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

Want further information on herniated discs, symptoms and treatments? Please visit:

http://www.herniated-disc-advice.com

Looking for a cure for your herniated disc? Please visit:

http://www.herniated-disc-advice.com/Treatments.html

(Visitors will receive a FREE Ebook on herniated disc exercises)

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