of our bodies. They must be in balance for us to be in good health. It is the same for the yeast cells and bacteria in our bodies: too many yeast cells, and a condition of candiadiasis results; too many bacteria, and infection can be present; when there is balance, we are in good health.

http://www.tcmpage.com/hpcandidiasis.html

7 Common Causes Of Candida

http://www.mycandidacleanse.com/common-causes-of-candida/

JOANNE MC GOVERN

Dip. Ac., Lic. Ac., ITEC., Dip. Chinese Herbs, Dip. Stress Management., Dip. Nutritional Advisor.,MAFPA.,

Members of the AFPA approved by Quinn, VHI, VIVAS and HSA for Out-Patient insurance purposes

ALLERGY TESTING, FERTILITY ENHANCEMENT, BIO-RESONANCE /

VEGA TESTING, MUSCLE TESTING, ACUPUNCTURE, STRESS RELIEF,

DIET AND NUTRITION, CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE, ETC.

WHAT CAN WE TREAT?

allergies, male and female fertility issues, muscle and joint problems, menopause, chronic fatigue, candida, I.B.S. digestive and bowel disorders, skin conditions, psoriasis, ecezma, insomnia, stress, asthma, sinusitis, smoking cessation, tinnitus, vertigo, urogenital disorders, menstrual disorders, back pain, oedema, palpitations, poor circulation, infertility, miscarriage prevention, mouth ulcers, low immune system, gynaecological complaints, celiac disease, headache and migraine, cancer care,- etc

http://acupunctureandallergytesting.blogspot.ie/2012/02/be-happy-be-healthy.html?m=

 CONSULTATIONS ARE PRIVATE AND BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

PH 0868362705

 

EMAIL-mcgovernjoanne1@gmail.com

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/touch/health/story.html?id=6654582

Baby Sarah is growing fast. She eats carrots, squash, peas and bananas. She weighs 14 pounds. With auburn hair and bright grey eyes, she’s a miniature version of her mother.

“In school, I wasn’t the one saying ‘I want to be a teacher or a doctor,’ ” Dana Murphy says, tickling her eight-month-old daughter. “I wanted to be a mom. It was always the most important thing to me.”

Murphy’s motherhood dreams have been realized, despite the odds, and she firmly believes Chinese medicine deserves the credit.

The 35-year-old was diagnosed in her teens with polycystic ovary syndrome, a common endocrine disorder among women which can cause infertility and a host of other unfortunate symptoms, among them obesity, facial hair, thinning hair and acne.

Murphy knew PCOS would make it difficult, maybe even impossible, for her to have children. She and her husband, Chris, were up for the fertility challenges when they decided to become parents in 2008. Little did they know how frustrated they would get with conventional medicine, how desperate they would become.

“If someone said standing out in the street buck naked waving a rubber chicken over your head could get you pregnant, you’d do it,” she says.

Murphy took fertility meds at increasing dosages while waiting for a referral to Edmonton’s fertility clinic. The drug, Clomid, made her so emotional she dubbed it Clo-Mood. “You’d go from zero to explosion in a snap.”

After a year, Murphy was depressed and still not pregnant. That’s when she turned her sights to Eastern medicine.

“I was probably a bit of a basket case,” she says of the first day she walked into Cecil Horwitz’s clinic, Whole Family Health, in Edmonton’s Parkallen neighbourhood. Horwitz is a certified acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist who specializes in women’s reproductive health, including fertility enhancement.

“She had so many doors closed,” Horwitz recalls of Murphy when he first met her. “She needed encouragement. No does not mean no all the time.”

This week is Canadian Infertility Awareness Week, and Murphy and Horwitz want to get people talking about holistic reproductive therapies so other people trying for kids don’t give up hope. One in six Canadian couples of child-bearing age suffer from infertility, according to the Infertility Awareness Association of Canada.

“Fertility starts at home,” Horwitz says. “If you’re going to create life, the vessel within which you carry life has to be nourished. That means the mind and the body.”

Horwitz got Murphy started on acupuncture and a regimen of Chinese herbs, as well as moxibustion, in which sticks of ground mugwort are burned on a patient’s skin. Murphy struggled to convince her friends and family, even herself, that such treatments could improve her odds. “People were like, you’re gonna try what? They said, that’s bunk.”

In 2011, Murphy got into the Edmonton fertility clinic, and was pregnant after one intrauterine insemination. After a two-and-a-half years waiting, the news was surreal. She knows it’s Chinese medicine that optimized the environment for her to finally conceive. “There’s no doubt in my mind. If I hadn’t seen Cecil before and after, I wouldn’t be a mom today.”

“We were nourishing the soil before the seed was planted,” Horwitz said.

Think of Horwitz’s treatments as auxiliary health care, one that creates the ideal conditions for conception, be it natural or through assisted reproductive technology like IUI and in vitro fertilization.

Acupuncture is believed to boost a woman’s chances of getting pregnant significantly, which is why some fertility clinics in Canada offer acupuncture on site. And holistic centres like Vancouver’s Acubalance Wellness Clinic work with reproductive specialists to offers IVF support to couples.

In Murphy’s case, the treatments reduced her stress, regulated her insulin levels (a problem for PCOS sufferers), regulated her menstrual cycle and increased her uterine blood flow.

Chinese therapies can help improve male fertility, too, Horwitz says, and he recommend the couple both get treatment to give them the best chances.

Horwitz isn’t against conventional medicine. Rather, he sees the two as a team. “I need to have Western medicine on my side,” he says. “I will never go against what a doctor says.”

The therapies he practises see positive results again and again. “We have a 70 per cent success rate here at the clinic,” he says, clarifying that ‘success’ means a birth, and not just a pregnancy.

Sarah, who was born in September, offers one gummy smile, then a second one, as if she knows she’s the proof women stamped as infertile or subfertile can beat the odds.

“I hate using that word, infertile,” Horowitz says. “Until a doctor says, her tubes are blocked and she needs surgery, I’m a very hopeful person.”

Horwitz’s goal isn’t to score a bunch of new patients. His schedule is packed. What he wants to do is educate people about Chinese medicine so wannabe parents might consider it early in the game.

“We typically see people when they’re at the end of their rope. They come to us as a last resort, instead of a first resort.”

Current statistics state that one in five couples over the age of 30 have difficulty conceiving

after one year of trying. Many of these couples are turning to acupuncture and Oriental

medicine for a safe, effective and natural solution to have a healthy baby.

Oriental medicine has a long history when it comes to enhancing fertility for

both men and women. In fact, evidence that acupuncture and herbal medicine have been

used to aid fertility can be found in early medical literature dating back to 3AD.

https://plus.google.com/116793703141919250310/posts/CGckpjjgnmz 

 A local doctor was told by experts she would probably never conceive a baby,

but she found success from a source that surprised even her.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/lifestyle/health/Alternative-treatment-helps-Michigan

-doctor-beat-infertility/-/2300442/8826414/-/b84q4p/-/index.html

How Acupuncture and TCM can enhance fertility.

Regulates the menstrual cycle

Regulates hormones by reducing stress

Improves the thickness of the uterine wall lining

Reduces uterine contractions after the embryo transfer

Improves blood flow to the ovaries and uterus

Improves ovarian function – encourages the production of follicles

and enhances their quality

Enhances the immune system

Reduces the chance of miscarriage

Improves sperm parameters ( takes at least 3 months)

Improves quality of oocytes (takes at least 3 months

Acupuncture and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

For the best results acupuncture should begin at least 3 months prior to

ART procedure.

Generally treatments are given once a week. For optimal results a treatment is

given 12-48 hours before and after embryo transfer.

Acupuncture and Natural Conception

If you are attempting to become pregnant through natural means, acupuncture can

benefit you by balancing the flow of Qi (energy) and blood in the body. When Qi and

blood are not flowing smoothly clots, blocked tubes, premenstrual pain and

endometriosis can occur. Stress is a big factor in infertility and acupuncture can help

the body relax while stress management techniques can also be of benefit.

The clinic offers stress management therapists.

Diet and Lifestyle

Diet and nutrition are of the utmost importance to both male and females for optimal results

in fertility. Dietary advice is given by qualified nutritional advisors throughout the course of

treatment, as required and a qualified stress management therapist can help with breathing

and relaxation techniques.

Symptoms Acupuncture can treat in relation to Infertility

Endometriosis

Blocked Tubes

irregular Menstrual Cycle

Premenstrual Cramps, pain and clots

Headaches

Miscarriage

Lack of ovulation

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Low Sperm Count

Poor Motility Rates

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Once pregnancy occurs, medication is usually prohibited therefore acupuncture is the ideal

tool to help with morning sickness, coughs, colds, headaches, back pain, constipation, tiredness

and the many afflictions the human body has to deal with daily. It can also be used to induce

labour and to turn breach babies if necessary.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Yes, acupuncture is safe – and effective – during pregnancy.

Acupuncture is not a substitute for Western prenatal medical care. Instead, it offers complementary

care that has many benefits. And because acupuncture has very few side effects, many pregnant

women now seek this alternative to drug therapy for a number of common pregnancy complaints.

The modern practice of acupuncture is based on historical diagnostic theories, with roots for

treatment in pregnancy that go back for over 2,000 years. But its use today relies on modern,

evidence-based medicine and standards of safety. For example, acupuncture by licensed

practitioners has strict standards for needle sterility and safety.

Studies have shown acupuncture to be effective for stress, morning sickness, hip and

low back pain, breech position, mild to moderate depression, labor induction, and shortening the

length of labor.

http://www.babycenter.com/406_is-acupuncture-safe-during-pregnancy_1246184.bc

IVF

In vitro fertilisation (known as IVF) is the name given to a technique where eggs are

fertilised with sperm outside the body, usually in a test tube. It is widely practised throughout

the world and has enabled many couples to successfully conceive and give birth.

IVF can be an emotional roller coaster for the people involved. It is physically invasive

and puts a mental and physical toll on the body. Success rates vary, but the average is 26%.

It is expensive, and more than one cycle may be required.

Acupuncture can enhance the IVF experience, and improve the success rates.

It is recommended by many professionals eg, Deborah Betts, Clane Fertility Clinic,

The British Medical Journal, Zita West, and the Dublin Acupuncture And Allergy Testing Clinic,

to name but a few.

Did you know that Traditional Chinese Acupuncture may increase pregnancy rates by 65%

when combined with IVF

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8VG0kLH88o&feature=related

Increased Success of IVF when done in conjunction with Acupuncture

A recent study done by Paulus in Germany surveyed 160 women who had IVF treatment.

80 of the women had acupuncture before and after transfer of the embryo and 80 did not.

The group that did not have acupuncture were found to have a 26.3% success rate, while

the group that had the acupuncture had a 42.5% success rate. Success was determined by

those who had a successful scan confirming pregnancy at 6 weeks pregnant. This clinic

includes this protocol for those women undergoing IVF treatment. If you would like to

read more about this: PubMed

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&list

_uids=11937123&dopt=Books

The effects of acupuncture on IVF and ICSI:

A randomised controlled clinical study on 225 patients was carried out. In group

one 116 patients received acupuncture, while in group two 109 patients received a

placebo. The pregnancy rates for IVF and ICSI in group one were double the rate of

group two. Conclusion: Acupuncture can be of great benefit to IVF and ICSI.

http://www.aborm.org/research/RoleOfTCMwithOrWithoutAcupunctureOn

ReproductiveMedicine.pdf

SUCCESS STORIES

http://www.amazinghealing.com/aiyana.php?nav=8&article_id=27

Acupuncture promoting ovulation

We have selected a few research articles that show the success of acupuncture

in relation to treating lack of ovualtion:

Clinical observation on acupuncture for treatment of infertility of ovulatory

disturbance. If you would like to read more:

Acupuncture in polycystic ovary syndrome: current experimental and

clinical evidence. If you would like to read more:

Advances of modern studies of acupuncture and moxibustion for treatment of

ovulation disorders. If you would like to read more:

Acupuncture can reduce miscarriages

Acupuncture During IVF linked to lower ectopic and miscarriage rate. The retrospective

study included 131 women who were undergoing standard in vitro fertilization (IVF) or

intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). All of these women were considered good

prognosis candidates for IVF/ICSI and were given the choice of having acupuncture.

48 had acupuncture and 83 did not. In the group that had acupuncture the miscarriage

rate was nearly halved. 14% miscarriages in non acupuncture group versus 8% miscarriage

in acupuncture group. Ectopic pregnancies were 9% in non acupuncture group versus 0% in

acupuncture group. Live birth rate for non acupuncture group was 16% versus 21% in

acupuncture group.If you would like to read more:

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0CYD/is_1_40/ai_n8968477

Caffeine Intake linked to Miscarriage Rates

A new study has found that pregnant women who consumed more than 200 milligrams

of caffeine a day, equivalent to about two cups of coffee, had twice the risk of miscarriage

as the women who consumed no caffeine at all. The findings are published in the Journal

of Obstetrics and Gynecology. If you would like to read more:

http://www.chinesemedicinetools.com/caffeine/caffeine-intake-linked-to-miscarriage-rates

Acupuncture can help male infertility

A study of 40 men with idiopathic oligospermia, asthenospermia, or teratozoospermia has

shown a general improvement of sperm quality, specifically in the ultrastructural integrity of

spermatozoa, after acupuncture. If you would like to read more:

Another study of 19 men with semen abnormalities showed that acupuncture and moxa

techniques significantly increase the percentage of normal-form sperm in infertile patients

with oligoastenoteratozoospermia without apparent cause. If you would like to read more:

Another study of 22 patients was done to gague the influence of acupuncture on

idiopathic male infertility in assisted reproductive technology. It showed the The

fertilization rates after acupuncture (66.2%) were obviously higher than that before

treatment (40.2%, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in sperm concentration

and general sperm motility between before and after acupuncture. The embryo quality

after acupuncture was improved, but the difference between them was not significant

(P > 0.05). Acupuncture can improve sperm quality and fertilization rates in assisted

reproductive technology. If you would like to read more:

PCOS

is one of the most common problems affecting female fertility. At the clinic we treat PCOS,

with a combination of Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Diet and Lifestyle Changes.

Here are some interesting articles about PCOS.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsNKyKS7M_s

http://www.womenshealthclinic.ie/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos.html?

gclid=CMu0x_Ps6q0CFQFC4Qodinm-6A

Diet is one of the key elements in the fight against PCOS.

The effect of acupuncture on polycystic ovarian syndrome:

25 patients were treated with acupuncture. Result 20 patients recovered regular

menstruation. 10 of the 16 patients with sterility were able to become pregnant.

Acupuncture can safely and effectively treat PCOS.

MORNING SICKNESS

You don’t have to suffer from morning sickness!!!

http://www.google.com/url?sa=X&q=http://community.babycenter.com/post/a32110891/get

_acupuncture_now_morning_sickness_gone&ct=ga&cad=CAcQAhgAIAEoBDAAOABAuefx-gRIAVgAYgVlbi1VUw&cd=0rlVd3IvMlM&usg=AFQjCNFGmkXbaVY45QMQrtWSCoSFBB0MRA

labour and prebirth

Acupuncture offers  safe yet effective help for every stage of fertility enhancement pregnancy and labour.

Joanne Mc Govern – Dip Ac., Lic Ac., Dip. Chinese Herbs, Dip. Nutritional Advisor,

Dip Stress Management.

http://acupunctureandallergytesting.blogspot.com/2012/02/

joanne-mc-govern-chinese-herbalist.html

Natural Approaches for Heartburn

Traditional Chinese Medicine has been resolving

heartburn effectively for thousands of years. Acupressure and Chinese herbs can help not only reduce the symptoms of heartburn, but more important to help recover from the cause of GERD by adjusting the esophageal pressure, lowering gastric acid, and balancing the functions of the digestive organs. Because the Liver energetic organ system controls the direction of Qi (Chi) in the body, acid reflux is often associated with a Liver (TCM) imbalances and “Rebellious Qi” (which simply

means that the energy is flowing in the wrong direction).

The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy)

in the body; when the Liver is not functioning at its optimal

capacity, Digestive issues may ensue. Additionally, when the

energy of the Liver becomes constricted, Liver Qi Stagnation

develops. Thus stagnant energy tends to create heat and

inflammation in the body.

Poor eating habits with the consumption of cold foods, fried foods, simple sugars and carbohydrates, juices, and too many raw foods or uncooked foods can damage the Spleen function in Chinese medicine and causeDampness and Phlegm creating further obstructions for the digestive process and a propensity for the Stomach to develop digestive disorders.

Look to Free and Easy Wanderer formula and Restore the Middle Way.

Acupuncture, there are also specific acupuncture points that are very effective in the treatment of Acid Reflux.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdK0jRFpWPQ&feature=player_embedded

Lifestyle choices to reduce the occurrence of acid reflux:

Stress Management: Tai Chi, Qigong, Meditation and deep breathing techniques.

Diet: Avoid chocolate, tomato, peppermint, coffee, acidic fruit juices, sour, hot spicy, fatty and fried foods and alcohol.

Change your eating habits: Eat slowly and chew well. Avoid eating big meals. Do not over eat; only allow your stomach to be moderately full. Eat 5-6 small meals daily. Eat your dinner at least 3 hours before bedtime. Sit down in an upright chair and rest 20-30 minutes after eating prior to any activity.

Stop Smoking

Posture: When sleeping, elevate your upper body by 5 – 6 inches or try sleeping on your left side. Avoid bending from the waist or stooping just after meals.

Clothing: Avoid tight belts, clothing and bras that increase pressure on your stomach and chest.

Acid Reflux from the Western View

Acid Reflux and Heartburn are major symptoms of a medical condition called Gastroesophygeal Reflex disorder (GERD). More than 54 million adults in America are suffering from this frequent condition. Acid Reflux and Heartburn can have a burning sensation which radiates from the mid to upper chest, caused by acidic stomach contents which irritate the unprotected lining of the esophagus and throat. In healthy people, the lower end of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) normally stays closed, preventing acidic fluid in the stomach from backing up into the esophagus every time the stomach contracts. In fact, the lower esophageal sphincter is not a distinct muscular valve but rather an area of relatively high pressure.

The high pressure keeps the esophagus closed off from the stomach and helps prevent stomach acid and food from traveling back up the esophagus. When the esophagus fails to function properly, the stomach acid backs up and heartburn occurs. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine; the Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen and Pancreas work together to help the Stomach’s digestion. Once these organs function improperly, excessive stomach acid travels up to the esophagus and causes acid reflux or heartburn.

What conditions can contribute to acid reflux and heartburn?

Anything that decreases the lower esophageal pressure or irritates the esophagus might contribute:

Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia is an anatomical abnormality in which part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and up into the chest. This condition often occurs during pregnancy and if one is overweight.

Improper Diet: Consumption of fatty and spicy foods. Caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes and peppermint may also contribute to heartburn.

Eating late and overeating

Stressful lifestyles

Obesity

Tobacco

Pregnancy

Related symptoms and complications:

Other symptoms may include sore throat, voice change, nausea, anxiety, burning pain when swallowing, and a bitter or sour taste in your mouth, coughing and respiratory conditions such as, asthma, pneumonia and chronic bronchitis. If heartburn or acid reflux occurs frequently, it may cause complications in the esophagus, such as ulceration and Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-cancer lining of the esophagus. The inflammation of the esophagus may cause pain and bleeding during swallowing.

It is worth noting that pharmaceutical antacids suppress the natural digestive process and cause digestive disorders (Food Qi Stagnation) with habitual use according to Chinese medical theory. If food is not being properly digested in the stomach, many health disorders can develop over time; they can range from slow digestion to serious health concerns. This is why many prefer to utilize natural Chinese herbal therapy which can address acid reflux by addressing the root organ imbalances which cause acid reflux rather than suppressing stomach acid which is necessary for proper digestion.

http://www.agelessherbs.com/chinese-herbs/acid-reflux.html

ALLERGY

Allergies and food intolerance’s can cause symptoms including, rash, itch, runny nose, sneezing, headache, red or dry eyes, inflammation, irritation, aches and pains, toxic overload, bowel and digestive upset, Flu like symptoms, low immune system, nutritional deficiencies, organ and system imbalances, raised PH levels and chronic fatigue. This can lead to illness or trigger existing conditions. We treat a wide range of conditions. The testing used is non-invasive and pain free. It incorporates Chinese medicine, bio-resonance muscle testing, Diet and Nutrition therapy

We test for a wide variety of foods, chemicals, and airborne substances.

ALLERGIES SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Candida and allergies

Candida is one of the most frequent conditions seen in the western world. It often manifests itself as vaginal infection in women. Causes can include allergies, poor diet, stress, nutritional deficiencies, poor immune system and antibiotic use. Symptoms are wide and varied. For example, thrush, nail infections, gas, bloating, constant hunger, bad breath, anal itching, severe dandruff, itchy flakey scalp, toxic overload, digestive and bowel upset, weight gain / loss and poor concentration.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS affects many people. It manifests with severe pain, bloating, belching, stomach upset, constipation, diarrhea, cramps, indigestion, spasm, anal itching, frequent and urgent bowel motions. This condition can be very stressful, which in itself makes the condition worse. Causes can include food allergies and food intolerances, stress, nutritional deficiencies and organ imbalances.

PH Balance

http://www.water-for-health.co.uk/articles-scientific-and-technical/acid-alkaline-balance.html?gclid=CKrn0IH8rK4CFdRA4QodIyodSg

PH balance / acid balance can be altered by food allergies and equally allergies can be caused by over acidity resulting in disorders such as gout, acne, aches and pains, indigestion, psoriasis, red itchy skin, cellulite, heartburn, constant fatigue and illness.

Organ Imbalances

In Chinese medicine, allergies can cause disruption in the natural balance between yin and yang, smooth flow of Qi/energy and harmony amongst the organs. For example, disharmony of earth and wood (spleen and liver). Clinical indications of this may include indigestion with gas, cramping, nausea, constipation / diarrhea, Premenstrual Syndrome with sore breasts, bloated abdomen, irritability and fatigue, headaches, mood swings, erratic appetite, irregular / painful periods, craving foods, cold hands and feet, unstable blood sugar and poor concentration. Other causes include stress low immune system infections poor diet and lifestyle and nutritional deficiencies. It is important to identify and treat these imbalances as soon as possible to avoid illness.

Stress and allergies

Allergies can put huge stress on almost any part of the system. Equally stress, can interfere with the immune response, resulting in allergies. It is important to keep stress at manageable levels so that the system can function properly. A well balanced diet, regular aerobic exercise and continual water intake are essential to reduce stress. Just as there are certain foods and drinks which raise stress levels there are also an array of supper foods that help to de-stress. It is important to decrease stress inducing foods and increase de-stress foods.

is one of the most common problems affecting female fertility. At the clinic we treat PCOS, with a combination of Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Diet and Lifestyle Changes. Here are some interesting articles about PCOS.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsNKyKS7M_s

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – PCOS

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance found in women which causes a variety of problems including infertility, menstrual problems, heart disease and diabetes. It is seen in approximately 5-10% of all women. PCOS appears to run in families. It is quite common to finds that a patient with PCOS has a sister or mother with a similar clinical picture.

http://www.womenshealthclinic.ie/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos.html?gclid=CMu0x_Ps6q0CFQFC4Qodinm-6A

Diet is one of the key elements in the fight against PCOS.

http://www.womens-health.co.uk/food-for-pcos-pregnancy.html

http://www.annecollins.com/low-gi-diet-for-pcos.htm

What can Acupuncture and TCM do?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are designed to stimulate the body’s own natural production of hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle by gently correcting underlying deficiencies and/or eliminating disruptions. For example, when applied they can

1. restore reproductive energy in the kidney system which represents the reproductive endocrine system to normalize the production of hormones that regulate ovulation.
2. balance the liver system which controls smooth flow and distribution of blood to remove obstruction or constriction of blood circulation in the pelvic organs, which might be caused from living with high stress, consistent anger, frustration and/or anxiety.
3. build an adequate supply of blood to sustain a normal menstrual cycle, nourish the eggs to be revitalized, and support a healthy pregnancy.
4. help dissolve the thick, waxy coating found on the surface of the ovaries to improve ovarian function, enhance egg quality with the use of Chinese herbal medicine.
5. soothe the sympathetic nervous system to relax the body, reduce stress and influence healthy ovulation.
6. http://www.acupuncture-dfw.com/pcos.html

http://www.idahen.org/acupuncture-for-pcos/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nH2vwBn1nw&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YesjCphXziA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkYZ4qndB_Q

 Joanne Mc Govern – Dip Ac., Lic Ac., Dip. Chinese Herbs, Dip. Nutritional Advisor, ITEC, Dip Stress Management Consultant.

http://acupunctureandallergytesting.blogspot.com/

Current statistics state that one in five couples over the age of 30 have difficulty conceiving

after one year of trying.  In 50 % of cases, it is the male factor that is responsible for the infertility.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoBl_CL7bvs&feature=player_embedded#

What can Acupuncture  and TCM do?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7dI6syzdtM&feature=related

Increases the flow of qi and blood to the site of pain / injury.

Reduces swelling.

Cools inflammation.

Relieves pain.

Improves range of motion.

Speeds up recovery time.

http://tcm.health-info.org/WHO-treatment-list.htm#_pain

What can we treat?

Arthritis, Back pain, Muscle and joint problems, Rheumatism, Sciatica, Sports injuries, Gout, Frozen shoulder, Sciatica, Tennis elbow, Fibromyalgia, Fasciitis, Tendinitis, Osteo arthritis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Sprain, Post operative pain, Pain of all sorts.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - A chronic inflammatory disorder which effects the lining of the joints.  It is an autoimmune disorder.  Causes are unknown, but genetic factors may have some bearing.  Acupuncture can reduce pain and inflammation, improve the immune system, and help prevent further progression.

http://www.castanet.net/news/Needle-Notes/63502/Rheumatoid-Arthritis

Shin splints – Acupuncture has a 72% success rate in the treatment of shin splints.

http://www.live-pr.com/en/research-on-acupuncture-treatment-for-r1049040114.htm

Osteo Arthritis - Caused by the cartilage in the joints wearing away.  Acupuncture can reduce the pain of Osteo arthritis in the knees, by 40% and increase mobility by 40%.

http://www.boulder-colorado-acupuncture.com/arthritis.html

Tennis elbow – Acupuncture can reduce the pain of Tennis elbow by 70%.

http://www.jcm.co.uk/research-archive/article/acupuncture-and-tennis-elbow-782/

Shoulder pain – Acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic shoulder pain.

http://www.jcm.co.uk/research-archive/article/acupuncture-effective-alternative-for-shoulder-pain-1076/

Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the layer of the tissue which supports the arch of the foot.  An area that is prone to injury especially amongst runners. Acupuncture can heal this injury.

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-241-286–11417-0,00.html

Neck pain – 1753 people with chronic neck pain were randomly chosen to receive Acupuncture treatments, over 3 months.  Results showed significant improvement in pain and quality of life.

http://www.jcm.co.uk/research-archive/article/acupuncture-for-neck-pain-149/

Celebrity athletes are using Acupuncture to treat a variety of injuries.

http://www.healthcmi.com/index.php/acupuncturist-news-online/65-athletesacupuncturesports200747346

Back pain – Many people have suffered with back pain.  It can be both painful and debilitating.  A study involving over 14,000 people with  low back pain, showed greater success with acupuncture treatments, compared to standard medical treatment.

http://alternativehealingworks.com/chiropractic/Merrillville-chiropractor/needless-acupuncture-can-be-better-than-m

Acupuncture consultation and treatment

The initial visit involves a comprehensive consultation.  This includes, tongue, pulse, and facial diagnosis, diet, nutrition and lifestyle assessment,  past and present medical history.   Depending on your diagnosis a treatment plan will be devised for you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzMUhD8hecU&feature=relateda

Chinese Herbal Formulas

Have been used to treat painful conditions for thousands of years. Depending on your diagnosis, a specific formula may be valuable to your recovery. Here are some examples -

Xiao huo luo dan

Used to treat fixed or migrating pain in the bones and joints, with limited mobility.

http://tcm.health-info.org/formulas/singles/Xiao%20Huo%20Luo%20Dan.htm

Fu yuan huo xue tang

Treats pain due to traumatic injury.

http://tcm.health-info.org/formulas/singles/Fu%20Yuan%20Huo%20Xue%20Tang.htm

Du huo ji sheng tang

Alleviates pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back.

http://tcm.health-info.org/formulas/singles/Du%20Huo%20Ji%20Sheng%20Tang.htm

Diet

In  most painful conditions there are varying degrees of inflammation.  Foods which increase inflammation should be avoided, eg, sugar, sweets, cakes, biscuits,  saturated fats , full fat dairy produce.  Food allergies / intolerance’s can also trigger pain and inflammation.  A food allergy / intolerance test may  be advised.  It is also important to maintain a healthy weight.  Excess weight puts pressure on the joints etc, slowing recovery. The anti inflammatory diet is  weight friendly.  Foods which help inflammation include – oily fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, peppers, sweet potatoes, etc.

http://nutritiondiva.quickanddirtytips.com/foods-that-fight-inflammation.aspx

Exercise decreases inflammation.  It also improves health and well being.  Find something you can do that will not aggravate your condition, eg, water aerobics, walking, stationary bike, etc.

http://www.lifetimefitness.com/magazine/index.cfm?strWebAction=article_detail&intArticleId=270

Nutrition and Herbs

It is important that your diet contains the right amounts of nutrition, to maintain good health.  Depending on your condition, specific nutrition, herbs, and food supplements  can improve painful conditions.   Examples include -

Omega 3 – Reduces inflammation throughout the body.  Reduces pain and stiffness.  Improves stamina and mobility.  Alleviates muscle and joint soreness.

http://www.minami-nutrition.com/website/docs/PR_Omega-3%20in%20active%20sportspeople020610_EU.pdf

Vit D – Is deficient in many diets.  Known as the sunshine vitamin, it is difficult to maintain adequate levels in climates like Ireland.  Low levels of vitamin D are associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain, limb pain, and low back pain.

Vit B3 – Improves joint mobility and reduces inflammation.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin – Maintain joint health, renew and repair joint cartilage, and maintain the lubricating properties around the joints. They are widely used in the treatment of arthritis conditions.

http://www.vitabiotics.com/Jointace/500.aspx?gclid=CJyK5qX9xqoCFRJc4QodfTip0A

Willow Bark – An antioxidant, which works in multiple complex ways, to reduce pain.

Boswellia – A plant medicine, which effectively reduces pain and inflammation.

Bromelain – Reduces edema and inflammation.

For further information and contra indications etc, click on the link below.

http://www.eorthopod.com/content/chronic-pain-and-nutrition

Written by Joanne Mc Govern – Dip Ac., Lic Ac., Dip. Chinese Herbs, Dip. Nutritional Advisor, Dip Stress Management Consultant.

http://acupunctureandallergytesting.blogspot.com/