During & After Pregnancy, Take Care of Yourself With Acupuncture
Posted by on Sep 25, 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
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Acupuncture and Depression – A Good Match?
Posted by on Sep 20, 2010
Acupuncture and depression seem to be an unlikely match. But you will be surprised what acupuncture can do for depression. After many tests conducted by researchers to test the claims by many who have benefited from acupuncture, it has been proven that this natural treatment method can really do wonders for depression and anxiety.
What Is Acupuncture, Anyway?
Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese medicine form of treatment or fitness regimen that uses a needle insertion technique into strategic nerve points in the body. Treating pain, treating diseases and promoting well being – these are the major objectives of acupuncture.
Scientific studies are looking at the efficacy and usability of acupuncture in modern medicine and there have been relevant evidences of its effectiveness in the treatment of muscular pains in the neck and back regions, in nausea and headache instances, even in some psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety.
Anxiety And Depression – Physiological
Many researchers are now leaning towards the theory that depression is physiological rather than psychological. The condition often comes about when the body lacks the necessary biochemicals, nutrients and vitamins to enable the mind and body to work in sync and thrive healthily.
When these physiological needs have been met, many depressed people get well dramatically. For these reasons, researchers are now finding ways on how to retain and how to prevent these biochemicals from breaking down prematurely.
This is where acupuncture comes in. Acupuncture stimulates nerve endings to send the correct signals to their corresponding organs. The stimulation results in active production of needed chemicals, not more, not less – in just the perfect amount.
With regular acupuncture sessions, a depressed person may not even need medications to alleviate the symptoms. A visit to an acupuncturist is all it might take to have a peaceful and calm mind.
Conclusions Drawn By Reliable Institutions
The National Institutes of Health found that, to quote their conclusion, “there is sufficient evidence of the value of acupuncture in expanding its use in conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value”.
Other studies on the clinical or medical use of acupuncture have been done, and one notable among them is one on the link between acupuncture and depression treatment. This study noted that with the failure of medication and sometimes even psychotherapy in during depression, the possibility of alternative treatments for depression, like acupuncture, may be helpful.
Targeted Treatment
For acupuncture to be effective, it has to be focused and targeted, and done on a regular basis. A University of Arizona study on acupuncture and depression subjected a group 38 adults who have been found to be suffering from depression ranging from the mild to the moderate stage of depression. The acupuncture regimen was done regularly, with twice-weekly sessions lasting for 30 days, with reducing frequency on the succeeding months. After the study period, more than half of those treated say that they experienced no less than half of the symptoms have been reduced, if not totally eliminated.
As such, acupuncture may well have been an effective alternative treatment for depression, but the study concluded that it has to be targeted and focused nonetheless. Specific acupuncture treatment, one that is targeted at acupoints that will induce relaxation and reduce anxiety, is seen to reduce the treatment time among patients. In comparison, non-specific acupuncture treatment tends to prolong the treatment although it may aid in the treatment of other conditions. The benefits of acupuncture will still have to be studied taken in the context of specific and focused acupuncture treatment designed for the severe depression types, vis-à-vis conventional treatment and medications.
Lifestyle And Diet Change
It should be noted that as acupuncture gains more acceptance in its use as a complementary method for the treatment of depression, the cure brought about by acupuncture is also often related to a lifestyle change and dietary discipline among the patients using the acupuncture treatment. This is so because acupuncture in the strictest Chinese traditional medicine sense is a discipline in itself, and that discipline radiates to other lifestyle and dietary aspects of the patient being treated for the depression.
Flor Serquina is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Facts-About-Depression.com. She provides more information on topics such as acupuncture and depression, treatment for depression and anxiety and natural remedies for depression that you can research on her website even while lounging in your living room.
Author: Flor Serquina
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Acupuncture Schools
Posted by on Sep 15, 2010
Find Acupuncture Schools in the US and Canada. Earning your professional license or certification as an acupuncturist is rewarding in many ways – one not only learns to heal others but also learns to heal self – spiritually, mentally and physically.
Laws for Acupuncture schools differ from state to state; therefore, acupuncture schools may present varied curricula and instructional guidelines. It is important for prospective students to review any necessary prerequisites, course requirements and governing regulations to determine which one of many acupuncture schools or universities may be right for them.
Because there are diverse theories of acupuncture, some acupuncture schools teach the 5-Element style of acupuncture as opposed to the more familiar TCM style. While some acupuncture schools have mandatory programs in Tai Chi, Tuina and/or Qigong, other acupuncture schools offer these fields of study as elective or supplementary courses.
Chinese medicine degree programs at acupuncture schools run approximately 3,000 hours and are specifically designed to teach potential healers the science and philosophy of acupuncture and Oriental medicine; and how to apply these natural healing methods in a practical healthcare setting.
Fundamentally, all aspects of traditional Oriental medicine are introduced in the first year of academic instruction. Typical classroom lessons in acupuncture schools are comprised of clinical case discussions; thus, deepening and widening the understanding of acutherapy.
Additional training in acupuncture, herbal medicine, anatomy, body therapies, biosciences and Tai Chi are part of the many in-depth studies that prepare the aspiring acupuncturist for clinical apprenticeship.
During the second year at acupuncture schools, classroom experience teaches in-depth philosophy of acupuncture practice, Oriental medicine and advanced needling techniques. Apprenticeship begins with licensed acupuncturists in a clinical setting. Third-year students in acupuncture schools begin practicing on patients as interns.
In addition to acupuncture and Oriental medicine degree programs, acupuncture schools also provide continuing education courses, certificate programs and advanced studies in moxibustion, cupping, auricular therapy, Tuina (Chinese medical massage), meridian therapy, herbology, Chinese medical language, and other TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) training.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding acupuncture schools, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.
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Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Acupuncture Schools, Acupuncture Colleges & Universities, and others.
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Acupuncture – History and Techniques
Posted by on Sep 10, 2010
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, it is used extensively in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has proven to provide pain relief, ease suffering, and reduce tension and stress. Looking at the popularity of acupuncture, many insurance companies have started to recognize it as a Complimentary Alternative Medicine and are offering this treatment within their health plans.
Today the world is moving at a very fast pace and there is very little to no free time available for the individual.
To remain fit and healthy has become a real challenge. Most of us often suffer stress related problems like the nausea, back pain, lethargy etc. There are prescribed medications available to assist with the symptoms but the available medications are not free from their own form of side effects. It is not always practically possible to go to work suffering from drowsiness or lethargy caused by the commercial medications for example. To avoid this situation there are only two ways available, one take time off work which is not possible on regular basis or the second is to bear the sufferings of the pain or the disease and keep on working, which is not possible for long periods. For these very reasons people started hunting for the alternative remedies and thus acupuncture gained its relevance and importance in the modern world.
In the Chinese language acupuncture is known as zhen jiu. Acupuncture is actually the technique of restoring the health and treating pain and diseases by inserting tubular needles into the different vantage points of the body known as the acupuncture point. Acupuncture works on the principle that nature flows within the human body and it is controlled by the vital life energy termed as Qi (pronounced chee). This energy, or life force, circulates around the body through invisible channels called meridians. If the flow of Qi in the meridians is disrupted, then disease may follow. By inserting fine needles into particular acupuncture points, the disruption can be corrected and the flow of Qi restored. To begin with, the acupuncturist questions the patient about the ailment and various other relevant facts and also performs a physical examination of the patient before starting the acupuncture treatment.
Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Depending on the location of the treatment, the patient will either sit or lie down. Properly done, acupuncture is painless because the needles are very fine (around 0.2mm in width). Once inserted, the patient may feel mild tingling around the site, warmth or heaviness, or even nothing at all.
An acupuncturist may use other techniques including:
1. Cupping – suction designed to bring Qi and blood to the acupuncture point.
2. Chinese herbs – either mixed by the acupuncturist or in pre-prepared tablet or granulated form.
3. Laser – used instead of the needles to activate acupuncture points.
4. TCM remedial massage – techniques applied to specific acupuncture points or meridians.
5. Moxibustion – burning herbs held over or applied to acupuncture points.
Does acupuncture hurt? That is the most common question asked.
The whole process may be termed as a painless process but the degree of pain bearing differs from person to person. Most of the patients have stated that there is virtually no pain at all or it is very minimal, like the pain you suffer while plucking hair. The other thing to keep in mind is that the treatment as a whole also depends upon the expertise of the acupuncturist. It should be made clear that acupuncture may not provide instant relief from the ailment or that only one visit to the acupuncturist would suffice.
Factors to consider is the severity of the ailment and also that the degree of recovery differs from person to person. Acupuncture is an alternative remedy so many people do not rely on the procedure completely. Some patients do report a noticeable difference with one visit to the acupuncturist, but usually it takes many visits to get satisfactory improvement.
Pharmaceutical companies are churning out drugs and medicines for possibly all ailments and diseases to meet the requirements of the people wanting a “quick fix”, but where is the warning about the dangerous side effects that these drugs and medications bring along with them? We have mentioned the side effects of the commercial drugs and other medications so it is practically correct to ask about the side effects of acupuncture. There is a risk of negative side effects from acupuncture, but the quantum of the risk is very low compared to the alternate commercial remedies.
The main side effects of this process is due to the improper sterilization of the used needles or placing the needles too deep in the body which can cause small bleeds, dizziness etc. These things happen when any poorly trained acupuncturist handles the patient. Therefore it is very important for you to go to a qualified acupuncturist and for the purpose it may require you to research as you do before going to the physician or the dentist.
Whether or not you believe in the philosophy of Qi makes no difference to the effects of acupuncture. Scientific trials around the world have found that acupuncture is a safe and useful treatment for many different disorders. Acupuncture is certainly worth a try. It offers relatively very low risk of side effects and may assist in reducing independence from the load of the commercial drugs and medications available. It is definitely worth a try.
Leanne Kemp is the Managing Director for Wotaboutme. Look online to find a day spa, haircut, aromatherapy massage anywhere in Australia. Perfect for gifts for him or gifts for her. For updates, check out the Wotaboutme Blog
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What To Know Before Choosing An Acupuncture School
Posted by on Sep 5, 2010
As acupuncture has become more popular over the years, governments have recognized it as a valuable form of medicine and seek to regulate it. Once you become informed about acupuncture schools you’ll be able to find the right program or school for you and start down the path to a rewarding career as an acupuncturist. Starting out, one needs to learn how and where you can earn a certificate or degree in acupuncture and what it’s like to work in the field of acupuncture.
Acupuncture school education and training requirements can total from 2500 to 4000 credit hours. You want to opt for a school whose program emphasizes courses in traditional Chinese medicine; acupuncture is just one part of traditional Chinese medicine. You can call each school you’re considering and ask to speak to a recruiting counselor to find out the student-to-teacher ratio so you can get smaller classes.
States like California have many acupuncture schools to choose from, while Wisconsin, for example, has only one school; some states have none at all. Choose an acupuncture school that offers an extensive library of materials focused on traditional Chinese medicine. There are just a few acupuncture schools that teach practitioners the five-element Oriental medicine approach to acupuncture, which is often used in conjunction with traditional Western medical practices.
Keep in mind that depending on the school, students may be required to study herbal medicine or may be offered herbal courses as electives. Check with your school – it’s important that you have a wide selection of study resources available to you so you can have all the literature that is essential for a broad learning experience. For naturopathy schools that offer acupuncture programs see online the list of accredited Natural Medicine Colleges in North America.
One good textbook to review in advance of your decision is: “The Foundations of Chinese Medicine” a comprehensive text for acupuncturists and herbalists. Maciocia, 528pp., 96 Illustrated, Harcourt, 1989. Internships in acupuncture take place in acupuncture clinics or clinical settings, usually in the third year. Acupuncture benefits are particularly effective at relieving or treating chronic muscle pain, stress, and PMS just to name a few symptoms.
Talk to the financial aid counselors at the acupuncture school or college you are considering and see if they have any suggestions for scholarships, grants or loans. Acupuncture scholarships may be available; check this out as soon as you make the decision to enroll in a program – don’t wait. Economic burden may be lessened with financial aid in the form of federal student loans.
If you visit an acupuncture practitioner to learn more before you commit to acupuncture as a career, make sure to choose a practitioner who is licensed by a recognized national acupuncture organization. Consider contacting your local organizations and health organizations to see if they know of any scholarships available. Note that each state and each discipline has its own strict rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed.
And once you’re licensed or practicing acupuncture as a student in training, never attempt to use acupuncture to treat potentially life-threatening symptoms such as extreme shortness of breath or chest pain; refer these patients to their doctor. Make sure to learn about your state’s licensing requirements for acupuncturists and necessity of acupuncture schools before you do anything else. Our advanced medicine today has proven the effectiveness of many treatments that have been practiced in other countries for many centuries; as a result, more and more insurance companies are covering alternative treatments like acupuncture.
For more information on choosing the best acupuncture schools and finding the best acupuncture school financing go to http://www.AcupunctureSchoolsTips.com a nurse’s website specializing in acupuncture schools tips, help, facts, free resources, including information on acupuncture schools list
Author: Helen Hecker
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Acupuncture Training Schools
Posted by on Aug 31, 2010
Find Acupuncture Training Schools in the United States and Canada. Currently, there are over 50 Acupuncture training schools in the United States. Acupuncture training laws are independently regulated by individual states and may vary; therefore, acupuncture training schools may integrate customized beliefs and practical coursework into their curriculums.
Acupuncture training schools commonly provide three-year MS Degree programs in acupuncture or four-year MS Degree programs in Oriental medicine. In addition, acupuncture training schools will often extend post-graduate studies in Chinese Herbology, continuing education and Doctoral classes. Acupuncture training schools instruct in a variety of Oriental medicine techniques; including electro-acupuncture, 5-Element acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, Tui Na, and Auricular Acupuncture, other than Traditional Chinese Medicine.
One of the essential goals for students who attend acupuncture training schools is to attain a full understanding in the diversified philosophies and sciences of acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Once successful graduates have acquired their professional licensure, they are able to practice professionally; and have the ability to administer their natural healing techniques on clients seeking an alternative means to achieving better health and well-being.
Upon enrollment in acupuncture training schools, traditional Oriental medicine is one of the first, common subjects of study presented to the future practitioner. During the first year, students will engage in a vigorous course of instruction geared toward acupuncture, anatomy, body therapies, bioscience, herbal medicine and Tai Chi. In the second year, students in acupuncture training schools will gain comprehensive classroom orientation; whereby they will be taught advanced needling methods and in-depth philosophy of the practice of both acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
In the third year of acupuncture training schools, licensed acupuncture practitioners will begin their clinical internship, where they will add practical experience in a clinical setting. Because they are extended the opportunity to practice on their own patients, students of acupuncture training schools will further their expertise and knowledge; and acquire the skills necessary to developing and opening their own entrepreneurial health and wellness offices.
If you’d like to learn more about acupuncture training schools, please see our “schools” section at Holistic Junction.
Find 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=6634739&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.
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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 Healing Arts Schools, Acupuncture Training Schools, and other Alternative Healing Schools.
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