Meridianman Mens Holistic Health

Stick Out Your Tongue Please

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:53:00 +0000

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Unlike the check-up with your family doctor, an acupuncturist or TCM practitioner will take a very special interest in the geography of your tongue, so be prepared share. Since ancient times, the tongue was thought to be a key indicator of what is going on deep within the body to physicians of Oriental medicine. Because of the unshakeable reliability of this type of diagnosis, modern TCM practitioners still consider tongue diagnosis as the cornerstone of a consultation.

You might ask yourself, “What on earth could the aesthetics of my tongue have to do with what goes on inside my body?” The answer is, “LOTS!”

Studies are beginning to corroborate with the ancient idea that pathology as well as health can show itself on the tongue. And not just in a general sense … many specific conditions can be uniquely identified. So, what does your tongue tell me?

The first thing I am checking is the colour of the tongue body, a very important way to see if you are operating efficiently. A pale tongue indicates that your reserves are low, the areas of the tongue that are pale give me an indication of which organs need attention. For instance, Liver disharmony is often reflected on the sides of the tongue, stomach problems may show up in the centre. A red or purple tongue gives me important information about whether there is energy or blood stagnation. Also, whether or not it is dry or overly wet helps me determine certain pathological conditions of the water metabolism.

Secondly, I want to note the shape of your tongue. Is it swollen or thin or are certain parts enlarged? Did you know that tooth-prints along the front edges of the tongue body can indicate problems with the digestive system? How about cracks? … sometimes cracks on the tongue can give me a good indication of the state of your Stomach, heart and kidneys.

Finally, I will have a good look at the coat. Some coats are healthy, while others indicate the presence of pathogenic factors in the body. The colour, texture, thickness and location of the coat are all important factors in determining the type of pathogen. Even no coat at all is an important clinical sign. Often, a thick greasy coat at the back of the tongue can indicate problems with the large intestine or show a bladder infection.

Of course this information is interpreted within the context of other signs and symptoms. Once the diagnosis is made, treatment can be designed and initiated using acupuncture or herbal medicine. But in objective analysis, the tongue almost always shows the true condition of the body. So, what does your tongue say?

Traditional Oriental Medicine and Modern Allopathy

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:04:00 +0000

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Western Medicine

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Eastern and Western styles of medicine arose on opposite ends of the globe, so it’s not surprising that they are based on two fundamentally different views of reality. Not only do they contrast in the way they describe disease and it's origins, they are also different in the methods they choose to restore and maintain health within their respective paradigms. And both work extremely well within their area of expertise, hence the growing trend in calling Eastern medicine ‘complimentary’, instead of ‘alternative.’

Western medicine, which is relatively young compared to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), began at a time in history when Sir Isaac Newton's philosophy of mechanism was the prevalent scientific thought. Newton believed that for the most part, the human body was just an intricate machine. Medical scientists that came after continued in that vein and using mechanistic-reductionism thinking broke the human body down into smaller and smaller pieces in an attempt to understand how it works. The result is our present, modern day Cartesian style medicine which has become incredibly skilled at repairing and manipulating the biological/material aspects of the human organism. Modern surgeons can perform complicated repairs to the nervous system and with molecular biology, can counter-attack the destruction of viral epidemics.

However, with all the amazing knowledge and skill science has given us, it is still relatively helpless in understanding the disease mechanism itself. Though doctors can repair the damage caused by disease and destroy some of the harmful pathogens that invade the human organism, science is still unable to satisfactorily explain how or why illness manifests. Why does a bacteria overtake one healthy immune system but not another? The process of growing old or of becoming chronically ill still evades understanding.

This is where Traditional Chinese Medicine has it's greatest strength. Born thousands of years ago, in a culture that held a deep understanding of the interrelatedness of all things, TCM grew and developed through trial and error into what it is today. TCM differs from Western science because it doesn't try to reduce the organism into smaller and smaller particles to understand it. Instead, it gains understanding into the human organism by observing how it relates to the world around it. Using that data, TCM then makes differentiation's of diseases and syndromes by observing the relationship that exists between the different aspects of the internal environment. In this way, TCM looks at disease as a question of balance, and to be healthy, an organism must be balanced. This balance is profound and must exist at all levels. Internal/external, emotional/physical, organic/energetic. Most of this is summed up in what is called the theory of Yin and Yang.

Traditional Chinese Medical treatment can be very beneficial in areas that modern medicine is not. It is a superior form of preventative health care and one that can successfully treat chronic disease and pain where allopathic medicine throws up its ‘hands’ in frustration. Since it's view of reality deals with relationships and follows a holistic philosophy, TCM is very adaptable. Perhaps one of the reasons that TCM has survived over other traditional approaches is precisely because of it's adaptability. Other traditional approaches, perhaps steeped in more rigid views of reality, have been unable to survive the advent of modern Western science. They have not been able to incorporate the idea of Western thinking within their own philosophy. TCM utilizes the information gathered by Western science and blends it with its holistic approach. For instance, it is common for an acupuncturist to use both traditional meridian theory for musculoskeletal pain combined with trigger point therapy, a more science based method of pain and muscle treatment.

Hardly the new kid on the block, TCM is now establishing its own here in North America … lagging way behind Europe, Asia and Australia. Countries there have integrated it for years.

Back Again ...

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 16:25:00 +0000

Good morning! Thanks for hanging in there, I know it's been a while since the last article was posted. You know how life is ... things have a way of taking precedence over other things. Lately, there has been more interest in the practitioner web designs, and it has kept me occupied and away from writing.

Over the next while, I will do my best to get back to writing again ... and in the process, evolve the Meridianman web site. Please don't hesitate to send in a comment ... even if you want to stay anonymous, your feedback is important.

Also, thanks to the growing number of people that are subscribing to the email feeds. Stay tuned for more ... and if you aren't a subscriber, it only takes a second to get articles mailed to you as they are published. Sign up on the feed page.

So welcome, enjoy exploring the site, and be careful that you don't stub your toe ... things are still under rennovation.

Regards, Dan

Prostatitis Part 5

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 15:45:00 +0000

TCM PATHOLOGY OF PROSTATITIS AND PROSTATODYNIA

by Dan Schalm, R.TCMP, R.Ac.

Usually the prostate affliction begins as a Damp-Heat condition pouring into the lower jiao. Over time and if not properly treated, the excess Heat also causes Kidney and/or Spleen depletion and thus transforms into deficiency. During the phase change, both excess and deficiency exist simultaneously and treatment must take this into consideration. Qi stagnation, due to either excess or deficiency may also be a cause of stranguria syndrome or conversely, may be a result or complication of the pathogenesis.

Damp-Heat

Damp-Heat is usually at the forefront in acute prostatitis. It may arise from an invasion of external pathogens (in Western terms, bacteria, virus, fungus etc.) or it may be related to improper dietary habits. Over consumption of greasy foods or alcohol lead to Damp-Heat, which may then move downward into the lower jiao.

Symptoms include general indicators of excess Damp-Heat such as fever, restlessness, and bitter taste in the mouth. Frequent micturation and urgency usually present at this acute stage. Pain on urination can be sharp or burning and is generally worse during the voiding process. It may radiate to the sacral area or the lower back. Stools tend to be loose and purulent and there may be dull ache or constant and acute pain in the lumbosacral area. The tongue will be red and the coat will be yellow and sticky, especially at the root. Pulse tends to be slippery or soft and rapid.

At this stage of the disease, the acupuncture and herbal treatment principle would be to clear excess type Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao and move turbid stagnation in the area. The herbal formula most commonly used would be:

Ba Zheng San: (Che Qian Zi 20g; Qu Mai 15g; Bian Xu 15g; Hua Shi 15g; Zhi Zi 15g; Mu Tong 15g; Zhi Da Huang 15g; Zhi Gan Cao 10g; Deng Xin Cao 5g)

This TCM herbal formula expels excess pathogens from the lower burner and restores its function to normal. It should only be used in cases of excess.

If there are excess Liver-Fire signs the following herbal formula could be used:

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang: (Long Dan Cao; Huang Qin; Zhi Zi; Ze Xie; Mu Tong; Che Qian Zi; Dang gui; Sheng Di Huang; Chai Hu; Gan Cao)

This TCM formula is similar to Ba Zheng San but it moves Qi and Blood as well as draining Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder. I can be used if the acute phase is prolonged and causing stagnation or arises from Liver excess.

If the condition presents with chyluria (milky urine), use the following Chinese herbs:

Bie Xie Feng Qin Yin (Bie Xie 20g; Yi Zhi Ren 20g; Chang Pu 20g; Wu Yao 20g)

In the case of excess Damp-Heat, chyluria results from the inability of the Lower Jiao to separate the clear and turbid Qi. Use this herbal formula only for excess.

Useful acupuncture points:

RN03-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine
RN01-Huiyin	Can regulate the function of the urethra
LV05-Ligou	Relieve pain and clear Damp from Liver meridian
LV01-Dadun	Relieve pain and clear Damp from Liver meridian
ST28-Shuidao	Promotes urination
BL33-Zhongliao	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao

Acupuncture point SP-10-Xue Hai can be added for hematuria and if there is fever, use LI04-Hegu, LI11-Quchi.

Ear acupuncture can consist of the following points: Prostate Gland, Bladder, Internal Genitals, San Jiao, Urethra, Adrenals.

Moxa is not generally applicable in this case.

Stagnant Liver Qi

This condition usually happens when the acute stage has become chronic, or it may arise on its own. Damp Heat can lead to stagnation if prolonged or not treated right away. Depression or repressed anger can lead to the internal generation of Heat in the Liver which may lead to stagnation in the Lower Jiao. It is then classified as Qi Lin.

The signs and symptoms are not as severe as the previous condition, though Damp-Heat, in milder form, generally tends to remain part of the picture. Pain is not acute, and the burning or difficulty of urination may occur previous to and not during micturation. There may still be frequency, and the condition is sometimes accompanied by painful ejaculation and impotence. There may be a discharge of prostate fluid after a bowel movement. The perineum can have a full sensation and there may be flatulence. The general discomfort and symptoms tend to be aggravated with emotional stress and frustration. Treatment principle aims to restore smooth circulation to the Middle and Lower Jiao.

The tongue may be dark or slightly purple in prolonged cases. The pulse tends to be wiry.

If deficiency is not part of the picture and the condition is still excessive, use the following TCM herbal formula:

Chen Xiang San: (Chen Xiang 1.5g; Shi Wei 15g; Hua Shi 20g; Dang Gui 10g; Bai Shao Yao 15g; Chen Pi 15g; Dong Kui Zi 15g; Wang Bu Liu Xing 15g; Gan Cao 10g)

TCM Herbs such as Chi Shao Yao, Hong hua and Chuan Niu Xi may be added if Qi and Blood stasis is particularly pronounced due to prolonged course of the disease.

Useful acupuncture points:

RN03-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine
LV02-Xingjian	Clears Heat from the Liver channel and circulates Qi
LV03-Taichong	Moves and regulates Qi in Liver meridian (use instead of Xingjian if Heat not severe)
LV05-Ligou	Relieve pain and clear Damp from Liver meridian

Middle Jiao Deficiency

The pathogenesis of this syndrome is similar to the first. However, in this case there is deficiency of the Middle Jiao. Generally, the syndrome occurs after the disease has become chronic, or if there is a pre-existing weakness of the Middle Jiao. Symptoms tend to present themselves with typical Spleen deficient signs. There is also pain or fullness in the area between the perineum and the anus and it is described as a bearing down or sinking sensation. Pain of micturation usually follows urination and there may be dribbling after. The symptoms may be worse when the patient is fatigued. Middle Jiao deficiency can be the root of the Western diagnosis of prostatodynia.

The tongue may be pale & tooth-marked with a light coat and the pulse will be weak and thready.

The following TCM herb formula is useful for this condition:

Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang: (Huang Qi 15g; Ren Shen 15g; Bai Zhu 15g; Dang Gui 15g; Chen Pi 10g; Sheng Ma 5g; Chai Hu 5g; Zhi Gan Cao 10g)

It aims to uplift the sinking Qi and strengthen the Middle Jiao.

Useful acupuncture points:

RN03-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine & tonifies Spleen
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao
DU20-Baihui	Raises prolapse & sinking Qi
ST36-Zusanli	Tonifies the Middle Jiao
RN06-Qihai	Strengthens Qi of the Middle
BL54-Zibian	Removes Damp and moves Qi

Kidney Qi Deficiency

Kidney Qi deficiency usually occurs when the condition has become chronic and has lasted for a long time. In cases of advanced age or ill health, the signs may present themselves shortly after the initial bout with prostatitis. Traditionally, frequent ejaculation is also considered to be a factor in contributing to Kidney Qi deficiency. Symptoms are milder than the acute types and include signs generally associated with Kidney and Spleen Qi deficiency . Chronic prostatitis symptoms, difficult urination, pain after urinating, impotence, lassitude, pale tongue, white coat, deep, thready pulse. Use the following TCM herb formula.

Wu Bi Shan Yao Wan: (Shan Yao 15g; Ru Cong Rong 15g; Tu Si Zi 15g; Ba Ji Tian 10g; Du Zhong 10g; Shu Di Huang 15g; Shan Zhu Yu 10g; Niu Xi 10g; Wu Wei Zi 7.5g; Chi Shi Zhi 10g; Ze Xie 10g; Fu Shen 10g)

Useful acupuncture points:

BL23-Shenshu	Tonifies Kidney
ST36-Zusanli	Tonifies Middle Jiao
RN3-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
RN4-Guanyuan	Tonifies Kidney and Spleen
DU4-Mingmen	Strengthens Kidney Yang
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine & tonifies Spleen
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao

Kidney Yin Deficiency

Generally, this condition presents with a combination of Yin deficiency of the Kidney and Qi deficiency of the Middle Jiao and Kidney. There will likely be weight loss, difficult and painful urination with possible hematuria, dizziness, weak lower back and knees, lassitude and a weak and thready pulse. The tongue coat will be thin with a yellow coat at the root. There likely will also be chyluria.

For this case use these TCM herbs:

Modified Liu Wei Di Huang Wan: (Shu Di Huang 40g; Shan Zhu Yu 20g; Shan Yao 20g; Zei Xie 15g; Mu Dan Pi 15g; Fu Ling 15g; PLUS - Jin Yin Zi 15g; Long Gu 20g; Mu Li 20g)

Useful acupuncture points:

BL20-Pishu
BL23-Shenshu	Tonifies Kidney
ST36-Zusanli	Tonifies Middle Jiao
RN3-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
RN4-Guanyuan	Tonifies Kidney and Spleen
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine & tonifies Spleen
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao

Conclusion

Prostatitis and prostatodynia are difficult conditions to treat. Western medicine has better success when the disease is acute and caused by bacteria, but the chronic condition is not well understood. The TCM and acupuncture approach does not concern itself with the actual diagnosis of prostatitis or prostatodynia, but rather uses the traditional method of syndrome differentiation. In this way, acupuncture or herbal treatment can be designed specifically for each patient involved. Using this method and employing both acupuncture and herbal medicines TCM has better success with the chronic phase of the disease than Western medicine.

Daniel Schalm is a registered practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine with the province of British Columbia. He practices both acupuncture, tui na, and herbal medicine. He has taught clinical safety and TCM theory to students in Victoria, as well as operating a practice in that city. Presently, Daniel is located in Parksville, BC where he and his wife operate the Columbia Beach B&B. He operates Design Menu Web Solutions (a web design and SEO company) and is also the creator and webmaster of Meridianman Men's Holistic Health, a web designed for anyone ... students, practitioners and the general public ... interested in information, links and news articles on the topic of men's health, Daniel's special interest.

Disease and Stress

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:59:00 +0000

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Doctors and health scientists are recently learning the mechanisms that prove emotional stress has a profound influence on the prognosis and causes of disease. Emotional well being, it turns out, is closely connected to human physiology, and when our thoughts and emotions become uncomfortable the body responds by releasing stress hormones, such as cortisol, that negatively effect our complicated homeostatic balance. In this way it weakens our immune system, changes our sleep patterns, leads to heart disease, damages endocrine health and chemically changes the wiring of the brain reducing our ability to think clearly and problem-solve. Hypertension, cardio-pulmonary disease, gastrointestinal disorders, immune system problems, even cancer has been linked to this pathological process. All because of stressful emotions.

Can acupuncture help?

Yes, most people will say that they feel very calm and relaxed after an acupuncture treatment. During a treatment, it is not uncommon for a patient to feel as if they are releasing negative energy from their body. Interestingly, this release is often coupled with increased stamina and feelings of creativity.

Does herbal medicine help?

Chinese herbs have long been known to help with anxiety and depression. Because they are natural, they are much safer than Western pharmaceuticals.

How does acupuncture relieve stress?

Acupuncture is primarily concerned with regulating the vital force, the body energy or ‘Qi’. It has a number of beneficial physiological effects -- Acupuncture creates a relaxation response in the body with decreased heart rate, lowered BP, immune system modulation, increased energy and wound tissue regeneration. It has been shown to produce a calming or tranquilizing action that is of particular interest to people in states of stress.

Modern research has shown that needling certain points can activate complex chemical responses within the body. These include increased white blood cell production and the release of neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphin, met-enkephalin, serotonin, adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) hormone and Substance P. These chemicals are vital in reducing and offsetting the buildup of cortisol, as well as resetting the neuro-chemical balance in the brain.

What does this mean for me?

Acupuncture can relieve feelings of anxiety and depression, which may be serious handicaps for people trying to cope with difficult domestic, social and work related problems. It can give a person a feeling of well-being and self-confidence. It can be an effective substitute for sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and antidepressant drugs. Acupuncture is used in many cases not only as an alternative to these drugs but also to treat side effects and dependence. Some patients come for acupuncture treatment specifically to come off their antidepressants, though it’s advised that this is done with the involvement of their physician. There is considerable evidence that acupuncture could substantially reduce the consumption of drugs such as Prozac.

Acupuncture can provide a safe and effective tool for stress. Of course, life situations leading up to stress can only be changed by the individual seeking treatment. Furthermore, the most important factor in decreasing the damage caused by stress seems to be how we interpret life situations. Do we see life in general as a stressful place, or treat the bustle of life as an adventure? Our body will react according to our belief about the environment surrounding it. Acupuncture can, however, open a refreshing window of opportunity. As the heavy feelings of stress are relieved, a person feels more confidence in their ability to cope with unpleasant aspects of their life situation and make necessary changes … either to the situation or their perceptions of it. Meditation, Qi Gong, counselling and spiritual practice can be very beneficial to enhance this process.

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP
www.meridianman.com

Atherosclerosis and Heart Health

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 15:21:00 +0000

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Atherosclerosis is a general term given to several diseases which cause a hardening and thickening of the walls of the arterial system. Hence the phrase, hardening of the arteries. It begins when monocytes (white blood cells) enter the walls of the arteries in certain areas and are transformed into cells which attract and accumulate fatty deposits. These places eventually become thickened and hard and are known as atherosclerotic plaque or atheroma's. All types of arteries are susceptible; peripheral, coronary, cerebro-vascular etc. The deposits consist mostly of cholesterol and are located predominantly in areas of the cardiovascular system that are prone to blood turbulence, such as the branches and segues.

Reduced blood flow and thrombosis become likely as the disease progresses. The long term implications are grave, and include heart disease and stroke. Atherosclerosis and its consequences result in it being responsible for more deaths than all other causes combined. In its earlier stages, the progression of atherosclerosis can be stopped and even reversed with the proper lifestyle changes.

There is continued research into the mechanism behind the build-up of plaque. Recent research has connected this to an inflammation response. This new understanding sheds light on why it is that elevated cholesterol levels are not necessarily the main indicator of heart disease from atherosclerosis. Not all people with high cholesterol end up with atherosclerosis, and not all people with atherosclerosis have high cholesterol.

Low grade infection now seems to underlie what was previously thought of as a simple build-up of plaque.

Certain risk factors influence the release of chemicals involved in the inflammatory process. These contribute not only to the formation of plaque but to the formation of blood clots. Atherosclerosis is believed to involve substances involved in the inflammatory response and cells that are characteristic of inflammation.

Research also indicates an infection may contribute to or even cause atherosclerosis. Chlamydia has been shown to have a significant association to plaque.

Treating Atherosclerosis:

Reduction of risk factors

Smoking:

Smoking is dangerous no matter what angle one views it from. In the light of atherosclerosis, it is well known that cigarette smoking significantly decreases the amount of HDL cholesterol in the blood. HDL is the good stuff which helps get rid of LDL, the bad stuff that causes atherosclerosis. And, if that isn't enough, smoking also adds to the concentration of LDL in the blood. Furthermore, carbon monoxide levels tend to be higher in the blood of smokers which is very damaging to the arterial walls. Smoking also has a vasoconstrictive effect on the peripheral arteries which leads to reduced oxygen transport to the tissue, a situation that has another Pandora's box of consequences. Finally, smoking causes a tendency for the blood to clot, making thrombosis more likely.

This is very high on the list of bad habits that the patient needs to address. However, because it is an addiction, smoking may not be the best thing to start with. Developing other good habits and seeing positive benefits may eventually inspire the smoker to quit.

Weight loss and exercise:

Starting the patient out on a modest regime of walking and practicing Tai Chi or Yoga would be a good start to better health. Like anything, it is just another habit, and we are definitely creatures of habit, for better or for worse. If the patient can become disciplined enough to do even 15 minutes of exercise per day, he will be well on his way to reaping its numerous benefits. Exercise has many positive effects on the human body, one being a healthy cardiovascular system.

Since a sedentary lifestyle and obesity often go hand in hand, an exercise regime is the first step toward lowering a patient's weight. Diet is the next obstacle and will be addressed later. High LDL levels are a by-product of obesity, so the patient must take an active role in weight management.

Weight loss and exercise also aid in lowering blood pressure. Hypertension is directly linked to atherosclerosis and therefore must be kept at normal levels.

Stress reduction:

Stress is implicated in the process of many diseases and atherosclerosis is no exception. It has been clinically proven that a reduction of day to day stress lowers both LDL levels and high blood pressure.

Stress, which comes in many forms, is often one of the reasons why we engage in destructive behaviour. There is social stress, competitive stress, stress from abuse or just plain old survival stress. These stresses lead to the build-up of uncomfortable physiological and psychological sensations. Stress release is often found in the quick fix of instant gratification such as smoking, drinking alcohol, over-eating, orgasm, obsessive-compulsive or violent behaviour patterns, (even acupuncture treatments) to name a few. They all serve to temporarily release the build-up of tension in our bodies. Unfortunately, the ease of suffering is only temporary, and the stresses that we do not properly deal with continue to cause trouble. After a quick release, the uncomfortable sensations associated with stress gradually build up again.

From a TCM perspective, that is what Liver Qi depression is all about. Our Qi must move freely. Stress causes it to become constrained or blocked, leading to a host of uncomfortable feelings and syndromes. When a physical or emotional release is undergone, the symptoms are temporarily relieved. But the blockage still exists.

A physical manifestation of all of this is high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, partly due to the functional impairment of energy circulation, and partly due to the participation in these "de-stressing" habits which contribute at a physiological level. Stress is a vicious circle, and any patient who has a lot of it ought to seek out the source and deal with it. Once this has been done, bad habits become much easier to break because they do not satisfy in the same way any more. This is where psychotherapy, spiritual practice and wholesome fellowship with other human beings can be highly beneficial. A three week vacation at a holistic health retreat could be a large part of the answer ... depending on the cash flow situation.

Diet

This is a big one. There are many foods that contribute to atherosclerosis, and many foods that can reverse its course. The choice of healthy eating is always up to the patient, but it must be stressed that this is of prime importance in dealing with their condition. To begin with, dietary changes and the taking of dietary supplements should be the first offensive. If this is not enough to improve the patients condition, which can be monitored by cholesterol levels and the regular assessment of blood pressure, the addition of Chinese herbal therapy and/or acupuncture can be introduced. But it should be remembered that in most cases, atherosclerosis is a disease of life-style and not something that can be fixed independent of behaviour modification. Acupuncture and herbs may just become another crutch for the patient to lean upon. Having said that, it should also be noted that there is a certain genetic predisposition for the development of atherosclerosis in some individuals while males have a higher incidence than pre-menopausal women. So in some cases, more vigorous forms of therapy might be also be indicated.

Since hyperlipidemia is generally associated with atherosclerosis, we know that fats are implicated in this disease. Any dietary modification should pay close attention to the consumption of foods high in LDL cholesterol. And because raising the level of HDL is one of the best ways to decrease LDL levels in the body, its intake should be increased via a more frequent consumption of deepwater ocean fish and supplements of omega-3 fatty acids. New information also confirms that these oils also reduce inflammation, which as stated earlier in this article is a major cause of atherosclerosis. I tell my patients and friends that if there is one thing they should supplement above all other things, it is omega-3 oils! (Vitamin E should always be taken with fish oils to protect the cells.) Dark green vegetables (especially peas & lentils) as well as oatmeal contain soluble fibre which works to reduce LDL in the blood. Pectin is much the same and is found mostly in apples. Lecithin has the ability to bind fat to water molecules and is a good way for the cholesterol to leave the system. Also important is Vitamin C and Beta Carotene which are believed to significantly reduce the chance of heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular death.

Specific foods that are known to help with lowered cholesterol and hypertension are celery, eggplant (prevents absorption of fat in the blood), shiitaki mushrooms, corn, peas and legumes, lentils, beans, onions, garlic and yams. However, all green and cruciferous vegetables are good.

Constipation is an issue with atherosclerosis. Regular bowel movements are important to prevent toxic build-up in the colon which may lead to high cholesterol levels. Also, these toxins can prevent the liver from performing its task of lowering cholesterol. Periodic cleanses can be helpful.

Finally, a sufficient intake of water (distilled, with trace minerals added) is highly effective in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system and its liberal consumption should be encouraged.

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP
www.meridianman.com

The Protection of Stomach Qi in the Elderly

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 03:36:00 +0000

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

In TCM, special attention is always given to the Stomach, both in the prevention and treatment of disease. This organ holds a very important place in the maintenance of human life, from both a TCM perspective, and from the viewpoint of modern medical science. In TCM, it is considered the source of all post-natal Qi while from a modern physiological standpoint it is one of the first components of a complicated metabolic process that serves to nourish the human organism. Because the body exists as an organic whole, we can say that if the stomach is weak, it will fail to nourish the body and can cause an eventual malfunction of other organs and process's. This, in turn, leads to further weakness.

By the same token, the strength of the rest of the body may also influence the Stomach, and if the body is in decline, Stomach function will also be compromised. In treating the elderly, we are presented with both a general decline in the body system due to the aging process (or years of physical neglect and abuse) as well as specific factors which impede the Stomach itself. These can include improper diet, unstable emotional circumstances due to depression or dementia and the harsh forms of drug therapy common with those of advanced years.

Therefore, special attention should always be given to the Stomach in clinical practice, especially in the field of gerontology. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the general physiology, pathology and protection or treatment of the Stomach Qi function with special emphasis on how this relates to the elderly.

The role of the Stomach within the organic whole

As previously mentioned, the Stomach has a very special and important role to play in the proper functioning of the human body. At the time of birth, much of a humans future health has already been determined by the strength or deficiency of its prenatal essence. This essence resides in the Kidneys and governs the growth and development, as well as the aging and decline of a human life. Poor congenital essence leads to weakness and susceptibility to disease throughout ones life, but if it is strong, the body will flourish and be strong, healthy and long lived. This is fixed and cannot be changed, but luckily, the vital essence can also be strengthened after birth through the transformation and transportation of refined principle taken from food.

By eating foods that are healthy and nutritious for the body, we can contribute in a very important way to the maintenance of the Kidney essence and primordial Qi. When processed by the Stomach, this food is called the "sea of water, cereals, Qi and Blood" because it is the basis of all the physiological activities of the body. Food must first enter the Stomach before it is used to nourish the body. Here it goes through the digestive process of "rotting and ripening" so that it may be sent to the Small Intestine. Then, the turbid matter is separated and sent to the Large Intestine while the nutritive matter is sent to the Spleen and further transformed into distilled food essence. It is that which is sent to nourish all aspects of the body.

Normally, the Stomach Qi has a downward movement and the Spleen has an upward movement. Both organs, working in harmony, play a key role in nourishment and the manufacture of Qi. Sometimes the Spleen and Stomach are referred to singularly as the Stomach. According to the Miraculous Pivot, together they make up the entire Middle Jiao. Therefore, in TCM, the Middle Jiao can also mean the Stomach.

Stomach Qi and pathology

There are a number of pathological conditions related to the Stomach. It can be affected by excess, deficiency, stasis, heat or cold influences. Because of the strategic importance of the Stomach, all of these conditions are highly important to address. We will mainly be concerned with the problems of Stomach Qi for this paper. This includes both Qi deficiency (with or without Cold) and Qi stagnation. Because the Stomach is responsible for transporting and transforming food into the materials necessary for physiological functioning, its Qi must be functional and strong. When Stomach Qi is deficient, the body also becomes deficient.

The factors that can cause Stomach Qi deficiency are related to diet, emotions, congenital weakness and depletion of Source Qi from long term illness, over work or the aging process. In the elderly these are special considerations. Often, people of advanced years develop poor eating habits. Because of the deterioration of their ability to be self-supportive, they may have a tendency to under eat or to eat foods that are not nutritionally efficient, but convenient to use. For instance, instead of cooking their vegetables, they may eat them raw, thus creating a hardship for the gastrosplenic function that is adversely affected by cold. They may also choose to eat canned goods for convenience, even though the processed nature of such foods is not nutritionally rich.

Over time, this can seriously harm the Stomach Qi leading to generalized body weakness, especially if it is coupled with a general decline of other organs. Emotionally, the elderly can sometimes be prone to depression or deterioration of the ability to think and reason clearly (dementia). This can contribute to poor eating habits, as mentioned previously, or it can cause Qi stagnation of the Stomach. If the Stomach Qi is stagnant, food cannot be processed and ultimately, the body is not nourished.

Over a lifetime, many conditions can lead to the depletion of Source Qi. It is a natural process of aging that a human being suffers decline in their vital essence. But also, a person who has not taken care of their health due to improper living, inadequate nutrition or exercise can suffer the effect of a decline of Stomach Qi. The likelihood of contracting serious illness becomes much higher as one ages, and it is possible for the Qi of the Stomach to suffer greatly from disease.

To complicate matters, drug therapy can be very hard on the energy of the Stomach and it is possible for a decline of Stomach Qi to occur during a course of NSAID therapy or Antibiotic therapy.

The administration of certain herbal medicine can also be detrimental to the gastrosplenic function. Herbs that are too Cold or Hot in nature or are too strong for a deficient condition can harm the Stomach. For instance, in treating constipation, special care must be taken when using purgatives. A decoction such as Da Cheng Qi Tang would be unsuitable for someone who has a weak Middle Jiao and something milder should be used. Also, in the case of herbs which may be administered to clear Heat from an infection, a practitioner has to keep in mind that too much Cold will harm the Stomach. Therefore, it is important to pay special attention in the clinic when addressing geriatric needs. In the following section, consideration will be given to prevention as well as herbal and acupuncture therapy that can benefit the Stomach Qi and protect it from the effects of poor diet, harmful substances and general decline of the bodily functions.

Prevention

It is imperative that healthy eating habits are maintained in elderly patients. This includes seeing that they eat sufficient food for proper sustenance and making sure that what they do eat is nourishing and not detrimental for the body. Food should be cooked and not raw. Excess consumption of Cold food should be avoided. Where possible, foods that harmonize the Stomach and Spleen and act as tonics for the same should be added to the diet. Examples of Stomach Qi nourishing foods are beef, chicken, honey, red and black dates, shiitake mushrooms, potatoes and squash. In cases of Cold due to Yang deficiency, the patient can eat more kidney, lobster, raspberries, shrimp, strawberries and walnuts. Eating regularly should be encouraged to prevent Stomach Qi stagnation. The use of medication should be closely monitored. Even in Western medicine certain drugs can harm the stomach. Wherever possible, the use of medication should be limited. Finally, the elderly patient should have as good an emotional condition as possible and whenever possible, they should be given adequate support and counseling in dealing with the problems particular to the aging process.

Herbal Medicine

An elderly patient may present with various ailments that require treatment. Usually, a younger person can stand different therapeutic properties of herbal medicine, but the aged, due to their deficient condition, can suffer damage from the same medicine. For instance, as previously mentioned in the case of constipation, Da Cheng Qi Tang is not a very good formula to use on a person with a weak constitution. The herbs are very cold and drastic and can harm Stomach Qi. Instead, a milder purgative should be used with harmonizing and Qi tonifying ability.

If the problem is of a Cold nature, Wen Pi Tang may be used instead.

If it is due to heat, but with underlying Qi deficiency, use Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang and add some herbs to tonify Qi.

Other herbs that can harm Stomach Qi, besides very Cold ones, would be Hot herbs and strong diuretics. These types of formulas and herbs must be used with caution, and if they must be used at all, they should be used concurrently with tonics that invigorate Qi. Examples of some herbs that nourish Stomach Qi or offer it protection include Da Zao, Bai Zhu, Gan Cao, Ren Shen, Huang Qi and Shan Yao.

While taking formulas that are hard on the stomach, the patient should be extra careful with their diet so as to not put an extra burden on the Middle Jiao. That includes not eating greasy or Cold foods.

In the case of Stomach Qi stagnation, the following are some herbs that can be used to restore the downward movement of energy: Chen Pi, Cheng Xiang, Chuan Lian Zi, Da Fu Pi, Ju Hong, Ju Pi, Mu Xiang, Qing Pi, Sha Ren and Zhi Shi. Digestives such as Bing Lang, Gu Ya, Ji Nei Jin, Lai Fu Zi, Mai Ya and Shen Qu may also be helpful. The main things to consider when giving herbal therapy are that the Stomach may not be able to withstand strong herbs nor may it be able to properly digest them. Tonics, regulatory herbs and digestives can be administered to revive a weak Stomach or to protect it during treatment with herbs (or Western drugs).

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can also be useful therapy in cases of Stomach Qi deficiency. It may be used with herbal remedies or alone, depending on the severity of the condition. An example of points that may be useful for treating Stomach Qi deficiency include ST36 Zusanli, RN12 Zhongwan, BL21 Weishu, BL21 Pishu or REN06 Qihai.

Moxibustion is preferable, especially if there is Cold or Yang deficiency. According to some literature, it is thought that the daily warming with moxa of Zusanli can increase ones life span due to the strengthening of the Stomach and Spleen function.

Conclusion

The elderly, because of the inevitable decline of the essence in the body, have a far more delicate constitution than younger people. This is especially true for the Stomach Qi. At a time of life, when the vital fire is declining, a person needs as much acquired essence as possible. The Stomach function is solely responsible for the eventual bolstering of acquired Qi and it is imperative that its function and strength be preserved. Therefore, there is no doubt that it should be protected as much as possible.

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP
www.meridianman.com

Bibliography

Yin Huihe & others Fundamentals of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, 1993 ISBN 7-119-01398-X

Giovanni Maciocia The Foundations of Chinese Medicine; Churchill Livingstone, New York, 1989 ISBN 0-443-03980-1

State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Advanced textbook on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology: Vol. II; New World Press, Beijing, 1995 ISBN 7-80005-262-1

Chen, Ze-Lin & Mei-Fang; A Comprehensive Guide to Chinese Herbal Medicine; Castle Books, 1992, USA; ISBN 0-7858-1076-5

Yin, Ganglin; Advanced Modern Chinese Acupuncture Therapy: A Practical Handbook for Intermediate and Advanced Study; New World Press, 2000, China; ISBN 7-80005-558-2

Maciocia, Giovanni; The Practice of Chinese Medicine; Churchill Livingstone, 1994, UK; ISBN 0-443-043051 Nowak, T. & Handford, A.; Essentials of Pathophysiology; McGraw-Hill, 1999, USA; ISBN 0-697-25205-1

The Weekend Headache

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:31:00 +0000

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Acupuncture can be very effective in treating headaches and migraines as recent medical research has verified. But, there is one type of headache in particular that interests me, the so called “Weekend Headache.” After a long and stressful work-week you come home, begin to relax … and on comes a migraine. In some individuals, this type of headache can even occur after a particularly relaxing session of acupuncture … a tip off for me that the body energy is not well regulated.

Holding tension causes Qi (energy) stagnation, and like a coiled spring, this energy can hurt when it is unleashed … even though the letting go is what we need the most. Acupuncture, using the right combination of points, can be helpful in ‘smoothing’ out this condition so relaxation can do its proper job of balancing and recharging the body.

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP www.meridianman.com

Prostatitis Part 4

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:06:00 +0000

Prostatitis By Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

TCM PATHOLOGY OF PROSTATITIS AND PROSTATODYNIA

Usually the affliction begins as a Damp-Heat condition pouring into the lower jiao. Over time and if not properly treated, the excess Heat also causes Kidney and/or Spleen depletion and thus transforms into deficiency. During the phase change, both excess and deficiency exist simultaneously and treatment must take this into consideration. Qi stagnation, due to either excess or deficiency may also be a cause of stranguria syndrome or conversely, may be a result or complication of the pathogenesis.

Damp-Heat

At this stage of the disease, the treatment principle would be to clear excess type Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao and move turbid stagnation in the area. The formulas most commonly used would be:

Ba Zheng San: (Che Qian Zi 20g; Qu Mai 15g; Bian Xu 15g; Hua Shi 15g; Zhi Zi 15g; Mu Tong 15g; Zhi Da Huang 15g; Zhi Gan Cao 10g; Deng Xin Cao 5g)

The formula expels excess pathogens from the lower burner and restores its function to normal. It should only be used in cases of excess.

If there are excess Liver-Fire signs the following formula could be used:

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang: (Long Dan Cao; Huang Qin; Zhi Zi; Ze Xie; Mu Tong; Che Qian Zi; Dang gui; Sheng Di Huang; Chai Hu; Gan Cao)

This formula is similar to Ba Zheng San but it moves Qi and Blood as well as draining Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder. I can be used if the acute phase is prolonged and causing stagnation or arises from Liver excess.

If the condition presents with chyluria (milky urine), use:

Bie Xie Feng Qin Yin (Bie Xie 20g; Yi Zhi Ren 20g; Chang Pu 20g; Wu Yao 20g)

In the case of excess Damp-Heat, chyluria results from the inability of the Lower Jiao to separate the clear and turbid Qi. Use this formula only for excess.

Useful acupuncture points:

RN03-Zhongji	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao
BL28-Panguanshu	Removes obstruction and clears Heat from Bladder
SP09-Yinlingquan	Benefits and drains Damp from Lower Jiao
SP06-Sanyinjiao	Drains Damp & promotes urine
RN01-Huiyin	Can regulate the function of the urethra
LV05-Ligou	Relieve pain and clear Damp from Liver meridian
LV01-Dadun	Relieve pain and clear Damp from Liver meridian
ST28-Shuidao	Promotes urination
BL33-Zhongliao	Clears Damp-Heat from Lower Jiao

SP-10-Xue Hai can be added for hematuria and if there is fever, use LI04-Hegu, LI11-Quchi.

Ear acupuncture can consist of the following points: Prostate Gland, Bladder, Internal Genitals, San Jiao, Urethra, Adrenals.

Moxa is not generally applicable in this case.

Next, in part 5, we'll add a few more syndromes and treatments.

End Part 4

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP www.meridianman.com

Hypertension (Part 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 05:17:00 +0000

Hypertension By Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

TCM Aetiology

Hypertension is not a condition described in traditional Chinese medicine. As previously mentioned, some cases are asymptomatic other than showing a high reading on the GP's pressure gauge. Therefore, great care must be taken to differentiate which syndrome or category the patient belongs to. The symptoms below are not always present, but a skilled practitioner of TCM will be able to make a differentiation based on the patients general body condition and nature. Hypertension can usually be classified into the categories of either Tou Tong, Headache or Xuan Yun, Vertigo. According to Dan Xi "Without the factors of heat, wind, phlegm or deficiency, there can be no headache or dizziness." Therefore, hypertension is seen in the following syndromes:

HEAT: LIVER FIRE: Unexpressed or repressed emotion, such as anger or concern, leads to Liver qi stagnation. This turns to heat, subsequently resulting in the rise of Liver fire causing headache and/or dizziness (hypertension).

WIND: LIVER YANG RISING: Prolonged illness, poor congenital health, overwork or overindulgence in sexual behaviour lead to deficiency of Liver Yin resulting in the inability of Yin to secure Yang. This results in Yang rising causing headache and/or dizziness (hypertension). Since wind is Yang in nature and pertains to the Liver, there is a wind component to the rising of Liver Yang.

PHLEGM: PHLEGM DAMPNESS: Poor diet or over-work results in a deficiency of Spleen and Kidney qi. The resultant build up of phlegm and water in the San Jiao blocks the rise of clear qi to the head causing headache and/or dizziness (hypertension).

DEFICIENCY: YIN / YANG DEFICIENCY: Yin deficiency can lead to Yang deficiency over time. (Especially if patient is on hypertension drugs.) The rising of Liver Yang is still held to be the reason for the hypertension. Many cases of hypertension have an underlying pattern of both Yin and Yang deficiency.

Next posting will discuss treatment of hypertension from a Traditional Chinese Medicine point of view.

For the full article, click here.

by Dan Schalm, R.Ac, R.TCMP

Hypertension (Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 01:51:00 +0000

Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

This article discusses hypertension, first from a western medical model, then through the eyes of holistic medicine, namely Traditional Chinese medicine.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is defined as a higher than normal hydrostatic pressure of blood within the arterial system. During contraction of the left ventricle of the heart, blood is forced into the peripheral arteries. At this point the pressure is at its highest point and is known as the systolic pressure. When the heart relaxes, the pressure in the arteries is at its low point and this is known as the diastolic pressure. When a problem occurs in the pressure regulating system, of which there are many components, a condition of high diastolic or high systolic or both may develop.

There are two main categories of hypertension. Primary, essential or idiopathic hypertension are the terms given when the cause of the disease is unknown. Studies show that 90-95% of all cases in North America are of this nature. Secondary hypertension is the name given to the disease when it is directly linked to a specific organic cause. Only 5-10% of cases are thought to fall into this category.

Determining whether or not a person has high blood pressure is somewhat arbitrary and depends on factors such as age, sex and even emotional condition. It should also be taken into consideration that blood pressure may fluctuate in individuals and it's therefore advisable to take several readings at different intervals before diagnosing someone with with this disease. Currently, the condition is diagnosed if diastolic pressure exceeds 90 mm Hg or if a systolic pressure exceeds 140 mm Hg in men over 50 years of age or 160 mm Hg in all women. It is generally thought that the diastolic pressure is most important in the assessment, however, patients with a normal diastolic pressure, but an elevated systolic pressure also are at a higher than normal risk of manifesting the health consequences of this disease. Accompanying signs of hypertension include headache at the occiput or top of the head, occipital stiffness, dizziness, giddiness, tinnitus, irritability and occasionally, epistaxis. Headache presents in 70% of cases while dizziness presents in 40% of cases. However, a very large number of cases are asymptomatic.

It is now a well established fact that patients with this condition die prematurely. Consequences of hypertension include heart disease, stroke and renal disease. To start with, treatment is based on reduction of risk factors, which include stress, poor diet, smoking, over consumption of alcohol and being overweight as well as encouraging exercise and good emotional control. The next step is through the administration of drugs. Many of these drugs produce adverse side effects and discretion must be used in their prescription. A third aspect of treatment that is becoming more popular is through public awareness. If people are aware of the risk factors and modify their behaviour to reduce this risk, hypertension can be treated before it has a chance to manifest. In some cases though, a genetic predisposition is a contributing factor ... i.e. it is well known that black people have a much higher incidence than the median.

Because of the complications which often arise during a prolonged course of hypertensive drug therapy (ranging from fatigue to impotence ... Yang deficiency in TCM terminology), alternative ways of controlling this disease have been studied. Besides eliminating the risk factors, certain foods, supplements and herbs as well as complimentary forms of treatment like acupuncture and light therapy have been proven effective. Because of its direct link to premature death, hypertension is a very measurable early warning sign of future health problems, and as a practitioner of TCM (or any complimentary health profession), it would be wise to be aware of and monitor a patient's blood pressure, especially if they are over 40 years of age. This article is mainly concerned with the traditional Chinese approach of herbs, moxibustion and acupuncture.

Next posting will discuss hypertension from a Traditional Chinese Medicine point of view.

For the full article, click here.

by Dan Schalm, R.Ac, R.TCMP

Traditional Chinese Medicine (Primer Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:28:00 +0000

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Breaking from my article on the prostate for the time being, I thought it might be an idea to do a bit on the field of study that I view human health from. The full article can be viewed here.

Working with the interface between the organism and its emotions, feelings, behaviour patterns and thoughts, Chinese medicine is one of the most highly developed sciences of its kind. Traditionally, Chinese medical practice does not separate physical pain and disharmony from emotional and spiritual pain and disharmony. Nor does it look for a single cause ... one creates the other and it the relationship between these disharmonies that is treated. If illness exists long enough at one level, it will also effect the other levels. As an example, consider the chain of events that occurs in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident. There is trauma to the physical body, say a broken bone. When the acute phase is over and the bone has mended, many people experience continued pain even though there is no longer a sign of organic trauma. Why does this pain still exist even though an X-ray or MRI shows no sign of damage? Chinese medicine theory would say that the physical body has healed, but the healing has not been addressed at other important levels. The flow of energy may still be blocked at the site of trauma ... that is why acupuncture can help with pain that allopathic medicine can't (and sometimes concludes must be 'in the patients head.')

It is recognized that long term injuries become chronic sites of weakness in the body, aggravated by anything that puts a strain on the balance of the body. When energy doesn't move smoothly and freely, it stagnates at weaker areas and causes pain. Furthermore, since the energy movement of the body is highly susceptible to our emotions and psychological defence patterns, old 'war' wounds can be further aggravated in times of stress and emotional turmoil. Bring into this mix environmental factors like weather, toxicities, lack of exercise, poor diet, over-work ... and so on, and an old trauma may be held in place long after it has ceased to be visible under a microscope.

Likewise, things can happen from the other end of the spectrum. An external trauma need not be a factor in causing disease or pain. Chinese medicine pathology has mapped other causes that can cause the body to lose its balance and develop a myriad of syndromes and disorders. The most important internal causes of disease are emotional. Other causes affect the internal environment less directly ... diet, poor living and working conditions, poor lifestyle choices. In all these cases, internal conditions manifest that eventually show signs and symptoms at an organic level. The field of internal medicine theory from a TCM perspective is well mapped and well experienced in clinical practice over the centuries that it has been developed and practiced.

Therefore, whatever level of the human body is out of balance, and whether it is from external events or resulting from internal disorders, Chinese medicine has tools and knowledge to help. Sometimes in conjunction with allopathic medicine and sometimes as stand alone treatment.

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP

Entire article can be read here

www.meridianman.com

Prostatitis: Part3

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:10:00 +0000

Prostatitis By Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP:

EASTERN MEDICINE

What is the Prostate?

Rather than breaking a disease down into a condition such as prostatitis or prostatodynia, a TCM practitioner looks at the picture painted by the signs and symptoms of each case individually. In practice, three people could come into the clinic diagnosed with chronic bacterial prostatitis but each might be treated differently. This is called syndrome differentiation. Chinese medical treatment is based on differentiating the entire picture presented by the patient rather than just the Western diagnosis. This way, the protocol seeks to restore balance within the individual and with his environment so that the forces of nature can become a major part of the healing process.

There is no specific reference to the prostate in TCM but it is thought to be part of the Urinary Bladder and Kidney system. Here, Kidney and Bladder refer to an idea and an energetic component, and not necessarily the physical organs of Western medicine. These organs have to do with the urinary function, the sexual energy, as well as the basic foundational energy of the human body, therefore they encompass the function of the prostate.

The general classification fits into stranguria or lin disease. It is further divided into Heat or re lin, taxation or lao lin and qi lin. Some complications include hematuria (xue lin) and chyluria (gao lin), milky urine which indicates the presence of lymphatic fluid.

End Part 3

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP www.meridianman.com

Prostatitis: Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:59:00 +0000

Prostatitis By Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP:

WESTERN MEDICINE

1. What is the prostate?

The prostate is a small gland peculiar to the male anatomy that sits at the base of the bladder and surrounds the prostatic urethra. It is about the size and shape of a walnut and is partly glandular and partly fibro-muscular. Within the structure, there are ducts that open into the prostatic urethra, as well as a junction where the seminal vesicles open into the urethra.

Its purpose is not clearly understood, but the gland functions to produce a prostatic fluid that mixes with sperm during ejaculation, thus forming semen. The fluid may serve to nourish sperm, make the vagina less acidic and lubricate the urethra but scientists don't know for certain. Approximately 20% of the total ejaculate contains prostatic secretion.

2. Prostatitis and Prostatodynia

There are three common conditions that afflict the prostate; inflammation (prostatitis and prostatodynia), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and cancer of the prostate. The latter two will not be discussed in this paper, but it is important to note how they differ from the former condition. Cancer and BHP tend to occur in older males (over 50) and are considered to be a physical enlargement of the gland. That is, the cells either multiply or become larger in size.

Prostatitis and prostatodynia are usually considered to be an inflammation of the gland and may occur in males of any age group, usually between 20 - 50 years of age. There is no change to the cellular structure and the inflammation usually affects the outer part of the gland only. Prostatitis may be acute or chronic and is diagnosed when signs of infection exist. Prostatodynia presents itself with prostatitis-like signs, but no evidence of infection can be found. At the moment there is considerable controversy regarding the two distinctions as some doctors believe many cases of prostatodynia to be infectious even without laboratory support from tests. Only 5% of men with prostatitis symptoms are found to have infection and the rest are therefore placed into the category of prostatodynia.

3. Western Pathogenesis of Prostate Inflammation

Acute Prostatitis

Acute prostatitis usually has a sudden onset and is characterized by fever, urinary frequency, urgency and pain on voiding, as well as pain in the lower part of the abdomen. Rectal examination shows an acute tenderness of the gland and lab results confirm a bacterial infection. The disease may occur as a complication from bladder infection or urethritis or from catheter installation. It is generally bacterial in nature (common UT pathogen or Staphylococcus aureus.)

Treatment consists of a course of antibiotics, generally

Chronic prostatitis tends to occur in patients with a history of urinary tract infection, therefore it is very important to treat urethritis or bladder infections immediately to prevent this complication. Evidence suggests that it can also be sexually transmitted as there is a higher rate of chronic prostatitis in men who are sexually active. Infectious agents are commonly bacteria, but may also be viral, fungal and protozoan. The Herpes simplex II virus has been implicated in an isolated few cases. Therefore, chronic prostatitis is divided further into bacterial and non-bacterial.

The symptoms are less severe than the acute condition, and may include burning urination, sense of urgency to void, burning, full sensation between perineum and anus, pain during ejaculation, possible impotence, milky discharge during urination or after bowel movement, blood in urine and lower back and leg pain. Patients complain that perinial pain is worse when sitting. There may also be a reduction of urine flow volume. Lab results show signs of an infection.

This condition is treated with antibiotics, unless evidence shows infection from other pathogens. Because the prostate has a low pH, and inhibits the effectiveness of most antibiotics, it is important that they are taken for at least six weeks. If not, the bacterial strain may become resistant and much harder to treat in the future. Generally, chronic prostatitis is very difficult to cure for this reason.

Prostatodynia is similar to chronic prostatitis in signs and symptoms. The main difference in diagnosis is that the lab results do not show evidence of infection. As was previously stated, there is quite a lot of controversy surrounding the differentiation between the two diagnoses. Some doctors believe that due to the nature of the prostate circulation, infection is hard to detect, and many cases that are categorized as prostatodynia are probably due to hidden infection.

Reasons for prostatodynia are unknown at this time, though it is suggested that muscle tension, under use or over use of the organ, withholding ejaculation during sexual activity, physical trauma or even emotional and psychological factors could be to blame. Sometimes it is treated with antibiotics to rule out true infection, otherwise, muscle relaxants, stress relieving therapies, warm sitz baths, regular ejaculation to relieve pressure, prostatic massage and coping strategies are employed. The term watchful waiting is also applied to the process of waiting to see whether the condition progresses or regresses.

End Part 2

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP www.meridianman.com

Prostatitis: Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Meridianman) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 18:40:00 +0000

Prostatitis By Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to describe the physical and functional characteristics of the prostate, the pathological condition of prostatitis and prostatodynia and their treatment using both Western and Eastern medical approaches.

Western medical science is based on theory and observations about the biological, chemical and atomic structure of the human organism and how these components function. It follows a cause and effect principle which tends to be mechanistic in nature. Traditionally, Western allopathic medicine doesn't accept the idea of a non-quantifiable energy system (e.g. Qi, Pranayama) as being part of the human structure. Though quantum physics and an increasing amount of research in psycho-neurology is presently being done to support this idea, the approach is still not embraced by the existing medical system here in North America.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), along with other complimentary health disciplines, stresses that the human being is a holistic entity. Rather than break it down into smaller and smaller units and particles to try to understand it, TCM focuses on the relationship between the body's main components and the surrounding world. Health is thought to be a proper balance between energy systems and no differentiation is made between the human and the surrounding environment. It is all one thing. Thus, the actual physical structure is not as important as the dynamics that animate it.

First, we'll begin with the Western medical view.

End Part 1

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP www.meridianman.com

Meridianman Mens Holistic Health

Stick Out Your Tongue Please

Traditional Oriental Medicine and Modern Allopathy

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Western Medicine

Back Again ...

Prostatitis Part 5

Disease and Stress

Can acupuncture help?

Does herbal medicine help?

How does acupuncture relieve stress?

Atherosclerosis and Heart Health

by Dan Schalm R.Ac, R.TCMP

Treating Atherosclerosis:

Smoking:

Weight loss and exercise:

Stress reduction:

Diet

The Protection of Stomach Qi in the Elderly

The role of the Stomach within the organic whole

Stomach Qi and pathology

Prevention

Herbal Medicine

Acupuncture

Conclusion

Bibliography

The Weekend Headache

Prostatitis Part 4

Hypertension (Part 2)

Hypertension (Part 1)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (Primer Part 1)

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMPWhat is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Prostatitis: Part3

Prostatitis: Part 2

Prostatitis: Part 1

Dan Schalm R.Ac., R.TCMP

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?