This document discusses medical acupuncture and its use in modern medicine. It provides background on acupuncture including its origins in ancient India and China. The document explains how acupuncture works based on Chinese concepts of qi and meridians. It outlines indications for acupuncture in treating various conditions and compares its effectiveness to drug therapies with fewer side effects. The document also discusses complications, limitations, and appropriate practitioners of acupuncture when used as a branch of medicine.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment using thin needles inserted at specific points in the body. It is based on the belief that energy (qi) flows through meridians and illness occurs when qi is blocked. The needles may alleviate pain by stimulating the nervous system to release chemicals or affect brain chemistry. Current evidence supports acupuncture for back/neck pain, headaches, and nausea. Risks are generally minor but may include bruising or fainting. Serious risks like infection or organ puncture are very rare if done properly. The document provides details on the theory, mechanisms of action, appropriate conditions, procedures, risks and side effects of acupuncture.
This document provides an overview of acupressure as a method of naturopathy. It defines acupressure as an ancient healing technique that uses finger pressure on key points of the body to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities. The document outlines the principles of naturopathy, then describes the history of acupressure, how it works by applying pressure to points along meridian lines, its classification into different therapies, advantages like being drug-free and easy to learn, potential disadvantages like not treating all conditions, and applications for ailments like headaches, cramps, and nausea.
The document discusses acupressure and acupuncture. It defines acupressure as applying manual pressure to specific points on the body, while acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into points. The document outlines the basic principles of Chinese medicine that acupressure and acupuncture are based on, describing the flow of energy through meridian pathways and how blockages can cause illness. It provides details on administering acupressure and acupuncture treatments, their mechanisms of action, effects, instruments used, precautions, and implications for treating mental illness.
Acupressure is an ancient healing technique that uses finger pressure on key points of the body to stimulate its natural self-curative abilities. It works by releasing muscular tension and promoting blood circulation and the flow of life force energy. Some key benefits of acupressure include relieving pain, balancing the body, and maintaining good health. Su Jok acupressure specifically involves locating cure points on the hands and feet that correspond to areas of the body, and applying pressure to treat various ailments. It provides fast and marked curative effects safely and with minimal costs or training.
Acupuncture originates from China and has been practiced there for thousands of years. It is really beneficial to treat diseases like Anxiety , Depression, Infertility, Weight loss , Insomnia , Asthma, Nausea, Digestive problems, Pregnancy care and many other conditions. The practitioners of Northside Acupuncture in Northern Beaches treat these problems very successfully. So If you are looking for the best Acupuncture clinic then feel free to contact us.
Acupressure is an ancient healing technique that uses pressure on specific points on the body to relieve pain and discomfort and balance energy flow. It originated in Asia and is based on the concept of qi or life energy flowing through meridians in the body. By applying pressure to acupoints located on these meridians, acupressure can address energy imbalances that cause pain or illness. While similar to acupuncture, acupressure does not use needles. Multiple studies have found acupressure effective in reducing pain, anxiety, nausea and improving sleep, motor function, and immunity.
Cupping therapy is an ancient alternative medicine technique where a therapist places cups on the skin to create suction. There are two main types of cupping - dry cupping which uses suction only, and wet cupping which also causes controlled bleeding from the skin. Cupping is believed to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and other conditions, but its effects are still considered pseudoscience. Potential side effects include discomfort, bruising and burns. It is important to consult a trained cupping therapist and discuss any medical conditions before undergoing cupping.
Traditional acupuncture is a healthcare system that originated in ancient China over 2000 years ago. It is based on principles of balancing the body's energy to maintain health and treat illness. The first known book on Chinese medicine dates back to between the 1st century BC and 1st century AD and all styles of acupuncture practiced today trace their roots to this text. Traditional acupuncture gained prominence again in China in the 1930s and 1940s when it was used successfully to treat wounded soldiers. It is now practiced worldwide and clinical trials are confirming its efficacy as a recognized healthcare option.
Reflexology involves applying pressure to the feet and hands to stimulate zones and reflex areas that correspond to different parts of the body. Its origins can be traced back 5000 years to China or Egypt. The basis of reflexology is zone therapy developed by Dr. Fitzgerald, which involves 10 invisible energy currents that run through the body and correspond to different zones. Applying pressure to reflex points is believed to relax muscles, improve circulation, and stimulate nerve connections to benefit overall health and well-being. Research has found reflexology can reduce pain, increase relaxation, and positively impact conditions like kidney function, PMS, and diabetes.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and treat various health conditions. It works by unblocking disruptions in the flow of "qi", or life energy, through pathways called meridians. A session at John's Acupuncture clinic can help fix pains like neck or back issues for $50. Testimonials from past clients report relief from shoulder pain, migraines, and improved mobility.
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning mugwort near or on the skin to stimulate acupuncture points. It has a long history of use in China and other East Asian countries. There are several methods of moxibustion, including using moxa cones, moxa rolls, or warming acupuncture needles with moxa. Moxibustion can be direct on the skin surface or indirect with a barrier like ginger. It is used to treat various conditions by regulating body functions and correcting imbalances. Precautions are needed for direct moxibustion on sensitive areas or for those with reduced sensation.
The document discusses Dr. Rajeev Kashyap and his services for spiritual counseling and full energy sessions to help with various ailments such as migraines, insomnia, depression, toothache, constipation, and morning sickness. It provides his contact information repeated multiple times.
This document provides information on auriculotherapy, which is a healing technique that involves pricking specific points on the ear. It discusses the anatomical parts of the ear and identifies over 30 specific zones and points on the ear that correspond to different parts of the body. The zones covered include the lobule of the ear, tragus, supratragic incisures, anti-tragus, anti-helix, triangular fossa, crus of helix, helix, and scapha. Each zone identifies the related body areas and clinical functions that can be treated by stimulating points in that ear zone.
This presentation is complete about hydrotherapy and its role in medical care. How hydrotherapy helps patients to recover along with some precautions etc. Hydrotherapy has a lot of benefits, That why we prepare that presentation for those who are willing to learn about it. This presentation may helpful for you in your studies. I hope this will helps you a lot.
Acupressure is an ancient healing technique based on Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body called acupoints. It works by unblocking the flow of qi, or life energy, along meridian pathways. Some key points:
- Acupressure is similar to acupuncture but uses finger pressure instead of needles to stimulate acupoints. It can effectively treat many physical ailments as well as mental health issues like depression.
- The technique originated in China and is based on the theory that qi flows through meridian channels. Applying pressure to acupoints along these channels helps restore balanced qi flow and healing.
- Common techniques include pressing, rubbing,
This document discusses pain management through acupuncture. It provides background on acupuncture as a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves pricking needles on specific points. The document describes how acupuncture aims to balance qi or energy flow along meridian pathways. It details various acupuncture methods and effects, as well as common diseases it can help treat such as migraines, joint pain, neurological pain, motor neuron diseases, obesity, and infertility. The document outlines safety considerations and contraindications for acupuncture.
Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment modality that has been in use for thousands of years. This presentation highlights the many health benefits of using this therapy.
This document provides an overview of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. It discusses key concepts in traditional Chinese medicine like Yin and Yang balance and Qi flow. The history and development of acupuncture over centuries is described. Modern acupuncture techniques that combine traditional and modern medical approaches are also outlined. The therapeutic effects and contraindications of acupuncture are summarized.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is based on the belief that vital energy called qi flows through meridians or energy pathways in the body, and inserting needles can restore balance when qi is disrupted. The document traces the history of acupuncture from ancient China to its introduction in Europe and the United States. It also describes related techniques like electroacupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and acupressure. While research is still being done on how acupuncture works, supporters believe it can help reduce pain and relieve nausea. Potential risks include bleeding or organ damage if done improperly.
Dr. S. Artchoudane, MSc., MPhil, BEd (Spl), PhD, Assistant Professor, Center for Yogic Sciences, AVMC & Hospital, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation, Puducherry, India 607403
Knowledge of Acupressure/Acupuncture pointsAchudan Jii
Dr. S. Artchoudane, MSc., MPhil, BEd (Spl), PhD, Assistant Professor, Center for Yogic Sciences, AVMC & Hospital, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation, Puducherry, India 607403
ProSportsAcupuncture 8 March 2015 new formatMatt Skahill
Matt Skahill presents on ProSports Acupuncture and how it can benefit professional athletes. ProSports Acupuncture uses ancient acupuncture techniques combined with modern diagnostics to provide drug-free pain relief and injury prevention treatments tailored for each sport. Typical treatments address back pain, headaches, and muscle injuries. The benefits include maximizing playing time while minimizing risks like medication side effects.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice using thin needles inserted into the skin at specific points to relieve pain and other symptoms. It has been used for over 2000 years and works by stimulating the nervous system to release chemicals that alter bodily processes. While not proven to cure illness, studies show acupuncture is effective for pain relief from headaches, back pain, and other conditions. The interviewed patients found acupuncture eliminated their severe back pain after other treatments failed, with minimal side effects from the needle insertion. They would recommend acupuncture and undergo it again due to its effectiveness.
The document provides information on various complementary and alternative medicine therapies including acupuncture, massage therapy, mind-body medicine, tai chi, yoga, and reflexology. It describes the basic techniques, historical origins, benefits, risks and contraindications of each therapy. The document emphasizes integrating complementary therapies with standard medical care on a case by case basis to best meet patient needs and improve health outcomes.
This document discusses quackery and various forms of alternative and complementary medicine. It defines quackery and outlines four major domains of complementary and alternative medicine: biologically-based practices, energy medicine, manipulative and body-based practices, and mind-body medicine. Examples of each domain are provided, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, reflexology, acupressure, and nutrition therapy. The document also discusses naturopathy and some of its treatment approaches, such as fasting, hydrotherapy, diet, air, sunlight. Overall, the document provides an overview of alternative and complementary medicine modalities and defines quackery.
The document discusses physiotherapy and acupuncture, explaining that physiotherapy can treat orthopedic issues, neurological disorders, cardiovascular problems, musculoskeletal pain, and women's health issues through physical evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation. It also outlines how acupuncture works based on Chinese medicine to balance energy flows and treat various conditions by inserting needles at acupuncture points, and reviews studies showing acupuncture can help reduce migraines, arthritis pain, insomnia, and aid chemotherapy recovery. In summary, the document examines the roles and benefits of physiotherapy and acupuncture in treating various medical conditions.
This document discusses quackery and alternative medicine. It defines quackery and complementary and alternative medicine. There are four major domains of alternative medicine discussed: biologically-based practices, energy medicine, manipulative practices, and mind-body medicine. Examples of approved alternative modalities in the Philippines include herbal medicine, acupuncture, ventosa cupping massage therapy, reflexology, acupressure, and nutrition therapy. Naturopathy is also described as using natural practices like herbal medicine and dietary changes.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into precise points on the body. It originated over 2000 years ago in China and was introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Modern research studies have found acupuncture can help reduce pain from conditions like arthritis, headaches, back pain, and some effects of cancer treatments, though evidence is still limited or inconclusive for other conditions. Potential risks of acupuncture include soreness, bleeding or infection at the needle sites. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health continues to research how and why acupuncture may relieve pain and other health issues.
Holistic medicine is the art and science of
healing that addresses care of the whole person - body, mind, and spirit. The
practice of holistic medicine integrates conventional and complementary
therapies to promote optimal health, and prevent and treat disease by
addressing contributing factors. Holistic healthcare practitioners strive to
meet the patient with grace, kindness, acceptance, and spirit without
condition, as love is life’s most powerful healer.
In practice, this means that each person is seen as a unique individual, rather
than an example of a particular disease. Disease is understood to be the result
of physical, emotional, spiritual, social and environmental imbalance. Healing,
therefore, takes place naturally when these aspects of life are brought into
proper balance. The role of the practitioner is as guide, mentor and role
model; the patient must do the work - changing lifestyle, beliefs and old
habits in order to facilitate healing. All appropriate methods may be used,
from medication to meditation.
This document introduces a new community acupuncture clinic called The Bow Acupuncture & Community Wellness that aims to offer affordable acupuncture treatments to the Jacksonville community. It provides information on what acupuncture is, how it works to treat nearly 100 conditions, and the benefits of community acupuncture where patients receive treatments in a group setting on a sliding scale based on what they can afford. The mission of The Bow is to empower the local community to care for their health through natural treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, and nutrition prescribed by licensed acupuncturists.
1) The document discusses the use of acupuncture for common medical conditions in elderly people such as pain, nervousness, depression, anxiety and insomnia.
2) It provides evidence from the WHO that acupuncture is effective for 64 medical indications including the conditions commonly seen in elderly patients.
3) The document concludes that acupuncture is effective for relieving pain and insomnia in elderly patients and can also help manage side effects of cancer treatment like nausea, vomiting and dry mouth.
The document provides an overview of pain management in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It discusses the history and philosophies of TCM, including Yin-Yang theory and the five elements theory. It also describes TCM diagnostic techniques like pulse and tongue diagnosis. Key TCM concepts for pain like Qi, meridians, acupuncture points and bi syndromes are explained. The mechanisms of acupuncture for pain relief like the gate control theory and endorphin theory are summarized. Clinical applications of acupuncture for various pain conditions like headaches, arthritis and low back pain are also covered.
Acupuncture by Lara,Lucia,Cristina,Salome 4ºAmyenglishcorner
Acupuncture is a type of alternative medicine that treats patients by inserting thin needles into the body at certain points. It originated in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is based on the concept of balancing qi energy flow. While research has not found physical evidence for concepts like meridians or qi, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed properly by trained practitioners, though there are small risks. Clinical practice involves diagnosis and needle insertion, and studies show acupuncture is used to treat pain, neurological issues, and stroke rehabilitation. However, scientific research on acupuncture remains controversial and has not demonstrated the anatomical existence of points and meridians central to its theoretical framework.
Acupuncture used for Curing Pain that Arises from C-Section Surgeriesnaturopathdoctor
who have earlier suffered from chronic pain due to arthritis, headaches, neck along with shoulder and back pain. All the participants have been assigned either to acupuncture or to sham acupuncture.
Acupuncture has become more widely used in sports medicine to treat pain and hasten recovery from injuries. Modern acupuncture uses sterile, disposable needles inserted at specific points along "meridians" to balance the flow of life energy in the body. Treatment sessions typically involve 6-12 needles placed for 10-30 minutes. While generally safe, serious risks include infection and organ puncture. Research shows acupuncture effective for osteoarthritis knee pain and some studies find it can improve immune function after exercise. The largest trial to date found acupuncture helped reduce knee pain more than education or sham acupuncture.
The document discusses acupuncture and provides information about its history, mechanisms, types, indications, and global recognition. It describes acupuncture as an ancient Chinese practice that treats imbalances in qi by inserting thin needles into acupuncture points. It lists types of acupuncture like moxibustion and cupping and indications like pain management. The document also provides information about the Global College of Paramedical Sciences which offers acupuncture therapy courses approved by the Tamilnadu Physical Education and Sports University.
The document provides an agenda for an event on acupuncture that includes an introduction, history of acupuncture, guest acupuncturist session, Q&A, and wrap up. It discusses the origins of acupuncture in ancient China, its modern uses for conditions like pain, infertility and stress, and the philosophy behind the flow of qi energy points. The science behind how acupuncture stimulates the nervous system is explained, along with debunking common misconceptions.
2. 2
AIMAIM
To project RIGHT IMAGE of Acupuncture
To MAKE AWARE the Medical Professionals & general
public about the safety of the procedure, its indications
and its limitations.
To REVERSE the unfavorable attitudes of medical
professionals
To let you know : ACUPUNCTURE ANALGESIA is a
“VALUABLE ADDITION ” for QUALIFIED ANESTHETIST
To CREATE interest & stimulate colleagues to add
ACUPUNCTURE to their practice
3. 3
Reasons why traditional acupuncture had been
given the cold shoulder by the medical
profession
• Pressure from the pharmaceutical industry
• Lack of knowledge about acupuncture
• Lack of therapeutic promise
• That acupuncture was considered unsafe
• That acupuncture was too expensive
• That it had nothing to do with perceived problems
concerning the conduct of research
4. 4
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE ?
In Latin, acus = needle, pungra = to prick,
To prick a needle for treatment is acupuncture.
The combination of acupuncture and moxibustion is
known in Chinese as CHEN CHIU [ needle & heat
therapy ]
Acupuncture point means a specific spot on the
body surface where needling is done to get
particular therapeutic response.
5. 5
ORIGIN
7000 B.C. - Indian Medical Classics “Vedas” or “NEEDLE
THERAPY”
3000 B.C. - SUCHI VEDA – “Art of piercing with a needle”
180 points known as “MARMA”
4th Century B.C. “Nei Ching”
Acupuncture was more developed by the Chinese than
the Indians & PRESENTED IT IN A MORE COMPLETE
FASHION
Western Medical Science took interest in Acupuncture
only after Mr. Nixon’s visit to China in 1971 WITH Mr.
James Reston of the New Yark Times
6. 6
Acupuncture is Not a Drug, It is a
Complete Science OR Healing System
Analgesic,
Anti-inflammatory
Enhancing the immune system
Anti-spastic
Anti-shock and anti-paralytic abilities of the body
Acupuncture HASTENS SPEED OF NATURAL
RECOVERY
Acupuncture effects can not be explained by single
theory
7. 7
HOW ACUPUNCTURE WORKS ?
Chinese concept of (w)holism. This concept
views human beings not only in relation to our own
integral totality of body mind, and spirit, but also as
microcosmic expressions of a universe whose
characteristics are inherent in every organism & in
every process.
Health is viewed as the maintenance of harmony
between ourselves and this universe while illness
in an expression of disharmony.
8. 8
Qi (pronounced Chi ) - the vital force (primordial energy). A
free and balanced flow of Qi in the body expresses harmony
and health while a blockage of this energy indicates illness.
Qi travels along certain pathways called meridians. There are
TWELVE PAIRED & TWO UNPAIRED meridians, named
pertaining to particular organ.
Acupuncture points and meridians demonstrated in 1933 by
a special technique called by Kirlian Photography ( Kirlian &
Kirlian of USSR )
Acupuncture points - low electrical resistance
Most of acupuncture points correspond to motor points of
muscles
9. 9
HOW ACUPUNCTURE WORKS ?
GATE CONTROL THEORY:
Ronald Melzack & P D Wall, London ( 1965 )
ENDORPHINE THEORY:
Dr. Bruce Pomeranz, Prof. of Neurobiology of
Toronto University
CHEMICAL OR HUMORAL MECHANISMS
BIO-ELECTRICAL PHENOMENON 1973
10. 10
The Mind is the BIGGEST
pharmaceutical industry in
the WORLD
and it needs proper
STIMULUS and WILL
11. 11
ZUSANLI (St. 36 )
QUCHI ( L I 11 )
HEGU ( L I 4 )
SANYINJIAO ( SP 6 )
Many acupuncture points have
specific effects on insertion of
needles.
13. 13
ACUPUNCTURE AS TODAY
In CHINA, 800 DISEASES are being treated with
ACUPUNCTURE THERAPY
At least 140 countries in the world.
Many prestigious hospitals, universities, and Medical
schools around the world have now established
Departments for Acupuncture Research, Therapy and
Analgesia
SRI LANKA – Best training Centre out side China separate
Minister for Traditional Medicines & Acupuncture
14. 14
ACUPUNCTURE AS TODAY
US Government – opened the office of Alternative Medicine
at the National Institute of Health
The FDA approved Acupuncture needles for use by
licensed practitioners in 1996
Rehabilitation Clinic, Workers’ Compensation Board of
British Columbia Canada have Acupuncture department
The PAIN CLINIC at the OSAKA MEDICAL COLLEGE –
Japan’s largest & oldest
15. 15
ACUPUNCTURE IN INDIA
MUSHROOMING OF FAKE ACUPUNCTURIST IN INDIA
BECAUSE OF LACK OF PROPER INSTITUTIONS
DR B K BASU MEMORIAL RESEARCH & TRAINING
INSTITUTE CALCUTTA – OLDEST & RECOGNIZED BY
WEST BENGAL GOVT – 1996 ONE MONTH TRAINING for
Medical Officers. THREE GOVT. CLINIC IN CALCUTTA
DR. KOTNIS ACUPUNCTURE MEDICAL COLLEGE,
PUNJAB
S D M COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHY & YOGIC SCIENCE
– UJRE
16. 16
INDICATIONS
Theoretically it is possible to help or cure by acupuncture any
disease that can be affected by a physiological process.
The W. H. O. at the Interregional Seminar, Beijing 1979,
Upper Respiratory Tract: Acute sinusitis / Acute rhinitis / Common cold /
Acute tonsillitis
Respiratory System: Acute bronchitis / Bronchial asthma
Disorders of the Eye: Acute conjunctivitis / Central retinitis / Myopia ( in
children ) / Cataract
Disorders of the mouth: Toothache, post-extraction pain / Gingivitis Acute
and chronic pharyngitis
18. 18
Acupuncture should be practiced as a BRANCH OF
MEDICINE
PAIN - Musculoskeletal , neuropathic pains, post-operative
and post-injury & sports injuries - highly effective - Results
are long lasting without side effects which is the main
advantage
Non-progressive paralysis: Acupuncture “HASTENS” the
speed of natural recovery and should be combined with
rehabilitation & physiotherapy techniques to improve quality
of life
Indications in MEDICAL PRACTICE
19. 19
Depression, anxiety, feelings of being "run down", including
pre -menstrual tension and menopausal symptoms.
Allergic reactions such as asthma, hayfever, and eczema.
Sinus problems and chronic catarrh.
Abdominal and Bowel problems such as peptic ulcer, colitis,
chronic and intermittent bouts of diarrhoea or constipation,
irritable bladder, and bed wetting in children.
Stopping smoking and eating disorders (compulsive eating,
bulimia, anorexia) and also DRUG ADDICTION.
Indications in MEDICAL PRACTICE
20. 20
Remember that before starting acupuncture,
be sure of the diagnosis and that all the
necessary tests have been carried out which
might point to any serious or potentially
serious condition, perhaps requiring other
forms of treatment
Indications in MEDICAL PRACTICE
21. 21
COMPLICATIONS
Complications of acupuncture ( accidents ) can occur
from improper technique, lack of skill, or failure to
observe certain guidelines and are very much
PREVENTABLE
1. PAIN on insertion of the needle may be because of
Bad acupuncturist / Bad needle / Bad posture / Bad
patient
2. BLEEDING sometimes occurs on withdrawal of the
needle
3. FAINTING – common as with any injection
22. 22
COMPLICATIONSCOMPLICATIONS ( contd.)( contd.)
4. THE FORGOTTEN NEEDLE
5. BENT, BROKEN OR STUCK NEEDLE
6. INFECTION – if needles are not sterilized
properly. PERSONAL SET of needles are used to
take away the fear of AIDS/ HEPATITIS B
7. INJURY TO INTERNAL ORGANS OR VITAL
STRUCTURES
23. 23
COMPLICATIONSCOMPLICATIONS ( contd.)( contd.)
OVER CORRECTION OF CERTAIN
PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS,
COMPLICATION FROM ELECTRO –
ACUPUNCTURE
ADDICTION TO ACUPUNCTURE
ABORTION: certain points in first trimester may
induce abortion
24. 24
Please DO NOT BLAME
Acupuncture, if you have found
failures,
CAUSES FOR FAILURES :
The wrong doctor
The wrong diagnosis
The wrong selection of case
The wrong selection of points & technique
Inadequate treatment
25. 25
So, one should know the LIMITATIONS FIRST.
“CURE” depends on many factors
Diseases which are incurable - QUALITY OF LIFE
may be IMPROVED and RELIEF from PAIN
Acupuncture, in other words, should be used as
part of the patient’s overall treatment programme,
not as a final resort
26. 26
Where to go forWhere to go for
Acupuncture ?Acupuncture ?
Acupuncture should be practised as a
BRANCH OF MEDICINE
So go to a practitioner who is fully
QUALIFIED to treat western medical
conditions, as well as being fully trained in
acupuncture
27. 27
……..TO CONCLUDE
Acupuncture is ONE OF THE BEST OF MODALITY for
treating the sick
Evidence-based acupuncture is a SIMPLE METHOD for
no-drug pain control and should be TAUGHT IN MEDICAL
SCHOOLS and made available to all physicians
Acupuncture will NEVER REPLACE conventional medical
treatment
As we learn more about it, the possibilities of using
acupuncture alongside 'orthodox' medicine will increase
NAME: DR. VINAY VARMA POST : Family Physician, Physiatrist, Acupuncture Specialist, Authorised Medical Attendant for Central Govt. Employees, Family Planning Counsellor { I. M. A. } ADDRESS: ANAND POLIO & PAIN RELIEF CENTRE, Eureka Colony, Sholapur Road, Keshwapur, HUBLI - 580023. E – MAIL : drvinayvarma @ vsnl .com : dr _ vinayvarma @winnings.com CLINICAL RESEARCH: Designed " VINAY VARMA'S FUNCTIONAL KNEE SPLINT" & Modification of night splints, PRESSURE SPLINT and electrical sharpening of Acupuncture needles. Designed " STANDING AID" Designed computer proforma on“ SCORING SYSTEM “ – ASSESSMENT FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES Presented many papers at National & International conferences ACADEMIC PUBLICATION: " SIMPLE SPLINTS " THE JOURNAL OF REHABILITATION IN ASIA, APRIL 1988. PRESENT STATUS: Managing 10 Bedded Hospital having Physiotherapy, Orthotic & Acupuncture Departments along with General Practice.
Considerable controversy has surrounded Acupuncture, on the one hand extravagant claims have been made for its efficacy while, on the other hand, it has been criticized for its lack of Scientific standing. There are fake training centers, fake acupuncturists. Unfortunately, every profession has its incompetents, quacks & confidence tricksters. Acupuncture practitioners may have more than their fair share of these because there is no agreed standard of training which must be reached before one may practice acupuncture. So what is a Scientific method ? At the close of the last century, T. H. Huxlay defined science as “ organized common sense ” and the method of organization came to be known as “ Scientific method ” The scientific method consist of observations inference and experiment, followed by the formulation of hypothesis, theories and laws which in turn are subject to verification or otherwise by further experiments. Acupuncture was born from keen observations of clinical facts. Aldous Huxley states that a needle stuck into one’s foot should improve the headache or functioning of one’s liver is obviously incredible, it can not be believed because, in terms of currently accepted physiological theory it makes no sense. Within our system of explanation there is no reason why the needle prick should be followed by an improvement of headache or liver function. Therefore, we say it can’t happen. The only trouble with this argument is that, as a matter of empirical fact, it does happen, inserted at precisely the right point, the needle in the foot regularly affects the function of liver, or improves the headache. What should we do about events which by all the rules, ought not to occur, but which nevertheless occur ? Two course are open to us, we can either shut our eyes with the hope that, if we don’t look at them, they will go away and leave us in peace or alternatively we can accept them – accept them for time being as inexplicable anomalies and confirm, that is what I have done.
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE ? The word Acupuncture is derived from Latin. In Latin, acus = needle, pungra = to prick, to prick a needle for treatment is acupuncture . The combination of acupuncture and moxibustion is known in Chinese as Chen Chiu [ needle & heat therapy.] Acupuncture treatment is usually carried out by inserting very fine needles at acupuncture points. Acupuncture point means a specific spot on the body surface where needling is done to get particular therapeutic response. The practice of cauterizing a part of the ear or body with a hot metal probe is very common in rural India and many Asian countries even today, is nothing but rudimentary form of acupuncture. The Eskimos of instance, are still using sharpened stones for treating their illnesses. The Bantus of South Africa scratch certain areas of their skin to ally the symptoms of many illnesses, while in Brazil there is a tribe whose method of treating illnesses is to shoot tiny arrows from a blow pipe on to a specific areas on the surface. Karate, the martial art of unarmed combat from Japan is yet another variation of acupuncture. Moxibustion represents a special form of point stimulation and involves burning pieces of drug plants generally the moxa leaf, either on needle so as to conduct heat into the body, or in some cases actually on the surface of the skin directly or indirectly by using some kind of barriers like ginger of garlic slices.
YIN & YANG THEORY, THEORY OF FIVE ELEMENTS, ORGAN CLOCK and many more traditional theories not only explain Chinese Philosophy but dictates the rules to practice the art of acupuncture . These theories are difficulty to digest by others who are trained in so called Modern Medicine. But some of these are getting proved to very close to Modern Medicine, for example ORGAN CLOCK & CIRCADIAN RHYTHM .
Research based on Modern Medicine started in & outside China, only after Mr. Nixon’s visit to China 1971. Recent research for a mechanism of acupuncture has primarily focused on analgesic effect of Acupuncture. Analgesic effects of acupuncture may be explained by GATE CONTROL THEORY OF RONALD MELZACK and P D WALL , LONDON ( 1965 ). This theory believes that all pain impulses are controlled, modulated and modified by means of a functional gate which is located in the substantia gelatinosa of the spinal cord, and at higher levels. Normally pain impulses are conducted by small diameter fibres ( delta & C fibres ) at the speed of 1-2 m/ sec, inhibit substantia gelatinosa cells in turn reduces its inhibition over firing of T cells to higher levels and thus pain impulses are allowed to pass and pain is felt. Non-noxious impulses of acupuncture conducted by large diameter fibres ( a beta fibres ) at the speed of 120 m/ sec. activates substantia gelatinosa which in turn inhibits, firing of T cells and thus no impulses are allowed to pass and thus gate is closed and pain is not experienced even though pain impulses can travel up to the level of spinal cord. This theory fails to explain analgesic effect above spinal cord level and modified theories like “Two Gate Theory” and “Four Gate Theory” have been but forward. Dr. Bruce Pomeranz, Prof. Of Neurobiology of Toronto University and his co-worker suggest that the naturally occurring endorphin play a prominent part. Acupuncture analgesia can be explained to a large extent as being due to the release of a hormone called “Endorphine” during Acupuncture needling . Endorphine is a naturally occurring neuropeptide having a chain of 31 amino-acids and like morphine and other opiates it has a propensity of binding on to the opiate receptors of pain cells in the brain. The present evidence suggest that, acupuncture stimulation results in a message to the brain causing release of Endorphine from the pituitary gland and mid brain raphe system Experimentally it has shown that ablation of the pituitary gland & likewise injection of Nalorphine which is a morphine antagonist annuls acupuncture analgesia. Endorphine takes some time to get release from the pituitary and this may be the reason for there being an induction period which has to elapse before an operation can commence under acupuncture analgesia. Chemical Or Humoral mechanisms are also involved in Acupuncture. For instance, if rabbit is acupunctured its pain threshold is found to rise, & if the blood from this animal is then circulated into a non-acupunctured rabbit, the pain threshold of the second animal also raises, like wise perfusion of spinal fluid from Acupunctured to non-acupunctured animal results in a similar effect showing that chemical transmitters are definitely involved in the mechanism of acupuncture.
Many acupuncture points have specific effects on insertion of needles. For instance 1. ZUSANLI (St. 36 ) needling at this point, Phagocytosis of staphylococcus Aureus by the leucocytes increases by one to two times even in case of healthy persons. Rise in the phagocytic index from 1.74 to 3.97 and rise in the Phagocytic power from 48.2 to 71.5% have been registered on the second day after acupuncture. 2. A two to eight fold increase in antibody titre, rise in gamma-globulin a specific immunoglobulins after needling at Quchi (L. I. 11. ) and Sanyinjiao (Sp. 6) have been reported.
Symptomatic acupuncture is mainly practiced by BARE FOOT DOCTORS as first line symptomatic treatment for non specific short lived illness in rural setup. Classical Acupuncture is based on (W) Holistic Approach. Total person is evaluated before treatment, regardless of the particular treatment. Acupuncture does not treat named disease but rather the cause of the disease because symptoms are just signals of a problem in the body. Although acupuncture’s effects are not permanent in treatments for analgesia and some pain disorders but they are long lasting. They are permanent when treating disorders from deafness to sterility. Acupuncture Anesthesia is one of the most impressive developments of Chinese medicines. It was in 1958, that the foundations of Modern Acupuncture Anesthesia were laid by first operation under acupuncture anesthesia at Shanghai and it was a tonsillectomy. The term ‘acupuncture’ anesthesia ‘is really a misnomer. Although pain impulses are cut off by raising the pain threshold, other sensations like temperature, balance and vibration sense are found to remain intact. Hence it would be more accurate to use the term ‘ Acupuncture Analgesia ’ Advantages: 1) It is absolutely safe, non-toxic and free from adverse effects like over dosage, side-effects of drugs and hypersensitivity reaction. 2) There are no major disturbance of physiological functions under acupuncture anesthesia. 3) Hemorrhage too is very much less, and blood transfusion is less often needed. 4) Post – operative complications are much less as compared with general anesthesia. 5) Analgesia continues for several hours after the operation and consequently post-operative pain is very much reduced. 6) Post-operative nausea, vomiting and respiratory complications are absent. 7) Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and post-operative debility are circumvented because the patient can eat or drink immediately after and even during surgery. 8) Acupuncture anesthesia is simple safe effective and economical. Like any other innovative procedure acupuncture anesthesia too has certain limitations and unsolved problems. While pain threshold is greatly elevated, it may not be always one hundred percent complete , and some patients may still experience varying degrees of pain during certain stages of an operation. In abdominal operations, difficulty is sometimes encountered owing to inadequate muscular relaxation and discomfort from traction on the viscera. So, in recent years ACUPUNCTURE ASSISTED ANESTHESIA is preferred in western countries. Acupuncture anesthesia (analgesia) has been tried in over 100 different types of operations in over 2 million cases with success rate of about 90% in China. Generally, it is thought to be more effective in head, neck and chest surgery. In India too, few major surgical operation are performed under acupuncture analgesia and results are encouraging. Medical acupuncture is relatively recent terminology i.e. acupuncture approach most commonly integrated by physicians into conventional medical practice
In ancient times, even disease like tuberculosis, malaria etc had been treated by acupuncture. But now it is proved that in these disease acupuncture cannot play the key role and effective medicines have been found. One should remember that acupuncture is neither panacea for the disease not it is alternative to modern medicine. There is nothing like alternative medicine. However a cure depends upon how well the cause of the disease is understood and in consequences to what extent it can be eliminated and Acupuncture should be used were it can give better & long lasting results compare to modern medicine. One should know the limitations of Acupuncture first . Acupuncture will never replace conventional medical treatment. As we learn more about it, the possibilities of using acupuncture alongside 'orthodox' medicine will increase. Acupuncture should be practiced as a BRANCH OF MEDICINE
Evidence-based acupuncture is a simple method for no-drug pain control and should be taught in medical schools and made available to all physicians. ( Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is the use of the best current evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients ) Acupuncture is one of the best of modality for treating the sick, It works, it is great, if it does not work, patient still can get his surgery done or medical line of treatment as many be the indication. The safety of a technique must be judged on its results in the hands of competent practitioner who use it properly. If this criterion is accepted, acupuncture per se must be seen as a very safe therapeutic system, whose complication are very rare and are easily avoided or rectified. It is does no good, at least it does no harm either . In conclusion it is clear that research on acupuncture will not be only significant for the health and welfare of the people but also important for the progress of medical science. As we learn more about it, the possibilities of using acupuncture alongside 'orthodox' medicine will increase When acupuncture is combined with modern medicine, the patient benefits. Combining Western medicine and Acupuncture is what DR VINAY VARMA is practicing to bring smile by relieving pains and thus ADDING LIFE TO YEARS .