Importance of Precise Acupuncture Needle Placement
Posted by on Dec 9, 2010
An alternative form of medicine that uses needles which are pierced into the human body is known as acupuncture. It is a treatment use to relieve ailments and maladies that pester people.
In some cases, due to the use of needles, this alternative form of treatment is greeted with trepidation by many.
During acupuncture session, the fact that the acupuncture needle placement needs to be precise on certain body points causes trepidation and hesitation to some individuals not only due to the needles.
Precision is the Key
The essence of acupuncture is the need for the right and precise needle placement. In order to stimulate a positive response in the body, the premise of this alternative form of treatment is to hit the right spots.
There is a need to be accurate because some spots have limited space.
Because of not being able to get the right placement, some patients experience less than desirable effects due to imprecise acupuncture session.
Using the best acupuncture needle does not actually matter; it is the right placement of acupuncture needle that counts. Wrong placement of acupuncture needle may lead to risking of patient’s life and also deadly in some rare cases.
In fact, this one reason that causes fear among first timers who decide to undergo treatment with a person who practices acupuncture.
The Japanese acupuncture and the Chinese acupuncture are the two common forms of this treatment. It is the make up of the needles that differentiate them both. Acupuncture was just recently introduced to Japan while the acupuncture itself originated in China.
Japanese form of acupuncture is more refined or delicate than those of the Chinese due to the fact that the Japanese who usually practice acupuncture are mostly blind.
Although the Japanese tend not to insert the needle too deep compared to Chinese practitioners of acupuncture, the acupuncture needle placement of both cultures is basically the same.
What truly vital for this treatment is the need for precise acupuncture needle placement.
For individuals who wish to learn this alternative form of treatment can attend some schools that teach acupuncture or to experts who can teach the treatment procedure.
Some are fly by night individuals who try to pass themselves off as the real thing but there are really certified and licensed professionals duly accredited by the government.
Since there are many ways to certify if they are legitimate or not, the problem therefore exists with most alternative forms of medicine. Going for an acupuncture session needs care when choosing where. Cheaper does not guarantee that it is safer and better.
If you are interested in trying out acupuncture, make sure to learn more about acupuncture needle placement at my site. Discover where to buy acupuncture needles online.
Author: Ricky Lim
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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French Meridian Acupuncture
Posted by on Dec 4, 2010
Find French Meridian Acupuncture Training and Therapy in the United States and Canada. If you’re searching for a unique method of acupuncture, you may want to try French meridian acupuncture. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), French meridian acupuncture, also referred to as “French energetic acupuncture,” is widely used by medical acupuncturists, and is a technique that emphasizes meridian patterns; more specifically, the yin and yang of the focal meridians.
French meridian acupuncture is performed by a licensed practitioner, via the insertion of tiny hair-like needles in varied locations and patterns along the meridians (energy channels). A combination of both Eastern and Western medicine, this particular type of acupuncture is primarily facilitated as a complimentary treatment for chronic illness and injury. Known to influence the channels of energy that run within the body, French meridian acupuncture holds the common belief that acupuncture can relieve disease and pain by restoring balance between the two principle forces of nature – the yin and the yang.
Today, there are a number of professional Oriental medicine practitioners who practice French meridian acupuncture and other forms of acupuncture, in addition to Traditional Chinese Medicine as integrative treatment to patients around the world.
In order to become a licensed acupuncturist, it is essential that candidates acquire the appropriate education and training through anyone of the many acupuncture schools and colleges available today. While some schools focus primarily on 5-Element Acupuncture, there are a variety of academic programs that incorporate an assortment of modalities including French meridian acupuncture, as well as Korean hand acupuncture, auricular acupuncture (ear acupuncture), myofascial acupuncture, and Japanese acupuncture.
In general, licensed acupuncturists who practice French meridian acupuncture, as well as other Chinese medicine therapies must be credentialed by having completed at least three to four years of Oriental medicine training, in addition to prerequisite education from an accredited college or university.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding French Meridian Acupuncture training, let professional education within fast-growing industries like business administration, medical billing and coding, massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.
French Meridian Acupuncture
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NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for French Meridian Acupuncture Training, Acupuncture Schools, and other Studies.
Author: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd
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During & After Pregnancy, Take Care of Yourself With Acupuncture
Posted by on Oct 15, 2010
Acupuncture is a type of ancient Chinese medicine. It has been used for thousands of years, and works with over 2,000 pressure points and energy meridians in your body. As you probably know, acupuncture uses disposable needles as thin as a strand of hair placed just below the skin to stimulate these points on your body. Treatments are usually painless. At worst, patients have reported tingling, heaviness, or a slight burning sensation where certain needles are positioned.
What is great for pregnant women is that acupuncture provides assistance with a myriad of conditions associated with pregnancy without drugs. Pregnant women need to work with a highly skilled practitioner, since stimulating certain points on the body can hasten labor by ripening the cervix.
A study by Harvard University figured that over 5 million Americans visit acupuncturists every year. The National Institute of Health supports this claim, saying that a growing number of doctors and dentists refer people to acupuncturists for prevention as well as treatment.
Acupuncture is a common treatment for headaches, allergies, arthritis, digestion problems, and relief from the side effects of chemotherapy. At every stage of pregnancy and beyond, acupuncture has time-honored and scientifically-proven benefits–not just for you but for your baby. Valerie Hobbs, director of the Southwest Acupuncture College, says that babies can be influenced by “maternal toxins” while in the womb. These toxins can lead to higher fevers, frequent childhood illnesses, and a tendency towards skin irritations. Hobbs says, “Regular balancing treatments throughout pregnancy enhance the health of the mother, preventing complications and influence the development of the baby.”
FIRST TRIMESTER: MORNING SICKNESS, NAUSEA, BLEEDING, & MIGRAINES
It is controversial if traditional acupuncture can cause fetal movement, early contractions, and spontaneous abortion in the first trimester. However, a well-known acupuncture study was conducted in the UK on about 600 women who were in the first trimester. No adverse reactions were found. Women in the study reported less fatigue, migraines, bloating, and bleeding. Also, the women reported less frequent and less severe bouts of nausea.
To error on the side of caution, you should only trust a nationally-certified and experienced acupuncturist. California is the only state not requiring acupuncturists to be nationally-certified. Again, it’s especially important for pregnant women to work only with very experienced practitioners. Although not essential, acupuncturists with a certificate in Chinese herbology is even better, as their understanding of the entire Chinese medicine system will be superior. You can also have “ear acupuncture” (versus “body acupuncture”) or acupressure (without needles) done in the first trimester to reduce any risk of complication.
SECOND TRIMESTER: HEARTBURN, HEMORRHOIDS, & STRESS
In addition to heartburn, hemorrhoids, and stress, Hobbs says that second-trimester acupuncture can also reduce edema, high blood pressure, and excessive weight gain. If you are experiencing any of these more serious problems, consult with your regular doctor as well.
THIRD TRIMESTER: BACK AND PELVIC GIRDLE PAIN
The third trimester is universally considered the safest time to undergo acupuncture treatments. Benefits during this stage include relief from: sciatica, back pain, carpal tunnel, and pelvic girdle pain. Acupuncture has actually been found to be better at reducing back pain, which effects ¾ of third trimester women, than massage, heat, and exercise, according to the Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica.
According to BBC News, one in three pregnant women are affected by pelvic girdle pain in the third trimester. In a British study of 386 pregnant women, they were broken up into three groups. One group did a standard at-home exercise routine; the next group did exercise and acupuncture; the final group did a specialized exercise regimen. The expectant moms undergoing acupuncture reported the least pain. Dr. Graham Archard, vice-chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, says, “Pregnant women should be avoiding drugs, so acupuncture, which releases the bodies painkillers, should be of benefit.”
IN LABOR: REDUCE PAIN, INCREASE ENERGY
Not only is acupuncture effective at inducing labor with overdue babies, but is can help reposition a breech presentation. Using a form of acupuncture called moxabustion has been shown to have a significant effect on turning breech presentations into head-first births, as reported by the Journal of American Medical Association. Additionally, acupuncture during labor can reduce pain and increase energy and vitality. It has also helped women with extensive bleeding after delivery stop the flow.
POST-PARTUM: RECUPERATING, PREVENTING DEPRESSION
Whether your delivery was by vaginal birth or C-section, acupuncture can bring pain relief. If you are concerned about postpartum depression, Hobbs says, “We theoretically prevent serious postpartum depression from occurring by addressing the normal recuperative cycle in the woman.” As acupuncture can help bring your entire self back into balance, feelings of depression and stress will naturally be reduced. It’s also been demonstrated that pregnant women receiving acupuncture have a lower rate of postpartum depression.
Shoshana Bennett, Ph.D.
Author, Postpartum Depression for Dummies
SOURCES:
http://www.pregnancytoday.com/reference/articles/acupuncture.htm
http://www.webmd.com/news/20000706/acupuncture-pregnancy-lower-back-pain
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2844/acupuncture_and_pregnancy.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4358509.stm
http://www.pregnancytoday.com/articles/pregnancy/acupuncture-1241
Sign up for a free audio mp3, “Introduction to Beyond the Baby Blues” here:
http://www.postpartumdepressionhelp.com
Shoshana Bennett, Ph.D. is the author of “Postpartum Depression For Dummies” and co-author of “Beyond the Blues”: Understanding and Treating Prenatal and Postpartum Depression. She’s also created guided imagery audios that are specifically focused on helping moms take care of themselves. ABC’s “20/20″ featured Dr. Shoshana as the postpartum expert and news stations including CNN consult her. Several publications including the San Francisco Chronicle and the San Jose Mercury News have written articles on Dr. Shoshana’s work. She’s interviewed regularly on radio and television and has been quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines such as the Boston Globe, Glamour, Psychology Today, New York Post, Self, Cosmopolitan, USA Weekend and the Chicago Tribune. Dr. Shoshana is a survivor of two life-threatening, undiagnosed postpartum depressions. She founded Postpartum Assistance for Mothers in 1987, and is the Past President of Postpartum Support International.
Author: Shoshana Bennett
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Acupuncture University: What to Expect
Posted by on Oct 10, 2010
Find an Acupuncture University in the United States and Canada. Aspiring students who desire entrance into an acupuncture university should first evaluate prospective school for any course prerequisites. While entry into an acupuncture university may not always necessitate an undergraduate degree, many ACAOM accredited schools do require some formal education; and some Oriental medicine schools prefer candidates that have already acquired a bachelor’s degree.
As expected, an acupuncture university will offer students comprehensive courses in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Some of this coursework could lead to a Master of Science or Doctor of Oriental Medicine. Depending on which track you follow, an acupuncture university will supply you with the necessary education, skills and hands-on training to become a successful acupuncture practitioner.
Once enrolled in an acupuncture university, students who are pursuing a Master of Science will gain intensive training in Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture principles, modalities, techniques, and theories. In addition, acupuncture university candidates will learn about biology, medical terminology, biochemistry, physics, general psychology, anatomy and physiology. Though this is just a broad overview of general curriculums provided through an Acupuncture University’s Master of Science program, there is much more subject matter that will be discussed and learned.
In the Doctor of Oriental medicine program, which often goes hand-in-hand with studies extended through an acupuncture university, students will discover that this course-intensive program includes much of what is taught through the Master of Science program but with more advanced classes in medical microbiology, medical biochemistry, integrative medicine, and many others. Both the Doctor of Oriental Medicine and Master of Science programs offered at an acupuncture university usually involve over 4,000 credit hours and may last from two to three years.
Upon successful graduation from an acupuncture university, graduates can go onto becoming certified and licensed in their state of residence. Aside from offering patients a quality, but alternative medical treatment, professional acupuncturists can expect a rewarding career and positive income potential.
If you are interested in finding your dream job, let education within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs [http://school.holisticjunction.com/clickcount.php?id=6105114&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.
Acupuncture University: What to Expect
© Copyright 2007
The CollegeBound Network
All Rights Reserved
Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Healing Arts Schools, Acupuncture Schools, and other Alternative Medicine Schools.
NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box (above) are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
Author: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Can Acupuncture Be Used To Induce Labor?
Posted by on Oct 5, 2010
It is a common question in my practice, “have you induced labor with acupuncture.” The answer is a profound yes. I have induced several women and have watched other practitioners induce many more. All of the women I have seen use acupuncture induction gave birth within 48 hours. They were all slightly “over due” according to their physicians. They all sought out acupuncture as an alternative to Pitocin. The average labor time was 4 – 5 hours.
Understanding how acupuncture can induce labor:
Acupuncture is different than western induction drugs. It is an alternative to Pitocin,
yet acts in a very different way. First lets look at Pitocin. Pitocin creates an
immediate reaction which begins labor whether the mother’s body and baby are
ready or not. Contractions start almost instantly with pitocin in labor induction,
making it an extremely predictable drug. However, the effects of pitocin on children
are not fully known. Possible side effects for the mother have been reported to
include:
- Anaphylactic reaction
- Postpartum hemorrhage
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Fatal afibrinogenemia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Premature ventricular contractions
- Pelvic hematoma
Using acupuncture to induce labor is a whole different experience. Depending on
the practitioner, acupuncture needles are inserted into strategic locations in the
hands, lower leg, and feet. These needles are not like what the average person
thinks of when they imagine getting a shot. The needles are solid, yet extremely
thin (about 5 can fit inside the hole of your average hypodermic needle). For the
most part the insertion does not produce pain. The needles create a stimulation in
the body which is used to reprogram the mother’s energy in such a way as to get
her body ready for labor. With some women this can be a significant change, as I
will describe in a minute. Labor is rarely expected to start right away, although I
have been lucky enough to witness it on several occasions.
Birth Stories With Acupuncture
#1 – My first acupuncture induced labor – Observation Clinic with Dr. Daniel
Diamond:
I mentioned that for some women, acupuncture induction can create a significant
reaction in the women being treated. The first time I ever witnessed acupuncture to
induce labor was in an acupuncture techniques class. My teacher, Daniel Diamond,
was looking for a subject to discuss for the evening. One of my classmates was a
day overdue for her child’s birth and decided to be the volunteer for the day’s
discussion rounds. Needles were inserted in the hands and feet with electro-
stimulation set to mild (many practitioners use electro-stimulation for inducing
labor. I do not as I have not found it necessary, however, it is safe and effective as
the levels are set to very low and the electricity is not allowed to pass through the
uterus). Within five minutes my classmate, the women being treated, started to have
contractions. She packed up her bags in the middle of class and left the classroom
to give birth to her child within five hours of the end of class.
#2 – My first time inducing labor with acupuncture:
Sarah, a 20 year old women came into my clinic complaining of being overdue for
her delivery by one and a half weeks. She had already seen two other student
acupuncturists who had both provided her with the textbook induction technique of
four needles, one in each hand and foot, combined with electro-stimulation. I
wanted to do something different. I sat down with her and talked about her
pregnancy. Her partner paced around in the background and when they
communicated I sensed some tension. So, what to do? Acupressure induced labor….
In Acupuncture and Acupressure there are “pressure points” on top of the shoulders
that can be stimulated to induce labor. Yes it is a wives tail if you have never seen it
done (it will probably not work and can be categorized as myth), but it works if you
know what you are doing and how to press the points. I had the patient sit in a chair
and breath deep. As she exhaled I would follow the breath pushing into the point
imagining the energy going into her feet. At the very bottom of her breath I noticed
that her belly was coming up, almost contracting, instead of relaxing down with the
exhale. I pointed this out to her and helped her relax all the way through the breath.
She started to feel more relaxed and actually had a little small contraction. I then
had her partner do the massage technique, and taught him how to press. To my
amazement, her belly contracted up at the end of her breath twice as much as the
first time when I had pressed down. I pointed this out to both of them and asked
why she would be contracting against him. She broke down crying. She cried about
her hesitations to bring the baby into the world without her partner’s support. He
cried about not being ready to be a father but wanting to fill that role to the best of
his ability. It was fairly amazing to witness as there had obviously been a barrier,
which was now falling. After a few minutes of talking I had her lay down on the table
and I put in some acupuncture points, which were different than the treatment she
had already been receiving (Lv 8, Lv 2, LI 4, St 36, St 38). I also treated the partner
to help him relax. Her contractions did not start on the table, but the baby began to
kick immediately. She went into labor that evening and gave birth to a healthy baby
before dawn.
#3 – Acupuncture Induction – The Case of The Anti-Induction:
In some instances I have used acupuncture to slow down contractions so the mother
could sleep (her husband was an internal medical physician and had just gotten off
of a very stressful 36 hour shift). Her contractions were too mild to be real labor,
but enough to keep her awake. The more relaxed she became, the more intense the
contractions. If she had stayed up, she would have gone into labor that evening. Her
husband, however, was very tired and would not have made it through the night as
an active supporter in the process. We used acupuncture to slow down the
contractions and to help her calm down. She fell asleep and woke up with regular
contractions. Her baby was delivered later that day.
In summary
Acupuncture can be an effective means to induce labor. I have seen it work time and
time again. When compared to the possible side effects of pitocin on children and
the known potential side effects for mothers it is clear that acupuncture should be
our first line of induction. Acupuncture has no known side effects and as the
needles do not come close to the abdomen, there is no potential negative side effect
for the child. The down side is that the induction is not always an immediate
process. In hospitals, the trend is to want to get women in and out of labor. A
hospital bed is expensive and so is a physician’s time. If you or a friend you know is
considering using acupuncture to induce labor, you should visit the acupuncturist
prior to the seventh month and expect to begin treatments to induce the labor just
before or after your due date. An experienced acupuncturist will know how close
you are to going into labor and can give you a clear view of how long you can expect
to wait for labor to begin.
Labor is a spiritual journey. When your spirit, the spirit of your child, and the spirit
of the father are ready the birth will begin. Have patients and see the experience as
the most amazing passage you will most likely have as a family. You are ushering a
new life into this world. Breathe and observe every second with awe, love and hope
for the new life. Using acupuncture to induce labor does not push you through the
experience prematurely or too quickly. Acupuncture balances you and prepares you
for the passage. Take a deep breath and say hello to a new life.
Mark Fischer, LAc is a licensed Oriental medical physician. He has a clinical acupuncture and oriental medical practice in Boulder Colorado. You can read more articles by Mark as well as find out information about his clinic at: http://www.innerfire.org
Author: Mark Fischer
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Acupuncture and Fertility Success With Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
Posted by on Sep 30, 2010
The causes of infertility can be varied and are sometimes difficult to identify. Whatever the cause, fertility problems can often be overcome with surgery, medications, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) – a modern medical approach where the egg, sperm, or both are handled by a doctor to increase the chances of conceiving. Yet there is a limitation to these procedures. Even though hundreds of thousands of babies are born with the help of ART every year, the success rates are slim and decrease with the woman’s age. ART comes with a hefty price tag as well; one cycle of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000, or more.
Recent studies show a direct link between acupuncture and fertility when integrated with conventional ART procedures. The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture brings a number of positive effects on the male and female reproductive system, increasing the chances of successful implantation and reducing the likelihood of miscarriage. Here are just some of the ways acupuncture can improve the chances of a successful ART procedure.
Induces relaxation
Western researchers have been doing studies on acupuncture for decades but in 2002, the journal Fertility and Sterility published a study that increased the treatment’s popularity among infertile couples. This study, which was led by Dr. Wolfgang Paulus from the University of Ulm in Germany, found that 42% of women who received acupuncture before and after an ART procedure got pregnant compared to 26% of women who got pregnant with ART without acupuncture. In that same year, researchers from Cornell University Medical School published a study in the same journal. According to this paper, acupuncture increases the chances of conceiving because it reduces anxiety and stress. Stress hormones can over-stimulate the nervous system, causing the blood flow to be diverted from the uterus and go to the stress-coping glands instead. Acupuncture can restore the blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, thus enhancing fertility.
Regulates hormone production and improves egg quality
One of the benefits of acupuncture to female fertility is its ability to treat problems in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, the regions of the brain responsible for hormone production. The acupuncture needles also stimulate the release of beta-endorphins, which influences the production of reproductive hormones that control the menstrual cycle, such as the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), gonadtropin releasing hormone (GRH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). The treatment’s effect on the body’s hormones results in regular ovarian functions, normal menstrual cycles, increase of follicles, and healthier eggs.
Reduces the side effects of fertility drugs
Most ART procedures include a course of fertility drugs to induce the release of multiple eggs and increase the chance of successful implantation. The irony is that many of these drugs, particularly Clomid, can also cause infertility by producing a thin uterine lining that cannot sustain an embryo for long. Acupuncture can reverse these side effects by improving the blood flow to the uterus and helping produce a thick, uniform uterine lining. This effect was documented in a study in Human Reproduction in 1996. Women who received two acupuncture treatments with their IVF cycle – one 25 minutes before the embryo transfer and another 25 minutes after – had a higher pregnancy rate than the women who did not get acupuncture with IVF.
Lowers the chances of miscarriage
Many studies look at the pregnancy rate after IVF and acupuncture, but what matters more is if the pregnancy is carried to term. A paper presented in the annual meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine shows that acupuncture can increase the live birth rate of ART procedures. This study looked at 131 women who went through an IVF/ICSI procedure; 48 of them went through an acupuncture treatment while 83 declined. Although the rates of successful embryo transfer were almost the same (50% of the acupuncture group versus 45% of the control group), the miscarriage rate in the acupuncture group was significantly lower at only 8% (versus 14% in the control group). The rate of ectopic pregnancy was also lower – nobody in the acupuncture group got an ectopic pregnancy.
Should I get acupuncture with my ART procedure?
Since acupuncture is a safe and painless technique that causes no harmful side effects, most fertility experts say it’s a good idea to get acupuncture treatments to complement an ART procedure. Scientific evidence points to its benefits for increasing success rates of ART and in addition, the relaxation provided by acupuncture is enough to recommend the procedure, what with the stress of coping with infertility and expensive ART treatments. Those who have conceived after ART and acupuncture are most assuredly grateful about the positive outcome despite the additional cost of the acupuncture treatments combined with the cost of ART.
Diana Farrell is an author who holds a Masters Degree in Psychology as well as advanced training in a number of alternative therapies. Through her own journey overcoming infertility, she discovered a wealth of information that can greatly improve a couple’s chances of fulfilling their dreams of parenthood. If you would like more tips about acupuncture and fertility as well as lots more valuable information about things you can do that will help you conceive faster, visit The Pregnancy Success Program.
Author: Diana Farrell
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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