MUSCULAR AND SKELETAL ACHES AND PAINS

Posted on January 31, 2012 by

In Chinese Medicine Qi and blood need to flow unimpeded within the meridians. Disruption in this process can cause stagnation. It can also allow wind, cold and damp etc, to invade the channels. The result is blockage, which leads to pain, discomfort, limitation of movement, inflammation, and impairment.

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.

 

 

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ACNE AND TCM

Posted on January 27, 2012 by
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PCOS AND TCM

Posted on January 25, 2012 by

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.

 

PCOS explained.

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.

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?

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

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Cancer and Acupuncture

Posted on December 29, 2011 by

Cancer the mere mention of the name, fills most of us with fear. Thankfully today much progress has been made in the fight against Cancer. Today the emphasis is on early detection, support, and aggressive treatment.

Cancer is essentially were abnormal cells in the body multiply, at an uncontrollable rate. These cells can go on to form lumps and tumors. These tumors can detach themselves and move to other parts of the body.

http://www.womenrepublic.co.uk/health/cancers/

The main risk factors for Cancer include-  family history, stress,  smoking, obesity, heavy alcohol consumption, UV exposure, chemicals, pesticides, pollution, lack of exercise, poor diet, getting older, infection from certain viruses. Other causes of Cancer remain unknown.

http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/CancerCauses/index

Over 200 types of Cancer have been identified. Cancer effects all ages, sexes, and ethnic groups. The most common forms of Cancer include-

Skin Cancer

http://video.about.com/cancer/What-Is-Basal-Cell-Carcinoma-.htm

Lung Cancer,

Breast Cancer

://video.about.com/breastcancer/Breast-Cancer.htm

 

Prostate Cancer

Bowel Cancer

Bladder Cancer

Kidney Cancer

Non Hodgkins lymphoma

Leukemia

http://www.everydayhealth.com/cancer/know-the-most-common-types-of-cancer.aspx

 

Treatments include, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, and Surgery.

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/treatment/types-of-treatment

There are also new improved treatments for certain types of cancer.

http://video.about.com/cancer/Brachytherapy.htm

 

So what can Acupuncture and TCM do?

http://amacupunctureinstitute.com/barbaras-testimonial-ongoing-treatment-of-cancer/

boost energy levels

http://www.acupuncture.com/newsletters/m_mar11/canceracu.htm

control cancer pain

http://lifecyclehealth.net/acupuncture-for-managing-cancer-pain/

http://www.medicalacupuncture.org/acu_info/articles/cancertreatment.html

reduces hot flushes associated with some cancers

http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/comp_med/types/acupuncture.jsp

decrease nausea

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMourYmsc5M

reduce vomiting

relieve stress

http://amacupunctureinstitute.com/does-acupuncture-destress-you/

boost immune system

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2011/07/18/acupuncture-%E2%80%98eases%E2%80%99-cancer-treatment-side-effects.html

improve dry mouth associated with some cancers

http://fdnmanager.com/acupuncture-stimulates-natural-killer-cells-that-attack-cancer/

improves cancer treatment, and chemotherapy side effects

http://amacupunctureinstitute.com/acupuncture-cancer-care/

supports the treatment of various types of cancer

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

 

Diet and Cancer

While there is no, one diet fits all for cancer, it is vitally important that a good diet is adhered to. Certain foods  are helpful in the fight against cancer. These include-

cruciferous vegtables- cabbage, broccolli, sprouts  etc

Brightly coloured fruit and vegtables- oranges, tomatoes, etc

leafy greens- cauliflower, kale, etc

berries- rasberries, strawberries, grapes, etc

herbs and spices- garlic, onion, curry, etc

fish- salmon, cod, etc

certain nuts and seeds

http://www.embodiworks.org/cancertreatments/bodymindspirit/topfoodstoeat

http://www.foodandlife.com/foodc.html

 

The PH issue

Over acidity car-rodes body tissue. This can interrupt cellular activity, causing cancer. Cancer cells find it more difficult to survive in an alkaline environment. For more information click on the following sites-

http://www.chimachine4u.com/AA.html

http://www.healthleadsuk.com/articles/rayonex-bio-resonance-articles-studies-and-booklets/rayobase.html

http://www.rense.com/1.mpicons/acidalka.htm

 

 

 

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Are our Allergies getting worse?

Posted on October 3, 2011 by

According to this article our allergies are getting worse because of global warming. Have a read of this!

By Kristal Roberts

http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/news/health/fall-allergy-season-expected-to-come-back-with-a-vengeance-

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Acupuncture and Breast Cancer

Posted on September 29, 2011 by

Acupuncture has proved to be very successful in the treatment of the side effects of cancer. It is safe yet effective, with none of the side effects of  medication. Here is an interesting article about Breast Cancer and Acupuncture.

http://www.daan.com/2010/01/20/acupuncture-reduces-painful-side-effects-of-breast-cancer-treatments/

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Allergies

Posted on September 29, 2011 by

Interesting video about allergies. Found on youtube.

Dr Randy Martin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRxRG7Me8DQ

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Celebrate Acupuncture

Posted on September 27, 2011 by

Here is an amusing song celebrating Acupuncture, and the many people who endorse it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXI_29BUL0g

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Gynaecology and Acupuncture

Posted on September 27, 2011 by

Gynaecology

In Chinese medicine there are numerous gynaecological conditions. The most common include:

Irregular periods
PMT
Polycystic Ovary PCOS
Infertility (including male)
Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
Habitual miscarriage
Menopause
Painful periods
Endometriosis
Morning sickness
Amenorrhea – absence of period
Pregnancy
Labour
Breast-feeding
Hormonal skin problems
Hormonal headaches

Here are some common patterns Chinese Medicine Patterns which encompass many gynaecological symptoms. The treatment of all these patterns would include acupuncture and or herbal medicine. Diet and lifestyle would also usually be examined. Diagnosis is made after taking a full case history on the patient. Tongue, pulse and facial diagnosis are all used to help build a firm picture of which syndrome is involved.

Liver and heart blood deficiency, depleted conception and penetrating vessel, spleen qi deficiency.

Signs and symptoms may include:
Prolonged early or late periods, heavy or scanty periods, PMT, inability to conceive, irregular periods, habitual miscarriage, dry eyes, insomnia, tendo-muscular aches and weakness, palpitations, cracked finger nails, dry skin and hair, restlessness, anxious, irritable, tiredness, feeling cold.

Treatment principle:
Nourish the blood, tonify qi, regulate the blood, and regulate the conception and penetrating vessels.

Damp-heat in the lower body (leucorrhoea/candidiasis)

Signs and symptoms may include:
Vaginal itching and discharge, burning heat or redness of the genitalia, dry mouth.

Treatment principle:
Clear heat, eliminate damp and harmonise the conception and penetrating vessels.

Kidney yin deficiency (menopause)

Signs and symptoms may include:
Hot flushes, insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, dryness of the throat and vagina, restlessness, backache, a sensation of heat in the palms, soles and chest, prolonged / shortened menstruation

Treatment principle:
Tonify the kidneys and calm the mind.

Blood stagnation (uterine bleeding)

Signs and symptoms may include:
Painful periods, persistent uterine bleeding, lower abdominal pain, clots, spotting, profuse bleeding.

Treatment principle:
Move blood, and resolve blood stasis.

Kidney deficiency (infertility)

Signs and symptoms may include:
Infertility, prolonged menstrual cycle, loose stools, low back pain and weakness.

Treatment principle:
Tonify the kidneys, regulate and tonify the conception and penetrating vessels.

Liver qi stagnation ( PMT)

Signs and symptoms may include:
Outbursts of anger, tiredness, irregular periods, painful periods, belching, sighing, nausea, pent up anger, moodiness, headache, insomnia, clots, low back pain, and menstrual dizziness.

Treatment Principle:
Sooth the liver, regulate qi, move blood.

Consultation

On your first visit a full consultation will be given. This will include checking for organ imbalances nutritional deficiencies, diet and lifestyle demands, and tongue and pulse diagnosis. We will also get a full medical history from you. Depending on your diagnoses a treatment plan will be devised for you. This may include – Acupuncture, auricular acupuncture or needle free acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Diet and lifestyle recommendations.

It is important that your diet contains adequate nutrition and energy giving foods. It is equally important that these foods are being properly absorbed. Water, sleep and aerobic exercise are vital to maintain optimal health and energy. At the clinic we will assess your daily requirements to achieve this.

In Chinese medicine different food possess different properties e.g. If you have blood deficiency you will be advised to eat some foods that can nourish blood like rice and chicken eggs. While if you have a damp condition you may be asked to reduce your intake of foods which cause dampness e.g. greasy foods.

You may also be recommended to have an allergy / food intolerance test at the clinic.

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Research shows Acupuncture Improves The Sucess of IVF!

Posted on September 25, 2011 by

A 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.  Our Acupuncture clinic has supported this protocol and includes it in treatments to support those women undergoing IVF treatment.   If you would like to read more about
this research:  PubMed

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&list_uids=11937123&dopt=Books

This is huge improvement in the rate of sucessful IVF treatments.  Another step in the right direction for recognising acupuncture as a useful assistant to IVF treatments.

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