Acupuncture and Autism

Autism is on the increase around the world, with current estimates ranging from one in a thousand to one in five hundred children affected. No one knows exactly why the numbers are going up. The old theory of vaccines causing the problem has been largely discounted, while other theories encompassing viruses, antibiotics, nutrition and environmental pollution wax and wane.

Because autism is a baffling and difficult problem to treat, many parents are turning to alternative therapies to try and help their children. The western orthodox approach to treating children with autism has ranged placing them in care to working on improving their social and communication skills. There is no 'cure' as yet for Autism, leading some parents to try alternative therapies for symptomatic relief and possible improvement in the condition of their children. One popular recent approach is acupuncture, even though autism as defined by western medicine is not recognised by Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture

Anecdotal and preliminary medical evidence suggest that children with autism can benefit from acupuncture. While a cure is not to be expected, acupuncture seems to give symptomatic relief to children.

Acupuncture and Autism

Though it may be a challenging experience for the child and the parents in the beginning, the results seem to suggest that it is helpful in the long run. Traditional acupuncture requires the patient to lay still for long periods, to endure the close contact of a stranger and the invasive insertion of needles, all of which could prove to be exceptionally difficult for a child, particularly one on the severe end of the autistic spectrum. But Paediatric acupuncture addresses some of these issues. Acupuncture for young children doesn't require them to lay still as with adults. It's just a quick prick (with super thin needles) at pressure points. Acupressure is an alternative for those who would prefer a less invasive treatment.

A study was done in the US to observe the effect of acupuncture on the brains of children with autism. The acupuncture treatment was given once every other day, for four months. After acupuncture treatment; of the 22 cases, 20 had remarkable improvement and 2 had significant in cerebral blood flow. Before the treatment there were significant differences in blood flow between the left and right cerebrum and between the left and right frontal lobes, however, after treatment, no differences were found between them

Preliminary clinical trials have been conducted in Hong Kong to establish the effectiveness of tongue acupuncture - a relatively new treatment method that is thought to be particularly effective for children on the autistic spectrum. Traditional acupuncture has been practiced in China for over 5000 years, but tongue acupuncture has developed only over the last two decades.

Based on the traditional Chinese view that the tongue and heart are connected through meridians that spread to all the organs of the body, it is believed that points on the tongue influence the state of the body's organs and it is through this that relief of autism's symptoms occurs.

Most agree that a combined approach to diet and alternative therapies can offer symptomatic relief to suffers of autism, improving mood and communication skills in children. Though it will always be on a scale of improvement, rather than cure.

Acupuncture and Autism

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Acupuncture [http://acupuncture-guideto.com]

Ancient Chinese Acupuncture

Ancient Chinese Acupuncture dates back to more than five thousand years ago. This form of therapy is likely to have developed after massage and acupressure therapies. It is done using needles that are inserted on the systemic meridians.

Ancient Chinese Acupuncture was used treat injuries and lesions. This was the specialty of acupuncturists. The acupuncturist of China considered this valuable skill of theirs to treat people with inabilities. This was to enable them to keep on working. Other acupuncturists still appreciate this school of thought.

Acupuncture

The medicine of China is a Daoist creation that looked at the nature pattern so as to understand the human body, spirit and mind. The transformation of seasons, the growth of plants, and the flow of water inspired early Daoist, sagacious and doctors. The disease process of the human body was studied with the external natural events and it was observed that both these processes are the same. Instant floods can ruin the crops, and drinking too much water during a meal can spoil the digestion process. On the other hand, drought can lead to fire just like dry cough can turn into the fire of bloody cough as well as fever.

Ancient Chinese Acupuncture

Scientist agree that ancient Chinese acupuncture works in many ways that are unknown. Most of research have shown that this form of therapy consistently triggers the release of a considerable amount of endorphins. It is the best way to cure blood pressure and improve blood circulation. It is also the aid to trigger the body's self-repairing system when its immunity becomes low.

Ancient Chinese Acupuncture

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Acupuncture - A Remedy for Constipation

Acupuncture is an effective remedy for treating constipation. You should have a bowel movement 2 to 3 times a day. If you are not experiencing bowel movements this frequently or have painful passage of hard stool, it may lead to bowel obstruction and disease. It is important to become regular through a safe method such as acupuncture.

Acupuncture helps restore proper circulation, eliminate pain and balance the body. In Chinese medicine, constipation is caused by a deficiency in the spleen and stomach. It is also a result in dryness of the large intestines from foods that do not support the digestive process.

Acupuncture

Particular acupuncture points have an effect on gastrointestinal mobility, serving as a remedy for constipation. Acupuncture treatments can relax the colon, spleen and stomach to stimulate movement. In addition, herbs can be made especially for constipation, which will relax stuck qi and restore intestinal function. Qi is the layer of life force.

Acupuncture - A Remedy for Constipation

Acute constipation is generally resolved within two acupuncture treatments and with the use of herbal laxatives from the acupuncturist. Eating high fiber foods will help the success of your acupuncture treatment.

What is entirely beneficial about acupuncture is that in one session you can be treated for multiple symptoms. You can receive treatment for constipation, hair loss, shoulder pain and headaches all in the same day.

In addition, acupuncture is entirely safe. It has been practiced in China for more than 5,000 years. Most insurance companies now cover acupuncture treatments. It is one of the most used alternative therapies in the modern world.

Acupuncture - A Remedy for Constipation

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Dieting Tips For Fast Weight Loss - How to Jump-Start Your Diet

Do you want to lose weight fast? While there is no diet that will allow you to eat as much as you want and still lose weight, there are things you can do to speed along the process. Good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are the most important aspects of any diet, but there are appetite suppressants and diet aids designed to help you burn fat and increase your metabolic rate. There are many safe diet products available but keep in mind some products may have severe side effects so choose your diet aids carefully.

You can speed the weight loss process by choosing the types of foods you eat carefully. A low fat, reduced calorie diet is one of the best ways to lose weight. You won't lose weight over night but you should see a gradual drop in your weight over time. Generally, the more weight one has to lose, the faster the weight will disappear. Those who are severely obese will lose weight at a much faster rate then someone who is only moderately overweight.

\"Acupuncture For Weight Loss\"

Diets that produce very fast weight loss are usually not for long-term use. Starvation or fad diets should last a short period of time. A lack of good nutrition can lead to permanent health problems. You can lose a large amount of weight quickly with these diets which may give you the will power to continue your weight loss efforts when you change to a more nutritionally sound type of diet. Your health is the most important consideration when choosing a diet plan or product. See your doctor before starting a weight loss program.

Dieting Tips For Fast Weight Loss - How to Jump-Start Your Diet

Your diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, and lean meats. Prepare your food without added fats such as butter or cooking oil. Make sure you take a vitamin each day while dieting. A short term weight loss plan may be very helpful to you in the initial stages of your diet, but over time your body requires healthy eating habits and exercise to keep the weight off once you have lost it. Good nutrition is imperative to you health. Any diet that allows you to lose weight quickly is not a long-term solution and should only be used briefly.

There are many products available to help you lose weight. There are supplements, diet plans, programs and online support systems to help you manage your eating habits and measure your weight loss progress. Some of these companies provide support and help with your dieting program. We can help you by providing you with a free list of our recommended best sources for effective weight loss products and services.

Dieting Tips For Fast Weight Loss - How to Jump-Start Your Diet

See My Top 50 Weight Loss Tips

Acupuncture Needles & Pain Relief

To many of us it would sound a bit oxymoron, but in reality, many people find pain relief through acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture is a Chinese treatment therapy that works miracles for different diseases. According to the Chinese belief, there are energy pathways called Meridians that flow through your body. The moment there is a blockage of their path it results in health related issues. The Chinese insert needles in the areas that need to be treated which influence the energy flow through the Meridians and thus relieves your pain.

Different uses of Acupuncture:

Acupuncture

o People usually start the Chinese acupuncture treatment so that they can get relief from pain. Recent research shows positive results for people who were treated through acupuncture for post surgery pain and chemo therapy.

Acupuncture Needles & Pain Relief

o Acupuncture is helpful in treating patients for rehabilitation for strokes as it helps the patient in relearning the skills that the person has lost due to the effect of stroke.

o Migraines and headaches can also be cured by acupuncture.

o Acupuncture is also very useful for treating patients of Osteoarthritis. In this health issue the cartilage and the tissue breaks down that cushion the joints and recent study also indicates that knee pain can be reduced by acupuncture. It also helps in curing...

o Asthma patients and tries to ease the inflammation and coughing. It also helps to reduce chest tightness.

People should always use a professional acupuncturist for the proper treatment. The needles used in the acupuncture treatment should be properly sterilized otherwise it will create many complex health issues.

It is always recommended that you should discus all the relevant details with your doctor before starting the alternate treatment as your doctor really knows what works best for you. Always discuss all the relevant details with your doctor before going for alternate treatment as the doctor knows what works best for your health.

More about the Meridians

The acupuncture points are found on the twelve meridians which are also mentioned in Chinese medical text and are the pathways through which energy and blood flows. And those points that have become stagnant should also be inserted with acupuncture needles to relief them and reduce the pain. All the twelve pathways connect vertically and symmetrically with all the twelve important body organs. The major organs of the body are connected internally and if there is a blockage in one part the other connected organs and body parts are also affected.

Thus you can say that Acupuncture is the perfect treatment method in which thin needles are inserted in specific parts of the body that need to be treated and it aids the body's pain killing chemicals and also helps to regulate blood pressure.

Acupuncture Needles & Pain Relief

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3 Different Weight Loss Plans - Low Carb Diets - Low Fat Diets - Detox Diets

There are many different choices in diets for weight loss. Some certainly work better than others, but the best diets for weight loss are always the ones you, personally, can stick to.

Fad diets are never a good idea, because they often leave you tired and feeling lousy, and they almost certainly don't offer a lifestyle you can stick to for any length of time. The best types of diets for weight loss help you make a long term lifestyle change; so that it's easier to keep the weight off once you've lost it.

\"Acupuncture For Weight Loss\"

Low Carb Diets

3 Different Weight Loss Plans - Low Carb Diets - Low Fat Diets - Detox Diets

Low carb diets, like the South Beach Diet and the Atkins Diet work on a unique diet principle. By eliminating simple carbohydrates like sugar and white flour, and limiting some other carbohydrates, they help to put your body in a state of ketosis, which ensures that it is burning fat for energy.

These diets for losing weight focus on eating lots of lean protein and non starchy vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, zucchini and green beans. For the first two weeks, no fruits are allowed. After the two week induction period, you gradually add carbohydrates back to your diet in order to see what level your body can tolerate and still lose weight.

Even after you've finished losing weight, you should avoid simple carbohydrates to keep the weight from coming back. Many people report a weight loss of around ten pounds during the first two weeks.

Low Fat Diets

Low fat diets are really low calorie diets for weight loss. Because fats contain more calories per ounce than other food types, limiting your fats helps reduce your overall calorie intake.

On a low fat diet for weight loss, you'll choose the daily calorie intake level that is appropriate for your weight and the amount of weight you want to lose, and you'll also see how many of those calories should come from fat. You'll eat lots of fruits and vegetables. You'll also eat lean meats, but avoid anything that is very fatty or fried.

Detox Diets

Detox diets for losing weight are designed to help you lose a lot of weight quickly by cleansing your body of the toxins that can cause bloat, weight gain and a protruding stomach.

You will typically eat organic vegetables and fruits to minimize the chemicals you're ingesting. You'll also eat lots of high fiber foods to help increase your bowel movements, and you'll drink lots of water to help cleanse your liver and kidneys.

Some detox diets for weight- loss will also include supplements like acai berry cleanse products to speed up the removal of toxins. Beware of these as they are likely to cause some very uncomfortable side effects like diarrhea.

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3 Different Weight Loss Plans - Low Carb Diets - Low Fat Diets - Detox Diets

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Acupuncture Point Diagram

An acupuncture point diagram shows the various parts of the body which can be punctured during a complimentary treatment session. The main aim of this type of diagram is to pin point specific places along the meridian form which positive energy flows in a person's body. Once these points have been located with the aid of this kind of diagram, then the energy flow can be manipulated accordingly so as to relieve a person of the disorder or illness they have been diagnosed with.

Acupuncture point diagrams are of various types. There are those that are specific to one part of the body such as the ears, legs etc. There are also those that show the entire mapping of the body's meridian. they enable an acupuncturist to quickly locate the correct pressure points for effective treatment. These charts will also enable one to know the different acupuncture points found on different body parts.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture point diagrams are available in the market. The Internet is also one of the places where one can obtain this kind of diagrams. They are an essential tool for acupuncturists as well as people who would like to learn how different meridian points affect different illnesses and functions of their bodies.

Acupuncture Point Diagram

These diagrams are an asset to acupuncturists and their patients. By using them, the acupuncturist is able to treat their patients well. The patients are also able to achieve their much desired results. They can also be a source of information to those willing to learn about acupuncture.

Acupuncture Point Diagram

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Acupuncture Schools - A Comparison of Acupuncture Schools in North America

For thousands of years, there were no schools of Chinese Medicine as we know them today. To understand the development of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine as it is taught today in the west requires a brief look at Chinese history.

Well over 2000 years ago, Chinese Medicine existed within the body of knowledge known as the Taoist Healing Arts. As healers, the ancient Taoists did not make a distinction between science and spirit. They saw the human body as a combination of physical matter, spirit, and Qi (which can be roughly translated as vital energy). By focusing on balancing one's Qi, one can develop the ability to synchronize oneself with the balanced Qi of nature, which serves to restore and preserve one's health. The oldest book known to describe Chinese medicine in detail is the Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine, which dates back to at least 2000 years BCE. Acupuncture is first described here as a practice that restores the normal flow of Qi through the channels (meridians) by stimulating acupuncture points.

Acupuncture

As the Taoist Healing Arts were refined over thousands of years, the secrets were passed down orally and through hands on experience within a student-master relationship. Acupuncture Schools, as such, did not exist. In some cases there were families of master healers who amassed a great body of special healing techniques and integral practices. Generation upon generation were taught and, in turn, contributed to the wealth of healing knowledge. By the 20th century, there were several outstanding lineage-based styles of Chinese Medicine whose depth of knowledge and styles of treatment went far beyond what is taught today as Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture Schools - A Comparison of Acupuncture Schools in North America

The Great Divide:

Chinese Medicine undertook a drastic change in the 1950's. In an effort to standardize a national medicine of the Marxist state, The People's Republic of China stripped the ancient teachings and practices of its spiritual dimension, which was deemed "superstitious". In turn, the government created a single form of teaching that more closely emulated the western biomedical model and censored much of the knowledge gained over thousands of years within the lineage-based styles of Chinese Medicine.

The resulting form of Traditional Chinese Medicine is taught today in Universities throughout China. This is also the model taught in most acupuncture schools in North America. Although it is based on traditional models of Chinese Medicine, it is only a small portion of the wealth of technique developed by healing masters and handed down during the past 2,000 years

Types of Acupuncture Schools

Today, there are roughly 3 styles of accredited acupuncture schools in North America:

* TCM schools that follow the standardized curriculum of state run universities developed in Maoist era China. The curriculum is vital, but homogenized to produce western style practitioners.

* Complementary and Alternative Medicine schools that teach an abbreviated form of acupuncture for those who use it as an adjunct to their primary practice. Primarily M.D.'s and D.O.'s may practice acupuncture with as little as 300 hours of formal training.

* Lineage-based Schools of Chinese Medicine that teach both the standardized curriculum required for national TCM accreditation plus the ancient teachings and healing techniques that require a spiritual dimension to understand and practice.

About TCM Schools:

While it may seem a harsh judgement, most of the TCM schools represent an Americanized version of Chinese Medicine that bears a growing resemblance to western biomedical training. As Mark Seem (President and CEO, Tri-State College of Acupuncture) notes in the article below, "acupuncture is about to be lost and scattered to the four winds of the health care world." He continues, "The Oriental medicine or TCM style of acupuncture taught at most schools and practiced by most practitioners (especially on the West Coast, where TCM had its biggest influence) is a watered down version of acupuncture in which informed touch plays virtually no role at all."

More to the point, the study of Qi is fundamental to Chinese Medicine. While Qi is not a religious concept, it does have a spiritual dimension--simply defined as the energy of nature that also exists in the human body. Practitioners who have balance and mastery of their own Qi will be better healers, and most TCM schools do not recognize or emphasize this.

When you evaluate a TCM school, look into the tradition and teachings of the founder and senior instructors, as well as the curriculum. If the founder is a western businessman, the school is less likely to teach healing technique from ancient Chinese masters. If the curriculum does not include some form of Qi cultivation for its students, it will most likely be limited to the western biomedical model of Chinese Medicine which does not recognize the body of teaching developed from ancient times.

About Complementary and Alternative Medicine Schools:

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Schools primarily represent an effort to bridge and blend both eastern and western healing arts. In most cases, they do not offer the curriculum that meets the national standards for certification to practice acupuncture, unless you already have an M.D. or D.O. license.

One notable exception exists, however, in Tai Sophia, Institute, Maryland. Tai Sophia Institute is a graduate school for the healing arts offering three graduate programs in Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Applied Healing Arts. Under the guidance of Bob Duggan, M.A., M.Ac, the Institute has been recognized as an anchoring academic institute for the nation's emerging wellness system, and sets the standard in the field of CAM study, as well as an excellent acupuncture program.

(For more information on CAM, read "Complementary and Alternative Medical Therapies: Implications for Medical Education" by Miriam S. Wetzel, PhD; Ted J. Kaptchuk, OMD; Aviad Haramati, PhD; and David M. Eisenberg, MD)

About Lineage-based Schools of Chinese Medicine:

While the lineage-based schools encompass all of the modern medicine required for national accreditation and licensing individuals to practice acupuncture, they also include ancient wisdom that is essential for self-development of the healer. Their approach differs from the western biomedical model in that "The essential art of Chinese medicine is the foretelling and prevention of disease rather than the treatment of illness after it has manifested as painful or distressing physical and mental symptoms". Their teaching is more focused on Qi Cultivation and the subtle laws of energy response. In the ancient tradition, the healer must become the medicine. In addition to learning the appropriate clinical skills, the student must refine their personal energy before one is qualified to practice.

In a study called Tracing the Contours of Daoism in North America published by the University of California Press, Louis Komjathy says, "The connection between Daoism and health in North America finds its culmination in the establishment of Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Los Angeles) by Ni Hua-ching and his sons; and Liu Ming's (then Charles Belyea) involvement in the founding of Five Branches Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Santa Cruz)."

He further identifies all of the lineage based teachers active in North America, including Jeffery Yuen who is currently the academic dean of acupuncture at Swedish Institute of Acupuncture and Oriental Studies (New York). Other teachers are active at schools focusing on the teaching of Taiji quan, Qigong, Daoist meditation,
Daoist philosophy, and traditional Chinese healing methods, however they are not accredited to license acupuncturists.

(For more information on lineage-based schools, read "Tracing the Contours of Daoism in North America" by Louis Komjathy)

Differences in Curriculum:

While the lineage-based schools draw from a greater body of knowledge and tradition than other TCM schools, one can also expect to find a slight difference in curriculum. For example, the student handbook of Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine states, "At Yo San University, Taoism is a guiding philosophy, not a religion." It further states, "Yo San's Qi Development curriculum emanates from our belief that practitioners who have balance and mastery of their Qi will be better healers. The study of Qi is not just an academic exercise but is cultivation through daily practice, The program is designed to provide students the opportunity to heal and cultivate themselves and also to directly experience the balance and harmony that underlie Taoism and the medicine that has developed from it."

Acupuncture Schools - A Comparison of Acupuncture Schools in North America

Lauren Stomel

Mr. Stomel has made a serious occupation in the study of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, particularly in the Five Eements Chinese tradition. As both a student and patient of Acupuncture, Acupressure, Tai Chi and Chi Gung for over 25 years, he has both a solid empirical understanding and personal understanding of benefits from the Mastery of Chi movement throught the body. However, he does not hold a Doctorate degree in these sciences. His information is presented here simply as the common person viewpoint. Please consult your personal physician before attempting a cure through Alternative Medicine.

Mr. Stomel is on the advisory board and board of directors of several Acupuncture Schools and TCM-based healing modalities in North America.

He is also the publisher of a site that gives sincere, objective guidance to those seeking advice on Acupunture Schools.

Acupuncture Massage

Part 3.

Acupuncture Massage.

Acupuncture

It is the Great combination of two words.

Acupuncture Massage

Acupuncture is an ancient study. It is a technique that has been done for thousands of years as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupuncture uses a method of inserting needles into specific points (acupuncture points) in the body. Acupuncture points are located throughout the body.
There are yin and yang points throughout the body including the hands and the feet.

Massage is the practice of applying structured pressure, tension, motion or vibration -- manually or with mechanical or electrical aids -- to the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, joints and lymphatic vessels, to achieve a beneficial response.

A form of therapy, massage can be applied to parts of the body or successively to the whole body, to heal injury, relieve psychological stress, manage pain, and improve blood circulation. Where massage is used for its physical and psychological benefits, it may be termed "therapeutic massage therapy" or manipulative therapy.

To summarize, Acupuncture Massage is the practice of applying structured pressure, tension, motion or vibration -- manually or with mechanical or electrical aids to specific points on the body.

The Advantages of Acupuncture Massage in short are:
You are not using needles. You are applying massage to precise points to achieve the most benefits in the shortest period of time.

The balance of Chi, or Qi in some books (is a term used to describe vital energy in the body) is the very foundation of being alive and functioning in Traditional Chinese Medicine technologies.
If there are deficiencies of Chi, there can be pain and illness.
Pain is supposed to mean that there is a blockage or a poor flow of Chi.

If there is a problem with the systems or a disease is present, acupuncture tries to address this by attempting to modify the activity of one or several of the systems of function.
Each acupuncture point, one way or another, are connected to each organ in the body.

Addressing massage to specific acupuncture points, releases blocked Chi and helps your body's immune system to finish the job. Some acupuncture points are very easy to identify. They are points of pain (back pain, neck pain etc).

Even though there are more than 1000 acupuncture points on the body, you don't need to know more than 10-20 acupuncture points to help you or members of your family with some "everyday" problems without a deep knowledge of acupuncture science.

Just keep in mind You always have to consult your doctor before do anything yourself.

Relaxation is necessary for maximum therapeutic benefits to be achieved.
The procedure treats the body as a whole. It works to improve the function of several systems of function that are associated with several physical organs in the body.
This is why acupuncture massage is so good for you.

You are archiving relaxation by massage and unblocking Chi by massaging acupuncture points. They help to restore the body through a method of yin and yang.
It is like Killing two rabbits with one shot, so to speak.

There are many ways in which acupuncture massage can provide excellent results and without the harmful side effects of medications. In fact, in many cases, it can be safer to treat conditions with acupuncture massage than with medications.

In the next articles I will cover Acupressure and Electro Acupuncture, even more advanced techniques to restore your body's health and energy and assist with reducing pain using today's technologies.

To Your Health and Happiness!

Acupuncture Massage

Vadim Struzman
is Health Fanatic and Weight Loss Enthusiast. For more information about Acupuncture, Acupressure, Massage please go to the http://www.HomeTherapies.com.au

The Treatment of Obesity With Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (Part 1)

Obesity in Chinese Medical Theory

In contrast to most modern medical theories behind weight gain, Chinese Medicine has a slightly different view to why people become obese.

\"Acupuncture For Weight Loss\"

The central premise is that It's rarely how much you eat but rather these two factors that cause obesity:

The Treatment of Obesity With Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (Part 1)

1. What you eat
2. How efficient your body is at metabolising the food you take in

Yes, the third factor is poor eating, but we believe that both eating too much or too little in this case has the same effect, i.e, of damaging the body's ability to properly digest food, resulting then in the accumulation of untransformed food in the form of "dampness" which accumulates "in the space between the muscles and the skin". Before I discuss what types of food will "make you fat", it is more important to discuss the second reason for weight gain, i.e, the efficiency with which your body metabolises or as we say "transforms" that food into useful substances in the body instead of fat.

How your digestion works in Chinese Medicine

In TCM we say that digestion is a process of warm transformation. This means that your body requires heat in order to digest the food that is taken in. Remember that if the food is not digested properly this accumulates as phlegm and or dampness in the body which is what we call the actual fat that accumulates. This heat is in turn provided by the general heat of the body which we say is stored in the kidneys. Chinese Medical scholars liken this to the fire that has to burn under a pot in order for the food in the pot to get cooked. Butthats not all, the digestion itself has to be strong, this is similar to the ability of the pancreas to secrete the pancreatic enzymes responsible for digestion in sufficient quantities to enable this. So thus far we have identified a weak digestion as well as not enough heat from the kidneys as contributors to obesity. There are two more less common "patterns" involving apredispisition to "dampness" in the body which is often hereditary and also a condition called "Liver qi stagnation" where the accumulation of fat in the body is secondary to a poor circulation problem, in the future parts of this article I will expound on the characteristics of each "pattern" of obesity but for now I will soothe your conscience in telling you that it's not entirely your fault, yes that ice-cream is not the best thing for you and neither is that chocolate bar but it's how you digest or whether you can that will really determine whether it will make you fat or not. The Chinese Medical books say that if your digestion is strong you can go many days without eating, and you can eat a lot without having a problem. After digesting the food it has to be transported properly to the various parts of the body, in fact even before digesting the food it has to be transported or moved properly through the digestive system, as I mentioned a couple of sentences ago, one type of obesity is due to improper movement and hence stagnation of food.

What foods make you fat

For each person depending on what their underlying pattern is, the list of foods to avoid will be different and I will discuss those in more detail in the ensuing articles, however there are some general tips that I will mention below:

1. As I mentioned above, digestion is a process of warm transformation, any food or practice that will, so to say, "douse the fire", will make digestion difficult and hence also make it easier to put on weight, examples of this include drinking cold water or drinks while or soon after eating and also having too much ice-cream. These are examples of food whose temperature is cold, but their are also foods whose nature is cold that should be avoided, examples of these include raw salads, now I know this is going to stir some controversy but facts are facts and I don't care how much nutrients are in those raw salads, if you can't digest it, it doesn't matter. Keep in mind that some cases of obesity present with what we call stomach heat at the same time as there is a weak digestion and such patients will have a craving for all of the above.
2. Grains, yes grains. Ancient Chinese Medical Literature mentions that excessive eating of grains (which would correspond to all carbs in our age) will make a person overweight. In this respect the Chinese theory would correspond with a low or reduced carb diet for weight loss but as mentioned before it really does depend on the individual pattern.
3. Too much sweet. Sounds familiar? Here is the theory, Chinese Medicine states that the sweet flavor will actually benefit the digestion, in moderation. When taken in excess however it starts to have the opposite effect. This is also true with synthetic and refined sugars which are overly sweet and damage the digestive ability. Sugars also cause another problem though, they create heat in the stomach at the same time that they weaken the digestion and any Chinese Medicine practitioner would tell you that this is a characteristic of diabetes.

In conclusion of Part 1 in this series of articles, I summarise the main points below and give some advice on what you can implement now:

1. Don't blame yourself for your weight problem, it's often more related to your digestive ability than how much you eat
2. Don't douse the fire, hold off on the ice-cream and cold drinks especially during or after a meal
3. Cut down on carbohydrates (don't go Atkins on me now, fruits are no problem, just limit the bread and rice)
4. Avoid sweets, chocolates and sweetened drinks

If you do the above for a good length time you might not need to read the next article!, don't forget to subscribe to my mailing list for the next in this series of articles on obesity and Chinese Medicine.

The Treatment of Obesity With Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (Part 1)

Dr Latib is a renowned Chinese Medical Practitioner practising in Johannesburg, South Africa.

More info about him at: http://www.drlatib.com

The Uses Of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has a history of over 2500 years and comes from China. It has now become very popular throughout Europe and Asia too.

Today people are moving more away from western medicine and moving more towards acupuncture, mainly when western medicine has no answer to their medical ailment or they do not like the other options given them, be it surgery or drugs or even when they have been told that nothing else can be done. They turn to acupuncture for pain relief, for chronic illness, for acute injuries, for various side effects brought on by other medications, for incurable conditions, during cancer treatments etc.

Acupuncture

The major use of acupuncture today is in the relief of pain. For example severe tension headaches, migraine, acute backaches, shoulder and neck aches, leg pains, trapped nerves, muscle related injuries, after surgery, carpal tunnel syndrome, after sports injuries, menstrual pains, tennis elbow, tooth aches, abdominal pains, arthritic pains, rheumatic pains, sciatica and frozen shoulder.

The Uses Of Acupuncture

Other than for pain relief acupuncture can be used for many other ailments as well. These include:

Menopausal symptoms and problems, hot flushes, endometriosis, infertility, premenstrual tension.

Bladder or bowel problems such as irritable bowel and irritable bladder syndrome and incontinence. Difficulty in urination or painful urination, urinary infections and cystitis.

Digestive disorders, which include nausea, indigestion, heartburn and diarrhea.

Respiratory problems, which include asthma, bronchitis, colds and coughs which persist, sinus problems, catarrh and tonsillitis.

Allergies and skin problems such as rhinitis, hay fever, prickly heat, rashes and ulcers, eczema, some types of dermatitis and psoriasis.

Conditions which include the eyes and mouth such as simple cataract, dry eyes, conjunctivitis, retinitis and toothache, pharyngitis, dry mouth condition known as xerostomia and post extraction pain.

Heart problems such as poor circulation, stroke recovery, hypertension.

It also helps in conditions like hiccough, gastritis, gastric ulcers, colitis, constipation, lack of energy and chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, mood swings, post traumatic shock, dizziness, in post operative treatment, in complaints that cannot be diagnosed, Achilles tendonitis and golfer's elbow.

It can also help in addictions mainly to stop smoking.

In short, acupuncture can be used for almost anything and everything - it can control pain, it helps in addictions and addiction withdrawal symptoms, it helps in enhancement of health, it can help in recoveries after injuries like sports injuries, it can prevent diseases, strengthen the body and it can also be used and show results when all other types of medicines have failed.

Sometimes the acupuncture treatment, which is inserting needles into the body, is done in conjunction with other complimentary techniques such as herbs, massaging, cupping, moxibusion also known as warming, electro-stimulation and with laser devices.

Generally, most people react very well to acupuncture with a sense of well-being and being relaxed and also being able to sleep well and overall increase in energy levels and better digestion. Because acupuncture is a treatment using natural techniques, people rarely suffer from any side effects. It can also be recommended for people of all ages, that is from children to even the elderly.

The Uses Of Acupuncture

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Acupuncture [http://acupuncture-guides.com/]

Acupuncture Treatment - Acupuncture for Circulation Problems

Our body is a complete unit with so many systems like circulatory, digestive, excretory, nervous and skeleton working in coordination. Although each system has different role, they are so much connected to each other that any impairment in one system can affect the working of the other one. Among all the systems circulation system has very important role as it helps in providing all the nutrients and oxygen to the each cell of the body. This only takes the pure blood to the tissues and carries away harmful toxins and accumulated waster out of the body. If this system is disrupted due to any reason, whole body gets affected.

Acupuncture treatment provides easy and simple way to repair this system. According to its principle, body has a network of channels which carry energy all along the body in the form of chi. This energy channels are termed as meridians. Any imbalance in the chi distribution is the main reason for body illness and disorders. These imbalances can be due to physical imbalances, emotional disturbances and poor diet. With acupuncture, needles are inserted in meridian points to direct the flow of chi to the most required areas of the body. With this, blockages are removed and circulation is also increased which solves all the other problems.

Acupuncture

Poor circulation can result in various problems ranging from cold hands and feet to hardening of arteries and hypertension. Various studies have been performed to know the role of acupuncture for circulatory problems. It has been proved that it helps in increasing the efficiency and functional capacity of heart. Studies have shown that 80% of angina patients improved themselves after acupuncture treatment. Sometimes heart undergoes abnormal heartbeats like dropped beats, irregular heart rhythm, palpitations which are also corrected by this treatment. Acupuncture is effective in releasing arterial spasms especially in collateral vessels. It is beneficial in diseases like Reynaud's disease, therapy of ulcers in venous stasis. Some herbal medicines are also used along with this to detoxify certain compounds in the body.

Acupuncture Treatment - Acupuncture for Circulation Problems

This method of acupuncture treatment is not considered safe as sometimes insertion of infected needles can lead to lethal diseases. And some people move away from it to avoid the pain of pointed needles. But don't worry, there is just a slight tingling sensation felt while injecting but after that you feel pleasure when needles starts working inside. And infection problem occurs due to the lack of experience of your acupuncturist. If one uses sterilized needles or one time usable needles there is no worry about the infection.

Western medical practitioners have made certain modification in this acupuncture technique. Although the principle lays the same of the meridian system but they do not use needles to activate points. Several methods like electric impulses, heat, magnetic radiations, and laser beam are used specifically on the part to be treated.

You can also consult about this treatment while surfing on internet. There is a no. of health clinics which provide their services online. You can tell them about your problems and they will suggest you suitable acupuncture treatment according to your body symptoms. After that you can also find acupuncturists near by your areas so that it is easy for you to understand everything. Give this technique a chance to cure you and you will see how beneficial it is without any side effects and being so natural and healthy.

Acupuncture Treatment - Acupuncture for Circulation Problems

George Jhon is an Author for Backonyourfeet, An Acupuncture Sydney clinic where our highly skilled experts may guide you about Fundamentals of Acupuncture Treatment to Improve Your Life. For more information, visit http://www.backonyourfeet.com.au

15 Clinically Proven Weight Loss Tips

Almost everyone are constantly probing for weight loss methods to reduce their pounds but their intentions of having immediate results could be merely a dream. An effective and everlasting way of losing weight can never be done instantaneously, depending on each individual. Somehow there are few tips tried and proven that may abet the progress.

Tip #1 - Envision Your Success

\"Acupuncture For Weight Loss\"

Visualizing can help you keep track of your goal. Once, a man visualized himself in the ideal body of a picture in a magazine every day before he went to bed. His daily visualizing indeed made wonders to him with astonishing results. It took him 3 months before he literally transformed into the body figure similar to that in the magazine. Michelangelo is undeniably true with his quote: "What I desire, I must first imagine. What I imagine, I create".

15 Clinically Proven Weight Loss Tips

Tip #2 - Daily Journal

Penning down your food consumption every day could be the pathway to keep you reminded of your goal. A record of your daily activities, food intake and emotional sentiments may help to discover the cause to your overeating or weight gain. It may sound ridiculous but when you notice you should pen down what you eat, even the tastiest food may turn your appetite off. According to the National Weight Control Registry, most dieters practice journalling before succeeding their plan.

Advice: Make a habit of submitting your food journal at least once a day. You can also do it few times a day if you tend to forget what you eat. Then your journal will be the reference of your food intake for further analysis and feedback.

Tip #3 - Select Appropriate Food Portion

The size of your food portion could be one important key towards managing your food intake. USDA has information stating that the average sum of daily calorie consumption has soared 148 calories during the past 20 years. Statistically, this figure accounts to an additional 15 lbs. annually. Perhaps a coherent approach of using a standard size to judge the food portion will be a good idea.

Advice: Take the slow step of chewing your food longer to allow your brain to sense your stomach's fullness.

Tip #4 - Exercise

Daily exercise is the biggest contributor to restrain your appetite and burn calories. According to the National Academy of Sciences, the best recommendation is a 30-minute vigorous exercise along with an additional 30-minute of living activities daily. The Journal of American College of Nutrition revealed a study claiming that one can enjoy the benefits of 10-minute increments equivalent to 30 minutes of constant exercise.

Advice: 30 minutes of daily exercise for 5 days a week is the best workout.

Tip #5 - Select Healthy Meals

You can try out the variety of seasonings, the best cooking method or different vegetables to decide upon what is best for you before you start your diet plan. A good planning will help to avoid messy decisions and you will have an advanced supply of food to kick off towards your goal. Shopping once a week is rather significant as running out of good food will have you eating inappropriately. Containers such as jugs, bottles and a cooler will be handy to store your food within reach.

Advice: Do not allow hunger to wait. Tiny healthy snacks are better than an empty stomach. A good breakfast can help to keep your hunger under control. Besides, water is also great to help reduce your food portions.

Tip #6 - Breakfast Is Essential

Breakfast is the best day starter. As claimed by the National Weight Control Registry, breakfast is one of the fundamental keys towards permanent diet. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition had studies revealing those who take nourishing breakfast are slimmer than those who skip breakfast.

This may be hilarious but early meals will help to maintain hormone and glucose levels and trigger your metabolism to burn more calories. Human body applies the circadian rhythm - foods eaten at different times of the day are processed differently. Fat and protein taken during breakfast will provide energy but the same foods taken during dinner will lead to weight gain.

Advice: Breakfast is a must - not taking breakfast will have you binging more lately in the day.

Tip #7 - Six Meals Daily

Frequent small portion of healthy meals will boost metabolism as food has some thermal effect. The recommended figure is six meals for men while five for women. This is never too much and it is time you put this into practice. Eating often will involve calorie burning during food absorption and breakdown.

The positive effect could be 10 times better when you dwell on frequent eating. In fact, you will be more energetic and less hungry. However the last meal should be at least an hour before you sleep. Unlike other diet plans, this way of eating will not cause deprivation. You may have difficulties dealing with consistent eating but the effect could turn out amusing.

Advice: Do not leave your stomach empty for too long. Hunger can make you prone to more food binging. Proper meals thrice a day is good to cope with your hunger.

Tip # 8 - Importance Of Protein

According to the Journal of Nutrition published by University of Illinois, having more protein in the food during weight loss can help to get rid of body fat and retain the muscle mass. The presence of L-leucine, an amino acid will provide spare muscles during weight loss thus only the fat are eliminated. Sustaining your muscles during your diet period can boost the calorie burning activity. Excess protein may cause calcium leaching from your bones, damage your kidneys so go moderately with the amount.

Advice: Try taking lean protein from beans, meat, fish and low-fat dairy products.

Tip #9 - Lose Weight

One great way to lose weight is having support from people around you. The Journal of the American Medical Association published by Brown University stated that successful dieters often have supporters around them. Perhaps you could have somebody of the same aspirations thus encouraging each other to work towards healthy eating and avoid inactivity.

Advice: Take a friendly losing weight competition to help boost your spirit towards your aim.

Tip #10 - Permanent Weight Lose

Take note, instead of losing weight, you should focus on losing fat to ensure a permanent weight loss. Losing weight will include water, muscles and fat. However, the reduction in lean muscle tissue can pull down the metabolic rate hence it is the muscles that you should maintain. With more muscles in your body, you can still lose weight even with more calorie consumption as the muscles will feed on the calories. You can lift weight or take in more protein to prevent your muscles to lose.

Advice: ForsLean, the famous diet pill content was patented for the ability to boost lean muscle tissue leading to continuous fat loss.

Tip #11 - Grains And Colorful Food

Whole grains and some colorful produce are rich in phytonutrients, complex carbohydrate yet low in calories and almost zero fat. Good sources of vitamin A, C, and K, fiber, potassium and folate are vegetables and fruits. Darker color tone will provide wealthier health benefits.

The phytonutrients in whole grains are also found to help prevent diabetes, heart disease and fight against cancer. Whole grains require longer digestion thus preventing hunger much longer. The recommended choice is foods made of 100% whole grains with diverse types of carbohydrates containing all the required minerals and vitamins.

Advice: Most products in the "Negative Calorie Foods" can aid your weight loss plan!

Tip #12 - Consume More Fiber

Fiber triggers fullness more quickly and dwell in the stomach longer than other foods hence decelerate the digestion process and sustain the full feeling. One whole grain bread serving can bring a double feeling effect compared to two white bread servings due to the richer fiber content.

Fiber also reduces fat absorption as it smoothen the digestive flow. Most white rice, sugary cereals or white bread already have the fiber removed. They will transform into glucose very soon and therefore, contribute to diabetes. With the abundance of glucose in blood, the body system will not burn fats yet begin storing them. The presence of fiber will keep sugar level in the blood.

Advice: Glucomannan is one of the cheapest fiber supplements to aid weight loss and maintain healthy weight as it can expand the stomach and absorb fats. It will remove the fats from the body and prevent fat digestion. It also takes up spaces in the stomach and sustains the fullness feel. Your body will then turn to fat storage for energy source. Dieters Cheaters Caps is the most popular Glucomannan supplement at a price of .52 a serving.

Tip #13 - Drink Plenty Of Water

Water is called the World's Cheapest Appetite Suppressant. Half the amount of your body weight is the quantity of water you should drink in a day so drink to be slim!

Tip #14 - Cheat Meals.

Sporadic treat food can help prevent deprivation. Depriving may lead to binging so a "Free Day" will help motivate you towards your goal. This is also a good way to avoid your body from switching to starvation mode - a possible occurrence after constant calorie control. However, keep your treats and cheats during the "Free Day" in modest amount. Two or three slices of pizza are alright but certainly not the whole pizza. It is definitely okay to blew your diet occasionally but be sure to get back on track. So basically cheat meals can be one of the pathways towards weight loss.

Tip #15 - Pamper Yourself

Everybody loves reward so you can certainly pamper yourself with something you like when you achieve any small goals. Rewarding yourself will enhance your confidence and higher self-esteem will avoid you from food binging. However, one important note - the reward should not be in the form of food. Shopping, spa, or movies are way better.

Our tips are based on science. These tips will hopefully help you successfully lose weight. By making changes in your lifestyle and eating habits you will be rewarded with life-long results.

15 Clinically Proven Weight Loss Tips

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Herniated Disc - Try Acupuncture

If you have experimented with the more standard herniated disc treatments, and wish to try something new, it may be well worth considering the traditional Chinese therapy of acupuncture. Acupuncture is perhaps the most popular form of traditional oriental medicine, and it has proven to be quite effective for treatment of a herniated disc and the sciatic pain associated. Further to this the acupuncture can also relieve spinal stenosis, lower back pain, spine root compression, neck pain, neuropathy and other irritating and debilitating diseases.

In some cases Chinese herbs and acupuncture have been proven to be more effective, less risky and less invasive in comparison to more common forms of treatment for a herniated disc such as surgery and oral steroids. Side effects associated with drugs for treating a herniated disc is a common reason for people experimenting with acupuncture.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture tends to be even more effective when it is utilized upon the onset of the initial symptoms of a herniated disc such as back spasms and cramps. If the condition of the herniated disc is more severe, often acupuncture will be teamed with traditional Chinese herbal remedies to assist in the recovery process. Further to this the longer lasting effects of acupuncture are realized through combining the treatment with physical therapy and exercises. When acupuncture is delivered correctly there can also be additional benefits for the patient- such as an improvement in mood and less fatigue.

Herniated Disc - Try Acupuncture

It is very important for one's recommended doctor or physician to assess the degree of damage involved in the herniated disc and associated sciatica pain, before considering acupuncture as an effective treatment for the herniated disc.

It is a frightening statistic that more than half of the US adult population experience or are affected by sciatica pain. It is that burning pain from the lower back down to the feet caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve resulting in most instances in a herniated disc. The normal reaction for sufferers of a herniated disc and sciatic pain is too improve the posture and walk and site more upright. This however can increase the pressure on the problem area, resulting in further discomfort. It is quite common that, with age and poor nutrition, the back bone and its muscles and other essential body parts deteriorate and breakdown, and factors like overexertion, accidents, diseases, and bad posture all result in back problems.

Acupuncture as a herniated disc treatment when performed as early as possible has been shown to rapidly improve recovery time and ease sciatica pain significantly. Research has shown that the acupuncture stimulates the damaged area of the spine creating naturally occurring steroids encouraging it to repair and producing valuably endorphins in the body. In this natural way the swelling is minimized and the pain of the herniated disc is eased. This dual effect from the acupuncture is why is can be so effective

The benefits of acupuncture often vary from patient to patient and are also very dependent on the person administering the acupuncture. Always seek you doctor or physician's advice before getting acupuncture treatment for a herniated disc and sciatica pain. Acupuncture is certainly a far more positive option for treating a herniated disc than surgery and more serious oral steroids.

Herniated Disc - Try Acupuncture

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Using Laser Acupuncture to Quit Smoking

If you are trying to quit smoking, you already know a lot of bad things about the habit. But what you may not know about is the cutting edge technology available to help you fight your addiction. You have likely tried or at least heard of the use of acupuncture to quit smoking. But, have you heard of using laser acupuncture to quit smoking? Many nicotine addicts are now using laser acupuncture to quit smoking.

While the use of laser acupuncture to quit smoking has been around since 1989, it has been gaining much wider recognition in the last few years as the process has been fine tuned and laser technology has matured. It may seem odd to combine an ancient eastern medicine with a modern technology, but the benefits of using laser acupuncture to quit smoking have been astounding for some. The theory on why using laser acupuncture to quit smoking has worked is that the pricks stimulate the feel-good hormones in the body, leaving a person in a state of contentment.

Acupuncture

The use of laser acupuncture to quit smoking may also have some healing properties, but these are not well understood. The theory with all acupuncture, and laser acupuncture to quit smoking included, is that the pricking on key pressure points of the body tells the central nervous system that it should release chemicals in key parts of the body, telling those parts to go into a healing mode. The pain of the laser acupuncture to quit smoking is very minimal and often described as relaxing. Until there is scientific proof of the effectiveness of laser acupuncture to quit smoking, it is enough to know that many have succeeded in quitting smoking.

Using Laser Acupuncture to Quit Smoking

The feeling of laser acupuncture to quit smoking feels different from regular acupuncture in one key way. With laser acupuncture to quit smoking, you simply feel what most people describe as a warm, pulsating, tingling sensation at the point of the laser. Some people say they don't feel the laser at all. The idea is that the laser can stimulate the key points of the body in much the same way needles can, without any open wounds that could become infected. So you still get the same good feelings and healing you would get from regular acupuncture when you do laser acupuncture to quit smoking. You will find more free information on laser treatment to quit smoking at http://www.tipsonhowtoquitsmoking.com

While there are not yet enough studies to verify the effectiveness of laser acupuncture to quit smoking, it is a generally safe procedure that is worth a try. This is especially true if you claim to be one of those people who have "tried everything", yet you still haven't tried laser acupuncture to quit smoking. The only argument against trying laser acupuncture to quit smoking is the cost involved. But if you're smoking regularly, you already know you've got a habit that is much more expensive that you need to quit for more than just financial reasons.

Using Laser Acupuncture to Quit Smoking

Article by Dean Forster at http://www.tipsonhowtoquitsmoking.com - For more information on ways to quit smoking and treatment visit => Laser Treatment To Quit Smoking

Acupuncture - How Many Treatments Do You Need?

You may be wondering how many treatments it takes before you recognize the positive effects of acupuncture. Many people are actually worried about the procedure's use of several needles. Is it truly effective and does it hurt? Finding out more about the application and methods will help you know what to expect so you can relax more.

Treatment Frequency

Acupuncture

During your first visit, you will be assessed about your current condition via traditional or modern methods. Modern methods will rely on laboratory and clinical diagnostic results, physical assessment and medical background history while traditional methods will rely on unique procedures such as pulse and tongue diagnosis. Traditional acupuncturists will also want to know about your medical history to confirm diagnosis.

Acupuncture - How Many Treatments Do You Need?

The number, frequency and length of acupuncture treatments actually vary among patients depending on the symptoms presented, conditions being treated, tolerance to treatment, age and response to treatment. Some patients may start noticing results after 1 to 3 sessions while others need to let their body adapt to the stimulation gradually making the process last for months. Acute problems are faster and easier to treat thus require minimal time and frequency. For example, mild sprains may be treated through a couple of sessions while chronic fatigue may require a dozen or more sessions.

You may be treated immediately after assessment or diagnosis although most patients are asked to prepare then come back the next day or within the week. In most cases, acupuncture treatments are only done 1 to 3 times every week for a total of 12 sessions. Each session lasts anywhere between 20 to 60 minutes. Modern approaches have a scientific basis but are also considered as dry needling by traditional practitioners since they can take as fast as 5 to 10 minutes. As patients improve, acupuncture treatment will be needed less and less.

How Fast to Notice Results

Most patients report noticing positive results anywhere between the 1st and 4th treatment. Women who are being treated for infertility or menstrual problems may take more time so wait until after 3 menstrual cycles. Appointments will be scheduled farther and farther apart as patients start responding to treatment.

In other cases, acupuncture may not prove to be effective if patients do not feel anything after 3 to 5 treatments. Other options for acupuncture treatment, different forms of acupuncture or alternative medicine may be provided instead. Acute problems improve faster while chronic ones take time.

Acupuncture - How Many Treatments Do You Need?

Some patients may experience side effects after the first treatment such as sleepiness, fatigue and mild pain. Contact your acupuncturist immediately for serious and adverse symptoms. Find out more tips at http://acupuncture.besthealthguide.org

Distance Learning Acupuncture Programs

The traditional method of obtaining a degree for higher education involves attending a college or an institute. However, with the advent of technology in the form of videotapes, CD-ROMs, closed-circuit television and the Internet, a student can now receive relevant classroom information at home. This form of learning obtained without attending university or an educational institute is called distance learning or correspondence learning. Distance education involves a combination of audiovisual lectures and objective examinations. A student can choose from a variety of programs to study such as medicine, law, business administration and so on. Various institutes also offer distance learning for acupuncture. Acupuncture is a Chinese method to cure and prevent ailments by piercing sharp needles in specific areas of the body. Distance learning programs for acupuncture allow a student to learn the technique from the comforts of home without having to attend a college. It must be noted that most professional courses cannot be pursued through distance learning alone and require some amount of practical training. This is especially true of medical fields of knowledge such as acupuncture

Cyber distance programs to study acupuncture are popular, and a student can obtain a password to access an institute's website to study class material online. Usually, a student needs to enroll for a combination of online and classroom sessions to obtain a master's degree, as acupuncture requires extensive hands-on training. There are many institutes that offer distance- learning programs for acupuncture, ranging from CEU (continuing education units) courses to advanced training programs. Some institutes offer distance-learning courses for the re-certification of practitioners of Chinese medicine. These courses can be chosen on the basis of modules or on an hourly basis. The course material covers the history, theory and techniques of acupuncture. Courses that offer tools such as acupuncture DVD and video are ideal for acupuncturists or students of acupuncture to improve their clinical expertise.

Acupuncture

Students interested in a correspondence course for acupuncture must verify the credibility of the program, as well as the institute offering it. Some institutes are notorious for offering substandard courses and unrecognized degrees. Many websites allow students to attend a free online class before registering. It is advisable to try these test classes before paying a fee.

Distance Learning Acupuncture Programs

Distance Learning Acupuncture Programs

Distance Learning Programs provides detailed information on Distance Learning Programs, Distance Learning Program Degrees, Graduate Distance Learning Programs, Accredited Distance Learning Programs and more. Distance Learning Programs is affiliated with Bible Correspondence Courses [http://www.e-CorrespondenceCourses.com].

Quit Smoking Through Auricular Acupuncture

Introduction

With the known affects that smoking has, not only on the human body but the world around it, many individuals that are addicted to nicotine still find it incredibly hard to quit. Many patients will have already been through numerous amounts of patches, gum, and counselling in order to quit, with no avail.

Acupuncture

This article will explore a clinically effective method in the assistance of nicotine addiction withdrawal. This method, stemming from thousands of years of Chinese Acupuncture, and half a century of European medical research, innovation and practice is known as Auricular Acupuncture, and just may be the answer that smokers are looking for.

Quit Smoking Through Auricular Acupuncture

What is it?

Auriculomedicine (Also known as ear acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, auricular therapy etc) is a method that originally spawned from Lyon, France. It is a therapy that utilises fundamental modern medical science (primarily based on neurophysiology / neurology) and concepts of traditional acupuncture.

The actual method involves either placement of sterile, single use hair thin needles onto the external surface (outer) of the ear. Alternatively low level laser may be used. Generally a selection of points (normally 2 - 5) are used, and often combined with specific body points (again able to be stimulated by needle or laser). It is a 100% pain free method that often leaves the patient relaxed and very comfortable.

How does it work?

There are many theories about how acupuncture works, however, auricular acupuncture is an exception - its' effectiveness is known and well researched. When the auricle is stimulated, either with needle (considered more effective) or laser (less, but still effective), the body will release endorphins (natural pain relieving biochemicals).

Endorphins are secreted by the pituitary gland and certain parts of the central nervous system (CNS). Auricular Acupuncture has been shown to influence the blood serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of endorphins.

When an individual is addicted to nicotine (via tobacco smoke) they will naturally have higher endorphin levels. So, why then does Auricular Acupuncture, which induces endorphin release work?

For two reasons, one when an individual makes the step to give up smoking the endorphins within their CNS will naturally drop and will need to be maintained. And two, Auricular Acupuncture doesn't increase the levels of endorphins, it merely stabilises the rate of release. In this way, patients that have quit, and need help with withdrawal can be treated, and patients that need help in actually putting down the cigarette can be treated.

The other factors involved in Auricular Acupuncture are those associated with a sense of calmness and relaxation. This happens because of the release of the before mentioned endorphins and stimulation produced analgesia. This analgesic effect of Auricular Acupuncture occurs due to activity produced via reflex stimulation within the periaqueductal gray (PAG), hypothalamus, thalamus, and somatosensory and prefrontal cortex. This allows the withdrawal symptoms or anxiety, restlessness, stress, and other physical cravings to be successfully treated.

What is involved in a treatment?

First and foremost patients must be sure that the acupuncturist or doctor they see is trained and experienced in the specialty of Auricular Acupuncture (not just Acupuncture as taught by Universities). Most people who are knowledgeable in this method will have done training within specific clinics overseas, in Europe, or the United States. There are only a few practitioners in Australia that are able to utilise this method effectively.

Treatment will normally involve a full assessment of the individuals' condition through various diagnostic means. One particular method of assessment that practitioners will apply is the checking of laterality dysfunction. Laterality is the state of harmonious interaction between the two cerebral hemispheres of the brain. The dominant hemisphere (i.e. left side in a right handed person and vice versa) must first be established in order for proper point selection to be made. Laterality disorders may result from any physical or emotional trauma that has occurred during the patients' life, it may occur at any time.

Laterality dysfunction may present itself through learning disorders (ADD, ADHD, dyslexia etc.), behavioural problems (depression, anxiety, stress), or productivity problems (such as concentration and confusion in co-ordination). Clinical research has found that individuals who are addicted to a substance (particularly nicotine) are trying to re-lateralise (balance) themselves. It has been seen, clinically, that Auricular Acupuncture is the best and quickest method to treat such disorders.

Laterality Dysfunction is often the cause of many acupuncture treatments (such as protocol based clinics) not being as effective. In actuality, laterality dysfunction can be seen as a blockage to therapy, and therefore must be assessed and treated first.

Following the above, practitioners will either use a filter or polarised object t in conjunction with a specific pulse method (known as the Vascular Autonomic Signal or VAS) to determine which of the points on the auricle are most "active". The reason for this is that there are hundreds of acu-points located on the ear and without this method practitioners are merely "stabbing in the dark". Protocol based laser therapies unfortunately are like this and therefore do often not completely assist the patient.

Patient Inclusion

It is important that the practitioner explain to the patient what the process is going to involve and how long it is going to take. In my experience any where between 2 - 6 treatments is necessary. Sometimes a follow-up or "booster" is recommended to ensure they are still on track.

Patients must also do some work as well. I often suggest before the first treatment to try and not smoke (at least for a few hours), as many patients will have a cigarette before the treatment to quell any anxiousness they may be experiencing. During the actual process it is also recommended to the patient to avoid the social settings or stressful situations in which they would normally smoke, this can be hard and is often determined by will power as well.

Conclusion

Auricular Acupuncture is a highly effective method of treatment for those wishing to quit smoking. The notions that surround acupuncture about being painful and uncomfortable do not apply to this method, most patients find that they enter a deeper sense of relaxation, which often boosts their confidence and determination to quit.

Quit Smoking Through Auricular Acupuncture

David S. White is an Acupuncturist and Auriculotherapy / Auriculomedicine practitioner in Sydney, Australia. He is clinical director of the Sydney Acupuncture Group and Classical Acupuncture Sydney, lecturer in acupuncture, diagnostics and philosophy at the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SITCM) and director of the International Society for the Study of Classical Acupuncture (ISSCA). He completed his Masters dissertation on Auriculotherapy in the withdrawal of heroin and cocaine and practices this method in his clinic daily. David has authored numerous articles on Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Auriculomedicine and is currently in candidature for his PhD at the University of Technology, Sydney..

If you would like to learn more about Auriculotherapy or Auriculomedicine please feel free to contact David White's practice on: Sydney CBD (02) 9299 6688 or St. Leonards (02) 9906 7777. You may also email him at info@classicalacupuncture.com.au Alternatively you may visit the clinic website at http://www.classicalacupuncture.com.au or http://www.acupunctureinsydney.com.au.

Neurological (Nerve) Pain and Acupuncture

Neurological pain is one of the most difficult kinds of pain for people to tolerate. Nerve pain usually presents as a sharp shooting pain or a constant burning sensation. It will generally present in the same location with each episode and can often be traced by the patient along the nerve pathway. There may also be weakness or impaired function in the affected area and the skin may be either overly sensitive or numb.

Nerve pain can arise from trauma (including surgery), inflammation, stroke, disease, infection, nerve degeneration, and even exposure to toxic chemicals. However, many times the origin of nerve pain is unknown though it does tend to affect the older population more often.

Acupuncture

Some of the more common kinds of nerve pain are: trigeminal neuralgia (also called Tic Douloureax) which affects the face, sciatica which usually starts in the lower back and runs down the leg, shingles which affects one side of the body, usually in the chest and back and is the after effect of a herpes zoster attack and diabetic neuropathy which often affects the feet. Other potential causes are AIDS or HIV, multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy, alcoholism and amputation.

Neurological (Nerve) Pain and Acupuncture

Not only can the pain from these and other neurological conditions be debilitating in its intensity, pain medications are generally ineffective in treating the discomfort. Fortunately acupuncture; often used with electrical stimulation in treating nerve conditions, is very effective at relieving the pain and restoring normal function. There are several ways this is thought to work, all of which have been carefully researched.

oAcupuncture stimulates the brain to release chemicals (neurotransmitters and ovoids) into the body that reduce sensitivity to pain and normalize the nervous system.

oAcupuncture activates nerve receptors that decrease or "gate-out" (like a gate being closed) pain signals.

oAcupuncture with electrical stimulation interrupts the pain signal allowing the nerve to calm down thereby reducing pain.

o Acupuncture increases the amount of endorphins in the body and focuses them on the affected areas. These natural chemicals reduce inflammation that can cause, or be a result of, nerve pain.

oAcupuncture promotes actual healing by altering the body's electrical system to allow the transfer of material and electrical energy between normal and injured tissue thereby reducing the amount of recovery time.

The electrical stimulation that is used is not painful and oftentimes patients state it feels very good. It may take several treatments to achieve long lasting results but patients usually feel better after the first treatment. In the case of a degenerative disease complete relief may not be obtainable but the quality of life can be improved by reducing pain, increasing function and slowing the degenerative process. An acupuncture treatment for nerve pain takes about a half an hour from start to finish.

If you, or someone you know, is suffering with nerve pain please consult a licensed acupuncturist so that you, or they, can get the relief they deserve.

Neurological (Nerve) Pain and Acupuncture

Glenn J. Hensle L.Ac. owns a clinic in Long Beach, Ca. He worked for years in an orthopedic medical group and treats patients in terms of Eastern and Western medicine.
http://www.acupuncturelongbeach.com

Acupuncture to Stop Ringing Ear Sensations

We take our ears and hearing for granted until something goes a miss. Ringing in the ears can be incredibly disabling and acupuncture takes a treatment approach of looking for the underlying cause.

One of the strange things about ringing in the ears is that even Western Medicine does not consider it a disease or a condition, but rather a symptom. When you compare two lists of causes for this condition, one listing the causes as seen from a Western Medicine point of view and the other from a Traditional Chinese Medicine point of view, you will get a pretty good idea of how far apart these two disciplines can really be in some cases.

Acupuncture

The Western Medicine list contains more items. They range from trauma to earwax. One of the problems is it is very hard to measure the ringing because the only way it can be observed is from the reports of the sufferer. There is a certain type of ringing that can actually be heard by the examiner, but this is uncommon and related to muscle spasms within the ear. In other rare cases, the noise is like a pulse and this is called a pulsatile ringin. This condition is usually related to increased blood flow around the ear or sometimes simply patient awareness of the pulse of blood flowing near the ear.

Acupuncture to Stop Ringing Ear Sensations

The majority of cases are subjective ringing sensations. This is a ringing noise where the exact cause is unknown. Chinese Medicine sees it as a common result of internal disruptions of the flow of qi. They see four or five different causes and each one suggests a different acupuncture treatment to alleviate it. Emotional strain, anger and frustration can lead to excess LV fire or LV rising. Excessive sadness and grief can cause weak chest qi that does not rise to the head. Excessive sex or overwork can weaken KD Jing, as can old age. Dietary habits and trauma each have their own results and therefore suggest their own treatment.

This look at how acupuncture might be used to treat the problem also illustrates the problem with most clinical studies that attempt to measure the success rates of acupuncture treatments. In most clinical studies, certain acupuncture points will be selected. If the studies are attempting to be fair, the points will be points that have had some past success in the treatment of the condition. However, if the cause is different in each patient and ranges from excessive sexual activity to grief, it is plain that each patient is going to have his own set of acupuncture points.

Another problem with the studies is that acupuncture is only one part of what is usually a complete program that includes the administration of herbs and advice on diet and lifestyle issues. It is only when the entire program is followed that results can be expected. There is no doubt that acupuncture for ringing ears can produce results, but proving it in clinical studies is a bit complex. This is part of what leads to the resistance of some Western doctors to recommend it as an alternative treatment.

Acupuncture to Stop Ringing Ear Sensations

Get more acupuncture information at AlternativeHealthCompanies.com

Where Does Acupuncture Originate From?

Acupuncture originates from the Latin words for Needle (acus) and Prick (pungere) or Zhen jiu (Standard Mandarin) and is the technique of inserting and manipulating needles into the various acupuncture points found on our bodies. According to the teachings of acupuncture the use of these techniques will help to restore a person's health and well being as well as particularly very good for treating pain.

It is thought that acupuncture originates from China and it is certainly most commonly associated in today's society with Traditional Chinese medicine. However there are other forms of acupuncture such as Japanese, Korean as well as the classical Chinese Acupuncture which are taught and practiced around the globe.

Acupuncture

Whether the use of acupuncture is an effective remedy or that patients think it is effective seems to be subject to scientific research. However scientists who have already conducted reviews according to the rules of evidence based medicine on clinical trials already carried out have that it has some benefits in treating headaches, lower back pain and nausea, but in respect of most other conditions they feel that there is insufficient evidence to say whether it is effective or not. You will also find not only the World Health Organisation (WHO), American Medical Association (AMA), National Institute of Health (NIH) as well as various governments have commented on the use of acupuncture but that further research is required. However, the one that all can seem to agree on is that the use of acupuncture is safe as long as it is administered by a well trained and qualified practitioner.

Where Does Acupuncture Originate From?

When looking back on the history of acupuncture it can be traced back in China as far back as the 1st Millennium BC and there is archaeological evidence where it was used during the Han Dynasty (202 BC to 220AD). There have also been forms of it described in Korean literature called Chimsul and is also an important part of the traditional medicine system in Japan and is called Kampo.

During the recent examination of a 5,000 year old mummy (Otzi) found in the Alps it was discovered that the mummy had over 50 tattoos on its body and some of these were located on various acupuncture points that would now days be used to treat certain ailments that Otzi seemed to suffer from. Some scientists even believe that this provides us with evidence that practices were carried out similar to acupuncture elsewhere in Eurasia during the Bronze Age period. But unfortunately there is no evidence to prove that the tattoos on Otzi's body were used as acupuncture points or they were just a decoration.

It is uncertain that acupuncture originates in China as the earliest medical texts found (68BC) do not have any mention of this form of treatment. The first real Chinese medical text to mention acupuncture comes from the Yellow Emperor's "Classic of Internal Medicine (History of Acupuncture)" which compiled around the period 305-204BC. There has also been the discovery of hieroglyphics dating back to around 1,000BC which may indicate the use of acupuncture also.

Another thing which seems to suggest that the Chinese were not the first to use acupuncture is the discovery of sharp pointed stones (Bian stones) in ruins which were used to treat diseases in ancient times. Some people (scholars) believe that the use of these stones for bloodletting was a precursor to certain acupuncture techniques.

In fact in a book written by R C Crozier (Traditional Medicine in Modern China) it says that the early Chinese Communist Party had expressed considerable aversion towards many classical forms of Chinese medicine, deriding it as mumbo jumbo, irrational and backwards and that it conflicted with the Party's reliance on science as a way of progress. Acupuncture was certainly included in the Party's criticism of all such practices. But later on the Communist Party Chairman Mao then reversed what the party had been saying by saying that "Chinese medicine and pharmacology are the greatest treasure house and efforts should be made to explore them and raise them to a higher level". Following this reversal representatives were sent out across China from the party to collect information on the theories and practices of Chinese medicine, thus the TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) system of Chinese medicine was created and includes the use of Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, tui na and other forms. However, after the Cultural Revolution the instruction of TCM was incorporated in to the University medical curricula throughout China under the "Three Roads" policy. This is where TCM, biomedicine and a synthesis of the two would be encouraged and development permitted. But unfortunately after this time some forms of classical Chinese medicine other than TCM where outlawed and because of this a number of practitioners of these methods left China.

It is thought that the first forms of acupuncture to reach the USA were brought into the country by non-TCM practitioners and many employed styles of acupuncture that they had been handed down through the family or from master to apprentice, and is collectively known as Classical Chinese Acupuncture.

Where Does Acupuncture Originate From?

Kerris Samson a work from home mum now residing in Spain and who has spent a vast amount of researching the different ways in which acupuncture can help in place of conventional western medicine when treating various forms of illness and ailments and also for use to relieve pain. Please visit [http://www.oneohone.info/acupuncture] if you would like to learn more.

Is Acupuncture Effective For Peripheral Neuropathy Pain?

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a common issue that specifically affects diabetics, people undergoing chemotherapy, and those with HIV. The most common areas affected by neuropathy are the feet with the second being the hands. Peripheral neuropathy symptoms can be varied and can include decreased sensation, increased sensation, weakness of foot or hand muscles, and symptoms related to changes in the skin and nails.

Acupuncture

Unfortunately, as the prevalence of diabetes increases, diabetic neuropathy becomes more common. Statistics indicate that 25% of diabetic patients will experience neuropathic foot pain. And, because the incidence of diabetes is increasing, so is the incidence of neuropathy symptoms.

Is Acupuncture Effective For Peripheral Neuropathy Pain?

Treatment Options

Of course, the most efficient means of helping to control diabetes related foot pain is working to manage diabetes itself. Once symptoms have started, medications such as Lyrica and Neurontin are frequently prescribed to help control the neurological pain. For many, the use of these medications are either ineffective or have side effects that limit their use. For this reason the use of alternative medicines such as acupuncture has become more prevalent.

Acupuncture Research

When considering any treatment option it is reasonable to assess what the research has to say about how effective the treatment is. For those suffering from peripheral neuropathy, there is good news about acupuncture.

A 2007 study entitled "Clinical observation on effect of acupuncture in treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy" involved a total of 60 participants. The study found that those receiving acupuncture had a statically greater improvement in neurological symptoms as well as improved nerve function for both sensory and motor nerve conduction when compared to the control group.

Another study conducted in Africa in 2006 found that for the 126 patients that received acupuncture for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, 86% deemed the treatment as being effective for reducing symptoms in their hands and feet.

In a 2006 Canadian study entitled "Acupuncture treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy--a case series" acupuncture was utilized in five cases to reduce neuropathic pain in cancer patients. The acupuncture treatment was deemed effective in these cases where medication had failed.

And finally, in a Chinese study involving 90 participants, those receiving total body or wrist and ankle acupuncture has significantly improved blood sugar and lipids, decreased blood viscosity, and improved functions of peripheral nerve cells, thus resulting in therapeutic effects for diabetic peripheral neuritis when compared to the control group. The study also found no significant difference between the total body group and the ankle and wrist treatment group.

This sampling of the research in the use of acupuncture for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy is very encouraging. Because of the minimal side effects with acupuncture compared to pharmaceutical treatment options, acupuncture should be considered as a reasonable treatment option for symptoms of neuropathy.

Is Acupuncture Effective For Peripheral Neuropathy Pain?

Janelle Trempe PT, ATC is is a physical therapist and certified athletic trainer with 20 years experience in the treatment of orthopedic conditions. She currently works in a private physical therapy practice in California. For free information and treatment recommendations for various joint conditions, visit http://www.joint-pain-solutions.com