Cupping Therapy Information

Encyclopédie de la thérapie par ventouses: Une nouvelle édition (French Edition)

2018-11-13T22:15:00.000-08:00

Ce livre décrit l’histoire, les méthodes et les techniques de la thérapie par ventouse et fournit des directives pratiques sur l’utilisation à domicile et la pratique professionnelle de la thérapie par ventouse. Il fournit une nouvelle classification des types de traitement par ventouse, des sets de traitement par ventouse et une classification des événements indésirables liés au traitement par ventouse. Il examine de près les questions de mécanisme d’action, d’effets secondaires, de programmes de traitement et de sécurité. Il contient de nombreuses illustrations claires et constitue un guide pratique pour le traitement de nombreuses maladies courantes .Il comprend de nouvelles recherches scientifiques et des exemples cliniques. Ce livre peut servir de référence utile aux thérapeutes en médecine complémentaire et alternative, aux médecins, aux étudiants en médecine, aux professionnels de la santé, aux chercheurs et aux personnes intéressées de la santé naturelle, la médecine intégrative, les soins personnels et le traitement.

Livre

Ventousothérapie : Aperçu du point de vue de la médecine moderne

2018-10-03T03:34:00.002-07:00

Ventousothérapie : Aperçu du point de vue de la médecine moderne

Dr. Tamer S. Aboushanab, Dr. Saud AlSanad

La ventousothérapie est une ancienne pratique de médecine traditionnelle et complémentaire. Il existe de plus en plus de preuves de ses avantages potentiels dans le traitement de certaines maladies, en particulier les affections liées à la douleur. Il est très important de suivre les mesures de prévention des infections dans la ventousothérapie. Ce document proposait une nouvelle classification de sets de ventousothérapie, une nouvelle classification des effets indésirables de la ventousothérapie et une classification mise à jour des types de ventousothérapie.

Article complet

Pour citer cet article:

Aboushanab TS, AlSanad S, Ventousothérapie : Aperçu du point de vue de la médecine moderne, journal d'acupuncture et études méridiens (2018), (Inglés). doi: 10.1016 / j.jams.2018.02.001.

English Version

Ventosaterapia: Una Visión General Desde Una Perspectiva Médica Moderna

2018-10-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

Ventosaterapia: Una Visión General Desde Una Perspectiva Médica Moderna

Dr. Tamer S. Aboushanab, Dr. Saud AlSanad

La ventosaterapia es una antigua práctica de medicina tradicional y complementaria. Cada vez hay más pruebas de sus beneficios potenciales en el tratamiento de algunas enfermedades, especialmente las relacionadas con el dolor. Seguir las medidas de control de infecciones es un componente muy importante de la práctica de la ventosaterapia. Este documento sugiere una nueva clasificación de los conjuntos de la ventosaterapia, una nueva clasificación de los eventos adversos de la ventosaterapia y una clasificación actualizada de los tipos de ventosaterapia.

Articulo completo

Por favor cite este artículo como:

Aboushanab TS, AlSanad S, Ventosaterapia: Una Visión General Desde Una Perspectiva Médica Moderna, Periódico de Acupuntura y Meridian Studies (2018), (Inglés). doi: 10.1016 / j.jams.2018.02.001.

English version

Cupping therapy simulation

2018-04-26T01:37:00.000-07:00

A9 Development of a new tool for self-assessment of confidence, expectations/satisfaction and performance for cupping therapy simulation training modules

Tamer Aboushanab, Mohammed Khalil, Ahmed El-Olemy, Saud AlSanad

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background: Simulation is considered a safe training method. Simulation training technology is a popular method of learning for healthcare professionals worldwide [1]. It includes performing a medical procedure on simulators to increase the confidence and skills of trainees before conducting the procedures on humans [2]. Cupping therapy (Hijama) is a widely used traditional healing therapy which is performed by applying cups on selected body points by sucking air to induce sub-atmospheric pressure inside the cup either by heat or suction [3]. The use of simulation in cupping therapy training was an innovation developed by National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), Ministry of Health (MOH), Saudi Arabia [4]. There is no available validated evaluation tools for assessment of cupping simulation learning due to the novelty of this method. An internal committee of NCCAM, Saudi Arabia developed this questionnaire, as a part of the evaluation process of their training courses.

Objectives: To discuss the development of a new tool which can be used for evaluation of cupping therapy simulation-based learning.

Methods: Fifteen items in the questionnaire were divided into three scales. The three scales were confidence, expectations/satisfaction, and performance. Each scale included five questions and used 5 Likert scale responses from 1 to 5 [Fig. 1]. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Software Version 20 was used for data entry, management and analysis. Internal reliability of the questionnaire and scales was evaluated by Cronbach's alpha test.

Results: 50 healthcare professionals participated in the study. They were selected from the trainees of the simulation courses provided by NCCAM as a part of the program’s evaluation. Cronbach's alpha of items deleted were ranged from 0.91 to 0.92 for each item. Cronbach's alpha of confidence scale was 0.85, expectations/satisfaction scale was 0.81, performance scale was 0.94, and total evaluation was 0.92. These values showed good internal consistency of the scales.

Conclusion: Cupping Simulation Training Evaluation Questionnaire (CSTEQ) is a promising new tool for evaluating self-reporting of confidence, expectations/satisfaction and performance of trainees. It may be used as a tool for improvement of cupping simulation training programs. Further large scale trials, and validation studies should be conducted.

Source: https://advancesinsimulation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41077-018-0065-6

Genetic Theory – A Suggested Cupping Therapy Mechanism of action

2018-04-12T02:46:00.004-07:00

Genetic Theory – A Suggested Cupping Therapy Mechanism of action

Tamer Shaban, Munir Ravalia

Abstract:
The Cupping Therapy mechanism of action is not clear. Cupping may increase local blood circulation, and may have an immunomodulation effect. Local and systemic effects of Cupping Therapy were reported. Genetic expression is a physiological process that regulates body functions. Genetic modulation is a reported acupuncture effect. In this article, the authors suggest genetic modulation theory as one of the possible mechanisms of action of cupping therapy.

Tamer, S. Aboushanab, and Ravalia Munir. "Genetic Theory–A Suggested Cupping Therapy Mechanism of Action." (2017).

Link to the presentation: https://f1000research.com/slides/6-1684
Link to full text: https://dlc.dlib.indiana.edu/dlc/bitstream/handle/10535/10328/Genetic%20Theory2.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

Cupping Therapy Effects Diagram

2018-04-09T01:16:00.001-07:00

Cupping Therapy Effects Diagram

By Dr. Tamer Shaban

Any one can use this diagram for any reason without alteration with these rules:
1- Proper citation and credit To Dr. Tamer Shaban
2-No alteration of the diagram
3-Recommended citation (Tamer Shaban, Cupping Therapy Effects Diagram, available online at: http://www.acupuncturecupping.org )

New published article: Cupping Therapy: An Overview from a Modern Medicine Perspective

2018-03-19T01:59:00.002-07:00

Cupping Therapy: An Overview from a Modern Medicine Perspective

Abstract

Cupping therapy is an ancient traditional and complementary medicine practice. Recently, there is growing evidence of its potential benefits in the treatment of pain-related diseases. This article gives an overview of cupping therapy practice. Furthermore, this article suggests a new classification of cupping therapy sets, a new classification of cupping therapy adverse events, and an updated classification of cupping therapy types.

Read the full article

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jams.2018.02.001

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia: New Edition 2018 - Paperback

2018-03-19T00:59:00.003-07:00

Cupping therapy Encyclopedia 2018 Edition

This book describes the history, methods, and techniques of cupping therapy and provides practical guidelines for cupping therapy home use and professional practice. It provides a new classification of cupping therapy types, cupping therapy sets, and a classification of cupping therapy adverse events. It looks closely at issues of mechanism of action, side effects, treatment programs, and safety. It contains many clear illustrations and provides a practical guideline for treating many common diseases. It includes new scientific research and clinical examples. This book can serve as a useful reference for complementary and alternative medicine therapists, medical physicians, medical students, healthcare professionals, researchers, and people interested in natural health, integrative medicine, self-care, and treatment.

Buy Now
http://amzn.to/2GmD9to

Is Cupping Therapy a pseudoscience?

2017-03-30T01:34:00.000-07:00

Is Cupping Therapy a pseudoscience?

Dr.T.Shaban

Wikipedia described cupping therapy as a pseudoscience. It also characterized acupuncture is a pseudoscience. But both clearly are not a pseudoscience. Dr Mike Cummings replied: ‘Acupuncture’ is clearly is not pseudoscience; however, the way in which it is used or portrayed by some may on occasion meet that definition. Acupuncture is a technique that predates the development of the scientific method.(1)
And cupping which also stimulates acupoints, clearly not a pseudoscience. Its practice is dated back to over 3500 years and practiced by most of the human civilizations. So, it is unfair to called this ancient practice a pseudoscience.
Dr Mike added: "It would be better to use a less pejorative classification within the bracket of history when referring to acupuncture and other ancient East Asian medical techniques. The contemporary use of acupuncture within modern healthcare is another matter entirely, and the fact that it can be associated with pre-scientific medicine does not make it a pseudoscience."(1)

Systematic reviews, clinical randomized clinical trials support the effectiveness and safety of cupping therapy.

In 2015 review of systematic reviews, the researchers concluded that: "Cupping may be beneficial for pain-related conditions such as: herpes zoster, low back pain, and other conditions like: acne, and facial paralysis.(2) and in 2016 systematic review, the researchers concluded: "Cupping can be used for musculoskeletal pain, neck pain, Carpal tunnel syndrome, and brachialgia.(3)

References:
1-Mike Cummings - Is acupuncture pseudoscience? http://blogs.bmj.com/aim/2016/12/30/is-acupuncture-pseudoscience/

2-Cao, H., Han, M., Zhu, X., & Liu, J. (2015). An overview of systematic reviews of clinical evidence for cupping therapy. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences, 2(1), 3-10.

3-Al Bedah, A. M., Khalil, M. K., Posadzki, P., Sohaibani, I., Aboushanab, T. S., AlQaed, M., & Ali, G. I. (2016). Evaluation of Wet Cupping Therapy: Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 22(10), 768-777.

Classification of Cupping Therapy: A Tool for Modernization and Standardization

2016-08-11T01:22:00.000-07:00

Cupping research

Classification of Cupping Therapy: A Tool for Modernization and Standardization

Abdullah Mohammed Al-Bedah¹, Tamer Shaban Aboushanab^2*, Meshari Saleh Alqaed², Naseem Akhtar Qureshi², Imen Suhaibani², Gazzaffi Ibrahim² and Mohammed Khalil²

Abstract

Cupping therapy is one of the oldest healing methods and practiced by ancient Chinese, Egyptians and Greeks. There are many types of cupping therapy and recently, practitioners and researchers have added more types to the practice of cupping. This research aimed to classify types of cupping to help in modernization and standardization of cupping therapy. This proposed classification of cupping therapy that might guide researchers stay organized, help them to differentiate and compare various types, raise their knowledge of cupping and precisely clarify cupping types terms and methods related to research in future. The proposed classification of cupping into six main categories will also help the field of cupping therapy in uniform training of concerned therapists.

Keywords :

Cupping therapy; classification; cupping research; training; standardization; modernization.

Read the full article

Michael Phelps, USA Olympic athletes and cupping in Rio 2016

2016-08-09T02:50:00.000-07:00

Cupping Therapy the ancient practice embraced by U.S. Olympic athletes

Links to important news about cupping in Rio 2016:

Live Scince

Michael Phelps' Weird Bruises: Does Cupping Therapy Really Work?

http://www.livescience.com/55698-cupping-therapy-olympics.html

Vox

Michael Phelps uses cupping to ease his muscle pain. What does science say?

http://www.vox.com/2016/8/8/12404556/rio-olympics-2016-cupping-michael-phelps-evidence

BBC

Why are so many Olympians covered in large red circles?

http://www.bbc.com/news/health-37009240

Independent

Rio 2016: What is ‘cupping’ and why are Olympic athletes doing it?

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/rio-2016-cupping-what-is-it-olympics-athletes-suction-cups-skin-marks-a7178731.html

Time

http://time.com/4443105/cupping-rio-olympics-michael-phelps/

People

What Is Cupping Therapy? Why Michael Phelps and Gwyneth Paltrow Put Their Faith in the Ancient Technique

http://www.people.com/article/michael-phelps-cupping-what-is-it?xid=rss-topheadlines&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+people%2Fheadlines+%28PEOPLE.com%3A+Top+Headlines%29

Dr Tamer's Classification of cupping therapy types

2014-03-17T10:40:00.004-07:00

Dr Tamer's Classification of cupping therapy types:

Cupping therapy types can be classified into five main types, technical types which include dry, wet, massage and flash cupping therapy. The second is power of suction related types which include light, medium and strong cupping therapy. The third is method of suction related types which include fire, manual suction, and electrical suction cupping therapy. The fourth is materials inside cups related types which include herbal, water, ozone, moxa, needle and magnetic cupping therapy, the five is according to the area treated which include facial cupping, Pedi cupping, abdominal cupping, female cupping, orthopedic cupping.

To Cite this classification please use:

Dr Tamer Shaban - Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia - CreateSpace Publishing - ISBN-13: 978-1494780517 - 2014

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia news update

2014-03-17T10:04:00.002-07:00

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia describes the history, methods and techniques of cupping therapy and provides practical guidelines for cupping therapy home use and professional practice. It provides a new classification of cupping therapy types and uses a new classification of cupping therapy points. It looks closely at issues of mechanism of action, side effects, treatment programs and safety. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia contains many of clear illustrations and provides a practical guideline for treating many of common diseases. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia includes new scientific researches and clinical examples. This book can serve as a useful reference for complementary and alternative medicine therapists, medical physicians, medical students, healthcare professionals and people interested in self-care and treatment.

It is now available on:

Amazon.com

http://goo.gl/kD5Tmc

Kindle

http://www.amazon.com/Cupping-Therapy-Encyclopedia-Tamer-Shaban-ebook/dp/B00HQ4N7OY/ref=sr_1_20?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395075716&sr=1-20&keywords=cupping+therapy

iTunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/cupping-therapy-encyclopedia/id793235357?mt=11

Nook

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cupping-therapy-encyclopedia-dr-tamer-shaban/1117916174?ean=9781304758439

Download Now The The World Health Organization Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014–2023

2014-01-26T15:46:00.000-08:00

The World Health Organization Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014–2023 was developed and published in response to the World Health Assembly resolution on traditional medicine (WHA62.13). The strategy targets to help Member States in developing proactive policies and implementing action plans which will increase the role traditional and complementary medicine plays in keeping populations healthy.

Addressing the challenges, dealing with the needs recognized by various countries and building on the work done under The World Health Organization traditional medicine strategy: 2002–2005, the updated strategy for the period 2014–2023 gets more attention than its predecessor to prioritizing health services and systems, including traditional and complementary medicine products, practices and practitioners.

It was published in 6 different languages. It was published in Arabic, English, Spanish, Chines, Russian and French.

Download your copy now
http://www.who.int/medicines/publications/traditional/trm_strategy14_23/en/index.html

2014-01-06T16:08:00.001-08:00

Dr Tamer Has Finally Published Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia (New Book)

Author Dr Tamer Shaban has written "Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia" book which is the third version of the complete guide to cupping therapy book and published it on createspace.com, the online marketplace for books.

Dr Tamer describes the history, methods and techniques of cupping therapy and provides practical guidelines for cupping therapy home use and professional practice. He provides a new classification of cupping therapy types and uses a new classification of cupping therapy points.

Dr Tamer includes new scientific researches and clinical examples. He says: “This updated book is my new gift for complementary and alternative medicine therapists, medical physicians, medical students, healthcare professionals and people interested in self-care and treatment. Thanks to all my readers.”

Buy Now

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia describes the history, methods and techniques of cupping therapy and provides practical guidelines for cupping therapy home use and professional practice. It provides a new classification of cupping therapy types and uses a new classification of cupping therapy points. It looks closely at issues of mechanism of action, side effects, treatment programs and safety. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia contains many of clear illustrations and provides a practical guideline for treating many of common diseases. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia includes new scientific researches and clinical examples. This book can serve as a useful reference for complementary and alternative medicine therapists, medical physicians, medical students, healthcare professionals and people interested in self-care and treatment.

Buy Now

2013-12-27T05:49:00.000-08:00

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia (New Book) 2014

Cupping therapy encyclopedia new book is finally published by the author Dr. Tamer Shaban.

Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia describes the history, methods and techniques of cupping therapy and provides practical guidelines for cupping therapy home use and professional practice. It provides a new classification of cupping therapy types and uses a new classification of cupping therapy points. It looks closely at issues of mechanism of action, side effects, treatment programs and safety. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia contains many of clear illustrations and provides a practical guideline for treating many of common diseases. Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia includes new scientific researches and clinical examples. This book can serve as a useful reference for complementary and alternative medicine therapists, medical physicians, medical students, healthcare professionals and people interested in self-care and treatment.

Buy Now

Dr Tamer's classification of cupping therapy types

2013-08-28T14:42:00.002-07:00

Dr Tamer's classification of cupping therapy types

Cupping therapy types can be classified into four main types, technical types which include dry, wet, massage and flash cupping therapy. The second is power of suction related types which include light, medium and strong cupping therapy. The third is method of suction related types which include fire, manual suction, and electrical suction cupping therapy. The fourth is materials inside cups related types which include herbal, water, ozone, moxa, needle and magnetic cupping therapy.

Source: The Science and The Art of Cupping Therapy (will published soon)- Dr Tamer Shaban

Use Natural Therapies for Gout

2013-03-28T15:48:00.002-07:00

Gout is a rheumatic disease, characterized by acute attacks of arthritis, usually in the great toe of the foot. It sometimes leads to deformity and chronic arthritis. Men are affected more than woman. 90% of gout sufferers are men over thirty years. There are more than two millions gout sufferers in the United States of America. In 2002, World Health Organization published Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials. In this book, World Health Organization supported using acupuncture and cupping for the treatment of gout. The reviewed trial stated that: " Plum-blossom needling together with cupping has been recommended for treating gouty arthritis"(1).

Symptoms of Gout

Gout is an inflammatory condition. The inflammation is usually in one joint. An increase in blood uric acid is usually present due to a metabolic disorder. Acute gouty arthritis happens suddenly. Excess alcohol, some infections, drugs and surgical operations may increase blood uric acid and lead to acute gouty arthritis. The most affected joint is the joint of great toe, but it may affect other joints such as the knee, feet and ankles. The affected joint is very painful, swollen, red and warm. Fever is usually present. After the attack, the patient may be asymptomatic for years. Later, gout may become a chronic disease with a serious disability and deformity.

Gout treatment

Bed rest is very helpful in the treatment of an acute attack. Hot and cold compressors may be helpful for some patients. Avoiding excess alcohol consumption, restriction of high purine foods like meat, kidney, sardines and liver, and avoiding drugs which increase blood uric acid such as diuretics are recommended.

Nutrition

Eating a well balanced diet is very important. Eating more fresh vegetables and fruits and whole grain foods is recommended. Cherries are recommended for gout sufferers as some studies show that eating cherries may help in decreasing the uric acid level. Eating vitamin C-enriched foods such as oranges and guava is helpful. Drinking plenty of pure water is a helpful way to excrete uric acid. Drinking coffee decreases uric acid level in blood, but its benefits for gout sufferers are not yet proved.

Other alternative medicine therapies

Relaxation techniques and hypnotherapy are helpful in decreasing pain. Yoga and breathing exercises help restore body balance. Acupuncture and cupping therapy are recommended therapies to decrease and eliminate pain. Prayer is a very helpful assistant. Please, before you begin any alternative medicine therapy, consult your doctor.

1-Pan HL. (Observation of 39 cases of gout treated with plum-blossom needling plus cupping) Zhenjiu Linchuang Zazhi, 1997, 13(3):29(in Chinese)
2-Mayo clinic (Gout) - (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout/ds00090)
3-Medline plus (Gout) - (http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/gout.html)
4-NHS (Gout) - (http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Gout/Pages/Introduction.aspx)
5-Acupuncture: review and analysis of reports on controlled clinical trials- World Health Organization- ISBN: 9241545437-2002

Dr Tamer Shaban

Your Guide to Essential Vitamins and Minerals

2013-03-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

The word "Vitamin" is composed of two parts: "vital" which means essential and "amine" because it was previously thought that this compound was amine in its nature. Multivitamins are a mixture of vitamins and minerals which are essential for the body to work and stay healthy.

We sometimes try multivitamin supplements without knowing what kind of vitamins and minerals we need to take, and the functions of every element and how it affects our body. This will be covered in this article.

The Essential Vitamins

There are two types of vitamins, fat soluble vitamins (vitamins which dissolve in fat) which are vitamins A, D, E and K, and Water soluble vitamins which are B complex, C, and folate (folic acid).

The functions of fat soluble vitamins:

1. Vitamin A - Growth, development, enhancement of our immune system, this vitamin is essential for our eyesight, especially night vision.

* Deficiency signs - Night blindness, skin problems with an increase in the rate of acquiring infections

* Great natural sources - liver, kidney, eggs and fish liver oil.

2. Vitamin D - This is important for bone formation, it works by controlling calcium absorption and excretion. Recent studies show that vitamin D inhibits some forms of cancer growth.

* Deficiency signs - Rickets (disease characterized by deformities in the skeleton -- especially hands, legs and chest bones, and pain in the bones and muscle weakness).

* Great natural sources - Cod liver oil, milk, eggs, liver and oily fish.

3. Vitamin E - It works as an antioxidant (protects our tissues from free-radical damage) and has other functions such as improving blood circulation and removing wound scars.

* Deficiency signs - none reported

* Great natural sources - wheat germ oil, almonds, sun flower oil and peanuts.

4. Vitamin K - Its major function is its role in the blood coagulation process which prevents our body from bleeding to death.

* Deficiency signs - Excessive bleeding or poor blood coagulation action.

* Great natural sources - spinach, broccoli, eggs and meat.

The functions of water soluble vitamins:

1. Vitamin C - It plays a vital role in the formation of several enzymes, absorption of iron, antioxidant function, formation of collagen (which leads to healthy skin and joints) and wound healing.

* Deficiency signs - Scurvy (a disease characterized by bleeding from the gums, bleeding from the skin, fatigue and delayed wound healing).

* Great natural sources - Kiwi and citrus fruits, guava, mango and broccoli.

2. Vitamin B complex - A complex of vitamins that total more than ten individual nutrients; the most essential being B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic acid), B6 (Pyridoxine) and B12 (Cyanocobalamin).

* Functions - These vitamins play an important role in the body's energy production, nervous system, immune system, and iron absorption.

* Deficiency signs - Vitamin B12 anemia (a disease characterized by fatigue, pallor, an increased heart beat rate and lack of energy). Some other signs include emotional disturbance, skin disease, tongue inflammation and hair loss.

* Great Natural sources - Meat, liver, milk, yeast and its products, nuts and whole grain cereals.

3. Folic acid - Essential in the formation of RNA and DNA.

* Deficiency signs - Megaloblastic anemia (a disease characterized by fatigue, pallor, increased heart beat rate and lack of energy) and possible infertility.

* Great natural sources - spinach, Brussels sprouts, green beans and cauliflower.

The Essential Minerals

The minerals are classified into three parts: macro, trace, and ultra trace minerals. The essential minerals which we need to be healthy are calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, and fluorine. The essential trace elements are copper, chromium, manganese, molybdenum, selenium and iodine.

The functions of the most important essential minerals:

1. Calcium - Plays an important role in bone and teeth formation and nervous system health.

* Deficiency - Leads to stunted growth, increased rate of bone fractures and nervous system problems.

* A natural source - milk.

2. Iron - Plays an important role in red blood cell formation.

* Deficiency - Leads to iron deficiency anemia which is characterized by fatigue, pallor, concave nails with white lines and an increased heart beat rate.

* Natural sources - eggs, meat, liver and fish.

3. Zinc - Essential for growth and development, enhances immune function and wound healing, increases fertility.

* Deficiency - Leads to skin inflammation, hair loss, sore throat, delayed growth and diarrhea.

* Natural sources - meat, vegetables with leaves, whole grains, milk and eggs.

The functions of the most important essential trace minerals:

1. Iodine - This is essential for growth and development because it is a component of thyroid hormones.

* Deficiency - goiter (a disease characterized by an enlarged thyroid gland and a decreased heart beat rate).

* Natural sources - milk, sea fish, and iodized salt.

2. Chromium - Assists in glucose utilization by enhancement of insulin action.

* Deficiency - weight loss and an inability to tolerate glucose.

* Natural sources - meat, whole grains and nuts.

You can use the best natural sources of vitamins and minerals in your daily routine, the most important components are: milk, eggs, vegetables, fish and whole grain cereals.

author: Tamer Shaban

Fourteen Tips You Can Use to Improve Your Memory

2013-03-11T14:54:00.001-07:00

Memory is our ability to process information; we encode, store and retrieve information by memory. Because memory is so important to our daily functioning, it is important to take steps to guard against memory degeneration.

Levels of Memory:

1) Sensory Memory - This is a very short memory type that can accommodate large amounts of information that may be visual or auditory or other information (depending on which sensory organs are involved).

2) Short Term Memory - This has a limited capacity, both in the duration of retention and amount of information put into "storage". At this stage, information may be processed and passed into long term memory or may be forgotten.

3) Long Term Memory - This memory has unlimited capacity, duration and information storage "space" and the information is stored in an organized manner.

Types of Memory:

1) Procedural Memory - This memory is concerned with learning and skill retention.

2) Semantic Memory - This memory is concerned with facts.

3) Meta Memory - This is concerned with laws and principals.

Episodic Memory - This is concerned with experience and life.

Causes of forgetting:

1) Interference by other information which may be learned earlier or later

2) Anxiety

3) Brain injury or disease

4) Some drugs like narcotics

5) Trauma to the head

6) Emotional and physical stress

7) Psychological state -- such as not having any interest in this subject

Tips that help with memory recall and overall memory strengthening:

1) When you need to retrieve some information, try to place yourself in the same situation that this information was processed. In fact, the retrieval of information is more easily obtained in the same circumstance or place of input.

2) Being in the same mood when the information was processed and being in the retrieval situation is also helpful.

3) Make the information you need to store meaningful.

4) Heighten the information you need to store by linking it to a specific emotional response.

5) Link the information you need to store to images; it is easier for the brain to memorize images.

6) Repeat the information more than one time either through visualizations, auditory input, or through written word.

7) Avoid stressful situations and reduce your anxiety.

8) Avoid alcohol and cigarette smoking.

9) To retain written information, study for short periods with breaks in between.

10) Take Zinc supplements -- this has been found to be helpful.

11) Take a Vitamin B complex.

12) Eating healthful meals with fresh vegetables are recommended during study hours.

13) Meditation and hypnotherapy reduce stress and anxiety and these practices also help to improve your memory.

14) Do some memory exercises: Practice with images, audio stimuli and writing to help you store information you need to retrieve later.

Dr Tamer Shaban

Eleven Great Ways to Reduce Stress

2013-03-08T14:08:00.003-08:00

Eleven Great Ways to Reduce Stress
By Dr Tamer Shaban

Stress is a big challenge in life nowadays. The sources of stress are many and the helpful ways to reduce stress are also plentiful. Common symptoms of stress include skin problems, impotence, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, fatigue, insomnia and frustration.

We don't need to set a time to reduce stress, we need to incorporate some strategies in our daily life routine to prevent stress and reduce its effect on the body.

Here are 10 simple steps we can easily take to reduce stress:

1. Define your goals: we must define our life goals and begin to achieve these goals; this action will support us against stress because we will feel that we know what our life purpose is and why, and that we control our own lives.

2. Take control of your diet: we can use simple ways in our diet plans to reduce stress by avoiding some stimulants such as coffee, alcohol, tea and sugar and we can use chamomile tea as an alternative because of its calming and relaxing effect. We need to eat slowly in a calm environment to allow our digestive system to work well. We can use honey as an alternative to sugar but in small amounts (one or two spoonfuls per day).

3. Take hot baths regularly: after a very busy day or when we feel that we need to relax (I do this three times a week). You can take a hot bath by sitting in warm to hot water and the water level should be above the waist, using lavender oil can also enhance this relaxing experience.

4. Aromatherapy: in the office you can use aromatherapy to relax and avoid stress. One of the best ways is to use lavender oil on a source of heat and take in the scent; this is a great way to relax during the day when you need it the most.

5. Exercise: This is one of the important things you can do which will reduce stress and bring happiness. When we exercise, our brains release substances which bring feelings of happiness and relaxation; we need engage in some exercise regularly such as walking, dancing or swimming.

6. Breathing techniques: Yoga, meditation and Tai Chi all use deep breathing techniques. To meditate, simply sit with closed eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Breathing deeply regularly is great for health and from there, you can learn various other breathing techniques to gain enhanced benefits.

7. Relaxation techniques and self hypnotherapy: we can easily do this after the hot bath to relax even more, simply sit or lie down in a comfortable place with your eyes closed, imagine there is a spot light above your head and concentrate on it, then concentrate on your body part by part and try to relax the body and feel the relaxation deepening -- you can also use a self hypnotherapy audio tape to help in this process.

8. Massage: this is a great way to reduce stress, I do this when other ways fail, I feel better after receiving a massage. You can get a professional massage or you can simply ask your partner to massage you.

9. Spiritual healing: prayers and the act of helping others are very important components for happiness and stress reduction. You will feel calmer and have a sense of inner peace.

10. Talking through your problems: talking about your feelings acts as a releasing mechanism and you will soon find that talking about your problems with your partner or best friend may help the solution to the problem come to light and will help to release blocked emotions.

11. Multivitamins: I take a Vitamin B complex regularly to decrease stress and this has been a great help in my stress reduction.

I hope that you find these suggestions helpful, my hope in sharing this information with you is that you can benefit from it. Reading about this is not enough to reduce stress, you must take action.

[Effects of drug cupping therapy on immune function in chronic asthmatic bronchitis patients during protracted period]

2013-03-01T13:17:00.003-08:00

[Effects of drug cupping therapy on immune function in chronic asthmatic bronchitis patients during protracted period]

Cai-qing Zhang, Tie-jun Liang, Wei Zhang

Shandong Provincial Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan.

UNLABELLED To observe the clinical effect of drug cupping therapy (DCT, cupping therapy with pingchuan ointment made by the authors themselves in the cups) on chronic asthmatic bronchitis (CAB) during the protracted period, and explore its effect on immune function.

METHODS

Seventy-seven patients were randomly divided into two groups:the treated group (n=40) treated by orally taken Liuwei Dihuang Pill (LDP) and DCT and the control group (n=37) with LDP and common cupping therapy without drug in cups. The changes of T-lymphocyte subset, levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukin (IL), immunoglobulin (Ig), complement 3 and 4 (C3 and C4) were detected before and after treatment.

RESULTS

The total effective rate was higher in the treated group than that in the control group (90.0% vs. 59.5%, P < 0.01). The levels of CD4+, CD4+/CD8+, IL-2, IFN-gamma, C3, C4, IgA, IgG and IgM increased, while the levels of IgE, IL-4, IL-10 and CD8+ decreased after treatment in both groups (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), the improvements were better in the treated group than that in the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

DCT(drug cupping therapy) shows better curative effects than that of common cupping therapy without drug, it could improve the cellular and humoral immunity in CAB patients.

Source: Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2006 Nov ;26 (11):984-7 17186726

Brachialgia paraesthetica nocturna can be relieved by "wet cupping"-Results of a randomised pilot study

2013-03-01T13:05:00.004-08:00

Brachialgia paraesthetica nocturna can be relieved by "wet cupping"-Results of a randomised pilot study.

Rainer Lüdtke, Uwe Albrecht, Rainer Stange, Bernhard Uehleke

Karl und Veronica Carstens-Stiftung, Am Deimelsberg 36, 45276 Essen, Germany.

BACKGROUND:

Centuries ago cupping was one of the most used medical therapies worldwide but it is now regarded as an antiquated and unsafe treatment. Nevertheless it is widely used especially in Germany and China.

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the effectiveness of "wet cupping" of a defined connective tissue area (over the Musculus trapezius) in patients suffering from brachialgia paresthetica nocturna. DESIGN:

Monocenter, randomised, controlled, sequential clinical trial.

SETTING:

Section of pain management at the District Hospital of Rüdersdorf, Germany.

PATIENTS:

Brachialgia-patients of both sexes without age restictions were eligible if they suffered from chronical tonsillar irritations and showed pathologic indurations of the connective tissue area.

INTERVENTIONS:

The active group was "wet cupped" once, i.e. the skin first was scarified and then blood was drawn by applying vacuum cupping glasses. The control group was left untreated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE:

Pre- to post-treatment change of brachialgia severeness, calculated from 1-week averages of the means of three subscales (pain, tingling and numbness), each assessed on a 0-10 numeric analogue scale. RESULTS: N=20 patients were randomised (13 women, median age 47 years). Treatment effects can be found in the active (-2.3+/-1.9 score points) but not in the control group (+0.5+/-1.0 points; p=0.002; triangle test). The results are supported by secondary outcome criteria. Adverse events were not documented in any patient.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests short-term effects of a single wet cupping therapy, which remain at least for 1 week. As the trial lacks of an adequate and blinded placebo therapy the findings are potentially biased.

Source: Complement Ther Med. 2006 Dec ;14 (4):247-253 17105694 Cit:9

SOME CASES OF CUPPING THERAPY

2013-02-28T00:47:00.002-08:00

Sri Lanka

Cupping Therapy Cases

SOME CASES OF CUPPING THERAPY
Dr Mass R. Usuf

lternative medicine is not very popular in Sri Lanka where I live. However, the indigenous system of medicine, namely ayurveda which has existed for many centuries and which was smothered by the advent of western medicine when the British colonised the then Ceylon is gradually surfacing in popularity although it still has a long way to go before it attains its former stature of many centuries back.
But other alternative therapies are virtually unheard of or not well known or accepted. Cupping therapy is virtually unheard of in Sri Lanka. There are only a handful of practitioners…….about less than five to my knowledge in a population of 20 million.
Patients used to popping pain killers for long periods of time with attendant side effects find this therapy fascinating. And………..when they find relief through this drugless therapy after a few sessions they are astonished at what some simple cups can do! Here are five such cases:
CASE 1
A lady in her mid sixties found it extremely difficult to do meditation in the temple as she could not maintain posture for some time without suffering from severe pain down the back of both her thighs accompanied with cramps of the calves. She has been suffering for about two years and only strong analgesics provided temporary relief. But taking such analgesics precipitated severe gastritis so much so she was between the devil and the deep blue sea! She looked so forlorn that she could not meditate anymore with success as the pain creeps in to her meditative state and disturbs the tranquility she otherwise experiences.
She was asked to lie face down (prone position) with her hands crossed and her forehead placed on the dorsum of her hands. Sesame oil was applied from the area below the gluteal crease up to the popliteal crease. A medium size cup was applied just below the gluteal crease and suction and negative pressure exerted by means of a pistol grip.
When the cup was gently moved down she complained of severe pain. It meant that though chronic characterises her condition her present predicament was acute. The pressure was released and a less strong suction was made – one she could put up with.
Movement elicited complains of pain at various sites and it corresponded to muscle knots (myofascial trigger points) that can be felt in the hand when moving the cup. An overall examination revealed that the posterior-medial aspect of both thighs had many hard muscle knots.
Gentle cupping massage was then initiated over the course of these hard muscle knots in soft tissue – back and forth a few times. This was done to break up the tension in the tissues. Subsequently, average sized cups were placed over the knobby areas and stationary cupping done for 20 minutes.
The same method was applied to the calves and here too muscle knots were identified and stationary cupping initiated. A cup was placed over acu-point UB-57 with moderate suction after needling it with a one inch, 32 gauge, filiform needle.
She also complained of a pain radiating from both buttocks down the posterior aspect of the thighs. Acu-point GB-30 over both buttocks were deeply palpated by a jimmy and sharp tenderness elicited which indicated she suffered from bilateral sciatica……which also could contribute to her discomfort when she assumed the pose for meditation (seated on the ground with legs crossed over – lotus position).
Long filiform needles (5 inches-32 gauge) were inserted over GB-30 of both buttocks and large cups were thereafter placed over the needles, suctioned and acu-cupping initiated.
When the cups from the thighs/calves were removed the interior was misty (coated with water vapor) which was clearly indicative of the prevalence of damp in the sites cupped. ‘Damp pathogen’ as it is sometimes called always manifests in the type of pain and discomfort and muscle knots the patient suffered from.
Immediately after the cupping session the patient complained of a sense of soreness and stiffness. She did not look happy. After she went home she made a phone call and said she felt more sore and stiff. I reassured her that these sensations would soon subside.
Some patients do feel such post-cupping discomfort which eventually subsides. A strong suction (particularly on the elderly and children must be avoided) would often precipitate such post-cupping conditions. Even a moderate suction (as in this case) sometimes would elicit such discomfort if the condition is acute (though chronic over time). Therefore, it is best to tell the patient that ‘only’ sometimes some post-cupping discomfort may be felt when/after returning home but that it would soon dissipate and give over to relief.

When the patient came for the second session she said the sense of soreness and stiffness disappeared after some hours and a sense of relaxation crept in. She felt more confident of the treatment. Four more cupping sessions later she was virtually relieved of her suffering totally. And now she does meditate for many hours without any pain or discomfort. She was so happy that she could meditate in peace that she donated a 12 piece cupping set to the clinic!!
To Be Continued

Cupping Therapy is effective for headaches

2013-02-24T15:08:00.003-08:00

By Dr Tamer Shaban
Are you feeling stressed out by life's pressures? Perhaps you recently suffered from a headache or migraine. If so, you are certainly not alone! But don't suffer in silence - here is one of the best natural therapies you can try to treat your headache. Recent studies confirmed the effectiveness of cupping therapy in headache treatment.

Headache is defined as a pain in the area of the head or neck region. And this pain has varies in intensity, duration and the area affected. There are mainly two types of headaches: primary and secondary. A primary headache is the most common type of headache and the most common example of this type is migraine. Migraine is a pain in half of the head and is characterized by a throbbing pain associated with nausea, vomiting and visual disturbance. The secondary headache is caused by a problem or a disease in the head and neck. The most common causes are haemorrhage, thrombosis, inflammation, fever and raised pressure in the head and neck region.

Headaches are the most common problem of the nervous system. According to the World Health Organization, it affects two thirds of men and 80% of women in developed countries. Migraine is the nineteenth most common cause of disability worldwide, and it reduces the social life of people who suffer from it by about 60% and may become a lifelong disability(1). The prevalence and incidence of headaches in the United States of America is very high. About 90% of men and 95% of women have at least one attack of headache every year. Americans spend about two billion dollars every year on headache medications (2).

The best natural solution for this condition is cupping therapy, defined as a healing by using cups. The most common types of cupping therapy are dry cupping, wet cupping and massage cupping.

Research has proved that cupping therapy is an effective treatment for headaches. The first research study was published in 2008 in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of wet cupping therapy in the treatment of tension headaches and migraines. Wet cupping is one of the oldest recorded medical modalities in the world and it was called (Al Hijama) in Arabic. The researchers treated seventy patients who were suffering from tension headaches. The patients were evaluated before and after treatment, and 66% recorded a decrease in the severity of their headaches. The researchers stated that there were clinical relevant benefits for these patients (3).

The second research study was carried in 2010 in World Family Medicine Journal. The aim of this research was to evaluate the role of cupping therapy in the treatment of chronic headache and chronic back pain. There were eighty-six participants in this trial, but only thirty-seven of them were treated because they were suffering from chronic headache. The patients were evaluated pre- and post-therapy according to the visual pain scale. The results were excellent as the pain severity decreased significantly after one session of cupping therapy. This study revealed the positive effect of cupping therapy, especially that cupping is a good and effective treatment for chronic headaches (4).

References:
1-World Health Organization- Headache disorders- Fact sheet-March 2004
2-Jim Meeks, PA-C -AFPPA 2003: Headache Management -- Evaluation and Treatment: Headache Prevalence -http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle...
3-Ahmadi A, Schwebel DC, Rezaei M., The efficacy of wet-cupping in the treatment of tension and migraine headache. Am J Chin Med. 2008;36(1):37-44.
4-Mohamed M. Reslan Hssanien, Mansoura Fawaz S., Abbas F. Ahmed, Samar Al Emadi, Mohammed Hammoudeh , Effect of cupping therapy in treating chronic headache and chronic back pain at Al heijamah clinic HMC, World Family Medicine Journal, April 2010 - Volume 8, Issue 3
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
the author Dr Tamer Shaban

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To Cite this classification please use:

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[Effects of drug cupping therapy on immune function in chronic asthmatic bronchitis patients during protracted period]

Brachialgia paraesthetica nocturna can be relieved by "wet cupping"-Results of a randomised pilot study

SOME CASES OF CUPPING THERAPY

Sri Lanka

Cupping Therapy Cases

SOME CASES OF CUPPING THERAPYDr Mass R. Usuf

Cupping Therapy is effective for headaches

SOME CASES OF CUPPING THERAPY
Dr Mass R. Usuf