Archive for category Acupuncture

Shao Yang Meridian Connections: A Channel Based Approach

Posted by admin in Acupuncture on November 29, 2011

From a meridian based perspective the Shao Yang meridians (GB – SJ) connect to three other meridian pairs. The internal/external pairing is to the Jue Yin (LV – PC), by way of the horary cycle they connect to the heart and spleen, and through Zang Fu Bei Tong Theory it connects to the Shao Yin (HT – KI).

When we combine these pairings for the practical application of doing pattern identification and designing treatment strategies, we can speak of three syndromes: the shao yang – jue yin syndrome, the shao yang – shao yin syndrome, and finally the shao yang – heart/spleen syndrome.

The first pattern is characterized by conditions such as temple headaches, neck pain, photophobia, insomnia, anxiety, seizures, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, hip pain, and shen disturbance. In this pattern we find that the GB and/or SJ meridians are expressing symptoms that are rooted in a liver and/or pericardium imbalance. By using these four meridians in combination we are able to most effectively deal with the patients top three health concerns and overall zang-fu patterns.

The shao yang – shao yin syndrome is characterized by similar symptoms as listed above, although in this pattern we find that the underlying root pattern is coming from kidney and/or heart imbalances. So for example, if the kidney yin has declined it can lead to many of the above-mentioned symptoms such as neck pain, insomnia, seizures, etc. Similarly, patterns like heart fire or heart yin/blood deficiency can also lead to many of these symptoms as well. Therefore, in this pattern we find that the GB and/or SJ meridians are symptomatic, but the overall pattern is rooted in an imbalance in the shao yin.

In shao yang – heart/spleen patterns we also find that the client complains of symptoms related to the GB and SJ meridians or organ systems; however, in this case the underlying pattern is related to the heart and spleen. Typically, this will be a spleen/heart blood deficiency pattern that leads to symptoms such as temple headaches, insomnia, anxiety, etc. Read the rest of this entry »

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Acupuncture – For Infertility

Posted by admin in Acupuncture on November 29, 2011

Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine (not much thicker than a hair) needles into specific acupuncture points that are located along meridians or channels that connect to the various organs in Chinese medicine. The thinking is that by needling these specific points you can influence the flow of qi (pronounced chee) or energy that flows to the organs and improve organ function. Western medicine research has discovered that acupuncture can alter production of various brain chemicals including neurotransmitters, endorphins, encephalins, pain killers, mood enhancers, natural anti-inflammatories etc. The meridians and points are also often in close proximity to blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic channels or specific organs.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Absolutely if it is practiced by a qualified, competent practitioner. Having practiced acupuncture for 12 years, I have found that the worst that happens is mild to moderate bruising in some patients and sometimes a lasting sensation where the needle had been for up to a day afterward. The acupuncture needles we use are sterile and disposable so there is no risk of infection.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Because the needles are not much thicker than a hair, there is very little sensation when they enter the skin, sometimes a teeny pin prick. As the needle reaches it’s destination you may feel a tingly sensation, electrical sensation or deep pressure sensation, but generally not much more than that and whatever sensation is felt usually subsides within a minute or two of the needle insertion. After that you may be aware the needle is there but not really feel much of anything from it.

What is an Acupuncture Treatment Like?

In total a treatment takes 35-40 minutes. I start by marking where the needles will go by pressing on your skin, then cleaning that spot with alcohol and inserting the needle. Once they are all in they stay in for about 20 minutes and are then removed and discarded. Each treatment consists of anywhere from about 8-18 needles. Afterward most people report either feeling energized or relaxed. Read the rest of this entry »

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