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Acupuncture Provides Parkinson’s Disease Relief

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Acupuncture Provides Parkinson’s Disease Relief

 

Acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for the alleviation of Parkinson’s disease. Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Hangzhou, China) researchers conducted a study comparing the effects of drug therapy as a standalone procedure with acupuncture plus drug therapy in an integrated treatment protocol. Based on the data, the researchers conclude that acupuncture plus antiparkinsonian drug therapy is significantly more effective than using only antiparkinsonian drug therapy. [1]

Two groups were compared. In one group, Parkinson’s disease patients received only levodopa-benserazide as a means to alleviate symptoms. In the second group, levodopa-benserazide was combined with acupuncture therapy. The acupuncture plus drug therapy group had a total effective rate of 89.4% after four courses of treatment, whereas the drug therapy only group had a 52.6% total effective rate for the management of Parkinson’s disease.

The results indicate that acupuncture is an important treatment option for patients receiving benderizine-levodopa for the purposes of Parkinson’s disease treatment. Levodopa-benserazide is a medication containing two ingredients: levodopa and benserazide. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, the latter of which is needed in the brain of Parkinson’s disease patients. Benserazide prevents the conversion of levodopa to dopamine prior to reaching the brain and reduces some of levodopa’s adverse effects. This combination is used to reduce symptoms for patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

 

Evaluations

Multiple subjective and objective instruments were used to measure patient outcomes before and after treatment. First, the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), which is the most widely used clinical rating scale for Parkinson’s disease, was used to record symptomatic improvement at several data points: before treatment, after two treatment courses, after four treatment courses. Second, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and lipid peroxidation levels in plasma and red blood cells were recorded. Independent studies have proven that oxidative stress plays an important role in the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients, which is characterized by decreased SOD activity and increased lipid peroxidation. [2]

After four treatment courses, the scores in the acupuncture plus drug group were significantly improved (i.e., lower) than scores before treatment and for those in the drug control group (P<0.05). After four treatment courses, the SOD activity was significantly higher (i.e., improved) in the acupuncture plus drug group and were also better than scores in the drug control group (P<0.05). The lipid peroxidation levels in the acupuncture plus drug group were significantly lower (i.e., improved) than scores before treatment and were also better than scores in the drug control group.

 

Background Introduction

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common progressive neurodegenerative disorder. [3] PD is characterized by both motor and non-motor symptoms, such as bradykinesia, resting tremors, and muscle rigidity (which occur due to dopamine deficiency). [4] Diagnostically, Parkinson’s disease is distinguished from essential tremors in that essential tremors are more prevalent with activity and Parkinson’s disease tremors worsen at rest. Levodopa (LD) remains the gold standard pharmacological treatment for PD. However, LD’s effectiveness may decrease overtime. In addition, it has side effects including motor response oscillations and dyskinesia. [5]

New treatment strategies that overcome these limitations are required. Acupuncture has been widely used as a complementary and alternative medicine to relieve the symptoms of PD in Asia, Europe, and in the United States. Previous studies have proven that acupuncture is effective for relieving the symptoms for patients with PD. With the help of acupuncture, both motor symptoms (gait disorder and balance) and non-motor symptoms (psychiatric disorders, sleep problems, gastrointestinal symptoms) can be relieved. In this study, the researchers note that “the use of acupuncture in an integrated treatment protocol can reduce the dosage of LD to eliminate its side effects.” [6]

 

Design

The Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine researchers (Yang et al.) used the following study design. A total of 38 patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease were treated and evaluated in this study. They were randomly divided into an acupuncture plus drug treatment group and a drug control group, with 18 patients in each group. There were no significant statistical differences in age, gender, severity of disease, and course of disease relevant to patient outcome measures for patients initially admitted to the study (P>0.05).

 

Treatment Procedure

The control group received 62.5 – 500 mg of levodopa-benserazide (2 – 4 times per day). Dosage was dependent upon the severity of Parkinson’s disease. Patients in the control group were not treated with acupuncture. The treatment group received both scalp and body style acupuncture in addition to the identical drug treatment protocol administered to the control group. The acupoints used for scalp acupuncture included the following:

  • MS1 (middle line of forehead)
  • MS5 (middle line of vertex)
  • MS6 (anterior oblique line of vertex-temporal)

The acupoints used for body style acupuncture included the following:

  • LI4 (Gegu)
  • SI3 (Houxi)
  • LI5 (Yangxi)
  • SI6 (Yanglao)
  • LI11 (Quchi)
  • PC3 (Quze)
  • LU5 (Chize)
  • LV3 (Taichong)
  • ST41 (Jiexi)
  • KI3 (Taixi)
  • GB34 (Yanglingquan)
  • SP9 (Yinlingquan)
  • BL40 (Weizhong)
  • GB30 (Huantiao)

For scalp acupuncture, treatment commenced with patients in a supine position. A 0.25 mm × 40 mm disposable acupuncture needle was inserted transverse-obliquely into each acupoint, to a standard depth. Each needle was manipulated with the twirling method for three minutes. Once manual acupuncture achieved the arrival of deqi, electroacupuncture stimulation was added to the acupoints using a dense wave. The intensity level was set to patient tolerance levels. A 30 minute needle retention time was observed.

For body style acupuncture, needles were rapidly inserted perpendicularly and were manipulated with mild reinforcing and reducing (Ping Bu Ping Xie) manipulation methods. After achieving a deqi sensation, the needles were retained for 30 minutes. An acupuncture treatment was applied every two days. Each treatment course consisted of 10 acupuncture sessions, followed by a 7 day break before the next course of treatments. All patients received four treatment courses in total.

 

Results

The results indicate that acupuncture combined with levodopa-benserazide into an integrated treatment protocol is more effective than levodopa-benserazide as a standalone therapy. Based on the data, Yang et al. conclude that acupuncture is safe and effective for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

 

University of Arizona

The Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine clinical trial confirms additional research. University of Arizona surgery and neurology department doctors find acupuncture effective for the treatment of balance and gait disorders in Parkinson’s disease patients. Acupuncture produced significant clinical improvements in balance, gait speed, and stride length for Parkinson’s disease patients. The results of the sham controlled trial were published in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Each acupuncture session was 30 minutes in length. Patients received one acupuncture treatment per week for a total of three weeks. Patients receiving true acupuncture had a 31% improvement in balance, 10% improvement in gait speed, and 5% increase in stride length. Patients in the sham acupuncture control group did not demonstrate any improvements. The University of Arizona research team notes, “EA [electroacupuncture] is an effective therapy in improving certain aspects of balance and gait disorders in PD [Parkinson’s disease].” [7]

 

Notes
[1] Yang DH, Shi Y, Jia YM. Influence of acupuncture plus drug in the amelioration of symptoms and blood antioxidant system of patients with Parkinson’s disease. Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation, 2006 (19) :14 －16
[2] Dias V1, Junn E, Mouradian MM. The role of oxidative stress in Parkinson’s disease [J]. J Parkinsons Dis. 2013;3(4):461-91.
[3] I.H. Sturkenboom, M.J. Graff, G.F. Borm, et al., Effectiveness of occupational therapy in Parkinson’s disease: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial, Trials 14 (2013) 34.
[4] W. Poewe, K. Seppi, C.M. Tanner, et al., Parkinson disease, Nat. Rev. Dis. Prim. 3 (2017) 17013.
[5] Dias V1, Junn E, Mouradian MM. The role of oxidative stress in Parkinson’s disease [J]. J Parkinsons Dis. 2013;3(4):461-91.
[6] Yang DH, Shi Y, Jia YM. Influence of acupuncture plus drug in the amelioration of symptoms and blood antioxidant system of patients with Parkinson’s disease. Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation, 2006 (19) :14 －16.
[7] Lei, Hong, Nima Toosizadeh, Michael Schwenk, Scott Sherman, Stephen Karp, Saman Parvaneh, Esther Esternberg, and Bijan Najafi. “Objective Assessment of Electro-acupuncture Benefit for Improving Balance and Gait in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease (P3. 074).” Neurology 82, no. 10 Supplement (2014): P3-074.

Source: HealthCMi

Acupuncture Halts Neck Pain From Disc Degeneration

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Acupuncture Halts Neck Pain From Disc Degeneration

 

Researchers confirm the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of cervical spondylosis, a painful disorder caused by intervertebral disc degeneration. The term cervical spondylosis refers to general wear and tear of the discs in the cervical spine. Often with age, the spinal discs degenerate and osteoarthritis ensues. The acupuncture point GV14 was determined effective across multiple studies for the treatment of cervical spondylosis. Based on the evidence, this acupuncture point is recommended for patients with cervical spondylosis.

Shao et al. tested the efficacy of acupuncture using the following acupuncture points:

  • GV14 (Dazhui)
  • SI3 (Houxi)
  • GV20 (Sanyangwuhui, Baihui)
  • GB20 (Fengchi)

The acupuncture needle at Dazhui was perpendicularly inserted to a depth of 13 – 20 mm and then a 15 mm moxa cone was put on the handle of the needle after deqi (the arrival of qi). Deqi was elicited at the other acupoints combined with electroacupuncture stimulation. Fengchi was connected to Houxi on the afflicted side and Fengchi was connected to Baihui on the healthy side with standard electrodes. Acupuncture was applied once per day, five times per week, for a total of two weeks as one course of treatment. The results indicate that 24 out of 25 cases improved significantly for a total effective rate of 96%. [1]

The research team of Zhang et al. produced similar results. [2] Patients in the study received acupuncture for cervical spondylosis once per day for seven days, comprising one course of patient care. The following acupuncture points were applied to all patients:

  • GV14 (Dazhui)
  • GB20 (Fengchi)
  • GV20 (Sanyangwuhui or Baihui)
  • EX-B2 (Jiaji)
  • BL10 (Tianzhu)
  • EX-HN1 (Sishencong)

A total of 53 out of 60 cases improved significantly, producing a total effective rate of 88.3%. In addition, 31.7% of all cases experienced a complete recovery from all symptoms. Li et al. conducted a clinical trial testing the effectiveness of fire needling with the following acupuncture points: [3]

  • GV14 (Dazhui)
  • EX-B2 (Jiaji)
  • BL18 (Ganshu)
  • BL23 (Shenshu)
  • SI3 (Houxi)
  • LI4 (Hegu)
  • LI11 (Quchi)
  • SJ5 (Waiguan)

In the fire needle group, 37 patients received quick needling with fire needling. In the control group, the above acupoints were inserted to 15 – 20 mm with 0.30 × 25 – 40 mm disposable filiform needles. The needles were retained for 20 minutes after manual needle stimulation with twisting, lifting, and thrusting. All patients received acupuncture 3 times per week for 6 weeks. For patients receiving fire needling, acupuncture produced a 94.6% total effective rate. Routine filiform needling produced a 78.4% total effective rate.

Qiu et al. conducted a randomized, single-blinded parallel study. A total of 284 patients were divided into two groups (acupuncture and control). The following acupuncture points were used in the acupuncture group: [4]

  • GV14 (Dazhui)
  • EX-B2 (Jiaji)
  • GB20 (Fengchi)

The acupuncture group achieved a 96.2% total effective rate. The results indicate that the aforementioned acupuncture point prescription is an effective selection for the treatment of cervical spondylosis.

 

Discussion
Researchers have tested the effective action of Dazhui (GV14) and conclude the following: [5]

  • GV14 regulates the glutamate (a neurotransmitter) content of cells supporting the restoration of nerve conduction.
  • GV14 improves free radical scavenging.
  • GV14 regulates FAK (focal adhesion kinase, PTK2) expression.
  • GV14 ameliorates excess blood viscosity in patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
  • GV14 enhances and regulates central monoamine neurotransmitters, including the ability to protect the body from brain damage after ischemia.
  • GV14 regulates aspartate (Asp), an amino acid active in biosynthesis of proteins, especially in conjunction with its ability to regulate glutamate (Glu) for the protection of brain tissue to prevent neuronal necrosis.
  • GV14 improves blood flow to prevent ischemic damage to neurons.
  • GV14 improves the levels of NO (nitric oxide) and NOS (nitric oxide synthase) in cerebral tissue after ischemia.
  • GV14 regulates calcium ions in brain cells, avoiding pathological nerve cell apoptosis after ischemia.
  • GV14 enhances the expression of NGF (nerve growth factor), especially after central ischemia.

Across the acupuncture education research papers mentioned above, the traditional Chinese medicine view of GV14 was reviewed. The following are several important principles mentioned in the research papers. GV14 is the meeting point of the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) with the six yang channels of the hand and foot, referred to as Zhu Yang Zhi Hui. GV14 warms the yang, clears heat, strengthens the body, and dispels wind and dampness. Needling GV14 raises the lucid yang and dispels wind, cold, and dampness. GV14 invigorates blood circulation. The researchers also presented the traditional Chinese medicine view of cervical spondylosis. Cervical spondylosis is due to obstruction of the channels, involving both qi and blood stasis. Chronic cases involve kidney, liver, qi, and blood deficiency. [6]

GV14 benefits qi and blood circulation and cervical spondylosis involves obstruction of qi and blood circulation. The Chinese medicine principles indicate that GV14 is well-suited for the treatment of cervical spondylosis. In addition, the aforementioned controlled studies demonstrate that acupuncture point prescriptions containing GV14 are appropriate choices for the treatment of cervical spondylosis.

 

GV14 Wellness Combinations
At the Healthcare Medicine Institute (HealthCMi), we provide many acupuncture continuing education courses on the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and internal medicine disorders. The online courses and live acupuncture webinars for CEU and NCCAOM PDA license renewal credit feature Chinese medicine, classical acupuncture, herbal medicine, and modern research. As part of HealthCMi’s acupuncture education outreach, we present the following additional information about GV14 (DU14) to supplement the aforementioned research..

GV14 is a powerful acupuncture point used for the treatment of infections, inflammation, and immune system imbalances. The combination of GV14, GV13, GV12, LI11, and ST36 is a classic wellness acupuncture point combination and was often used by Prof. Wae Shui in his clinical practice. This treatment is often applied in the seated position.

GV14 is used in Chinese medicine to quell internal wind, expel external wind, and benefit the wei qi. GV14 is also an important point for the treatment of malaria. Notably, the research headed by Prof. Wae Shui in the 1950s demonstrated that application of the aforementioned wellness treatment (GV14, GV13, GV12, LI11, ST36) is effective for the treatment of malaria. Recent clinical work also employs the use of this acupuncture point prescription for the treatment of Lyme’s disease and associated co-infections, often in combination with the herbal formula Da Yuan Yin Wan jia Qing Hao.

 

Notes
[1] Shao YX. Clinical study on treatment of vertebral artery type of cervical spondylosis with warm needling Dazhui [D]. Guangzhou: Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2008.
[2] Zhang ZC, Du SC. Acupuncture combined with bloodletting in Dazhui in the treatment of vertebral artery type cervical spondylosis [J]. SHAANXI ZHONGYI, 2013, 34(8): 1045.
[3] Li B, Xie XC, Feng Y. Clinical observation on the treatment of nerve root type of cervical spondylosis with fire needling [J]. Beijing Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2010, 29(12): 920.
[4] Qiu L, Zhang M, Zhang J. Treatment of 142 cases of neck type of cervical spondylosis in pubers by acupuncture of warming yang and regulating with traction therapy [J]. SHAANXI ZHONGYI, 2007, 28(4): 475.
[5] Yan D, Chen C, Song YM. Research progress in the treatment of cervical spondylosis with Dazhui acupoint [J]. Shandong Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2018, 37(3): 262 – 266.
[6] Ibid.

Source: HealthCMi

 

Acupuncture Found Effective for Postoperative Pain Relief

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Acupuncture Found Effective for Postoperative Pain Relief

 

Researchers conclude that acupuncture increases the effectiveness of epidural morphine analgesia for the relief of pain after intestinal cancer surgery. Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine researchers combined scalp acupuncture with epidural morphine analgesia in a controlled clinical trial. Patients receiving both epidural morphine analgesia and scalp acupuncture in a combined pain management protocol after completion of intestinal cancer surgery showed significant improvements in visual analog scale (VAS) scores and Bruggman comfort scale (BCS) scores. The researchers documented another benefit of adding acupuncture to the pain management protocol. The addition of scalp acupuncture accelerated postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal functions.

The VAS and BCS scores demarcate significant improvements, measured at the 6 hour (T1), 12 hour (T2), 24 hour (T3), and 48 hour (T4) datapoints after completion of the operation. VAS is a measurement tool used to score the improvement of pain intensity. BCS is used to evaluate the postoperative comfort level. VAS scores at T1, T2, T3, and T4 in the patients of the acupuncture treatment group were all lower than those in the control group. The researchers note that “scalp acupuncture can serve as a preemptive analgesia technique and increase effectiveness of epidural morphine analgesia.” Pre-emptive analgesia is a treatment whereby a preoperative analgesic regimen is introduced to reduce noxious stimuli in the surgical process. BCS scores in the acupuncture group at T1, T2, T3, and T4 were all lower than those in the control group, indicating that scalp acupuncture is effective for postoperative discomfort relief.

The postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal functioning was recorded based on two parameters, the bowel recovery time and anal exhaust time. The average bowel sound recovery time of the acupuncture treatment group was 35.66 hours, while that of the control group was 58.44 hours. The acupuncture group outperformed the control group by 22.78 hours. The average anal exhaust time of the acupuncture treatment group was 49.34 hours, while that of the control group was 73.22 hours. The acupuncture group outperformed the control group by 23.88 hours. Both parameters demonstrate a significant difference after acupuncture treatment, indicating that scalp acupuncture facilitates the postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal functions.

Morphine is a common opioid analgesic in the postoperative period. While effective, the downside is that the medication may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, increased sweating, and urinary retention. It may also cause respiratory depression and is contraindicated for patients with cardiopulmonary disease. [2] In addition, continued use or abuse of morphine can result in physical dependence and addiction. [3]

According to a published NIH (National Institutes of Health) Consensus Conference statement, acupuncture is recommended as a treatment for pain management. [4] In the Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine study, acupuncture increases the effectiveness of epidural morphine analgesia by improving VAS and BCS scores and facilitates the postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function. The finding is not an isolated occurrence. In a previous study, researchers (Chen et al.) note, “The addition of acupuncture therapy to epidural morphine analgesia in a clinical setting can reduce the total dosage of morphine and correspondingly eliminate the medication-induced side effect rate.” [5]

 

Design
Researchers (He et al.) from the Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine implemented the following study design. A total of 60 patients that received intestinal cancer surgery under combined general/epidural anesthesia were treated and evaluated in this study. The patients received radical resection for colorectal cancer. They were randomly divided into an acupuncture treatment group and a control group, with 30 patients in each group. For the control group patients, combined general/epidural anesthesia was administered during the operation, while morphine was administered for patient-controlled epidural analgesia after the operation. The acupuncture treatment group received scalp acupuncture in addition to identical anesthesia treatments administered to the control group.

The statistical breakdown for each randomized group was as follows. The acupuncture treatment group was comprised of 16 males and 14 females. The average age in the treatment group was 57.65 (±6.67) years. The average weight in the treatment group was 54.63 (±6.58) kilograms. The control group was comprised of 13 males and 17 females. The average age in the control group was 58.07 (±7.02) years. The average weight in the treatment group was 55.32 (±6.50) kilograms. There were no significant statistical differences in gender, age, and weight relevant to patient outcome measures for patients admitted to the study.

 

Anesthesia Procedure
For both groups, patients received combined general/epidural anesthesia (CSEGA) during the operation. After the operation, patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) was also prescribed. Doses of morphine (3.5 mg) and 20 mL of 0.75% bupivacaine were diluted with 0.9% sodium chloride to make a 100 ml solution, which was injected into a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) infusion pump. When the peritoneum was closed during the surgery, 1.5 mg of morphine and 2% lidocaine were diluted with 0.9% sodium chloride to make a 5 ml solution and was injected into the patients. Next, when the patients were fully awake after the surgery, a PCA pump was given to the patients daily (2 ml/h), for two continuous days.

 

Acupuncture Procedure
The treatment group patients received scalp acupuncture therapy 20 minutes before the operation. The scalp acupuncture lines used for the treatment group included the following:

  • Lateral line 3 of forehead
  • Lateral line 1 of vertex

Acupuncture treatment commenced with patients in a supine position. A disposable acupuncture needle was inserted obliquely into each scalp line. Once a deqi sensation was obtained, the needles were connected to an electroacupuncture device with a disperse-dense wave. The frequency was adjusted from a low level (2 Hz) to a high level (50 Hz). The intensity level was set to patient tolerance levels or until muscle contractions were observable. Once the electric stimulation began, the needles were retained until completion of the operation.

 

Results
The results indicate that scalp acupuncture combined with epidural morphine analgesia into an integrated treatment protocol is more effective than epidural morphine analgesia as a standalone therapy. The researchers conclude that scalp acupuncture is safe and effective for the relief of postoperative intestinal cancer pain.

 

Notes
[1] He BM, Li WS, Li WY. Effect of Previous Analgesia of Scalp Acupuncture on Postoperative Epidural Morphine Analgesia in the Patients of Intestinal Cancer [J]. Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, 2007, 27 (5): 369-371.
[2] Branch of Anesthesiology of Chinese Medical Association. Expert’s Consensus on Adult Postoperative Pain Management [J]. Lin Chuang Ma Zui Xue Za Zhi (J Clin Anesthesiol, China), 2010, 26(3): 190 – 196.
[3] drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/prescription/opioids-and-morphine-derivatives-effects.html
[4] NIH Consensus Conference. NIH Consensus Development Panel on ​Acupuncture [J]. JAMA, 1998, 280 (17); 1518 – 1524.
[5] Chen WT, Fu GQ, Shen WD. Progresses of Studies on Acupuncture Analgesia for Postoperative Reaction [J]. Acupuncture Research, 2013, 38 (1) :83 – 87.Ac

Source: HealthCMi

Acupuncture Improves Knee Meniscus Repair

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Acupuncture Improves Knee Meniscus Repair

 

Researchers conclude that acupuncture increases the effectiveness of rehabilitation exercises after knee meniscus repair surgery. [1] Patients receiving acupuncture in a controlled clinical trial had less quadriceps atrophy, limping, locking, pain, and swelling than patients receiving only rehabilitation exercises. Patients receiving acupuncture also had significantly better range of motion, stability, and the ability to walk, jump, and climb stairs.

Researchers from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University combined acupuncture with functional training exercises. Patients receiving both functional training exercises and acupuncture in a combined treatment protocol had superior patient outcomes compared with patients receiving only functional training exercises. The researchers conclude that the addition of acupuncture to a functional training regimen improves VAS scores, reduces the degree of quadriceps atrophy, increases range of motion (ROM) scores, and improves the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale scores for patients after arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery.

Each knee has a pair of menisci, which are fibrocartilaginous pads located between the femur and tibia. Each meniscus plays a vital role in absorbing shock, relieving stress, and lubricating and stabilizing the knees. Meniscus tears are often caused either by an acute injury—such as a sudden twist or quick turn during sporting activities, or by chronic strains—such as cartilage degeneration in primary knee osteoarthritis. An individual with a torn meniscus may take a long time to recover, because the blood supply to the region is generally poor. In addition, a lack of proper management of meniscus tears leads to joint pain and instability, quadriceps atrophy, and secondary knee osteoarthritis, causing a negative impact on health and quality of life.

Arthroscopic meniscus surgery requires postoperative protection to allow healing. [2] While often effective, complications caused by this surgery include injuries to skin and nerves, blood clot formation, knee stiffness, and infections. [3] In Traditional Chinese Medicine, meniscus tears are often precipitated by deficiency of qi and blood, as well as poor qi and blood circulation. Acupuncture and moxibustion activate local blood circulation, transform stasis, drain dirty water buildup, and eliminate swelling. Importantly, postoperative application of acupuncture allows for faster recovery times with fewer complications.

 

Design
Researchers (Sun et al.) used the following study design. A total of 70 patients that received an arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery were treated and evaluated in this study. They were randomly divided into an acupuncture treatment group and a control group, with 37 and 33 patients in each group respectively. Both groups received arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery, followed by identical functional training exercises for the knee. The treatment group also received acupuncture and moxibustion.

The statistical breakdown for each randomized group was as follows. The control group was comprised of 17 males and 16 females. The average age in the control group was 52.17 (±9.84) years. The average weight in the treatment group was 72.72 (±12.05) kilograms. The treatment group was comprised of 17 males and 20 females. The average age in the treatment group was 54.67 (±10.94) years. The average weight in the treatment group was 73.56 (±11.95) kilograms. There were no significant statistical differences in gender, age, and weight relevant to patient outcome measures for patients initially admitted to the study. The patients fulfilling the criteria as stated below were selected for the study:

  • Age＞18
  • A history of knee injuries
  • Swelling, pain, clicking, locking, and tenderness of knee joints, with positive findings on McMurray, Apley, and Gravity tests
  • Diagnosed with meniscus tears under MRI and arthroscopic findings

 

Surgical Procedure
Under anesthesia, patients underwent an arthroscopic procedure to remove inflamed synovial tissue, repair the torn portion of the meniscus, and remove the damaged meniscal tissue. Within 24 hours after surgery, the surgical area was compressed with an elastic wrap. Within 48 hours after surgery, ice packs were used to relieve pain and inflammation.

 

Functional Training Exercises
Patients from both groups received functional training exercises. They involved the following sets of exercises:

  • The first set was conducted for 6 hours, 1 day after surgery. Patients performed isometric quadriceps, ankle flexion/extension, and toe flexion/extension exercises. The exercises were performed in sets of 10 repetitions, 20 – 30 sets per day.
  • The second set was conducted 1 – 2 days after surgery. First, patients performed straight leg raising (SLR). They were instructed to lift the leg up to the desired angle (30 degrees) above the plinth and hold the contraction during the lifting phase for 10 seconds. This exercise was performed in sets of 10 repetitions, 20 – 30 sets per day. Next, patients received passive knee flexion/extension exercises for 30 minutes on a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine. The exercises were performed twice per day.
  • The third set was conducted for 2 days, 1 month after surgery. Patients performed muscle strength training with a rolling walker.
  • The fourth set was conducted 1 – 2 months after surgery. Patients were trained with full weight bearing walking.

 

Acupuncture Procedure
Patients from the treatment group received acupuncture and moxibustion for 7 days, approximately 2 weeks after the surgery. A total of 4 – 8 acupuncture points were selected from a pre-selected set of acupuncture points:

  • SP9 (Yinlingquan)
  • SP10 (Xuehai)
  • ST34 (Liangqiu)
  • ST35 (Dubi)
  • EX-LE4 (Neixiyan)
  • EX-LE5 (Xiyan)
  • ST36 (Zusanli)
  • ST40 (Fenglong)

Upon disinfection, 0.35 mm × 40 mm or 0.35 mm × 50 mm acupuncture needles were inserted into the acupuncture points to a standard depth. After obtaining a deqi sensation, the needles were retained and moxibustion was applied to the same acupoints. Moxa cigar cuttings, each 2 cm long, were attached to each needle handle and ignited. Moxa was left in place to self-extinguish. A total of 3 moxa cigar cuttings were applied on each acupuncture point. One treatment session was administered daily.

 

Evaluations
Multiple subjective and objective instruments were used to measure patient outcomes at several data points: prior to the surgery (T1), and then 1 day (T2), 1 week (T3), 2 weeks (T4), and 4 weeks (T5) after completion of the surgery. First, the improvement of pain intensity was scored using the visual analog scale (VAS). Second, the muscle size was measured via MRI scans to assess the degree of quadriceps muscle atrophy. Third, knee joint range of motion (ROM) was recorded using a goniometer. Fourth, the general outcome of knee surgery was evaluated using the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, which measures the following:

  • limp
  • support, instability, locking
  • stair climbing, squatting
  • walking, running, jumping
  • pain and swelling

At T1, T2, and T3, there was no significant difference between the two groups in improving healing parameters. At T4 and T5, the acupuncture treatment group showed significantly greater improvement than the control group. VAS scores at T4 and T5 in the patients of the acupuncture treatment group were all lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). The degree of quadriceps atrophy at T4 and T5 in the treatment group were decreased significantly as compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). ROM scores were increased significantly compared with those in the control group (P<0.05) and the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale scores at T4 and T5 in the treatment group increased significantly as compared with those in the control group (P<0.05).

 

Results
The results indicate that acupuncture combined with functional training into an integrated treatment protocol is more effective than functional training as a standalone therapy. Sun et al. conclude that acupuncture is safe and effective for speeding up knee joint recovery after arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery.

 

Notes
[1] Sun XX, Gao SN, Chen WY, Wang H, Gu YL. Effect of the Function Training Combined with Acupuncture Moxibustion in Rehabilitation Treatment of Meniscus Injury of Knee Joint [J]. Journal of Liaoning University of TCM, 2015(12):165-168.

[2] orthop.washington.edu

[3] Ardali G. A daily adjustable progressive resistance exercise protocol and functional training to increase quadriceps muscle strength and functional performance in an elderly homebound patient following a total knee arthroplasty[J]. Physiotherapy theory and practice, 2014, 30(4): 287-297.

Source: HealthCMi

Acupuncture Relief of Nasal Allergies Confirmed

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Acupuncture Relief Of Nasal Allergies Confirmed

 

Acupuncture soothes nasal allergy symptoms. Investigators at Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital conducted a meta-analysis of 30 independent clinical trials with a sample size of 2,602 allergic rhinitis patients. [1] The researchers (Tang et al.) conclude, “Acupuncture, either used alone or combined with other treatments such as moxibustion, herbal medicine, and western medicine, were proven to have both short and long-term clinical benefits to allergic rhinitis sufferers.” The following is a basic overview of common acupuncture points used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis across the multiple studies in the meta-analysis:

  • LI20 (Yingxiang
  • Yintang (extra)
  • LI4 (Hegu
  • ST36 (Zusanli)
  • EX-HN8 (Shangyingxiang, Bitong)

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa induced by allergen exposure that triggers IgE (immunoglobulin E) mediated inflammation. [2] In the USA, approximately 40–60 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis. [3] AR is clinically characterized by rhinorrhea (thin and primarily clear nasal discharge), sneezing, nasal itching, and nasal congestion. AR is also associated with decreased concentration and focus, irritability, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. This impacts the quality of life and reduces work productivity. In addition, there is a high risk of developing asthma for AR patients. [4] Common medications for the treatment of allergic rhinitis include intranasal corticosteroids, oral H1-antihistamines, and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). While effective, these medications often produce adverse effects and may be contraindicated during pregnancy and for children, the elderly, and patients with specific medical conditions. [5]

The following are clinical details of the meta-analysis. A total of 27 out of 30 studies made extensive use of the Yingxiang point. This point is anatomically located on the nasolabial groove, at the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi. This acupuncture point is located on the hand Yangming large intestine meridian. It is also the crossing point of the stomach and the large intestine meridians. Needling this point smooths the flow of qi in the meridians and clears obstructions from the nasal orifice.

This point is traditionally indicated for Bi Yuan (nasal congestion), Bi Qiu (sniveling nose), and Bi Niu (nosebleed). According to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, the lungs and large intestine have an interior-exterior relationship (i.e., the lungs and large intestine are functionally interconnected). As a result, diseases of the lungs can be treated by needling acupuncture points on either the lung meridian or the large intestine meridian.

A total of 23 studies document use of the Yintang point. This acupoint is located between the two medial ends of the eyebrows in the glabella. Yintang plays a key role in “opening the orifices and regulating the spirit.” Needling this point promotes qi and blood circulation of the head and also stabilizes the mind and spirit. A total of 17 studies used the Hegu point. Hegu is the Yuan-source point of the hand Yangming large intestine meridian. Needling this point disperses obstructions in the Yangming meridian and regulates the lung qi.

A total of 14 studies used Zusanli. Zusanli is the He-confluence point of the foot Yangming stomach meridian, which starts at the side of the nose. The stomach meridian of foot yangming primary channel begins at the side of the nose at Yingxiang (LI20) and then ascends to the root of the nose where it intersects with Jingming (BL1). Zusanli activates local qi and blood circulation and removes local obstructions affecting the meridians. Needling this point also regulates the stomach, intestines, and lungs for purposes of strengthening the internal organs related to allergic rhinitis. A total of 11 studies used Shangyingxiang (also known as Bitong). Needling this point promotes local qi and blood circulation and relieves nasal congestion. This acupoint is located near the upper end of the nasolabial groove, at the junction of the maxilla and the nasal cavity.

The researchers conclude that acupuncture provides both long and short term relief as a standalone therapy, in combination with other Chinese medicine treatment modalities, and in combination with medications. Other independent sources indicate that acupuncture is effective for the alleviation of allergic rhinitis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH, USA) website covering the topic of seasonal allergies and complementary medicine states, “There are data from some randomized controlled trials that suggests that acupuncture may improve some symptoms of allergic rhinitis, as well as quality of life.” The NIH website notes that a clinical practice guideline issued by the American Academy of Otolaryngology states, “Clinicians may offer acupuncture, or refer to a clinician who can offer acupuncture, for patients with allergic rhinitis who are interested in nonpharmacologic therapy.” [7]

The NIH website references a meta-analysis with a sample size of 2,365 allergic rhinitis patients, “compared with a control group, the acupuncture treatment group had a significant reduction in nasal symptom scores, medication scores, and serum IgE, and an increase in quality of life scores.” [8,9] In addition, the NIH website notes that “there are high-quality randomized controlled trials that demonstrate efficacy for acupuncture in the treatment of both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis….” [10]

Scientific investigations confirm that acupuncture is a reasonable treatment option for patients with allergic rhinitis. To learn more, consult with your primary licensed acupuncturist or licensed acupuncturists in your area.

Notes
[1] Qu SH, Liu YX. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Randomized Controlled Trial of Acupuncture for Allergic Rhinitis [J]. World Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, 2016,11(07):900-906+948.

[2] Varshney J, Varshney H. Allergic Rhinitis: an Overview [J]. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Jun; 67(2): 143–149.

[3] acaai.org/allergies/types/hay-fever-rhinitis

[4] Palma-Carlos AG1, Branco-Ferreira M, Palma-Carlos ML. Allergic rhinitis and asthma: more similarities than differences [J]. Allerg Immunol (Paris). 2001 Jun;33(6):237-41.

[5] ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072670/

[6] Xia J, Peng D. Acupuncture Combined with Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis and Its Effectiveness on Downregulating Ig E、TNF-α、IL-4 and IL-12 [J]. International Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2018,39(03):374-377.

[7] nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/allergies-science. documented 4-25-18.

[8] Ibid.

[9] Feng, Shaoyan, Miaomiao Han, Yunping Fan, Guangwei Yang, Zhenpeng Liao, Wei Liao, and Huabin Li. “Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” American journal of rhinology & allergy 29, no. 1 (2015): 57-62.

[10] Taw, Malcolm B., William D. Reddy, Folashade S. Omole, and Michael D. Seidman. “Acupuncture and allergic rhinitis.” Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery 23, no. 3 (2015): 216-220. Authors: UCLA Center for East-West Medicine, UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA bIntegrative Healthcare Policy Consortium, Pinecrest Wellness Center cDepartment of Family Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine dDepartment of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Michigan.

Source: HealthCMi

CUPPING is here

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DSC09539Cupping at Acupuncture of Iowa is safe and effective. Laura Christensen is a Licensed Acupuncturist who practices cupping and all other asian medical therapies professionally and safely. Cupping is effective for many types of pain and muscle tension. This interesting and unusual therapy is common in homes throughout East Asia. It has become more well known in the past few years due to the use of it by Michael Phelps, the Olympic swimmer who showed up with cupping marks when he began his races.

Cupping at Acupuncture of Iowa helps with pain by stretching muscles and fascia or connective tissue within muscle and under the skin. It improves blood flow in the area, and is said to strengthen the immune system as well. It is a fascinating therapy that is used all over the Eastern hemisphere.

Cupping, when performed by a licensed professional acupuncturist, is safe and effective. Treatments can be repeated once per week or so. Call today to schedule your appointment. 319-341-0031

Research shows acupuncture is as effective as Claritin for dust mite allergies

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Acupuncture has been found equally effective as loratadine (Claritin®, Alavert®, Shionogi®) for the treatment of dust mite allergies. Researchers from the Clinic of Otorhinolaryngology at the University Hospital Dresden (Germany) conclude that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of allergy related rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis. The researchers document that acupuncture relieves symptoms of rhinitis including nasal congestion, runny nose, post-nasal drip and sneezing.

The researchers compared an acupuncture treatment group with a medication group receiving loratadine, a pharmaceutical antihistamine. A total of 87% of acupuncture study group patients and 67% of loratadine study group patients showed improvements by the end of therapy. A 10 week follow-up after completion of therapy documents that 80% of acupuncture study group patients and 0% of loratadine study group patients demonstrated lasting improvement. The researchers note, “Both in the acupuncture and the loratadine group a significant improvement was gained under therapy. In the ten-week period following the therapy, a significant deterioration which led to the recurrence of the allergic symptoms was shown in the loratadine group, while the significant improvement of the symptoms persisted in the acupuncture group.”

Objective measurements included rhinoscopy examinations for nasal concha size and mucosa condition. This included evaluations of mucosal reddening and swelling of the nasal concha. IgE levels and interleukin (IL-4, IL-10, IFN-y) levels were also evaluated. Subjectives included evaluation of nasal obstruction, nasal secretion and sneezing attacks. Based on the results the researchers note “that the effectiveness of acupuncture is comparable to that of loratadine.”

Acupuncture exhibited the unique ability to stimulate the endogenous production of IL-10, an interleukin that blocks histamine release from activated mast cells. Reduced IL-10 in the nasal mucosa is associated with an increase in nasal allergy symptoms and acupuncture successfully increases IL-10 levels. The researchers note of acupuncture, “The results indicate the probability of an immunomodulatory effect.” This helps to explain, in part, the ability of acupuncture to provide lasting relief from allergies.

The researchers conclude, “Acupuncture is a clinically effective form of therapy in the treatment of patients suffering from persistent allergic rhinitis.” The researchers standardized the acupuncture treatments to include a protocolized selection of acupuncture points based upon Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles. The acupuncture points used for all patients were: LI 20, Bi Tong, Yin Tang, BL 2, GB 20, LI 4, LI 11, SI 3, ST 36, auricular 78, auricular 55.

Acupuncture needles were retained for 20 minutes per each session. Patients received a total of 12 acupuncture treatments at a rate of twice weekly. Seirin® brand stainless steel disposable needles were used of 0.3 X 0.30 mm size for body acupuncture and 0.2 X 0.15 mm size for auricular acupuncture. Seirin® was the first single use disposable needle originally developed in 1978. This brand is commonly used in medical research and is regarded as a premium brand acupuncture needle amoung licensed acupuncturists worldwide. Patients taking the drug loratadine received 10mg doses every morning. University Hospital Dresden

The new research conducted at the University Hospital Dresden confirms that acupuncture is effective for the relief of rhinitis. In related research, investigators documented a 96.5% success rate of acupuncture for the treatment of rhinitis. A total of 61 persons had a total recovery, 21 showed marked improvement and 3 showed no improvement.

Rhinoscopy and absence of symptoms was used to confirm the results. A 2 year follow-up confirmed the recovery rates. At a rate of 1 treatment per day, 15 acupuncture sessions consisted of 1 course of treatment. The 96.5% effective rate was achieved within 2 courses of treatment.

The acupuncture needles used in the study were 0.35 mm (28 gauge) in diameter and 40-50 mm in length. The acupuncture points chosen were: GB 20 (Fengchi), LI 4 (Hegu), and ST 36 (Zusanli). Supplementary acupuncture points were UB 12 (Fengmen), UB 13 (Feishu), Yintang (Ex-HN 3), and DU 14 (Dazhui). Supplementary acupuncture points were chosen dependent upon TCM differential diagnostics. In many cases, 20 minutes of manual needle manipulation were applied at each acupuncture session. Tonification and reduction acupuncture needle techniques and moxa were chosen dependent upon excess, deficient, heat and cold diagnostic patterns according to TCM principles.

The Dresden study differs from the second study in that a standardized set of acupuncture points was used for all patients in Dresden while customization of acupuncture point selections was made in the second study. In a third research project, investigators at RMIT University in Melbourne (Australia) studied 80 patients with chronic rhinitis. They concluded that acupuncture is an effective treatment therapy for rhinitis.

Acupuncture points LI 20, Yintang and GB 20 were the primary acupuncture points. Supplementary points included LI 4, ST 36, and CV 6. The acupuncture group had significantly better outcomes than either the control group or the sham acupuncture group. Each acupuncture session was 25 minutes and patients were given 16 acupuncture treatments at a rate of twice per week. Results were tabulated after a three month follow-up. Both nasal and ocular symptoms associated with chronic rhinitis improved significantly for the acupuncture group. Members of the acupuncture group were also able to reduce consumption of relief medication. The study concluded that acupuncture is “safe and effective” for the treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR).

References:
Hauswald, Bettina, Christina Dill, Jürgen Boxberger, Eberhard Kuhlisch, Thomas Zahnert, and Yury M. Yarin. “The effectiveness of acupuncture compared to loratadine in patients allergic to house dust mites.”

Reference: An Hua, Qinhuangdao Port Hospital, Hebei, China. “Treatment of 85 Cases with Chronic Rhinitis by Acupuncture.” J. Acupunct. Tuina. Sci. 2010, 8 (5): 318.

Reference: Evaluation of efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis. An, X 2006, Evaluation of efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis, Masters Thesis, School of Health Sciences, RMIT University.

– See more at: http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1310-acupuncture-matches-drugs-for-dust-mite-allergy-relief#sthash.VPlncw65.dpuf

President Obama Supports Acupuncture

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on 14 January 2010.

1-14-2010: Healthcare reform may include alternative medicine therapy language. In a recent town hall meeting in St. Louis, MO, President Obama noted that he supports acupuncture. A licensed acupuncturist noted that the National Institutes of Health and the Wold Health Organization have “discovered through their studies that alternative medicine is often more cost-effective and very effective”. The President replied, “it is pretty well documented through scientific studies that acupuncture, for example, can be very helpful in relieving certain things like migraines and other ailments — or at least as effective as more intrusive interventions”. He also discussed the challenges of integrating preventative medicine into policy making noting that the new Secretary of Health and Human Service, Kathleen Sebelius, former governor of Kansas, is charged with the task of implementing effective healthcare solutions.
In the St. Louis 4-29-09 meeting, Obama noted that policymakers are reticent to invest in preventative medicine because the political payoff is long-term and therefore does not help with immediate re-election concerns. The President further commented that “in the private sector insurance system, oftentimes insurers make the same calculation. Their attitude is, well, people change jobs enough for us to pay for the preventive medicine now when the problem may not crop up for another 20 years and they’ll be long out of our system, so we don’t want to reimburse it because it will make things more costly. That’s the logic of our health care system that we’re going to have to change”. Obama went on to state that the “recovery package put a huge amount in prevention”.

Acupuncture first received national attention in 1972 when President Nixon went to China and New York Times reporter James Reston successfully received acupuncture resulting in successful post-operative pain control. In 1997, the US National Institutes of Health published a report supporting the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture treatments for a wide range of healthcare issues. Under the Clinton administration, the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy was formed and The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) became part of the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Great Britain recently added acupuncture into its national healthcare system. Private insurers in the US including AETNA, United Healthcare, Blue Cross, and Blue Shield offer acupuncture insurance coverage options in their policies. However, it is unclear at this stage whether or not acupuncture and alternative medicine regulation will appear in federal law. Technically, the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) does not list acupuncture as a unique profession in the US Standard Occupational Classification codes. Rather, acupuncture is listed only as a modality. This technical glitch prevents acupuncture by licensed acupuncturists from inclusion into Medicare and Medicaid along with insurance coverage for federal employees. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) has collaborated with other national organizations to fix this omission.

Acupuncture is already practiced in several major hospitals including Cedars Sinai, UCSF, Maui Memorial, Clifton Springs, and Novato hospitals. The Harvard Medical School Osher Institute also supports the use of acupuncture and conducts ongoing studies. The advent of healthcare reform sheds light on the cost-effectiveness issue. Given the research and practical application supporting acupuncture as an effective means to control pain and treat illness, the federal government may open the door to alternative therapies in an attempt to reduce healthcare costs.

– See more at: http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/222-obamaacupuncturestlouis56398#sthash.2diz8HYe.dpuf

A Little History of Acupuncture

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I’ve been reading a lot lately on the history of CAM or Complementary and Alternative Medicine in order to prepare for my class next semester at the University of Iowa. One of the things I’m interested in is history of CAM, and in that research, have learned that Acupuncture actually came to Europe in the 1600s when European traders brought it back from their trips to China. The first person to write about it in European literature is a Dutchman. It spread around Europe and was practiced by physicians in Germany, France, Holland, and England (among other places). Writings from the time show it was widely used until the late 1800s and early 1900s, when it fell out of favor due to the “scientificization” of medicine at that time.

Another “CAM” therapy that was commonly used during that time was homeopathy. It was invented by a German doctor, Hahnemann, and was very desirable for patients because it was not painful or frightening, as were the common treatments of the 1800s like bleeding, emetics, and purges. Homeopathy involves giving an infinitesimal dose of a drug. A lot of the medicine practiced in those days was truly horrific and the patients were looking for gentler things to try and they loved homeopathy.

Acupuncture and Homeopathy were both widely used in Europe in the 1800s and were strongly embraced by the public. Acupuncture was practiced not according to the traditional Chinese methodology, but from a more “Western” perspective, based more on anatomy and just putting needles into painful muscles. Even when separated from the TCM theory that we use now in our practices, it was effective.

However, during the early 1900s, the Flexner Report came out, along with the organization of the AMA. The Flexner Report was funded by Rockafeller, and attempted to show that synthetic and naturally derived potent drugs were more safe and effective than the traditional methods and snake oil cures of the time. It was very convincing and began the era in which it came to be believed that the experience of a few patients and doctors was not as valid as large research studies with good controls. This was certainly an advance over the many frightening and bizarre medical procedures people regularly underwent at the time. Western Europe followed the United States in embracing scientific medicine at that time. And the tremendous developments in medicine during WWI and WWII advanced medicine greatly in the first half of the 20th century.

Acupuncture was forgotten until the 1960s and 70s when “hippee culture” brought people’s attention back to the idea that natural healing methods might be more desirable than chemical and surgical treatments. Homeopathy continued to be practiced widely in Europe and even in India, along side their traditional healing, Ayurvedic medicine. Homeopathy was paid for by the National Healthcare System of England.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine were certainly practiced in Chinese communities in the US during the time that Chinese migrated to the US to help build the railroad across the country in the 1800s. But it was not until Nixon went to China in 1974 that we heard about acupuncture in the press. One of his press corps developed appendicitis and had acupuncture as a pain control therapy after his surgery. He returned to the US and wrote about it in national publications. This was also the time that the “iron curtain” was coming down and we began to learn much more about life in “red China”.

My acupuncture school, The New England School of Acupuncture, began as a small group of students studying under Dr. James “Tin Yao” So, meeting in the back room of the Shambala book store in Harvard Square, Cambridge in 1975. It was the first acupuncture school to be formally organized in the US. Those first few students became the first teachers at the school, alongside Dr. So. I was in the 5th graduating class at that school.

Dr. Miriam Lee practiced acupuncture in California in the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s She was arrested for practicing medicine without a license during the Reagan days in California. She served a couple of years in jail, and was pardoned by Governor Jerry Brown. Shortly after that time, licensing laws came to California which allowed practitioners of Chinese medicine to practice their art without fear of legal ramifications. Dr Miriam Lee is venerated as one of the early pioneers in the field of acupuncture in the US. She practiced a style of acupuncture handed down through the family named Tung.

I studied Tung’s style acupuncture with Miriam Lee’s student, Susan Johnson who practices in Santa Cruz. I feel honored to share some of that lineage and to have the very effective methods that were so powerful in Miriam Lee’s practice.

I hope this little bit of history may be interesting. I have certainly enjoyed learning more about the medicine of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries in our country and Europe.

New Perspectives on Japanese Acupuncture

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Laura has just returned from a 3-day seminar with a renowned Japanese acupuncturist, Tsuyoshi Shimamura, from Osaka Japan. The seminar was held in Portland, OR, where Laura has been attending similar seminars all of this year. This seminar was a great reminder of how very simple, focused interventions can sometimes make a bigger change than 40 needles left in the body for an hour. This is surely going to change the style of acupuncture that Laura is doing, and immediately. Call us to schedule. 319-341-0031

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