Alaska Institute of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy

Tinnitus Eastern vs Western Medicine

2024-08-29T15:42:00.001-08:00

Tinnitus From Western View

Tinnitus is the medical term for ringing in the ears and according to Western medicine, it is not a disease but a symptom of several health conditions that produce sounds that fill a person's head with noise that only they can hear. The phantom sounds snap, crackle, pop, ring, hiss, roar, hum, whistle, click and squeal. The quality can be pulsating, intermittent, or steady and may vary in pitch. People with severe tinnitus may have difficulty with sleep, focus, and concentration leading to irritability, depression, increased stress and anxiety. Milder symptoms may go unnoticed. Three months or longer is considered chronic. One study links poor alignment of the skull and jaw to tinnitus. A person experiencing symptoms may be referred to an audiologist, otolaryngologist (ENT), dentist, neurologist, physical therapist, chiropractor, or massage therapist.

Adults and children can get tinnitus, but it is most common in adults age 40 and 80.

A common cause of tinnitus is damage to the inner ear hair cells, which convert sound waves into electrical impulses that are carried along the auditory nerve to the brain. If the hairs are bent, they can leak random impulses to the brain, creating a cacophony of internal sounds. Many genetic and environmental factors, such as overexposure to loud noises and aging, destroy critical cells in the hearing system.

Impacted ear wax, bacterial infection, head injuries, TMJ, vertigo, Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma, hypertension, atherosclerosis, surgery, circulation problems, age, trauma, and vestibular tumors are associated with tinnitus.

Over 200 medications contribute to tinnitus symptoms. Examples include diuretics, aspirin, NSAIDS, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antimicrobials, loop diuretics, antidepressants, and cancer drugs.

Tinnitus treatment in Western culture might include a white noise machine to mask the sounds, cognitive behavioral therapy, wearing hearing aids, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, counseling, relaxation techniques, and retraining therapy.

Lifestyle changes to alleviate symptoms of tinnitus include limiting caffeine and alcohol, avoidance of noisy environments, and cessation of smoking.

Tinnitus Eastern View

In TCM, the imbalance of Yin and Yang is the main cause of tinnitus. For many people, tinnitus expresses a deeper disharmony that has grown over time. Chinese medicine nourishes the body by addressing the underlying imbalance (the root) rather than the symptom (the arm). Digestion, mood, and emotion are also considered when treating tinnitus with Eastern medicine.

Some of the more common patterns of tinnitus in Chinese medicine are as follows:

Imbalance of liver-spleen vertigo and tinnitus presents with liver symptoms, cricket sounds, vertigo or dizziness, and a heavy head. Chronic deficiency of spleen qi can lead to internal dampness. When dampness is combined with stagnated liver Qi it causes an upward rise of phlegm-fire.

The kidney-liver imbalance is due to chronic stagnating liver qi is usually caused by stagnation and Yin Deficiency in the liver and blood.

Vertigo and tinnitus due to liver excess is typically triggered by loud noises which cause an upward rise of liver fire that may be related to frustration or anger. This internal wind is usually accompanied by dizziness and a painful sharp, stabbing headache.

Tinnitus with Imbalances in kidneys and heart involves the elements of water and fire, which must be balanced to preserve wellness and health. When one or both of the two energetic organ systems is compromised, a communication breakdown can arise. Kidney deficiency and heart blood deficiency may present with anxiety characterized by a sense of impending doom, poor memory, insomnia, and/or palpitations.

Tinnitus due to Depleted Kidney-Essence is associated with aging. It is characterized by low sound and a slow progressive onset of symptoms. Fear, sore knees, achy back, slight dizziness, and poor memory may also be present.

Tinnitus due to Deficient Kidneys begins with a gradual onset of symptoms that include sounds of rushing water and ringing ears. Afternoon-evening sweats and/or hot flashes may be present.

Massage helps relieve tinnitus symptoms by reducing stress and relieving muscle tension. It can relax the head, neck, and jaw muscles, which stresses the inner ear. Regular massages can also help resolve postural problems that contribute to tinnitus.

Massage Recommendations For Tinnitus

Massage can target points around the ear and neck to relieve tinnitus symptoms. The meridians of the heart, small intestine, pericardium, gallbladder, and liver can also be used.

Self-care for tinnitus might include pulling the bottom of the earlobe laterally and upwards in a stretching motion, which helps to reduce inner ear fluid buildup and relieve ringing sensations.

Massaging the mastoid process with gentle Swedish massage can relieve tension in the neck and ear muscles and allow the neck to move back into the correct alignment.

The masseter is the strongest muscle in the body in proportion to its size, and when overly tense, it can contribute to misalignment of the jaw and ringing in the ear. Any massage intended to relieve tinnitus will focus effort on the masseter muscle.

Acupressure points around the ears relieve tinnitus along with the pericardium, small intestine, and heart meridians. Gua sha is another therapeutic technique for releasing areas of tension.

Contraindications Of Tinnitus Massage Treatments

Some contraindications for tinnitus may include heightened sensitivity to touch, light, and sound. Craniosacral therapy would be recommended to relieve the strain patterns in the meningeal membrane system that wraps the brain and spinal cord. These fascial layers can develop strain patterns or become injured through trauma.

In one case study, a patient showed a reversal of tinnitus symptoms after 2.5 months of soft tissue massage, repetitive movements, and joint mobilization.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11122/

http://tcmwindow.com/diseases/Nervous-System-Diseases/Tinnitus-symptoms.shtml

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14689631/

https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/tinnitus-ringing-in-the-ears-and-what-to-do-about-it

https://hms.harvard.edu/news/reversing-hearing-loss

http://tcmwindow.com/diseases/Nervous-System-Diseases/Tinnitus-diagnosis.shtml

Circulation problem around ear, neck, shoulder, ears are opening

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2022.986805/full

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/14164-tinnitus

https://www.rmtedu.com/blog/cervicogenic-tinnitus-and-massage-therapy

Causes Tinnitus according to CMT

http://tcmwindow.com/diseases/Nervous-System-Diseases/Tinnitus-causes.shtml

Clinical Trial - no approved meds or treatments

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.844730/full#B13

Youtube:

Gua Sha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUiJbQXrEq4

Massage Therapy for Insomnia

2024-08-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or going back to sleep. This results in poor sleep quality and can lead to daytime impairment and distress. For many people, it’s common to experience short-term insomnia at some point in their lives, which can last for a few days or weeks. But for others, insomnia can become chronic, lasting for months or more.

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night. If the body does not get enough sleep, it will lack the energy and ability to function completely and optimally. This can compromise things like the immune system, physical performance, cognition, hormonal balance, mood swings, and more — virtually all aspects of the human body.

Causes of Insomnia

Insomnia is often associated with what western medicine refers to as the circadian rhythm. Also called the biological clock, the circadian rhythm is the series of physiological changes an organism experiences over a 24-hour cycle. The biggest influence on the circadian rhythm is light intake, followed by diet, stress, physical activity, temperature, and social environment.

For example, things that may interfere with the circadian rhythm include:

Not getting enough daylight during the day
Thinking about life concerns that keep the mind up at night
Bedtime habits that prevent the body from relaxing before trying to sleep (such as working, eating, watching screens, etc.)
Consuming any food, medication, or substances that contain stimulants (like caffeine) too late or too early in the day
Medical conditions that cause pain or disrupt sleeping (such as sleep apnea, which inhibits breathing)

Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms of an irregular circadian rhythm. It is a natural consequence of an offset biological clock, reflecting the body’s inability to relax at appropriate times of the day. If the circadian rhythm is offset for an extended amount of time, it will result in negative health effects that may eventually compound into more serious health conditions later on.

Treating Insomnia

In western medicine, there are two primary ways to treat insomnia: prescription medication, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Prescription sleeping pills can help the body fall asleep and stay asleep, but generally doctors do not recommend relying on them for more than a few weeks, as they often come with negative side effects, such as cognitive or physical impairment.

Alternatively, behavioral therapy, which is usually recommended as the first treatment for insomnia, involves developing habitual strategies to control or stop thoughts and actions that keep the mind awake. This includes stimulus control therapy (which helps associate the bed with sleep, specifically), light therapy, nutrition therapy, and sleep restriction (restricting naps). Some doctors may also prescribe certain relaxation methods, such as breathing exercises, meditation, or massage therapy.

TCM and Insomnia

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches the causes and treatments for insomnia from a holistic perspective, focusing on the balance of the body's energy (Qi), blood, and organs. TCM recognises different types of insomnia, each with its unique set of causes and symptoms. Depending on the diagnosed type of insomnia, TCM will utilize a combination of herbal medicine, massage, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

From a TCM perspective, insomnia is heavily associated with stress and anxiety, which can correlate with certain organs and their meridians. Here are a few examples of the energetic causes of insomnia, according to TCM:

Kidney Yin Deficiency. The health of the kidneys reflect the quality of energy, youth, and vitality in the body. A deficiency of yin energy in the kidneys can contribute to insomnia.
Heart Disharmony. The heart is affected by all emotions. Both deficiency or excess in the heart may contribute to insomnia by affecting its synergy with other organs.
Liver Stagnation and Deficiency. The liver is strongly affected by stress and frustration. Frequent stress can stagnate the liver energy, which can cause insomnia. Deficiency of liver blood can also be a cause.

Massage for Insomnia

Massage therapy can be an effective complementary treatment for insomnia, with no contraindications. However, for the best treatment, it is recommended to use all and any strategies to specifically promote relaxation.

In the massage room, this can include using a combination of soft lighting, soothing music, and temperate heating. During the intake, using rhetoric that emphasizes thoughts of positivity and healing may also help promote the healing process on a psychological level by directing the mind away from current stressors. For the massage itself, techniques that are generally calming (rather than vigorous or energizing) should be prioritized.

Overall, any general relaxation massage will help treat insomnia. However, by identifying the organs involved with insomnia, according to TCM, certain acupressure points can be integrated into the massage pattern, thus improving the effectiveness of the treatment. Here are some acupressure points that can help insomnia, taken from “Acupuncture Points Handbook” by Deborah Bleecker:

Head

Du 20. Top of the head, aligned with top of ears. (p.71)
Si Shen Cong – Four Alert Spirit. A group of four points located one finger (1 cun) away from Du 20 in each direction. (p.247)
Yin Tang – Hall of Impression, or Spirit Gate. Midway between medial ends of eyebrows. (p.251)
An Mian – Peaceful Sleep. Calms the spirit. Treats insomnia. Located 1 finger behind the earlobe. (p.236)

Hands

Heart 7. Important point for calming the body. Located in the ulnar side (little flinger) wrist crease, on the later side of the tendon. (p.103)
Heart 8. Between fourth and fifth metacarpal bones, where the little finger can touch the palm. (p.104)
Pericardium 6 – The Insomnia Point. “Acupressure done with a magnetic pellet is very effective to treat insomnia. Just place the magnetic pellet on the point an hour or so before bed, and take it off in the morning. It will help you get to sleep and stay asleep all night.” Located 2 fingers (2 cun) above the wrist crease, between the tendons in the midline of forearm. (p. 159).
Pericardium 7. In the middle of the wrist crease, between the tendons. (p.161)

Feet

Kidney 1. Sole of foot in center depression when the foot is flexed. (p.106)
Kidney 3. The “most important point of the Kidney”. Treats insomnia due to kidney weakness. Located in the depression in midpoint between the medial ankle bone and back of leg. (p.107)
Kidney 6. Major point for insomnia. Located in depression directly below ankle bone. (p.111)
Spleen 6. A multifunctional point that regulates and strengthens the Spleen, Stomach, Kidneys, and Liver. Very calming and treats the underlying cause of insomnia. Located 3-4 fingers (3 cun) above the tip of the medial ankle bone. (p.189)
Liver 2. Major point that treats stress and excess liver energy. Located between the big toe and second toe, in the web margin. (p.137)
Liver 3. Relieves stress and anger. Very relaxing. Slightly above the web of Liver 2. (p.139)

Back

Bladder 15. On back erectors, between T5 and T6. (p.42)

References

Insomnia. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355167

The beneficial effects of massage therapy for insomnia in postmenopausal women. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4521661/

Circadian Rhythms. https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx#:~:text=Study%20Circadian%20Rhythms-,What%20Are%20Circadian%20Rhythms%3F,and%20temperature%20also%20affect%20them.

Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12115-circadian-rhythm-disorders

The Different Types of Insomnia in Chinese Medicine. https://healthinflow.com.au/the-different-types-of-insomnia-in-chinese-medicine/

The effect of classical foot massage on insomnia and anxiety in preeclamptic pregnant women: a randomized controlled study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38422316/

Massage Therapy Can Help Improve Sleep. amtamassage.org/about/position-statements/massage-therapy-can-help-improve-sleep/

New Research Continues to Support Massage for Improving Sleep Quality. amtamassage.org/about/news/massage-for-sleep-research/

Randomized control trial evidence for the benefits of massage and relaxation therapy on sleep in cancer survivors—a systematic review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8448699/

Sleep Toolkit: Tools for Optimizing Sleep & Sleep-Wake Timing | Huberman Lab Podcast #84. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2aWYjSA1Jc

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis

2024-08-01T22:00:00.006-08:00

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis(AS) is an autoimmune arthritic disease that is known for creating prolonged inflammation of the spine and ligaments of the spine. Over time, this disease creates rigidity of the spinal column. The chronic inflammation can cause calcium deposits to form on the ligaments and around the intervertebral discs, which effectively fuses vertebrae together over time. It is commonly diagnosed in early adulthood and is a lifelong disease.

How is AS Managed with Western Medicine?

Although this disease is commonly recognized in Western medicine as incurable, there are multiple avenues of treatment that can slow the progression and help with client comfort. Some of said treatments include:

- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

- Corticosteroids (e.g. Prednisone, Hydrocortisone, Cortisone) can by injected directly into the joints or taken orally

- Physical therapy (e.g. Yoga, Range of Motion exercises, stretching) keeps blood moving through the spine

- Surgical Intervention

How is AS Managed with Eastern Medicine?

AS is viewed as a deficiency of Kidney and Liver Qi and is qualified as a ‘Bi Syndrome’, which is a TCM term for blocked Qi in the meridians due to the external introduction of cold, wind, and damp.

Some treatments include:

- Herbal Formulas to build blood and Qi

- Acupuncture to recover Qi flow along Kidney and Liver meridians

- Moxibustion is used to introduce heat and movement to stagnant areas

Cautions and Contraindications to Massage Therapy

Cautions:

- Any pressure at all can feel painful. If massage is too painful, then stopping the session is advised.

- Medications are often anti-inflammatory so any technique that produces excessive inflammatory results should be limited

- Pain medications may also be prescribed so perception of pain may be unreliable

Contraindications:

- Spinal manipulation can lead to serious injury, including fractures and neurological symptoms

- Massage could trigger flare-ups of inflammation along the spine

- Deep tissue on clients with progressed spinal fusion can increase pain and sensitivity and may induce neurological symptoms

Benefits of Massage Therapy on a Client with AS

- Improved blood circulation to Spine and joints

- Improved lymphatic function, which will help get rid of metabolic waste

- Increase in mobility

- Release of muscle tension

- Reduction of pain and stiffness

- Reduction of depression and anxiety symptoms

Modifications for a Client with AS

- Lighter pressure massage is recommended to begin with. Medium pressure may be applied if the client is comfortable

- Check-in with the client in regards to pressure and comfort level frequently

- Possible neck pillow and larger bolster may be required depending on the progression of the disease and comfort level of the client

- Deep Pressure is generally ill-advised, although deep tissue vibration techniques may be indicated

Sources:

https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/ankylosing-spondylitis#:~:text=Ankylosing%20spondylitis%20is%20a%20type,help%20us%20move%20and%20bend

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8051999/#:~:text=Several%20systematic%20reviews%20and%20meta,the%20treatment%20of%20ankylosing%20spondylitis

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354813

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/45284133_Bi_Syndrome_Arthralgia_Syndrome

https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/ijmm.2013.1481

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ankylosing-spondylitis-massage#massage-chairs

https://spondylitis.org/about-spondylitis/treatment-information/integrative-medicine/#:~:text=%22Anyone%20with%20limited%20spinal%20mobility,fusion%20(extra%20bone%20growth)

https://www.noterro.com/blog/the-benefits-of-massage-for-ankylosing-spondylitis#:~:text=Overview%20of%20Ankylosing%20Spondylitis&text=There's%20no%20cure%2C%20but%20massage,million%20Americans%20have%20Ankylosing%20Spondylitis

DIABETES THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE AND TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

2021-07-15T00:02:00.002-08:00

What is diabetes?

In western medicine diabetes is a disease in which your immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Without the proper amount of insulin blood glucose levels are elevated. Glucose is the bodies main source of energy provided by the food we consume. Somtimes our bodies pancreas cannot produce or use insulin effectively. When this happens the glucose remains in the body and the cells care deprived. Overtime an excess of glucose in the body causes numerous health problems.There is no known cure for diabetes but you can take steps to manage your diabetes.

Are there different types of diabetes?

Western medicine recognizes 3 main types of diabetes

* Type 1

Thought to be an autoimmune disorder that is closely corelated to your generics and environment. Diabetes mellitus results from the autoimmune destruction of the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas. The lack of insulin leads to increased blood and urine glucose. Type 1 usually presents in childhood, but it could appear at any age. Type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin injections to stay alive.

* Type2

With type 2 diabetes the pancreas produces insulin but the body is unable to use the the insulin appropriately. Type 2 is closely linked to lifestyle choices, diet, exercise, as well as family history. Physical activity a clean balanced diet and close attention to blood glucose levels can greatly reduce symptoms of type 2 diabetes and help control blood sugar providing a better quality of life, with hard work type to diabetes can be cured.

* Gestational diabetes

This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the birth of the child. If you have Gestational diabetes then you are more likely to get Type 2 later in life.

How common is diabetes?

Approximately 1.5 million people are diagnosed with diabetes each year. More Americans die each year from diabetes than AIDS and breast cancer combined. Almost 80,000 people each year die from diabetic complications.

Symptoms of diabetes

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Extremely hunger

Slow healing cuts

Extreme fatigue

Numb limbs

Sweet taste and smell

Unexplained abnormal behavior

What are the treatments for diabetes?

Insulin is the main treatment for type 1 diabetes but there are many other things to do to help relieve symptoms. Massage therapy, healthy diet and exercise. Testing blood sugar levels is very important in determining how much insulin to take. The invention of the insulin pump and CGM have greatly improved the life's of diabetics enabling better control over blood glucose levels.

How can massage benefit diabetes?

Massage is highly recommended for any type of diabetes. Some studies have shown it has great effect on lowering glucose levels and helping neuropathy by bringing circulation to the affected area. Diabetic massage allows the muscles to relax and calms the mind. Reducing the physical and mental ailments associated with diabetes. Having diabetes is a life long condrion that takes an extreme routine lifestyle change and abundance of dedication to ones self. The client would benefit greatly from relaxation massage alone, because of the amount of care and mental stress that they deal with daily. Diabetics that often have hypoglycemia may experience a thickening of connective tissue. Massage can help loosen the muscle and tissue providing better circulation, range of motion and flexibility by relaxing the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Foot massage is especially important because most diabetics eventually have restricted blood flow and circulation to the extremities causing neuropathy and can eventually lead to amputation.

What are the contraindications for massage?

There are not alot of Contraindications for diabetic massage, but it is very important to realize that a full body massage may drop blood glucose levels by 20-40 points and can result in hypoglycemia. It may be smart to keep orange or apple juice around in case of an emergency. Recognize the symptoms of a diabetic emergency:

Excessive sweating

Trembling or shaking

Pounding heart rate

Dizziness

Confusion

Personality change

Unable to wake

Non coherent communication

It is important that if your client is able to chew that you give them juice or something with a lot of sugar immediately. If they are not responding call 911 right away. You may also need to be aware of recent insulin injections sites and use universal precautions for any open wounds. Diabetics often have loss of pressure sensitivity so it is up to the therapist to judge how much pressure is appropriate.

What does Traditional Chinese Medicine have to offer diabetics?

Studies have shown that Thai chi can lower blood sugar, blood pressure, boost the immune system and even help with weight-loss. Western medicine says high blood glucose will damage the kidneys. Eastern medicine believes that both high blood sugar and the treatment affects the kidneys. Once the spleen and pancreas are showing problems the next major organ to be affected is the kidneys. Both schools of medicine agree that blood glucose is the main problem, but the treatments are very different. TCM uses herbs to strengthen the kidneys so they can better withstand the effects of high blood sugar. These same herbal remedies provide relief from many symptoms including frequent urination, cooling inflammation and adding nutrients to the digestive system, as well as tingling and numbness in extremities and blurred vision. With Type 2 diabetes the herbs will calm the intestines and stomach bringing the pancreas back to a normal state, resolving excessive thirst and hunger. Once the disharmony in the organs is addressed the blood sugar should return to a normal level.

TCM practitioners believe diabetes is a result of eating too much fatty, sugary, rich foods. They see poor diet as one of the four contributing factors pertaining to the root cause of diabetes. This is believed to be a depletion of the yin energy - a cool dark and earthy energy combined with excessive asthenic fire in body. It is recommended to avoid greasy, sweet food and alcohol, they exhaust the spleen and create damp heat. Also an unstable emotional life disrupts the flow of Qi and causes stagnation leading to an excess of internal fire. One more note is that excessive sexual intercourse depletes the kidney essence imparing the ability to provide yin to the body.

TCM divides treatments into three main sections the upper, middle, lower wasting:

Upper wasting: characterized by excessive thirst, dry mouth and irritability. Red tongue with a thin yellow coating, and rapid pulse. Having lung heat with depletion Syndrome. Rise in internal heat in lungs and a deficancy in body fluids(yin jin). Treatment includes a concoction of coptis chinesis, ophiopogon japonica and radix Rehman.

Middle wasting : Shows as excessive hunger, bad breath, weight-loss, constipation, dry stool, oral ulcers, excessive thirst and urine output. Also tongue will show red with a yellow coating and pulse is rapid. Stomach fire syndrome is resolved using a remedy known as Jade maiden decoction made with gypsum fibrosum, rhizome anemarrhenae and gardenia jasminoides.

Lower wasting: Can be described as excessive turbid urination, lower lumbar pain, knee weakness, fatigue, dizziness, tinnitus, dry lips and dry itchy skin. Tongue diagnosis shows a red tongue with little to no coating. The pulse is thin and rapid. Treatmentment consists of six-flavor rehmannia pills made with schisandra, Chinese yam and wolf berry or gogi berry.

Acupressure Protocols

SP Qi Deficiency alone, with dampness or damp heat

LV Stagnation alone, or with fire

☝ Upper Wasting - LU Heat

Symptoms:

Dry throat and mouth

Excessive thirst

Frequent urination

Tongue: Red with dry yellow coat

Pulse: Rapid

Treatment points

👉 St. John treatment points (modified)

👉 SP6 Tonify yin

👉 ST36 Tonify Qi

👉 LU 5 Clear lung heat

👉 UB13 LU Shu

✌ Middle Wasting - ST Dryness

symptoms:

Excessive hunger

Epigastric pain

Constipation

Tongue: yellow dry coat

Pulse: Rapid

Treatment points

👉 St. John treatment points

👉 SP6 tonify ST/SP

👉 ST36 Tonify Qi

👉 ST44 Clear ST Heat and dryness

👉 KD3 Tonify KD

👉 UB20 SP Shu

👉 UB21 ST Shu

👌 Lower Wasting - KD Yin and Jing

Symptoms:

Sore back

Knee pain

Weak lower body

Dizziness

Blurry vision

frequent urination

Dry mouth

Tongue: Red no coat

Pulse:fine, rapid

Treatment points

👉 St. John treatment points ( modified)

👉 KD 6 Tonify yin

👉 KD3 Tonify KD

👉 CV4 Tonify Yin

👉 SP6 Tonify ST/ SP Yin

👉 GV20 Raise the yang

👉 UB23 KD Shu

Spleen Qi Deficiency

Symptoms:

Fatigue

Weakness

Poor appetite

Loose stools

May generate dampness combined with heat

Tongue: pale with teeth marks coated dampness

Pulse: empty, slippery with dampness

Treatment points

👉 St. John treatment points ( modified)

👉 SP3 Tonify SP

👉 SP6 Tonify SP yin

👉 ST36 Tonify Qi

👉 CV12 ST Mu

👉 UB21 ST shu

👉 in damp SP9

👉 if damp effecting head ST8

👉 if damp heat LI 11

LV Qi Stagnation

Symptoms:

Depression

Anger

Belching

Gas

PMS

Menstrual cycle irregularities

Tongue: normal pale, purple ( red with yellow coat with liver fire)

Pulse: wiry (rapid with LV fire)

Treatment points

👉 St. John's points(with modifications)

👉 LV3 with LI4 four gates TX harmonize LV

👉 LV14 LV MU

👉 PC6 open the chest calm the spirit

👉 UB18 LV Shu

👉 if LV fire LV2

There are many more treatments out there but I hope that someone can use this information!

NS 2021

References:

https://www.humantouch.com/blog/all-things-considered-what-are-the-effects-of-massage-for-people-with-diabetes.html

https://www.massagetherapyreference.com/diabetes-massage-contraindications/

https://www.euyansang.com/en_US/home

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes

https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-history.html

http://www.diabete.qc.ca/en/understand-diabetes/all-about-diabetes/history-of-diabetes/treating-diabetes-1921-to-the-present-day/

Mayo Clinic

https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/massage-therapy-and-diabetes

https://www.nwpc.com/

Yinyanghouse.com

2021-07-11T21:49:00.003-08:00

Peptic Ulcer and Qi Imbalance

1st Part

Stress, fear, anxiety are a constant in our daily life. Most of us live the life doing, achieving, creating a goal, a purpose and we cant put it on hold. We want to be in control. However this constant state of mind, the constant thinking and over thinking has a negative impact on our physical and psychical health or our spiritmindbody. We see ourselves as individual entities running around, tending our daily business and forget the fact the we are all interconnected. To the non-verbal world (plants, animals) doesnt apply the fittest survive motto, but together we stand and flourish. It is a positive, symbiotic relationship and not a dog eat dog world. When one wants to be in control of his or her life happenings is actually being in a constant imbalance with oneself and everything around. Stress is a major factor of this and it has so many aspects that I will not further apprehend in this article. Inadvertently, stress, especially chronic, accumulated for months, perhaps years does have so many negative effects on our health and way of existing. One of this negative health effect is peptic ulcer. What is peptic ulcer? Can it be prevented?

From Western medical approach:

“Peptic ulcers are defects or sores in the lining of the GI tract,” says Dr. Tara Menon, a gastroenterologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. (1)

What causes it?

According to the new research the main cause of peptic ulcer is a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori and/or frequent or excessive use of NSAID drugs.
Spicy or highly acidic foods and beverages.
Other medications. Taking certain other medications along with NSAIDs, such as steroids, anticoagulants, low-dose aspirin, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), alendronate (Fosamax) and risedronate (Actonel), can greatly increase the chance of developing ulcers. (2)
There is also a higher risk of developing peptic ulcer among those individuals who are frequently consume alcohol and or tobacco.

However: "Attempts to explain ulcer using H. pylori and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as sole etiologic factors are destined to fail. More than 80% of H. pylori–infected people (and the vast majority of NSAID users) never develop an ulcer, while at least 10%of patients with non–NSAID-related peptic ulcers have no H pylori infection." (3). Experts aren’t sure how H. pylori infection spreads. (4)
In my perspective a person with a balanced bodymind has no need for excessive use of NSAIDs, alcohol and tobacco to begin with.

Symptoms of peptic ulcer :
- Pain in upper abdomen
- Bloated feeling
- Burping
- Lack of appetite or weight loss
- Nausea
- Bloody or dark poop
- Vomiting (4)

Treatment:

Stop or reduce taking NSAID in case that this is the major factor of developing peptic ulcer.
Medicated treatment with PPI's (Proton Pump Inhibitor), which can't kill, but can help fight infection with H. pylori.
Histamine receptor blockers which work by blocking histamine, a chemical in your body that signals your stomach to produce acid. (5)
Antibiotics
Bismuth subsalicylates
Antiacids
Reduced or quitting the use of tobacco and or alcohol.

In my opinion these treatments will work for a while even cause further complications. Although without a beneficial lifestyle change the disease will come back. What is a disease anyway? Its a dis-ease. So one who is not at ease, but in a dis-ease or disharmony.
In Chinese Medicine, peptic ulcers can be associated with seventeen so-called "patterns of disharmony" (6)

From Eastern medical approach:

Peptic ulcers are a problem seen in Chinese Medicine as often involving weakness of the spleen, stagnation of stomach qi and stagnation of the liver which overstrains the stomach. Liver stagnation also causes depression and anxiety, so there can be an emotional aspect to peptic ulcers. (7)

I found the article discussing peptic acid and the seventeen patterns of disharmony very useful and those who want to find out more in dept information about treatment with various herb formulas please consult their webpage. (6)

Treatment:

change in diet
mind-body exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, and regular massage therapy are tools that can help to reduce your stress (8)
ayurvedic treatment (9)
herb formulas (6)
accupressure points (10)
accupunture (11)
essential oils (12)

Massage Therapy and Peptic Ulcer Prevention

2nd Part:

Anger, stress, trauma, frustration are all deposited somewhere in our physical body and if we dont learn to heal ourselves they will continue to fester and eventually cause discomfort and pain.
The gut-brain connection is no joke; it can link anxiety to stomach problems and vice versa. (13) Our digestive system doesnt just process the physical food, but also the psychical ones.

We keep churning negative thoughts, daily life stress, unhappy relations, unresolved childhood traumas etc. in our brain-gut system which eventually will cause an inflamation and if left untreated can develop into ulcer or tumor. A tiny bacteria named H. pylori gets the blame nowadays for peptic ulcers and problem solved with antibiotics and PPIs. Is it so in reality? Can we prevent the development of gastric imbalance with massage therapy and other alternative remedies?

Prevention:

Research has shown that regular massage therapy can lower heart rate and blood pressure, relax muscles and increase the production of endorphins, the body's natural "feel good" chemical. Serotonin and dopamine are also released through massage, and the result is a feeling of calm relaxation that makes chronic or habitual as well as acute or short-term stress much easier to overcome. (14) There are many more components to understanding how therapeutic massage techniques can address the sensitive digestive system and the emotions related to the brain-gut connection. Visceral massage is part of both functional medicine and ancient traditional therapy. (15)

Regular massage therapy and lifestyle changes go hand in hand towards a better gut-brain communication, towards a balanced life, towards a better Qi flow.

However, if peptic ulcer already developed and abdmoinal pain or discomfort is present, the massage therapist has to make sure client is lying in a comfortable position. Light abdominal massage advised.

Author: A. Czimmerman

Student of Oriental Health Institute of Alaska

Text References:

1. https://health.usnews.com/conditions/articles/does-stress-cause-stomach-ulcers

2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/symptoms-causes/syc-20354223

3. https://www.aventinomedicalgroup.com/oldsite/documents/Stress_PU_JAMA.pdf

4. https://www.webmd.com/digesdiative-disorders/peptic-ulcer-overview

5. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/treatment

6. https://www.meandqi.com/tcm-education-center/diseases/peptic_ulcers

7. https://asante-academy.com/chinese-medicine-ailments-and-symptoms/pepticulcer/

8.https://www.verywellhealth.com/living-with-peptic-ulcers-1742816

9. https://www.theayurveda.org/ayurveda/herbal-medicine/herbal-remedies-cure-stomach-disease-peptic-ulcers

10. https://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-for-acid-reflux-gerd-heartburn/

11. https://spauldingchiropractic.com/acupuncture-peptic-ulcer-relief-confirmed/

12. https://www.sepalika.com/gerd/essential-oils-for-stomach-ulcers/

13. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connection

14. https://mcshane.massagetherapy.com/stress-and-massage

15. https://www.massagetherapycanada.com/visceral-massage-the-mind-gut-interaction-and-the-role-of-the-massage-therapist-4123/

Image references:

https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/peptic-ulcer-disease-drug-pipeline-what-you-need-know

https://www.verywellhealth.com/living-with-peptic-ulcers-1742816

https://spinalvitality.com/2019/06/04/improving-dementia-alzheimers-and-more/gut-brain-axis/

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Epilepsy

2021-02-07T23:09:00.002-09:00

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Epilepsy

Epilepsy: A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

There are two main types of seizures; focus/partial and generalized-onset.

Within each type there are subsections varying in severity
Focus/Partial: When seizures appear to result from abnormal activity in just one area of your brain, they're called focal (partial) seizures. These seizures fall into two categories:

Focal seizures without loss of consciousness. Once called simple partial seizures, these seizures don't cause a loss of consciousness. They may alter emotions or change the way things look, smell, feel, taste or sound. They may also result in involuntary jerking of a body part, such as an arm or leg, and spontaneous sensory symptoms such as tingling, dizziness and flashing lights.
Focal seizures with impaired awareness. Once called complex partial seizures, these seizures involve a change or loss of consciousness or awareness. During a complex partial seizure, you may stare into space and not respond normally to your environment or perform repetitive movements, such as hand rubbing, chewing, swallowing or walking in circles.

Symptoms of focal seizures may be confused with other neurological disorders, such as migraine, narcolepsy or mental illness. A thorough examination and testing are needed to distinguish epilepsy from other disorders.
Generalized-Onset: Generalized-onset seizures are surges of abnormal nerve discharges throughout the cortex of the brain more or less at the same time. The most common cause is an imbalance in the “brakes” (inhibitory circuits) and “accelerator” (excitatory circuits) of electrical activity in the brain.

Genetic Considerations

Generalized seizures may have a genetic component, but only a small number of people with generalized seizures have family members with the same condition. There is a slight increase in risk for generalized seizures in the children or other family members of an affected person with generalized seizures, but the severity of the seizures can vary from person to person. Genetic testing may reveal a cause for generalized seizures.
Sleep deprivation or drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase the excitatory response and increase the risk of generalized-onset seizures, especially in people with a genetic tendency to have them.

Absence seizures

Absence seizures, previously known as petit mal seizures, often occur in children and are characterized by staring into space or subtle body movements such as eye blinking or lip smacking. These seizures may occur in clusters and cause a brief loss of awareness.

Tonic seizures

Tonic seizures cause stiffening of your muscles. These seizures usually affect muscles in your back, arms and legs and may cause you to fall to the ground.

Atonic seizures

Atonic seizures, also known as drop seizures, cause a loss of muscle control, which may cause you to suddenly collapse or fall down.

Clonic seizures

Clonic seizures are associated with repeated or rhythmic, jerking muscle movements. These seizures usually affect the neck, face and arms.

Myoclonic seizures

Myoclonic seizures usually appear as sudden brief jerks or twitches of your arms and legs.

Tonic-clonic seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, are the most dramatic type of epileptic seizure and can cause an abrupt loss of consciousness, body stiffening and shaking, and sometimes loss of bladder control or biting your tongue.

Causes: Epilepsy has no identifiable cause in about half the people with the condition. In the other half, the condition may be traced to various factors, including:

Genetic influence. Some types of epilepsy, which are categorized by the type of seizure you experience or the part of the brain that is affected, run in families. In these cases, it's likely that there's a genetic influence.

Researchers have linked some types of epilepsy to specific genes, but for most people, genes are only part of the cause of epilepsy. Certain genes may make a person more sensitive to environmental conditions that trigger seizures.

Head trauma. Head trauma as a result of a car accident or other traumatic injury can cause epilepsy.
Brain conditions. Brain conditions that cause damage to the brain, such as brain tumors or strokes, can cause epilepsy. Stroke is a leading cause of epilepsy in adults older than age 35.
Infectious diseases. Infectious diseases, such as meningitis, AIDS and viral encephalitis, can cause epilepsy.
Prenatal injury. Before birth, babies are sensitive to brain damage that could be caused by several factors, such as an infection in the mother, poor nutrition or oxygen deficiencies. This brain damage can result in epilepsy or cerebral palsy.
Developmental disorders. Epilepsy can sometimes be associated with developmental disorders, such as autism and neurofibromatosis.

Indications and Contraindications: It very much depends on the type of seizures that an individual suffers from and care needs to be taken as over-stimulation may trigger an attack. Each person and their epilepsy should be considered individually

Clients who suffer from tonic-clonic seizures, it is beneficial to work on the body and limbs due to the contraction of these areas during their seizures
Hot stone and grounding head massages are known to be generally safe but energy work to the head should always be avoided.
Reflexology can be deeply relaxing for some people, so it could be of great use to those whose epilepsy is triggered by stress.
Certain essential oils such as fennel, rosemary and sage, [amongst others, ask your doctor for a comprehensive list] should be avoided as they are known to increase the risk of seizures. Make sure your therapist is a qualified aromatherapist with the knowledge of which oils to avoid and alternatives to go for – ylang ylang, chamomile and lavender have a relaxing and calming effect, which could ward off a seizure too.
If a ketogenic diet is being used to improve epilepsy symptoms let your therapist know. Weakness, dizziness, sleepiness and diarrhea are all side effects that may mean the practitioner will want to adapt the session slightly.
Cupping where epileptics who experience seizures would not be a good candidate for service. That is because if an epileptic had a seizure and fell to the ground with glass or plastic cups stuck to them, the cup could break or cut the client and provide a greater medical problem beyond the seizure itself.

Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Vitamin and folic acid supplements can help to control epileptic seizures, however, these need to be carried out with strict medical supervision as adverse effects can also happen. Vitamin B6, taurine (an amino acid) and omega 3 fatty acids are also known to help patients with epilepsy.
There is a Chinese herb called bupleurum which is used in combination with peony root, cassia bark, jujube fruit, ginger root and pinellia root to form two different herbal formulae known as sho-saiko and saiko-keishi. Other ingredients in the two formulae are ginseng root, licorice root and skullcap root. These Chinese medicines are known to help people with epilepsy without any negative side effects.
Acupuncture and massage therapy are other therapies for epilepsy that have had a significant presence in the treatment of this disorder.

Acupuncture has been known to reduce seizures and also control abnormal brain activity that causes the seizures. Studies in China have established that treatment of epilepsy where acupuncture and massage is used along with certain herbs have had the best results.
A study in Germany which involved almost a hundred people established that acupuncture treatment over a period of up to 18 months showed marked improvement in 65 percent of the cases. All drugs were discontinued during the period of the test.
There are two types of massage therapy that have been known to be effective in treating epileptic patients. They are Cranial-Sacral Therapy and Aromatherapy.

Cranial-Sacral therapy helps to get fluid moving freely around the brain thus releasing any blockages that can cause seizures.
Aromatherapy using Jasmine makes the patient associate the scent with relaxation and this induced state of relaxation can reduce the possibility of seizures.

There are Yin and Yang seizures. Yin seizures are rarely connected with epilepsy. Yang seizures are clenched and spastic. In some cases seizures are caused by a deficiency of Yin (in the Yin-Yang medical theory, this means an insufficiency of cooling bodily fluids) in the Liver or Kidney. Sometimes emotional constraint can lead to the Liver overheating, resulting in internal Wind.
The causes of epilepsy can be summarized as congenital (present from birth but not hereditary) and acquired.

Congenital causes include an impairment of the transfer of Qi (the body’s essential energy) from the fetes to the baby.
Acquired causes include craniocerebral trauma; syncope; blood stagnation in the blood vessels and nerves; cerebrum and parasites in the brain; depletion in the nourishment of the heart and mind; suffocation, etc.

For the purposes of syndrome differentiation, epilepsy is classified as being due to Fright (including chronic fear unsettling the mind); due to Wind (fever); due to phlegm (characterized by a weak mind and dementia) and due to blood stasis (caused by craniocerebral trauma and characterized by headaches).

For epilepsy due to Fright, treatment will aim to calm the mind and eliminate fright.
For epilepsy due to Wind, treatment focuses on eliminating the Wind and relieving convulsion.
For epilepsy due to phlegm build-up, the focus will be on regulating the body’s Qi, removing the phlegm and resuscitating the patient.
For epilepsy due to blood stasis, treatment will re-activate blood circulation in order to induce resuscitation and stopping Wind.

According to Chinese Medicine theory both acupuncture and Chinese herbs can be used either during or after seizure. Since repeated seizures are often caused by a large accumulation of phlegm according to CM theory, eliminating phlegm is one of the priorities.
For patients who experience seizures on rare occasions, the Chinese Medical treatment focuses on strengthening the Spleen, nourishing the Liver, relieving spasm and also removing phlegm.
Heart, Liver, Spleen and Kidney are all affected and require attention as part of the treatment.
For best results, Chinese medicine must be combined with Western medicines.

Resources/Citations

2021-01-13T12:16:00.000-09:00

Information on Headaches, Migraines and Vestibular Migraines:

What they are, what to do about them and Holistic Approaches to Healing them: Did you Know you Could Experience a Migraine without a Headache at all? Did you Know that your Migraine could cause temporary Numbness, Tingling, Vertigo and Visionary Problems?

Vestibular migraine is the most common neurological cause of vertigo in adults, affecting almost 10 million Americans. It is also under-diagnosed and under-recognized. Only about 20% of people suffering from vestibular migraine are diagnosed correctly.

Vestibular migraine is an invisible illness, on the surface everything looks fine, but underneath, vestibular migraine sits like a serpent ready to strike at any moment with the violence of a tornado. It does not care about your job, friends, family or life. The fear of it striking is paralyzing. What if it strikes while you are driving, or in public, or worst when no one is around to help you. It embarrasses you; it leaves you with guilt from missing out on opportunities, it condemns you for being a burden to others. While others around you can see a person with a visible disability or even a broken leg, they cannot see the invisible vertigo and debilitating dizziness that can come on at any time, like working on a computer, or being out at dinner, driving in traffic. There are no regular lab tests or imaging tests to diagnose it. You cannot just try to appear normal and get back to work; you cannot will it away. You need to take action!

Here are some of the common misdiagnoses for vestibular migraine; this is just some of them! Meniere’s disease, perilymph fistula, vestibular neuritis, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, ear infections, allergies, sinus problems, deviated septum, multiple sclerosis, mini stroke, heart problems, epilepsy, anxiety, depression and even cancer.

Getting the right diagnosis is extremely important because it validates you, it will let your friends, family and coworkers know there is something validly wrong and it will also stop all the craziness of going to multiple practitioners for irrelevant surgeries, drugs, and treatments that will make the matter worst when attempting to cure an invalid illness.

Migraine can be diagnosed after experiencing at least 5 headaches lasting from 4-72 hours sever enough to impact routine daily activity, accompanied by nausea, or light/ sound sensitivity.

Migraines are categorized into 4 parts: premonitory, aura, attack, and postdrome.

The premonitory can start up to three days before the attack and may include fatigue, food cravings, excessive yawning, cognitive changes, and mood swings.

The aura is characterized by transient neurological changes that last from 5 – 60 minutes, most commonly experienced as visual phenomena like flashes of light, colorful squiggly lines, zigzag patterns, or black spots. Some people may experience sensory symptoms like numbness, tingling, or unusual sensations as part of their aura. More unusual auras include word-finding difficulty or weakness or numbness on half of their body.

The attack will last from 4-72 hours and be painful enough to most likely need to lay down and can be accompanied by nausea, and light or sound sensitivity.

The Postdrome of migraine involves aftershocks, people usually experience lethargy, trouble concentrating, depressed mood, and in rare cases euphoria.

Migraine is not just another headache; and vestibular migraine is not just a migraine with dizziness!

What caused you to get a vestibular migraine? There is not a sure answer, but it was not something you did. Vestibular migraines are caused by some known things which include: Stress, Depression, Genetics, Hormonal Changes, and Sub-optimal Vitamin and Nutrient levels (which could have been from as long ago as birth, not necessarily recent)

This is a brief history of how a migraine starts and develops:

A migraine starts at the trigeminal system, the largest of the cranial nerves, which mediates sensation of the head, face, dura, and the surface of the blood vessels inside the skull. The cascade of migraine begins with neuronal dysfunction called cortical spreading depression, which triggers activation of the trigeminal system leading to changes in the dura and upper cervical cord. Migraine related changes also take place within the upper cervical cord. Then the dysfunction spreads to the thalamus, hypothalamus, the locus coeruleus located in the brain stem and the brain stem center.

It was in 1999 the term vestibular migraine was ever used in a study by Drs Dieterick & Brandt. The first set of diagnostic criteria was published by Dr. Neuhauser and colleges in 2001 and in 2012 The International Barnay Society and The International Headache Society collaborated to publish the criteria we use today. It is as follows:

A: At least 5 episodes lasting 5 minutes to 72 hours

B: Current or previous history of migraines with or without aura

C: 1 or more migraine feature with at least 50% vestibular episodes: headache with at least 2 of the following characteristics: unilateral, pulsated/ throbbing, moderate or severe intensity, aggravated by normal routine and activity, photophobia or phonophobia, visual aura

D: Not better accounted for by another vestibular or ICHD diagnosis

These are some of the vitamin, essential oils, herbs, and nutrients recommended by Dr. Beh to help combat vestibular migraine:

Vitamin B2, CoQ10, Magnesium, Vitamin D, Folate, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12, Vitamin C & E, Boswellia, Fever Few, Ginger, Ginko Biloba, Melatonin, Peppermint oil (for pressure points), Rose, Lavender and Eucalyptus oils to breathe, Omega fatty acids, probiotics, tryptophan, turmeric.

Dr. Beh recommends among other options Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, chiropractic therapy, physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture (make sure your acupuncturist is licensed in the state you are in), acupressure.

For headaches, acupoint L14 (Hegu) is located at the base of the thumb and index finger. Use your right thumb to apply firm pressure at this point while moving it in a slow circular motion for 5 minutes. You do not have to press so hard as to cause pain. Repeat this on the right hand. Some vendors sell plastic clips that can be applied to this acupoint, but many people use clothespins with just as much benefit at a fraction of the price.

For stress: acupoint Extra 1 Yintang is right between the eyebrows. Apply gentle pressure between your eyebrows at this point with your thumb, moving with a slow circular motion for 5 – 10 minutes with your eyes closed.

For vertigo, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting: acupoint P6 Neiguan is located on the inner forearm, three finger-breadths from your wrist. You will feel the two prominent tendons that connect the forearm muscles to your fingers at this point. Use your index finger or thumb to press firmly while moving it in a slow circular motion for 3 minutes, repeat on the other forearm, Sea bands are bands that are worn at this point to apply pressure at P6. Some products apply electrical stimulation at this acupoint.

Dr. Beh describes vestibular migraine as Alice in Wonderland syndrome because the symptoms can be so unusual, devastating and there are a whole plethora of possibilities. Some of these unusual symptoms are: Feeling parts of your body do not belong to you, feeling really large where you can see above the treetops or really tiny, seeing double vision, sparkly lights, zigzags, an aura around people, seeing animals that are not there, having time lapses or time slows down, so you could be driving at 80 mph and think you are only doing 20 mph...or the other way around, there can be brain fog, word loss, or the complete loss of ability to move or speak for a short amount of time (because the aura portion lasts for a shorter portion of time) Vestibular migraine can mimic TIA! The body can become numb and droopy on one side, combined with an inability to speak or the ability to move it is easy to see how a vestibular migraine with an aura could be mistaken as a stroke!

There is a whole tirade of medications used for migraines and taking them can make your migraine worst, that being said Dr. Beh does strongly suggest that you find a rescue medication that works for you. That is something you know will work and that can be sprayed in your mouth or dissolved under your tongue, this is something you would carry with you at all times.

In his book: “Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind” Zen Master Shuryn Suzuki Roshi said, “In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.”

This can be said of working for the relief of migraine because in the beginning there are a lot of options and hope, but as time and options go by, there becomes less hope for a cure and relief.

We have talked before about the placebo effect and how so many people can take a treatment and get better just because of their belief in the treatment alone. Visualization works on this level as well. In visualization you visualize yourself doing the event as if it was happening right now, or visualize yourself healthy and fully healed right now. For this reason, hypnotherapy or self-hypnosis works really well also.

2000 Olympic champion platform diver Laura Wilkinson suffered from a foot injury that kept her from practicing her dives for 2 months before the Olympics, usually enough to put a person out of contending due to loss of muscle and practice. China was already determined to be the winner as they had won the event 7 out of 8 of the last Olympic event years. Laura practiced visualization and won in spite of her injury and lack of physical practice. She was the first American in 36 years to have won!

Triggers for migraine are categorized as: Dietary, Environmental, Lifestyle, Physical, Medication, and hormonal.

It can be very tricky to figure out what might or might not be a trigger for your migraine, for this reason, it is important to always keep a migraine diary and include everything every day so you can go back and see where the cause might have been. Here are some of the things you might be looking for:

Dietary:

Cheese, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, beans, caffeine, chocolate, dairy, citrus, fatty foods, food sensitivity, lack of water, nitrates, nuts, pickled foods, sugar, additives, wheat/ gluten, msg.

Hormonal:

Birth control – pills, patch, IUD

Hormone replacement therapy

Menopause, pre-menopause, menstruation, ovulation, pregnancy

Environmental:

Air pollution, bright light, florescent light, chemical sensitivity, smoke, cold, damp weather, dim light, dry air, fumes, heat, noise, humidity, strong odors/ perfumes.

Lifestyle:

Smoking, disrupted sleep, excessive sleep, fatigue, insufficient sleep, let down headache, motion, drugs, routine change, stress, and travel.

Medications:

Analgesic, antiasthma, antidepressants, antiseizure, blood pressure, blood vessel dilators, diuretics, drug cocktails, ergotamines, opioids, and triptans.

Physical:

Allergy, computer/ cell phone overuse, exercise, sex/ sports exertion, eyestrain, flu, cold, virus, head trauma, neck, shoulder, back tension, poor posture, sedentary lifestyle, sinusitis, rhinitis.

Record everything. It is tricky because a glass of wine that seems to have caused a migraine could be categorized as an alcohol trigger, or a sulfites trigger, tyramine, lack of water, or it could be lack of protein on the day it was consumed!

A 2 oz square of dark chocolate contains 40 mgs of caffeine just like a shot of espresso, so it might be a caffeine trigger or a chocolate trigger, or even a sugar trigger.

Dr.Rodolfo Low, a chemist, professor, Ford Foundation advisor, and migraine sufferer presented his findings of 22 years of clinical research on migraine and blood glucose in his book "Migraine: The Breakthrough Study That Explains What Causes It and How It Can Be Completely Prevented Through Diet." In his findings he determined that migraine sufferers could eliminate their migraines completely by better managing their blood sugar levels and he advised a hypoglycemic diet.

"You can't eat just one." - Lays Potato Chips

Hypoglycemic diet:

When your blood sugar is low, your body produces stress hormones to boost your energy level wreaking havoc on your neuroendocrine system. This stress causes you to store fat and crave simple sugars and carbohydrates. When you change your eating schedule to eat less, but more often and more protein your body no longer thinks it is starving and you store less fat.

The U.S. is the only place where sugar is what's for breakfast.

Eat early protein, your pancreas has been busy while you were asleep producing insulin and you need protein first thing in the morning; before you go off to work or start your daily routine and forget about it!

Eat every 2-3 hours first the meal and then 2-3 hours later a snack.

Eat protein at every meal and snack.

Eat first thing after you wake up, no matter what your schedule is.

Cut out caffeine a quarter every week and at the end of a month, you will have successfully and safely eliminated caffeine.

Do not skip any meals or snacks or go hungry. If you are hungry at least eat a protein.

Do not eat a dessert without a protein.

Take or eat essential fatty acids daily also take magnesium daily.

Drink at least 2 quarts of water per day, in addition to the decaff, herbal teas, juice, and milk you drink daily.

"I die by the help of too many physicians; it was the crowd of physicians that killed me." - Alexander The Great on his death bed

MOH Drugs ~ Medication overuse headaches:

So you have a bad migraine and you seek medical help and receive a prescription or even over the counter medication, now it might or might not work, but you are scared to stop taking it because what if it does help and you stop taking it, then the migraines might be even worst (if that could be possible!) On the other hand, the migraines are horrible, so you go and find another specialist and more medication...and on and on the merry go round goes. Here is a list of medications that can give you MOH migraines:

Tylenol, Acetaminophen, NSAIDS, Ibuprophren

Combination Analgesics: Excedrin, Fioricet, Esgic, Phrenilin

Ergotamine: Cafergot, DHE

Triptans: Imitrex, Zomig, Maxalt, Relipax, Treximet, Amerge

Opioids: Tylenol 3, Vicodin, Demerol, Percocet, Dilaudid, Morphine

Other off-label brands of medications as well.

Instead try Vitamin B2, CoQ10, Essential Fatty Acids, Butterbur, Feverfew, and Magnesium. Canibus helps some, but it can also be a trigger.

For Hormonal Migraine Try: Dong Quai, Black Cohosh, Ginseng, DHEA, and Qi tonics

Migraines are a wood element in traditional Chinese Medicine, but metal controls the wood element so breath is very important!

About Breathing: The Hawaiian term for outsiders is "haoles" meaning people without breath. Hawaiians are in tune with their breathing and perceive how other people's breath appear in their bodies.

Stress and the fight or flight syndrome bring a tightness to the chest and a shallow short breath. Babies were not born that way. They breathe deeply all the way in and out of what appears to be their bellies. They are still breathing with their lungs and diaphragm, but they are so relaxed their diaphragm relaxes and they can expand their lungs way down to their bellies!

Relax the lungs, abdomen and the diaphragm will drop allowing the lungs to open and breathe deeper.

Exercises for breathing:

Lay on the floor with your feet together and your arms out to form a T.

Find the "hinges" in your spine:

1) find the Yes / No hing by shaking your head no, and nodding your head yes

2) at the back of your waistband arch the small of your back off the floor at the waist keeping your hips on the floor and reflattening it.

3) find the front of each hip joint where the thigh bone meets the pelvis. Practice with the back hing.

Imagine you are breathing with your whole body and a gentle wave is moving through you.

Breath in; fill your abdomen as if blowing up a balloon, round out the space below your waist between your belly button and the top of your pubic bone.

As you inhale lift your waistline, but not your hips off the floor arching the small of your back.

Let the movement of your spine follow the breath, not the breath follow the movement of the spine.

Exhale: as you flatten the small of your back against the floor and feel the pelvis tilt up. Do not engage or squeeze your butt, legs, or thighs.

Continue inhaling and exhaling. The sensations are subtle like a wave. Let yourself flow into them, feeling your tailbone roll up and down the floor.

Many more exercises are available.

"Psyche and bodywork sympathetically, it seems to me. A change in the state of psyche produces a change in the structure of the body... conversely, a change in the structure of the body produces a change in the state of the psyche." - Artistotle, Physiognomonica

Practice meditation. Learn mindful meditation. While in pain get into meditation and find a pain point, feel, and name the pain; what kind of pain is it? Where exactly in the body is it? Keep describing it and meditating on it until it dissipates... then move on to the nest pain point until they are all dissipated.

Self-massage for migraines:

1) Sit in a straight-backed chair, feet hip-distance apart, legs perpendicular to the floor or extended out slightly

2) Place both elbows on the table or desk and place your hands one on the front and one on the back of your head.

3)Let your upper body bend at the waist and lean over the table at a 45-degree angle, so your head falls into your front hand and your neck is relaxed. Situate your chair at the distance from the table that allows your upper torso to be at 45 degrees.

Whenever possible, apply therapy sooner rather than later, just as you would with any acute medication or therapy. It's usually much easier to abort a migraine if you catch it before it escalates.

1. Position your body either sitting and leaning over a desk or a table, sitting on a couch or in bed with knees up in a fetal position.

2. Loosen any stuck, tight, painful areas in the lower skull, neck, forehead, or jaw with self-massage until the headache shifts to the front of the head. Skip this if the migraine is solely in the front of the head.

3. Place both elbows on the table, so your arms don't get tired from being held up.

4. Make puppy dog paws and drape your front hand gently across your forehead, thumb extended. Use the hand on the same side that your headache is on. Relaxing the back of your neck, let your head fall into front hand in the "Oy! I've got such a headache" position shown earlier in steps 1,2, and 3.

5. Find the headache in front: Use the pad of your thumb to find your pain by listening for pulsations and other sensations. Note, pressing too hard makes it difficult to locate the pulsing point.

6. Lightly position your cupped back hand on the back of your head, with your palm on or above the occipital ridge, not your neck. Place the center of your palm approximately 180 degrees from the headache point you are working on in front. The back hand should be relaxed and receptive, barely touching your hair, with your attention lightly aware of it.

7. With your front hand thumb, attend to and FLATTEN each pulsing point one at a time.

8. Flatten it with your touch, mindful meditation, and visualization.

9. As the headache begins to dissipate, let your back hand come into work and awareness.

10. As the headache points dissipate notice any sensations of heat, tingling, wave, a magnetic pull that come into your back hand and keep the hand in place.

11. Shift your attention to the back hand and notice how the sensations begin to increase in intensity.

12. Notice the sensations in your back hand begin to subside now.

13. Both the increase and the decrease in the back hand mean the headache is shifting and releasing.

14. Work on all the headache points using an inchworm technique.

15. Say seated and relaxed, do belly breathing, keep your eyes closed, and don't test the migraine too soon. This whole sequence can take 5 minutes or an hour depending on how severe the migraine is. Shake out your hands without jostling your head and neck. If the migraine returns start over and repeat.

There are many more treatments, techniques, and ideas in the wonderful books in my reference section.

Please also open this link to see 35 images I was unable to place into this document.

www.bing.com/saves/share?shareid=44690ed202154aceb34d5016f15e8af0

References:

Hell's Kitchen

J.D. Wallach BS, DVM, ND

Ma Lan, MD, MS, LAc

Victory over Vestibular Migraine

The Action Plan for Healing and Getting Your Life Back

Shin C. Beh, MD

Heal Your Headache

The 1.2.3. Program for Taking Charge of Your Pain

David Buchholz, MD

The Headache Healer's Handbook

A Holistic, Hands On Somatic Selfcare Program for Headache and Migraine Relief and Prevention

Jan Mundo CMSC, CMT

Migraines and the Efficacy of Massage Therapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine

2021-01-10T22:03:00.002-09:00

75% of adults ages 18-65 have reported experiencing a headache in the last year. 14.7% of the world population suffers from migraines, typically one a month. 2% suffer from chronic migraines, suffering 15+ days per month. Women are three times more likely than men to be afflicted. While headaches are common and tolerable, not affecting daily life, migraines are deeply misunderstood. The suffering is invisible, left at home, the afflicted cancelling plans last minute, calling out of work, remaining isolated for hours or even days. For those not understanding migraines, the thought of staying home from work or cancelling on friends for a mere headache seems like a cop out or of weak constitution. The misunderstanding is that a migraine is just another word for headache, synonymous in meaning, which couldn’t be further from the truth.

Migraine is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a severe throbbing pain or pulsing sensation, often presented on one side of the head (usually the left), and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound. They can last for hours or even days, with pain so severe it interferes with daily life. Four typical phases have been identified:

Phase 1 - Prodrome: warning signs up to 72 hours before a migraine hits, include severe exhaustion, hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating, food cravings, sleepiness, and/or neck pain;

Phase 2 - Aura: visual disturbance reported in 33% of those suffering from migraines and may last from 20-60 minutes. Vision may be interrupted by sparkly spots, zigzag lines, or tunnel vision; can present in vertigo, ear ringing, or temporary paralysis on one side of the body; pins and needles sensation in face, hands, arms or legs;

Phase 3 - Migraine Attack: throbbing, piercing, or pulsating, difficult to manage the pain with medication; sensitivity to light, sound, smell; nausea and vomiting; can occur over hours or days;

Phase 4 - Postdrome: recovery period in which the afflicted may feel exhausted, sluggish, confused, and/or depressed.

The cause behind migraine is fairly unclear, however, it is generally accepted that genetics and environmental factors play a role. Although previously considered a vascular issue, migraine is actually a neurological disease. Leading research focuses on interactions with the trigeminal nerve (a major pain pathway) or imbalances in brain chemicals (like serotonin) to try to find a cause. Triggers include:

hormonal changes in women,
drinks: alcohol, too much caffeine
stress
sensory stimuli: bright lights, sun glare, loud sounds, strong smells
sleep changes: lacking sleep, too much sleep, jet lag
physical exertion
weather changes/barometric pressure
medications: oral contraceptives, vasodilators
foods: types of food eaten or the lack of food/skipping a meal
food additives: ex. aspartame

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views the cause of migraines either an environmental invasion of external wind, cold, heat, dampness (i.e. sitting directly in the fan of frigid air-conditioning) or poor lifestyle creating imbalances of the body’s vitals (i.e. poor sleep, high stress) (Quek). There are five types of migraine, according to TCM:

“1. Liver-Yang Aggression: Pulsaing/throbbing headaches triggered by heat, stress or foul temper, dizziness and confusion, dry mouth, insomnia, painful and itchy eyes, yellowish urine.

2. Stagnant Blood: Localized sharp piercing pain with throbbing sensations, painful when pressed on even when not going through a migraine attack, dry mouth in the night, dried and flaky skin, sharp pains in the eyes.

3. External Wind and Cold: Headaches triggered by cold or dry air, mild dizziness, stiff neck, aversion to cold environment, pain alleviated by a hot compress.

4. Liver-Qi Stagnation: Expanding, throbbing headaches, triggered by stress or negative emotions, depression, mood swings, breathlessness, loss of appetite.

5. Phlegm Blockage: Heavy and pulsating headaches, extreme dizziness and sleepiness, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, indigestion, reduced urination, irregular bowel movements.” (Quek)

TCM suggests treating migraine with acupuncture, typically most effective in the middle of an episode, but also effective at the prodrome or aura stages. TuiNa, especially for those with an aversion to needles, is effective for all stages of migraine and help with migraine prevention and symptom reduction. Scraping, to remove myofascial trigger points. And herbal medication, for all stages, to help alleviate symptoms.

Because TCM treats the person as an individual, there isn’t one single diagnosis. Western medicine has options for injections and medications, both prescription and over-the-top, to assist with oncoming attacks, during attacks, and the prevention of attacks. Research is still developing, and as with TCM, there is no one size fits all treatment in Western medicine.

SOURCES

“Facts and Figures.” The Migraine Trust, 5 July 2019, www.migrainetrust.org/about-migraine/migraine-what-is-it/facts-figures/.

Golden, Katie M. “Tackling Migraines Head-On: Massage Therapy Journal.” American Massage Therapy Association, 23 May 2017, www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/tackling-migraines-head-on/.

“Migraine.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 16 Jan. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201.

“People with Migraine Endure More Social Stigma than Those with Asthma.” American Headache Society, 16 Feb. 2016, americanheadachesociety.org/news/people-with-migraine-endure-greater-social-stigma-than-those-with-asthma-same-as-those-with-epilepsy-or-panic-disorder-2/.

Quek, Ardy. “Migraine 101 - Causes & TCM Treatments.” PULSE TCM, 28 Oct. 2020, www.pulsetcm.sg/migraine-101-causes-and-tcm-treatments/#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20causes%20of,head%20and%20triggering%20migraine%20episodes.

images:

https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/can-headaches-worsen-in-number/

https://migrainebuddy.com/migraine/2018/9/27/the-stages-of-a-migraine-migraine-attack

https://sofiatrends.com/?s=headacheno,%20headache%20relief,%20tension%20headaches.html

Massage Therapy and HIV/AIDS: An Approach from Eastern and Western Medicine Perspective

2021-01-09T15:26:00.001-09:00

HIV/AIDs and Massage Therapy: Western and Eastern Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches.

HIV-Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Uncopyrighted photo, obtained via internet open source

A client comes into your office for massage therapy and discloses to you that they have HIV or AIDS. What does a massage therapist do when presented with a client with HIV or AIDS?

Let’s start with the basics. What is HIV/AIDS? Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) gradually destroys the immune system by attacking and destroying a type of white blood cell called a CD4 cell. CD4 cells play a major role in protecting the body from infection. T cells originate in the bone marrow and mature in the thymus. In the thymus, T cells multiply and differentiate into Helper, regulatory, or Cytotoxic T cells or become memory T cells. HIV virus attaches itself to a Helper T-cell and fuses with it. It then takes control of the cell’s DNA, makes copies of itself inside the cell, and finally releases more HIV virus into the blood. HIV will continue to multiply and spread throughout the body. The amount of HIV cells circulating in the body is detected via a blood test to count the number of CD4 Helper T Cells with HIV viral DNA.

There are three stages to an HIV infection; Stage 1, Acute infection, Stage 2 Clinical Latent infection, and Stage 3, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Stage 1: Acute HIV infection. Within 2 to 4 weeks after infection with HIV, about two-thirds of people will have a flu-like illness. This is the body’s natural response to HIV infection. Stage 1 fly-like symptoms can include: fever chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers. These symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, some people do not have any symptoms at all during this early stage of HIV infection.

Stage 2: Clinical Latency. In this stage, the virus still multiplies, but at very low levels. People in this stage may not feel sick or have any symptoms. This stage is also called chronic HIV infection. Without HIV treatment, people can stay in this HIV latent clinical stage for 10 or 15 years some move through this stage faster.

Stage 3: AIDS. Anyone with an HIV infection and not on HIV treatment, eventually, the virus will weaken the body’s immune system and progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). This is the late stage of HIV infection. Symptoms of AIDS can include: rapid weight loss, recurring fever or profuse night sweats, extreme and unexplained tiredness, prolonged swelling of the lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck. Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week. Other symptoms may include: sores of the mouth, anus or genitals; pneumonia; red, brown, pink or purplish blotches on or under the skin or inside the mouth, nose or eyelids; memory loss, depression, and other neurologic disorders. Many of the severe symptoms and illnesses of HIV disease come from the opportunistic infections that occur because the body’s immune system has been damaged.

[HIV/AIDS Signs and Symptoms. uncopyrighted photo obtained via internet open source]

Western Treatment for HIV AIDS:

As a massage therapist, it is helpful to know how HIV /AIDS is treated by western medicine as it may affect the approach you use on your clients. The goal of treatment is to limit or decrease the HIV viral load. HIV medicine should be taken every day, exactly as prescribed, it can achieve an undetectable viral load. An undetectable viral load means there is effectively no risk of transmitting HIV to sexual partners. However, if viral load is detectable, then HIV can be transmitted sexually during this stage, even with no symptoms. Treatment for HIV is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART involves taking a combination of IV medicine (called an HIV treatment regimen every day). ART is recommended for everyone who has an HIV infection, whether they have symptoms or not and irrespective of how long they have been infected.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) prevents the virus from multiplying, which reduces the amount of HIV in the body. This gives the immune system a chance to produce more CD4 Helper T cells. Although antiretroviral therapy cannot completely remove HIV from the body, it keeps the immune system strong enough to combat the infections and some HIV-related concerns. The aim of antiretroviral therapy is to reduce the amount of HIV in the blood to very-low levels. Viral suppression occurs when the count reaches fewer than 200 copies of the virus per milliliter(mL) of blood.

ART drugs can have adverse effects and newer drugs tend to cause fewer and less severe side effects. Some possible side effects of antiretroviral therapy include: headache, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, a dry mouth, a rash, dizziness, and pain.

Massage Indications/Contraindications:

Massage Indications: for patients with HIV/AIDS symptoms massage can help to decrease pain by providing relief from; cramping, body tension, muscle spasm, and inflammation. Massage therapy in general also increases blood flow, thus naturally assist in removing toxins as it increases oxygen to the affected areas of the body.

Massage Contraindications: None. Other than following established Bloodborne Pathogen Guidelines established by the OSHA, massage therapy is not contraindicated in clients with HIV/AIDS.

Universal Precautions for Massage Therapy of HIV/AIDS clients:

HIV is transmitted through contact with fluids during sexual activity, sharing needles, breastfeed, or contact with blood. Casual physical contact presents very little, if any, risk of exposure to the HIV virus, making massage therapy safe for the practitioner, so long as they follow basic safety precautions long established in the profession and in accordance with state and local laws.

So how do I proceed as a massage therapist when working with my HIV/AIDS clients?

Don’t touch open sores, cuts or scrapes on HIV/AIDS clients. Avoid working over rashes or any other condition where the skin is broken. Cover any open sores on your own hands or use vinyl gloves in the event you have a large cut or sore on your own hands. However, latex gloves are not effective for blood borne pathogen protection during massage, as the oils commonly used may break down the latex.

What is the most likely symptom of HIV/AIDS that I will encounter in my massage therapy practice?

You will most likely encounter a client who has AIDS experiencing purple blotches as raised patches over their bodies. This is not a rash; it is called Kaposi's Sarcoma. It is a cancer of the blood capillaries throughout the body, that manifests as purple spots or brown blotches under the skin. It is not contagious and there are no other precautions to take, other than Universal Precautions, when massaging a client with this condition.

[Kaposi's Sarcoma in AIDS patient. uncopyrighted image obtained on internet open source]

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treatments for HIV/AIDS:

So, what does the TCM Eastern world have to say about HIV/AIDS? Traditional Chinese Medicine has been used since the early 1980s in the US to treat HIV/AIDS conditions such as headache, fatigue, aching muscles, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Short-term benefits sucha as increased energy level, improved sense of well-being, weight gain and decreased stress levels are also experienced by many who use acupuncture and herbal therapy. Compared to current treatments offered by Western Medicine, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are reported to be less costly, less toxic and have fewer negative side effects.

Acupuncture for HIV/AIDS treatment: Acupuncture has been shown to raise levels of endorphins, antibodies and white blood cell levels, such as CD4 T cell levels; thereby, increasing the body’s level of immunity in HIV/AIDS clients.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs for HIV/AIDS treatment: Chinese herbs with antiviral and immune-enhancing characteristics can improve the quality of life for many patients by reducing the potency of the HIV/AIDS virus, strengthening the immune system, treating opportunistic infections and reducing the side effects of western antiretroviral medication.

[Schisandraceae, dried, uncopyrighted photo obtained via internet open source]

[Schisandraceae plant. uncopyrighted photo obtained via internet open source]

Chinese Herb Schisandraceae: widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for 2,000 years, has shown promise in treating HIV/AIDS, according to a 20-year-long study led by the Kunning Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Notably, several derivatives of the herb’s lignin, which is the compound extracted from the leaves and stems of the woody vine plant, have strong anti-HIV properties and low toxicity, according to Sun Hondona, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences who led the research.

Since 2004, China has treated more than 27,000 sufferers of HIV/AIDS with TCM treatment. Studies found that with a combination of mainstream antiretroviral therapy and TCM treatment, the patients benefitted in particular by experiencing boosted immunity.

Bottom Line:

HIV/AIDS infection treatment has come a long way. People experiencing HIV or AIDS can live long high quality lives with treatment from Western and Eastern Traditional Chinese Medicine. Massage therapy can play a vital role in maintaining a good quality of life in people experiencing HIV/AIDS. Approach your client with loving kindness knowing that you are able to improve their lives through the healing benefits of massage therapy!

References:

1. National Institutes of Health, https://hivinfo.nih.gov, accessed 20 September 2020

2. HIV Testing Info, https://www.helpstopthevirus.com, accessed 20 September 2020

3. HIV AIDS Treatment Guidelines, Clinical Info, https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/guidelines, accessed 20 September 2020

4. Reference: Side Effects of ART, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324013#side-effects, accessed 7 January 2021

5. Kunning Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, https://english.kib.cas.cn, accessed 20 September 2020

Understanding Sciatica | Basics, Massage, and the Western & Eastern Perspectives

2021-01-08T00:29:00.019-09:00

Sciatica is a pain centered in the iliococcygeal region of the body, specifically along the path of the sciatic nerve. This nerve travels along a person's lower back, through the hips, buttocks, and down the posterior leg. Whether sharp or dull, or a fast jolt or a long-burning problem, it is frequently exacerbated by long periods of sitting, and often only occurs on one side at a time.

Sciatica itself in fact describes the symptom that is that pain, rather than a specific condition.

There are no given pre-conditions for sciatica, but it primarily occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes trapped, ultra-compressed, or pinched. Potential causes of this nerve entrapment include:

Sedentary lifestyle, especially if it includes sitting in one position for long periods
Long or frequent periods of work that require carrying heavy loads and over twisting the spine
Diabetes, due to increased risk of nerve damage
Herniated disk (aka ruptured intervertebral disk)
Bone spurs on the spine
Pelvic fracture injury
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)

In pregnant folk, heavy lifting should be avoided regardless, but recommendations will include to lie on the side opposite the pain, to avoid long periods spent standing, and to consider swimming as an exercise.

Massage and Sciatica:

Massage is extremely beneficial for those experiencing sciatica. Most commonly, the root cause involves muscles pinching the sciatic nerve; in these cases, the relaxation, tension relief, and increased blood flow and even range of motion and flexibility with the right techniques will relieve the pain for some time, if not alleviate the symptom altogether. Endorphin release as a direct result of general massage work also helps manage pain of all kinds, and will likewise provide relief. Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular, myofascial release, thai yoga massage, and hot stone massages are all viable techniques.

Massage is contraindicated for sciatica usually only dependent upon the originating root cause; in the case of a herniated disk, there may be regional contraindications. Refer to a doctor in such a case, or in the case of sciatica as symptom of any degenerative or other significant spine condition, or in the case of injury.

======

From a Western perspective:

Mild sciatica often goes away over time. If symptoms last more than a week, or becomes severe or debilitating, people will largely be advised to seek their doctor’s help; immediate attention should be sough in particular if the pain follows a violent injury, bowel control becomes difficult, or sudden severe pain in the low back or leg or muscle numbness occurs.

Most often, for mild sciatica, self-care will be prescribed; this usually includes gentle stretches, care taken to be hydrated and to eat well, and recommendations to increase the level of gentle but regular exercise, particularly exercise that will work the legs and hips.

Acetaminophen may be recommended as a temporary pain relief when needed, in moderation.

In addition, more and more doctors and chiropractors alike will recommend massage for clients experiencing back pain, for not only relaxation and easement of pain, but to specifically help loosen the muscles that may be pinching the sciatic nerve and causing the pain.

======

From an Eastern perspective:

There is no referenceable, reliable first-hand information in research papers or otherwise about treating sciatica from the perspective of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), but many accounts refer to the matters of Yin & Yang and the Five Elements for insight into what might be done for a person experiencing sciatica. It may be considered a Water (Kidney) or Wood (Liver) imbalance in the Five Element system.

If the pain is hot, inflamed, sharp, then that could indicate an excessive amount of Yang energy; to contrast, if the pain is cold, dull, aching, then that could signal Yin energy in excess. Methods to balance this energy out may then be recommended by a TCM practitioner, including but not limited to certain Qi Gong moves, meditation, or breathing exercise. There may also be reference to a blockage of qi, which might occur at the site of pain. This would also be followed up by methods of movement, breathing, acupuncture treatments, tui na treatments, or even certain herb formulas as appropriate.

Though in general TCM herb treatments come in groups and blends tailor made for the client, a few potential herbs that might be recommended include Du Huo (Angelica pubescentis), Du Zhong (Eucommia), and Dang Gui (Radix Angelica Sinensis).

Du Huo is reported to strengthen the Kidney (Water element) system, and to thus relieve achy back pain. [May cause uterine contractions; people should not take if possibly pregnant. May cause excessive skin sensitivity in sunlight if applied topically. May be anti-inflammatory, so user should beware any contraindications with current medications.]
Du Zhong is reported to generally strengthen and support the body, and generally clear inflammation and ease pain. [May contain toxic compounds or heavy metals. Highly advised against for those using diabetes medications, high blood pressure medications, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or thrombolytics. Contraindicated in people diagnosed with estrogen-dependent cancers.]
Dang Gui, also known as “women’s herb”, is reported to strongly assist in improving circulation and propagate nourishment of the blood. [Contains substances that are known to cause cancer. Also not recommended for those with Protein S deficiency. Should not be taken with blood clotting medications. Can prevent blood clotting.]

======================

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435?p=1

https://medlineplus.gov/sciatica.html

https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/sciatic-nerve-pain-during-pregnancy-1006/

https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/what-you-need-know-about-sciatica

https://www.sciatica-pain.org/traditional-chinese-medicine-for-sciatica.html

https://www.healthline.com/health/massage-for-sciatica

https://bestchinesemedicines.com/collections/back-pain-sciatica/

https://medicinalherbals.net/dang-gui/

https://www.drugs.com/npp/du-zhong.html

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-eucommia-88939

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-281/angelica

https://www.meandqi.com/herb-database/pubescent-angelica-root

Massage and Fatigue

2020-10-24T15:30:00.000-08:00

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines fatigue as “weariness or exhaustion from labor, exertion, or stress”. The Mayo Clinic defines fatigues as “physical and/or mental exhaustion that can be triggered by stress, medication, overwork, or mental and physical illness or disease.

Western medicine recognizes that fatigue is not always related to an underlying condition. Exertion, sleep deprivation, heavy workout, stress, excess alcohol consumption, or boredom may also be causes. Western medicine treats fatigue with a handful of pharmaceuticals. Some of these are effective but possibly addictive, and some are not effective. Traditional Chinese Medicine views fatigue as having a variety of causes. These all include a deficiency: deficiency in yang, deficiency in yin, deficiency in blood, or deficiency in qi.

Massage will help restore the balance between yin and yang and therefore can be helpful in all cases of fatigue regardless of cause. Depending on the person, very light, almost energetic touch can be helpful relief. Some people prefer a more vigorous approach. Each therapist must gauge the approach to the individual.

Very hot situations such as chemotherapy-caused fatigue must be treated with a light touch. Lack of energy due to fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome may benefit from a more vigorous massage to bring out the qi. Energetically stimulating the kidney qi can help with generic fatigue.

Massage will restore the balance between yang and yin. Returning the body to balance will eliminate fatigue. Fatigue can be overwhelming, but massage is one of the many tools that can improve quality of life.

Sources:

https://www.merriam-webster.com

https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/definition

https://www.onemedical.com/blog/live-well/tcm-fatigue/

http://acupunctureinthepark.com/health-conditions/patterns-of-fatigue-in-chinese-medicine/

Oriental Healing Arts Center, Anchorage AK

2020-09-15T11:08:00.000-08:00

ASD and Art: An Invitation to Massage Therapists

Shakti Gawain said: “Our bodies communicate clearly and specifically if we are willing to listen.”

Such is the case when we consider treatment options in bodywork: small changes in approach can yield great results when applied correctly, and opportunities to “listen” for when these changes are appropriate are discussed widely among practitioners.

Regardless of the methods applied, hours – perhaps more – have been spent prior to treatment inspired by the clients we serve in Alaska. The allure of emerald lakes and mountain rainbows can lead to sore back muscles. Late nights in the city and Northern Lights viewing can strain necks and shoulders. A long day at work can inspire the therapist to develop new strategies for stress relief.

Massage Therapy has proven to be a successful intervention with a wide array of health concerns. Autism Spectral Disorder offers the massage therapist a unique opportunity. With a myriad of resources available relating to this disorder, an additional resource can be explored through art. The primary purpose of this blog post is to draw you into the experience of autism on the “Art of Autism” website as an entry into this unique genre of expression. A nice perk is that art such as this may help guide the massage therapist to better understand this disorder when considering a treatment plan.

Quick Facts:

· ASD effects social skills and the ability to communicate (Centers for Disease Control, 2020)

· 1:54 children are identified to have ASD in the US as of 2020 (Centers for Disease Control, 2020)

· Diagnosis can be obtained early in life; testing of certain benchmarks is part of a standard pediatric care plan (Centers for Disease Control, 2020)

· There is no universal “cure.” Pharmaceutical treatments exist. Certain care plans include the coordination of several providers (NIH, 2020)

· ~ 5,500,000 American adults have been diagnosed with ASD (Centers for Disease Control, 2020)

· Some people experiencing ASD find physical touch difficult.

· Causes, treatments and social perceptions of ASD vary widely with audiences.

Care for young children experiencing ASD can include any of the following medical interventions:

· Psychiatric

· Occupational Health

· Speech- Language Pathology

· Primary Care Providers

· Dietary Specialists

· Caregivers/ Educators (NIH, 2020)

Most children experiencing ASD are not under this comprehensive of treatment, however. Coordinating with other providers may leverage their knowledge of your client.

Adults experiencing ASD also have diverse interventions, but may struggle to lead productive, healthy lives. Education level, unemployment and a lack of social interaction make coordinating care a challenge.

Consider the Following Potential Benefits of MT:

· Positive social interaction

· Anxiety relief

· Increased circulation

· Supports further coordination with other providers

The massage therapist should be aware of the wonderful challenge presented by working with those experiencing ASD. While not contraindicated, MT can be very intense, and the massage therapist should have a plan in place keep the client safe.

How does one go about understanding ASD?

"Western" perspective: ASD is a developmental disorder. Communication is fundamental to this disorder. Each case is unique. The transition from childhood to adulthood presents the most critical (typically) phase of intervention.

TCM: ASD does not exist by this clinical designation but is described under the name: “Syndrome of 5 delays”. Speech is one marker used in the diagnosis of this syndrome. (Science, 2020)

The massage therapist looking for new methods of understanding ASD will find that the autist community excels in this very task – new methods of understanding. Nowhere is this more evident than in the writing and painting of those on the “Art of Autism” website. Consider Patrick Jasper Lee on www.art-of-autism.com. Lee shares his experience and gives an account of ASD that is really fun to follow. I use his art to better understand autism and my role in caring for an ASD client.

The blog site “Art of Autism” is a collection of paintings, poems, books, and photos. Very few disorders have a “symbol” attached to it. The puzzle piece seems fitting here (where it may not be fitting elsewhere): “solving the puzzle” seems impossible - until the piece itself shows you where it fits.

References

Art of Autism. (2020, June 26). Patrick Jasper Lee. Retrieved from https://the-art-of-autism.com/tag/patrick-jasper-lee/

Centers for Disease Control. (2020, June 26). Autism Spectrum Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html

NIH. (2020, June 26). Autism Spectrum Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/index.shtml

Science, P. C. (2020, June 26). Traditional Chinese Medicine and Autism. Retrieved from https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/10/17/traditional-chinese-medicine-and-autism

Trumpet Behavioral Health. (2020, June 26). Retrieved from https://tbh.com/blog/aba-therapy/the-importance-of-coordinated-autism-care/

Massage For Acute Torticollis

2020-07-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

By Shannon Goolsby

Ever wake up with a kink in your neck or have a stiff neck that doesn’t seem to go away or keeps coming back? This could be acute Torticollis.

What is Acute Torticollis?

Torticollis is involuntary muscle spasms or contractions of the neck. The head will tilt or twists to one side, while the chin pulls down towards the shoulder on the opposite side. This typically affects not only the head and neck but can affect the shoulders and back.

Torticollis is often referred to as a stiff neck and often known as Wryneck, Twisted Neck or Loxia. Other forms of Torticollis include Congenital, Spasmodic and Idiopathic.

Causes of acute Torticollis

· Improper position of the neck

- Sleeping wrong

· Injury to the neck and head

- Whiplash

· Over use or tension of the neck muscles

· Infections or abscesses in the head, neck, throat or upper airway

- Ear or sinus infection

- A cold

How long do symptoms last?

In cases of improper position or overuse, symptoms typically resolve within 1 to 2 days. From infections or injury, typically resolution will be within a couple of weeks.

Seek immediate medical attention if the following symptoms occur:

· Trouble swallowing or breathing

· Impaired speech

· Pins and needles, numbness or weakness in the arms and legs

· Difficulty walking

· Fever, swollen glands or headache associated with torticollis

· Mouth or tongue swelling

Western Medicine Approach

Western medicine primarily treats Torticollis through physical therapy and oral anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe, resistant cases additional medications, botulinum toxin injections and surgery may be used.

Eastern Medicine/TCM Medicine Approach

TCM believe that Torticollis is a stagnation of the blood and Qi of the neck caused by an invasion of cold, wind and damp entering the channels supplying the neck area.

Acupuncture and Cupping of the Ashi and Empirical points with the use of Moxibustion are the treatment of choice in conjunction with Massage Therapy.

With Massage Therapy the SCM, Trapezius, Scalenes and Levator Scapula muscles are massaged and stretched for relief of pain and preventative for reoccurrence. Contra-indications include:

· Avoidance of full stretches to the SCM if the Vertebral Artery Test is positive or if the client gets dizzy with stretch

· Avoidance of the Carotid Artery when treating the SCM

· Massaging when the muscles are in spasm

References:

· Vynehealth.com

· Acupuncture.com

· Theory.yinyanghouse.com

· Spacecoast.edu/blog/managing-torticollis-with-massage-therapy.html

· Massagetherapyreference.com

· Emedicinehealth.com

· Healthline.com

· Mediscape.com

· Medicalnewstoday.com

2020-06-26T21:48:00.002-08:00

Healing Depression Through The Essence Of Touch

A man once told me a quote that I lived by due to the sheer strength and masculinity of it, “I was born by myself, and I’ll die by myself”. It has taken me over 30 years of my natural born life to realize that the quote is actually sad, lonely, heartbreaking, and utterly depressing if you allow it to digest for a moment. After serving over 20 years of military service, countless deployments, dozens of countries visited, interactions with all sorts of cultures, more death than any man should ever witness, I’m shamed to say that I once stood proud and not only believed but lived every syllable of that quote. In the midst of all the catastrophes going on in the world today, a pandemic, police brutality, a corrupt government, poverty, unemployment, and I could go on for days. Actually, that is the root to every single problem if you take a moment to dissected it. What we need as a human race is the exact opposite. We as a human race thrive and survive from human touch. From the moment we are born our functionality and survival rate depends on the touch of the woman who birthed us and gave us life. Throughout our toddler, adolescent, and teenage years how we develop as a functional member of society depends on the values, beliefs, and discipline instilled upon us. But most importantly how much or how often we were touched and showed love and affection. Veterans take their own lives at an astonishing rate of 22 lives per day, solitary confinement inmates are twice more likely to revisit jail or take their own lives, Alaskan suicide rates are up by 13%, children who experience bullying are two times more likely to commit suicide. I could continue to spray statistics at you, but my heart is to too heavy at the moment. What I will do is direct you to the common denominator in every case, feeling excluded, alone, a lack of interaction, and zero positive and encouraging touch. American culture has somehow taken what we truly need to survive and gave it a different name, and better yet represent a different tone. If I hug my co-worker we must be fooling around, If I smile too much at the checkout I must be flirting with the cashier, If I were to console someone of the opposite sex there’s a time constraint placed on the embracement. Well my fellow Americans, I am here to tell you that particular thought process is wrong as the quote I once lived by. When here are a few fun facts to support the opposite of what the majority believe. Massage/touch calms the mind, massage/touch eases aches and pains, massage/touch relieves depression, massage/touch increases blood flow and promotes relaxation. So how about we do away with all the vices that surround us in the world today and experience a different healthier type of euphoria. Visit your local massage therapist to begin your journey toward better body, soul, happiness, and heart mind. NAMASTE!!

Back Mice

2020-03-11T14:41:00.002-08:00

Episacroiliac Lipoma, otherwise known as Back Mice, are a cause of low back pain caused by fatty tissue that has herniated through the fascial layers in the low back. The term Back Mouse was coined by Peter Curtis in his 1993 paper: In search of the ‘back mouse,’ due to its mobility and change of size over time.i I first encountered the back mouse while performing chair massage in massage school. I had no knowledge of the condition and I was curious as to what they could be. The few clients I observed them in were middle-aged women with complaints of low back discomfort though the palpation of the nodules did not invoke a pain response.

The basic characteristics of a Back Mouse are firm, rubbery, mobile nodules located in the sacroiliac, posterior superior iliac, and, lumbar paraspinal regions. Observing these characteristics upon palpation combined with either relief of pain with local anesthetics or positive identification upon ultrasound are key in diagnosis.ii The back mice are easiest to palpate when the patient/client is slightly bent over at the waist at a 75-degree angle.iii When the back mouse nodule is causing peripheral nerve neuropathy and/or entrapment, differentiating back mice versus spinal stenosis/herniation or neuropathy can be accomplished by negative straight leg raises, lack of sensory findings, and intact reflexes.

Western Medicine treatment considerations include local anesthetic injection, corticoid steroid injection with repeated needling, surgical resection of the herniated tissue, and liposuction. Treatment is not usually required unless the back mouse is causing unmanageable pain.iv

Massage Therapy can help manage the pain and discomfort caused by the back mouse. Paraspinal massage, hip massage, and thoracodorsal fascial stretching can be a good treatment for reducing pain/discomfort and providing relief from the back mouse. When massaging a client with back mice it is important to avoid direct pressure over the nodule as well as avoid stretching and bending that weakens the low back.v

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Back Mice are considered to be caused by damp/phlegm stemming from water accumulation in the low back due to low kidney yang.vi This can be treated by clearing damp from the Large Intestine with digestive cupping and citrus essential oils, and tonifying the Kidneys by using moxibustion on the Kidney Shu points.

Notes:

i The Best-Laid Plans of “Back Mice” and Men: A Case Report and Literature Review of Episacroiliac Lipoma, retrieved from: https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/pdf?article=MjYxMg%3D%3D&journal=95

ii Trapping “Back Mice”: A novel approach to the evaluation and treatment of painful subfascial fat herniations, retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332159014_Trapping_Back_Mice_A_novel_approach_to_the_evaluation_and_treatment_of_painful_Subfascial

_fat_herniations

iii backmice.info

iv Are Back Mice Real?, retrieved from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/back-mice-or-episacroiliac-lipoma-296970

v The Problem with the Back Mouse, retrieved from: https://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/problem-back-mouse

vi Back Mice! A Weird Cause of Back Pain, retrieved from: acupunctureinthepark.com/pain/back-mice-a-weird-cause-of-back-pain/

Psoriasis and Massage Therapy

2020-02-21T14:55:00.000-09:00

Psoriasis affects a large amount of our population, but it’s not only physical. It can affect self-confidence, relationships with others, getting out and doing things, and even contribute to depression. I am one of those people it has affected.

According to Western medicine, Psoriasis is a hereditary, non-contagious, autoimmune overreaction of the skin. It presents usually with thick, white, silvery, or red patches on the skin that may form clusters, along with possible inflammation, itching, and/or flaking scaling on the skin. Basically, skin cells grow about 5 times faster than normal and the old cells build up instead of being shed. In Western medicine, it is not known exactly what causes the immune system to be set off this way. Although, it is widely believed that flare ups can often be associated with an increase in stress and hormonal changes.

Western medicine usually treats Psoriasis with topical treatments, light therapy, and oral and/or injectable medications. Some natural methods may be recommended as well, including herbs, vitamins, natural sunlight, ocean water, bath solutions, natural ointments, and diet changes.

According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Psoriasis is an outward expression of Heat emanating from the deep bone level, associated with the Kidneys, the body’s deepest constitutional level. If Heat is not being cleared sufficiently through urination and deification, it can be pushed upward and cause issues with Lung energy. Therefore, it is also associated with Heat in the Lungs (Metal energy) and, over time, can weaken Lung Qi, energy and the immune system. Also, in TCM, clustering indicates internal Dampness that exudes out to the skin, and is likely related to diet. The Heat creates the redness, itching, and spreading of the condition, and the Dampness produces the clustering sores.

According to TCM, too much Heat can come from emotional trauma, excessive mental stress, smoking, unhealthy diets, environmental toxins, and even excessive exercise and sex.

It is believed in TCM that psoriasis can be brought under control through the use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, essential oils, and diet modifications.

An additional therapy for Psoriasis can be Swedish massage. In the body, it can increase circulation, stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce inflammation, and provide stress relief. Swedish massage includes long strokes, kneading, and soothingly manipulate muscle and connective tissue. The only modification that is recommended for a therapist to make is light, less intense, massage on areas that are red and inflamed, or avoiding the those areas, to meet the client’s comfort level.

Another body treatment that may help is acupressure that uses gentle pressure on the body’s key healing points to assist in opening pathways of flow and release in the body, increase circulation, boost the immune system, and reduce pain and stress.

People with Psoriasis may also want to ask about massage oils that may be used, or ask to bring their own. It’s good to be up front about the Psoriasis when setting up a massage appointment. Therapists should already know that it’s not contagious, but it can’t hurt to mention that as well. It’s good to let therapists know of any body conditions ahead of time before each appointment.

Swedish massage can be incredibly relaxing and provide wonderful relief of stress. Give yourself, or someone you love, the gift of massage. It can help the body, mind, and spirit heal in limitless ways.

Sited sources:

WebMD, Psoriasis Health Center, Articles on Psoriasis including “12 Psoriasis Causes and Risk Factors”, “Psoriasis Treatments”

China Education Center, “Traditional Chinese Treatment for Psoriasis”

A Center for Natural Healing,“Is your skin driving you mad? A classical Chinese medicine perspective on psoriasis and eczema”, May 11, 2017, by Salvador Cefula, M. S., L. Ac.

National Psoriasis Foundation, “Alternative Therapies”, www.psoriasis.org

Everyday Health, “Massage for Psoriasis: Is It Safe?”, by Beth W. Orenstein, Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD, March 15, 2017

Iron-Deficiency Anemia

2020-02-13T17:10:00.001-09:00

In Western medicine, iron-deficiency anemia is a condition in which, due to insufficient iron levels, there is a significant lack of red blood cells in the body, resulting in low hemoglobin levels and low oxygenation of the body and organs. Anemia comes in many forms and is the most common blood condition in the United States, affecting around 6% of the population.

Symptoms of anemia in Western medicine are fatigue/lack of energy; rapid heart rate; shortness of breath and headaches; difficulty concentrating; dizziness; pale skin; leg cramps; insomnia; very heavy and painful menstrual flow.

The most common treatments for iron-deficiency anemia in Western medicine are iron supplements and a change in diet or nutrition. The change in diet would be to eliminate most dairy products and to begin to incorporate more dark, leafy greens, seafood, and lean, red meats. In severe cases, iron injections can be prescribed as well.

Traditional Chinese Medicine doesn’t use the term “anemia” and instead this condition would be treated under a more general description of “blood deficiency.” Primarily an Earth element condition, the focus for iron deficiency anemia would be directed towards the stomach and the spleen, which generates and controls the blood.

Traditional Chinese Medicine symptoms differ slightly in their description from Western: pale complexion, lips, nails; weak and thready pulse; pale tongue; dizziness; blurring vision; insomnia; numbness of limbs; irregular menstrual flow, poor digestion.

TCM treats blood deficiencies by way of acupuncture/acupressure, massage, diet, and herbs. Herbs that can be used to treat anemia should only be consumed if the client’s doctor has deemed it to be non-interfering with any medications that the client may be on. Herbs used would include astragalus, spirulina, burdock, dandelion root, and ginger.

Massage is indicated for anemia as it helps to dilate blood vessels,increase red blood cell count, and improve circulation and oxygenation throughout the body.
If giving a Swedish style massage, a lighter pressure should be used unless deeper pressure is signed off on by a doctor.
Tuina is also incredibly beneficial for anemia and can actually help to increase hemoglobin levels and the red blood cell count.

During a massage, focus should be directed towards the spleen and stomach meridians, which are Earth element meridians, potentially including acupressure points along those meridians if the client is comfortable with that. Excellent points to include are Stomach-36, Stomach-34, Spleen-6, and Spleen-9. Burning moxibustion on those points can be beneficial as well, as the moxibustion will bring the Qi to those points and reinvigorate the flow of Qi through those meridians.

Including abdominal massage is also beneficial for anemia patients as it helps to increase circulation and oxygen flow through the intestines and the stomach.

Anemia. (n.d.). Retrieved February 13, 2020, from https://www.bodyscape.biz/anemia.html
Anemia. (2015, December 12). Retrieved February 13, 2020, from http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=107&pid=33&gid=000009
Diagnostic Information and Acupuncture and Herbal Treatment of Spleen Qi Deficiency. (n.d.). Retrieved February 13, 2020, from https://theory.yinyanghouse.com/theory/traditional-chinese-medicine/spleen-qi-deficiency-tcm-diagnostic-pattern
Dorr, C. (2003, May). GETTING IRON FROM THE DIET. Retrieved February 13, 2020, from http://www.itmonline.org/arts/iron.htm
Ginger Could Treat Anemia - North Carolina Research Campus BDamron. (2015, September 23). Retrieved February 13, 2020, from https://transforming-science.com/ginger-could-treat-anemia/
Jin, H., Scarsella, S., & Ding, X.-hong. (2011). Tui na. Beijing, P.R. China: Peoples Medical Pub. House.
Kent-Stoll, G. (2018, April 3). Nourishing the Blood: TCM and Ayurvedic Perspectives. Retrieved February 13, 2020, from https://theherbalacademy.com/nourishing-the-blood/
Reller, P. L. (2017, August 3). Anemias: A Wide Variety of Types and Causes. Retrieved February 13, 2020, from http://www.acupunctureintegrated.com/articles/anemias-a-wide-variety-of-types-and-causes
The Massage Source. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.themassagesource.com/health-concerns/anemia

HIV/ AIDS

2020-02-06T21:52:00.000-09:00

Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus that destroys the cells in the body whose job is to fight off illness. The most advanced stage of HIV is called AIDS, or Advanced Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Some risk factors are sharing needles, sexual contact, and if the mother has AIDS it can be passed to the baby through breastfeeding. With the onset of AIDS, you can expect such symptoms as: fever, sweats, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, diarrhea, headaches, swelling of lymph glands, sore throat and rashes. Basically, it will feel like the flu with the purging and aches. It can cause progressive fatigue and weight loss called wasting further down the line. Wasting can be treated with Growth Hormone according to the FDA as of 1996.

Eventually AIDS may cause oral candidiasis and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia is a lung infection caused by a tiny parasite which can also cause damage to the liver, eyes, skin and other organs. HIV/ AIDS cannot be spread by hugging, kissing, or ordinary touching. Some common infections include tuberculosis cytomegalovirus, candidiasis, cryptosporidiosis and toxoplasmosis. Cancer of the lymph and blood vessel tumors can also be caused by AIDS.

An additional problem which may be caused by this retro virus is something called wasting. Wasting is when the person with the disease loses around 10% of their body weight. Neurological problems can also occur such as confusion, depression and anxiety. Kidney disease may occur due to the filtering of all the wastes in the body. The only way to be diagnosed with AIDS is by blood or saliva testing for antibodies. Which it can take up to three months for your body to produce the antibodies that show up in the test.

Treatment for HIV/ AIDS consists of antiretroviral therapy and several types of inhibitors. The treatment can be fairly painful, and it comes with its own set of side effects. Side effects such as heart disease and flu like symptoms are not uncommon. A couple home remedies are eating healthy to help prevent wasting. Also, it is not advised to eat raw meats as they may have parasites. Being careful around animals is a must because of the potential parasite issue as well. Foods that contain acetyl-l-carnitine are said to help treat nerve issues. Some cautions that should be taken are St. John’s Wort because of its HIV medication impairment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine can greatly enhance the effects of the antiretroviral therapy. From 2001- 2009 the CD-4 counts of nine living patients who received TCM and antiretroviral treatments had their CD-4 counts in the “good health range”. The side effects from the antiretroviral treatments can be dramatically reduced with TCM. Ginger, for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be used as an herbal extract. Skull cap is used for its heart health boosting effects and helps relieve anxiety. Astragalus is another herbal extract used by TCM to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation and fight kidney disease. The patients combined the TCM and ART have not been taking any medical treatments since 2010 and survived more than fifteen years after their AIDS onset. A staggering 80% of patients that did not receive the TCM with their ART died within six years of the onset.

Bodywork is an important part of many healing processes. As a massage therapist it is important to be healthy while working on an AIDS patient due to their compromised immune system. There is no legal obligation for the AIIDS patient to disclose the fact that they have the virus as we are not health care providers. Any compromised skin on either the therapist of the client should be properly covered, as with all clients. Massage is great for anxiety relief and is helpful for lymph drainage. Light pressure may be necessary due to inflamed organs, specifically the kidneys. Massage is useful for its ability to improve blood and lymph flow and reducing atrophy. Also, it can boost the immune system for the client. Exercise and deep breathing are amazing tools to use to help in keep atrophy and anxiety at a minimum. Tai chi specifically is amazing because of its non-vigorous and yet still very active movements.

sources:

*aidsinfo.nih.gov/news/109/pneumocytosis-carinii-pneumonia-pcp-

*The Encyclopedia od Natural Medicine 3rd Edition

by: Michael T. Murray, M.D. & Joseph Pizzorno M.D.

*Mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiv-aids/symptoms-causes/syc-20373524

*mayoclinic.org/diseases/hiv-aids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373531

*healthline.com/nutrition/ginseng-benefits#section1

*healthline.com/nutrition/skullcap#what-is-it

*healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus#immunesystem

*ncbi.ncm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc5391671/#!po=2.50000

*ambp.com/textonlymags/article.php?article=1724

*google.com/amp/s/www.massagemag.com/hivaids-patients-massage-provides-touch-humanity-40379/amp/

*Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology 8th Edition

by: Elaine N. Marieb

Treat and Prevent Coronary Artery Disease

2020-01-30T19:24:00.001-09:00

What is "Coronary Artery Disease"? It is the reason for most heart attacks, and is the leading cause of death in the U.S. According to "Traditional Western Medicine", the most common way people get this heart illness is by having too much bad cholesterol in their diet. Substances in the blood stream can collect over time, and create plaque, which clogs arteries. A person who is inactive, has high blood pressure, smokes, or has diabetes it at risk of being diagnosed with CAD.

On the heart itself are tiny aortic branches that surround the cardiac muscle. Of those are four main coronary arteries. They supply oxygen and nutrient-rich blood, straight to the heart. The cardiovascular system depends on a well supplied heart, and clear arteries, to allow the natural flow of blood. Imagine how major a problem it is for the heart to not receive enough oxygen.

A person with one or more of these at least 50% clogged with plaque will be diagnosed with CAD, and is at risk of having a heart attack. The artery most commonly affected is the Left Anterior descending artery, also known as The Widow Maker.
For a better understanding of how the heart functions, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWFyxn0qDEU

A complete blockage from plaque will stop blood flow, and kill part of the cardiac muscle. Without proper blood supply, the heart and its host will likely experience major problems. The most common is an acute myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack.

Warning signs of an oncoming heart attack are chest discomfort, (especially in the left side), pain in the arms, pain in the neck and jaw, (less often), nausea, stomach pain, sweating, heartburn, dizziness and exhaustion. There are times that no signs or symptoms will be felt, right up until the attack.

To treat heart disease in Traditional Western Medicine, doctors will most likely prescribe clot preventing medication, cholesterol reducing meds, or suggest bypass surgery. To prevent getting CAD in the first place; keep a well balanced, healthy diet, keep bad cholesterol levels down and good cholesterol levels up, stay physically active, and manage stress, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Health needs are hardly met by using TWM alone. Most people in the U.S. don't know they can also use "Traditional Chinese Medicine", to fight disease.

Chinese philosophy was evolved thousands of years ago, when people were in complete harmony with nature around them. In China, they believe in Qi, the vital life force. It is within us all, binding together everything in the universe. In just the human body, there are 12 different pathways that Qi flows through. One of them is called the Heart Meridian. It runs from the armpit, down the ulnar side of the arm, and to the pinky tip. See the picture below.

Where there is deficiency, (lack of) Qi, there is low energy. One or more of the 12 channels will become low on energy when a person experiences an imbalance of emotion. Emotions are directly linked to physical health. In TCM, there is a lot of focus on spiritual and emotional symptoms, as well as some physical ones.

For treatment and diagnosing, the Eastern practitioner uses the 5 element theory. Every person is believed to be made up of; wood, fire, earth, metal and water. A person with heart disease will show signs relating to the fire element.

When there is a lack of joy in our lives, all sorts of issues arise. The heart is most affected. Anger, resentment, and bitterness are emotions that follow, causing Qi stagnation in the Heart channel.
Eastern health practitioners believe that Qi stagnation is the root of all health problems. Plaque buildup is actually due to an emotional imbalance. Balancing the fire Qi works well for preventing and treating heart disease and its symptoms. For CAD, many treatments will be done along the Heart Meridian.

Emotions can be read through a person's eyes, which are the "The windows to the soul". Dullness in the eyes is an indicator that someone needs heart help. Aside from emotional signs, just to name a few; night sweats, difficulty concentrating, problems with speech, and craving bitter foods are all signs of a fire imbalance, and may indicate of a heart problem.

Modern people believe the mind guides the body, but Chinese doctors believe that the heart does. Ask someone to point at them self. They will likely point to their chest, not their head. We identify as coming from the heart, not the mind. In TCM, both spiritual and physical signs relating to the heart are not to be taken lightly.

Qi stagnation through a meridian can be helped with massage, acupuncture, energy work, or herbs. Any of these can be done by yourself, but when treated by a professional, there are generally no adverse side effects. A skilled TCM practitioner will also help guide you in the right direction, if you are stumped on where to start. Improving the flow of Qi in the Heart Meridian, and many times other meridians, will prevent plaque buildup in arteries.

Massage is a noninvasive approach that can be used for all kinds of patients. It may reduce the chance of a heart attack, arrhythmia, stress, pain, muscle spasms and anxiety. Calming massage techniques, like Effleurage, releases contracted muscles, pushes venous blood towards the heart, and eases strain and tension of recovering heart surgery patients.

Acupuncture is a great way to stimulate Qi directly through special points along a meridian. There are nine points that make up the Heart channel.

Meditation is just one of the many forms of Energy work. Cultivating a strong will with good intentions can rid of physical stagnation.

Herbs that work for heart health are usually bitter in taste. They may lower blood pressure, thin the blood, relieve pain, fight against diabetes, and prevent heart attack. Do your own research prior to trying an herb. Check with your primary care physician, and be aware of known risks.

Traditional Chinese methods are so valuable, they've worked for over 2,500 years. They work best for preventative care, while Western medicine is better equipped to deal with trauma and diagnosing.

With all of that being said, knowledge from both cultures can be used to create a well rounded health style. Your best bet for preventing or treating CAD is to use an integrative approach; A blend of Western and Eastern medicine.

"If you see a leaf blowing in the wind, Western medicine is the leaf, Chinese medicine is the wind."

To explore the benefits of Traditional Eastern Medicine, come to the Alaska Institute of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture, and Massage Therapy, located at 2636 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, Alaska 99503.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronary-artery-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350613

https://www.amtamassage.org/articles/1/News/detail/3013/massage-therapy-for-heart-health

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/11/04/how-massage-can-benefit-your-heart

http://www.onlinejacc.org/content/69/24/2952

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27126196

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/symptoms-causes/syc-20354647

https://www.chinesemedicineliving.com/medicine/organs/the-heart/

https://www.theepochtimes.com/understanding-the-heart-of-chinese-medicine_1944277.html

Sinusitis/ Nasal Congestion

2019-12-03T16:09:00.001-09:00

Sinusitis/Nasal Congestion

What is Sinusitis? Sinusitis is the swelling of tissuein the sinuses. A major symptom of sinusitis is nasalcongestion.

Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose, is whentissue and blood vessels in the nose become swollenwith extra fluid. Nasal congestion can sometimes alsoinclude a runny nose (nasal discharge).

The common causes of nasal congestion is a common cold, sinus infection orallergies. The treatment options in Western medicine include but not limited to:

● Medicine● Pain reliever to reduce pain and swelling - such as ibuprofen● Anti-congestion such as sudafed● Steam● Nasal irrigator

In Traditional Chinese Medicine point of view, the nasal congestion is cause by windpathogen such as wind heat and wind cold. Nasal congestion is a metal element,when the Lungs interferes, the ability of spreading the Qi will lessen. Once the Qiis unable to act or blocked, the fluids will be increasing and it will become a thickmucous substance called Tan. When the body is lack of Qi, the wind cold and windheat will stuck in the nose and sinus then the Tan will start to stagnate until it willbecome infected. And when the Lung energy weaken and infectious the Kidneys Qiwill start to weaken also.

Acupuncture and acupressure are effective when it comes to opening the nasalpassages and patients will be able to breathe easier. Herb medication is also usefuland is considered a treatment. Bitong point is the most common point for sinusitismeans nose opening. This are the following common points used for sinusitis thatyou can also do to yourself:

● LI-20 (Large Intestine) - found on the both sides of the base of the nose,use your index finger or middle finger and put pressure on it in for about 1or 2 minutes.

● LI-4 (Large Intestine) - it is located on the back of your hand in the webbingbetween your thumb and index finger. Apply pressure for 1-2 minutes. Thispoint is contraindicated for the pregnant women.

● GV24.5 also known as Yintang - located between the eyebrows also known as“third eye”. Apply pressure or rub the area using your fingertips.

Massaging a person with sinusitis or nasal congestion is helpful by relieving thepressure and helps the sinuses drain and also keep the body fluid and mobilize. Afacial massage is recommended for a client that has sinusitis or nasal congestion,this can be done on the floor or on a table for 30-45 minutes. With your clientlaying down on their back comfortably and position yourself at their head. Apply agentle pressure around the neck, head, shoulders and other sinus areas and thenyou can also apply acupressure point.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/nasal-congestion/basics/causes/sym-20050644

https://fiveelementhealing.net/in-depth-healing-strategies-chronic-sinusitis/

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/11/16/traditional-chinese-medicine-sinusitis-1

https://www.healthline.com/health/pressure-points-for-sinus

https://www.healthline.com/health/sinus-massage

Migraines

2019-08-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

Experiencing a Migraine?

A migraine is described in Western Medicine as a, “a recurrent headache with an unknown cause.” In Chinese Medicine we are reminded to honor each person’s experience. To treat someone where they are on the day of treatment, without judgment or question.

The migraine can be unilateral or temporal. Accompanied by the following symptoms: irritability, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, and photophobia (sensitivity to light), sensitivity to sound, auras and vasodilation. Migraines may last anywhere from a few hours to days, even weeks. And are more frequent in women ages 30-49. Often showing up around puberty and resurfacing during menopause. There are also many different types of migraines a person can experience that are listed on the website www.freemedicaldictionary.com

Western Medicine prospective is to prescribe medications, Botox injections or other treatments to hopefully give relief from migraines.

The Western approach of treatment on a migraine may do very little to “cure” or treat a person from experiencing a migraine. Leaving a person with little to no options. And spending a lot of money on medicines and still having zero relief.

Prescribing medications or suggest treatments that mask the symptoms for short periods of time for many people. And medications that cause such severe side effects, tiredness, or put one in a “drug coma.”

TCM describes a migraine as deficient liver qi. And having an unbalanced fire and wind element.

Treatments from a TCM prospective is to maintain balance of the liver qi.

By calming the liver and unblocking the meridians. Removing toxins and pathogens. Each person is treated on an individual basis according to their own disharmony patterns. This would include changing diet and using foods to treat and heal the body.

Acupressure and migraines:

Points used to relieve a migraine. 6 main points are suggested by: www.modernreflexology.com to use to treat to give relief to someone experiencing a migraine or headache. Each person is different, and these may or may not give relief. But in combination with massage could give some amazing results to someone experiencing a migraine.

These points are:

1. Third Eye

2. Bright Light (corner of the eye below eyebrow)

3.Temple region curving around the ear

4.Welcome fragrance (either side of the nostrils)

5.Neck region, back of the head
6. Webbing of the thumb and in the foot (the valley between big toe and 2^nd toe).

Massage is indicated for migraines or headaches. If you are experiencing a migraine or a headache, try some of the points on yourself listed above. Or get a massage. Or even better, a combination of the two.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Massage Therapy

2019-07-23T20:03:00.000-08:00

Keeping my thoughts straight and myself on task has been something I’ve struggled with since I was a child. School was hard, good grades never came easy and I often felt “stupid” compared to other kids in my classes. When I was a child I had no idea that I was struggling with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is a neuro-psychiatric disorder. It wasn’t until I was a young adult that I learned about ADHD and associated the symptoms that I have had and continue to have with it. Google along with peers told me that my symptoms could be treated with medication, but I’m a bit of a minimalist when it comes to ingesting things. So, I decided to go another route, increased physical activity. Which looking back to my childhood playing sports and physically tiring myself out seemed to help stabilize and reduce my symptoms. A few years back when I decided to go back to school to obtain a Bachelor of Health Sciences I thought it was best, in order to do well in school, to get my ADHD diagnosed and treat the symptoms. With my new-found knowledge and interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), I have found yet another way to manage, and possibly cure my symptoms outside of Western medicines way of treating my symptoms with medication.

For those of you that do not know what ADHD is, it is a neuro-psychiatric disorder, “a blanket medical term that encompasses a broad range of medical conditions that involve both neurology and psychiatry”. (Wolfsdorf 2018). Western medicine defines ADHD as a “biological condition that’s caused by differences in the development of the brain anatomy and wiring. It involves a group of key skills known as executive function”. These functions influence the way a person is able “to focus, organize, use working memory, and other skills”. (The Understood Team). At some point in our lives, everyone has shown or have had symptoms of ADHD but in comparison, people with ADHD have a much harder time dealing with the above problems.

Symptoms of ADHD include hyperactivity, inability to keep still for any period of time and limited attention spans. These symptoms typically tend to cause problems for a person that affect their home lives, schooling and relationships with people. There are three types of ADHD that a person can be diagnosed with. These are inattentive type, hyperactive/impulsive type or combined type. Please visit https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd if you would like to see the different symptoms for each type listed above.

ADHD is diagnosed through medical evaluations and checklists. Once diagnosed, Western Medicine uses behavioral therapy, medication and parenting as treatment options. Medication treatments include stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamines and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and guanfacine. These medications come with a list of potential side effects. Here are some side effects of stimulants; disruption in sleep, loss of appetite, weight loss, moodiness and irritability, increased blood pressure among many other things. The following are only a few of the potential side effects of non-stimulants; nausea, loss of appetite, mood swings and fatigue. It is said some of these side effects tend to diminish after a few days of taking the medications, but some may last the entire duration of treatment.

There has been research done in regard to the effects of massage with people who have ADHD. The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine’s blog reflects on a study that showed that, “adolescents who took ten massage treatment classes for two weeks rated themselves as more content than those in comparison who participated in recreation therapy.” (“Treating ADHD With Massage Therapy” 2014). In further support, the Silicon Valley Massage therapy group backs that massage is indicated and very beneficial for treatment of ADHD symptoms. Their blog discusses how “two recent studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami reported that regular massage therapy can be an effective treatment for kids and adults with ADHD”. (“ADHD: Why Massage Works” 2014). Even with the above research, Western medicine still relies heavily on medication to treat the symptoms and not the root of ADHD.

From a TCM point of view, “ADHD is a condition affecting the mind, thought, and emotion. The main affected systems are the heart, liver, spleen and kidney; the pathogenesis is caused by the imbalance of yin-yang and dysfunction of the Zang-fu (viscera) organs”. (Ni, et al. 2014). With ADHD, or any disease there is a disharmony within the body. By bringing the body back into harmony by use of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), Tai chi chuan and TCM diet therapy, symptoms of ADHD can be decreased and improve overall quality of life. It is important to know that with the above TCM therapies, there are specific contraindications with each of them. These can be found here, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265647687_Traditional_Chinese_Medicine_in_the_Treatment_of_ADHD.

An article written by Erik Goldman discusses how Dr. Cowan, a pediatrician who takes a holistic approach to healing, and author of “Fire Child, Water Child: How Understanding the Five Types of ADHD Can Help You Improve Your Child’s Self Esteem and Attention” uses the Five Elements ideas to figure out how to help your child based on their specific personality and type of element that they mirror. Goldman states that the Five Elements idea is a “theory that every human, in his or her essence, belongs to one of these five “types which colors how one asserts oneself in the world, what one finds attractive or repelling, how one copes with stresses, and how one seeks comfort.” Dr. Cowan uses this theory to educate children and their parents, based on what type of element they are, “how to both nurture the core elemental tendencies while simultaneously balancing them, so they become assets rather than hindrances.” (Goldman 2007). This is done by suggestions on diet and nutrition in conjunction with “acupuncture, guided imagery and other mind-body techniques.” Treatment with this method is unique to each person. Just as medications affect people differently and may take several times to get things right, treating and tailoring a plan of care to a person’s element type is necessary to achieve success.

In conclusion, TCM and massage therapy have been proven to be very beneficial with those struggling with symptoms of ADHD. I can attest to this, as I have decreased medication usage significantly since starting school at Alaska Institute of Oriental Healing, Acupuncture and Massage Therapy. It has been months since I’ve taken any medicine and I managed to write this research paper without any medication at all!! Doing Qi Gong twice a week, meditation and the occasional massage have done my mind body good!!

References:

Wolfsdorf, Jack. “Neuropsychiatric Disorders.” Nicklaus Children's Hospital, 22 Feb. 2018, www.nicklauschildrens.org/conditions/disorders/neuropsychiatric-disorders.

The Understood Team. “Understanding ADHD.” Understood, Understood.org USA LLC, www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/add-adhd/understanding-adhd.

“ADHD: Why Massage Works.” Silicon Valley Massage Therapy Group, 25 July 2014, https://svmassagetherapy.com/blog/2014/07/25/adhd-why-massage-works/.

Ni, Xinqiang, et al. “Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of ADHD.” Research Gate, Oct. 2014, www.researchgate.net/publication/265647687_Traditional_Chinese_Medicine_in_the_Treatment_of_ADHD.

Goldman, Erik. “The Five Faces of ADHD: A Chinese Medicine Approach.” Holistic Primary Care, 1 June 2007, www.holisticprimarycare.net/topics/topics-a-g/acupuncture-a-oriental-med/12-the-five-faces-of-adhd-a-chinese-medicine-approach.html.

“Treating ADHD With Massage Therapy.” Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, 22 Dec. 2014, www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/12/22/treating-adhd-massage-therapy.

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Energy Medicine: Born to Heal

2019-07-20T22:10:00.000-08:00

Everything – living or unliving – plant, animal, or organism – large or small - stationary or mobile – thought or action – real or surreal – is energy. This energy can neither be created nor destroyed, it is only transferred or transformed from one form to another. Despite our perceived differences and our experience of separation, we are all made up of the same energy and we are all connected. Within every proton and subatomic particle in the nucleus of an atom exists all the energy and information of all the other atoms in the universe. And within every individual lies the ability to connect with universal oneness, the energetic connectivity among all things.

Our thoughts and intentions are powerful forms of energy that fuel our actions and allow us to interact with the world around us. Through our own energetic frequencies, we can attract energy to ourselves, move it within our own bodies and change its frequency, and transfer it to others. This energy exchange can be used to heal ourselves and to assist others in their healing through our energetic connection.

Many modalities for energy healing exist today, and new possibilities arise in every moment and with every thought. Such energetic healing modalities include reiki, qigong, EFT tapping, kinergetics, yoga, and tai chi, among many others. With each of these modalities, universal energy is transferred, moved, stimulated or dissipated to balance the energy within an individual to promote healing. Our intelligent energetic bodies already know what to do, we only need to open our minds and hearts to allow the energy to flow.

Ho’OponoPono: The Language of my Heart

2019-07-20T20:28:00.002-08:00

I’m Sorry.

Please forgive me.

Thank you.

I love you.

Like the lyrics of a song, the powerful words of this meditation resonate through my heart as a healing mantra with an energetic melody.

I’m sorry for my erroneous thoughts that brought such situations and circumstances into my awareness.

Erroneous is defined as not being in-agreement with what is true. Given that love is our true nature, erroneous thoughts are those that are not grounded in love. Such thoughts may arise from fear of the known and unknown, uncertainty of our own identity or purpose, and are fueled by our active and vivid imaginations. Some thoughts may even be karmic in origin, carried forward from a past remembered or forgotten. In any case though, our thoughts are created by our own power and carried forward as each thought manifests to become the reality of our experience. Therefore, everything that we experience in our awareness is of our own creation. By withholding judgment of the nature of our experiences, we can simply, but powerfully, accept responsibility for our own thoughts. And because we understand that we create some thoughts with intention, and others from uncertainty, we can choose to acknowledge this responsibility for all that is brought into our awareness or life experience.

Forgiveness represents a change in feelings and attitude regarding an offense. It offers opportunity to release negative emotions such as vengefulness, however legally or morally justified such offenses may be, and it creates space and ability to give love to a situation or individual, even when such compassion seems unjustified and feels nearly impossible. No matter the offense or the offender, through the ho’ oponopono mediation, forgiveness is requested for the erroneous thought that manifested into awareness as a situation or circumstance. Forgiveness allows healing to occur by bringing our own energy back into balance.

Thank you is a genuine expression of gratitude. This expression, when sincere, carries incredible energy to move any situation or circumstance in a positive direction. Gratitude is grounded in love.

Love is our most readily available, unlimited resource with infinite power. It is the source of life, health and healing. As we sift through our mind’s chatter, we tune into to the language of our heart.

I love you.

Learning to LOVE MORE: Reflecting on a Spiritual Journey

2019-07-20T18:50:00.000-08:00

If you knew the only reason you exist is to LOVE MORE, how would this knowledge change your life?

Let’s first consider, what is love anyway? Love is emotion and action. It is patient and kind. It does not envy or boast. It is not proud or rude. Love is not self-seeking or easily angered and it keeps no record of wrongs. It expands through truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Love conquers all. And God is love.

Love itself is energy, a vibrational frequency… and, as an emotion or action, it is an energetic exchange.

If the only reason that we exist in this life is to learn to LOVE MORE, then tremendous energetic burdens can be immediately lifted. Fear, and all associated emotions such as anger, jealousy, lack, and even procrastination can disappear because fear does exist through a lens of love.

This perspective guides me in how I choose to live my life. I work consistently toward this goal… imperfectly, of course, because I am human and learning and growing through my experience. However, it is still my truth and the nature of my being. As I face challenges, make choices big and small, and interact with others in my life, I am constantly redirecting my attention to my spirit and my heart. Reflecting on each scenario and circumstance as they occur, I try to correct my course, and refocus my energy toward thoughts and actions that are rooted in love and communicate love to all who share my experience. While I understand this to be a lofty goal and a work in progress, it is my goal to simply and consistently learn to love more and, ultimately, to become pure love.