Acupuncture and Menopause

People often ask if there is any research to validate acupuncture.  There is an enormous volume of research.  Below is a study on acupuncture and menopause.

A comparison of acupuncture and oral estradiol treatment of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women.

Wyon Y, Wijma K, Nedstrand E, Hammar M.
Faculty of Health Sciences, University Hospital, Linkoping, Sweden.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of electro-acupuncture with oral estradiol and superficial needle insertion on hot flushes in postmenopausal women. 

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-five postmenopausal women with vasomotor symptoms were randomized to electro-acupuncture, superficial needle insertion or oral estradiol treatment during 12 weeks, with 6 months' follow-up. The number and severity of flushes were registered daily and the Kupperman index and a general estimate of climacteric symptoms were completed before, during and after therapy. 

RESULTS: In the electro-acupuncture group, the mean number of flushes/24 h decreased from 7.3 to 3.5 (ANOVA, p < 0.001). Eleven of the 15 women had at least a 50% decrease in number of flushes (with a mean decrease of 82%). 

Superficial needle insertion decreased the number of flushes/24 h from 8.1 to 3.8 (p < 0.001). In seven out of 13 women, the number of flushes decreased by at least 50% (mean decrease 83%). In the estrogen group, the number of flushes decreased from 8.4 to 0.8 (p < 0.001). The decrease in number of flushes persisted during the 24-week follow-up period in all treatment groups. 

The Kupperman index and the general climacteric symptom score decreased, and remained unchanged 24 weeks after treatment in all groups (p < 0.001).

Electro- acupuncture decreased the number of flushes/24 h significantly over time, but not to the same extent as the estrogen treatment. No significant difference in effect was found between electro-acupuncture and the superficial needle insertion. 

CONCLUSION: We suggest that acupuncture is a viable alternative treatment of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women.
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Publication Types:
* Clinical Trial
* Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 15497904 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 

Headaches: Acupuncture With Meds

Results of a published British study show that acupuncture combined with drugs works better than conventional medical treatment alone to treat chronic headaches, many of which are migraines. 

Researchers tested 401 patients who reported having headaches several days every week. 

They found that those who received the combination of acupuncture plus drugs reported fewer and less-intense headaches than those who were given drug treatment only. Those who participated in the acupuncture group had up to 12 treatments over three months.

At the end of the study, researchers noted that the patients who had acupuncture claimed 22 fewer days of headaches per year, used 15-percent less medication, made 25-percent fewer visits to their doctors, and lost fewer work days than the other group.

Results of the research were published in the March 15, 2004, online issue of the British Medical Journal. 

We use a multi-faceted approach to headaches using acupuncture, massage therapy and patient education.  For evaluation and treatment call 330-477-0777.

Acupuncture in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia

If you suffer from the pain or fatigue associated with fibromyalgia, you may want to consider receiving acupuncture. A Mayo Clinic study suggests that this traditional Chinese therapy can temporarily relieve muscle discomfort, loss of energy, anxiety and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. 

The good news is that researchers are suggesting that ongoing acupuncture may offer lasting relief to some patients who aren't helped by traditional treatments for fibromyalgia, such as antidepressants, stress management and aerobic exercise. 

Here is the study published in PubMed:

Mayo Clin Proc. 2006 Jun;81(6):749-57.

Improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms with acupuncture: results of a randomized controlled trial.

Martin DP1, Sletten CD, Williams BA, Berger IH.

Author information

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To test the hypothesis that acupuncture improves symptoms of fibromyalgia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We conducted a prospective, partially blinded, controlled, randomized clinical trial of patients receiving true acupuncture compared with a control group of patients who received simulated acupuncture. All patients met American College of Rheumatology criteria for fibromyalgia and had tried conservative symptomatic treatments other than acupuncture. We measured symptoms with the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Multidimensional Pain Inventory at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at 1 month and 7 months after treatment. The trial was conducted from May 28, 2002, to August 18, 2003.

RESULTS:

Fifty patients participated in the study: 25 in the acupuncture group and 25 in the control group. Total fibromyalgia symptoms, as measured by the FIQ, were significantly improved in the acupuncture group compared with the control group during the study period (P = .01). The largest difference in mean FIQ total scores was observed at 1 month (42.2 vs 34.8 in the control and acupuncture groups, respectively; P = .007). Fatigue and anxiety were the most significantly improved symptoms during the follow-up period. However, activity and physical function levels did not change. Acupuncture was well tolerated, with minimal adverse effects.

CONCLUSION:

This study paradigm allows for controlled and blinded clinical trials of acupuncture. We found that acupuncture significantly improved symptoms of fibromyalgia. Symptomatic improvement was not restricted to pain relief and was most significant for fatigue and anxiety.

So, if you need additional support for Fibromyalgia, give us a call at 330-477-0777 for a personal evaluation and treatment.  We have extensive experience treating this challenging condition.

Rapid Release Technology

Vahila Acupuncture and Massage Therapy now has a revolutionary pain relief treatment.  This new therapy uses High Speed Compression waves which emanate at a frequency that resonates with scar tissue adhesions.   Scar tissue adhesions are dense leftover tissue from repetitive stress, injury or surgery, that leaves “spot welds” in tissue that shouldn't be connected.  This can result in chronic pain and limit range of motion.

This is a new era in pain treatment technology.   The best part about it is that it is quick, painless and provides lasting results.  It also allows us to treat conditions that we were previously unable to help.

In addition to relieving pain, the device also initiates the “Tonic Vibration Reflex” which instantly relaxes muscle fibers, releasing spasms and cramps as well as relaxing tight muscles.  This Rapid Release (TM) therapy device is the only device on the market that works at a speed sufficient to trigger the Tonic Vibration Reflex.

The tiny stroke and multiple treatment heads on the device makes it comfortable to use just about anyplace on the body.  It generally feels like a rigorous massage and is tolerable by anyone who likes massage.  We think that is feels great and we use it on ourselves regularly.

If you have had a difficult to treat condition, give us a call at 330-477-0777 to see if Rapid Release Technology will help.

Click here to see more at the Rapid Release website.

Reiki Seminar January 2015

I've been teaching Reiki since 1993 and have had the honor of teaching hundreds of people in NE Ohio.  I will be offering a Reiki 1 seminar 

Saturday, January 3, 2015  from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM 

Sunday, January 4, 2015  from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Learning Reiki was the impetus for me to change directions in my life from music teacher to healing arts. I still feel it is the foundation in my work as an acupuncturist and massage therapist. It is truly a gift.

What initially attracted me was the possibility of doing self treatment. Little did I know it would become a powerful force for many wonderful avenues of growth in my life.

A new year is coming up.  I can't think of a better way to start it than with adding a wonderful energy to support all aspects of your growth.

Reiki (pronounced ray’-key) is a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy. The Usui System of Reiki was born out of the experience and dedication of Dr. Mikao Usui in the late 1800’s. It provides a means of accessing and focusing this energy for personal well-being and growth.

Reiki helps balance physical, mental, emotional and spiritual energy. It is a powerful tool for health and wellness, stress reduction and self-care. This natural healing art supports the body’s ability to heal physical ailments and may open the mind to the root causes of disease and pain.

Reiki can be effectively incorporated into the healing arts practiced by massage therapists, nurses, counselors and physicians. Anyone can easily learn to use this holistic tool to create balanced wellness in life.

In the First Degree weekend seminar you will learn the history of Reiki, how to treat yourself and others, and the five precepts of Reiki. This is a relaxed, experiential workshop with time practicing and sharing your experience.

Course fee is $250 and may qualify for CEU's for health professionals. 

Give me a call at 330-477-0777 for more info.

Castor Oil Packs

What is Castor Oil?  Castor oil has a long history of traditional medical use dating back to ancient Egypt. Castor oil is derived from the castor bean (Ricinus communes.)

What is a Castor Oil Pack?  A castor oil pack involves the use of cloth soaked in castor oil which is placed on the skin. It's used by some alternative practitioners to enhance circulation and to promote the healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin.

How is a Castor Oil Pack Made?  Castor oil packs are made by soaking a piece of flannel in castor oil and placing it on the skin. The flannel is covered with a sheet of plastic, and then a hot water bottle is placed over the plastic to heat the pack.

A castor oil pack can be placed on the following body regions:

The right side of the abdomen. Castor oil packs are sometimes recommended by alternative practitioners as part of a liver detox program.

Inflamed and swollen joints, bursitis, and muscle strains.

The abdomen to relieve constipation and other digestive disorders.

The lower abdomen in cases of menstrual irregularities and uterine and ovarian cysts.

Safety  Castor oil should not be taken internally. It should not be applied to broken skin. It should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or during menstruation.

Materials

Undyed wool or cotton flannel large enough to cover the affected area
Castor oil
Plastic wrap cut one to two inches larger than the flannel (can be cut from a plastic bag)
Hot water bottle
Container with lid
Old clothes and sheets. Castor oil will stain clothing and bedding.

Method

1. Place the flannel in the container. Soak it in castor oil so that it is saturated, but not dripping.

2. Place the pack over the affected body part.

3. Cover with plastic.

4. Place the hot water bottle over the pack. Leave it on for 45-60 minutes. Rest while the pack is in place.

5. After removing the pack, cleanse the area with a dilute solution of water and baking soda.

6. Store the pack in the covered container in the refrigerator. Each pack may be reused up to 25-30 times.


Edgar Cayce frequently suggested castor oil packs for a wide variety of conditions.  You can learn more about him at http://www.edgarcayce.org.

Bach Flower Essences

What are They?  Developed by Dr. Edward Bach in the early 1930's, these homeopathic remedies gently balance emotions that can give rise to physical and mental symptoms. Go to bachflower.com for more information.

My experience with them is that they can help take the edge off strong emotions or stress. 

How to Use: Put 2 to 4 drops in a glass of water and sip throughout the day or take directly under the tongue.

Choosing the Essence: Read through the brief descriptions and check the ones that apply to you. You may use up to 6 at a time. Choose only the ones that seem most relevant for you at the time. There are many books on the subject that provide more information on these remedies.

Agrimony One who wears a cheerful, carefree mask to conceal troubles, rarely imposing their problems on others. Finds arguments distressing. May turns to alcohol, drugs, food or work to escape pain.

Aspen When vague fears suddenly and unexpectedly arise for no apparent reason. For apprehension. 

Beech If the habits, idiosyncrasies, or differences of others are annoying. If critical of others and unable to see past their faults. For intolerance.

Centaury For difficulty' saying no. If you often deny yourself for the sake of others. Always tries to please others. Easily exploited.

Cerato For lack of confidence in making decisions. If you turn to others for input and are often misguided.

Cherry Plum For the fear of impulsively doing something known to be wrong. Feeling out of control. For some compulsions and obsessions.

Chestnut Bud For one who repeatedly makes the same mistakes, and never learns from the past. If you repeat destructive patterns of behavior and/or relationships.

Chicory If you need to be over-involved in the lives of others, constantly wanting loved ones nearby. Possessive.

Clematis For one who withdraws into a fantasy world to escape present unhappiness. Feeling dreamy, drowsy and preoccupied. Enjoys sleep.

Crab Apple For poor self-image. If ashamed of physical condition and/or appearance. For feelings of shame and uncleanness. For cleansing.

Elm If feeling overwhelmed and burdened by responsibilities. If feeling down because a task seems too difficult and not within anyone's power to complete.

Gentian If easily discouraged by small problems that cause you to hesitate, doubt yourself and feel depressed. If you tend to make "mountains out of molehills." Pessimist.

Gorse When feeling hopeless and in despair. Giving up - believing nothing can be done.

Heather Need to constantly talk about oneself with anyone who will listen. Often unhappy when alone for any period of time. Uninterested in what others have to say.

Holly For hatred, jealousy, or envy that stems from a strong need and desire for more love. Suffering within - often with no real cause for this unhappiness.

Honeysuckle For one who dwells too much on past happiness, lost loved ones or ambitions that never came to pass and never expects to be happy again.

Hornbeam If one doubts that they have the strength, mentally or physically, to carry on normal daily activities, yet they always manage to get things done. For fatigue and tiredness often due to boredom.

Impatiens For quick decision makers impatient and irritable when dealing with those slower than themselves. Prefer working alone at their own pace.

Larch If you lack confidence in yourself or your abilities. For feelings that you cannot do as well as others. If expectations of failure leads to insufficient attempts to succeed.

Mimulus When fearful of something found in everyday life. For example, fear of the dark, public speaking, heights, growing old and being alone, etc. Phobias.

Mustard For feelings of gloom or despair that come and go with no known reason. Feeling overshadowed by a dark cloud.

Oak For "fighters" who never give up despite illness or hardship. Even in the face of a lost cause. Strong "plodders" whom others depend on.

Olive For feelings of mental and physical exhaustion, as a result of suffering under adverse conditions such as an illness or ordeal. Everything seems an effort. Vitality is drained. Nothing brings enjoyment.

Pine For feelings of guilt. For those who blame themselves for the mistakes of others. If never content with one's efforts or the results. Often perfectionists.

Red Chestnut Excessive worry about the well being of others. Constantly anticipating the worst will happen to them.

Rock Rose When feeling very frightened or terrified. Effective in the event of an accident, emergency, or sudden illness.

Rock Water For those who are too hard on themselves. Following a way of life or religion strictly, denying oneself life's pleasures to set an example for others.

Scleranthus If making up your mind is difficult and you are unable to decide between two things. For mood swings. For the feeling of being "out of balance."

Star of Bethlehem For the trauma experienced during or after receiving serious or sad news, loss of a loved one, or fright following an accident. For refusing to be consoled. For traumas of the past. Grief.

Sweet Chestnut If you feel like you've reached the limits of your endurance. Great mental despair when anguish seems to be unbearable.

Vervain If you feel a burning need to convince and convert others to your ideas. When over enthusiasm sabotages efforts, hindering rather than helping.

Vine For the confident, capable, self-assured that are often thought to be demanding and domineering. Born leaders.

Walnut Useful for those experiencing periods of transition and adjustments to new beginnings. Assists in adapting to new environments and situations such as divorce, new job, or move. Can protect you from other peoples' negativity, peer pressure or the strong influence of another.

Water Violet For those who are independent, capable, and self-reliant. Loners, who often appear aloof. Others find them remote, unapproachable and difficult to befriend.

White Chestnut If experiencing unwanted recurring thoughts and mental arguments that play continuously in your mind like a broken record and often causes sleeplessness.

Wild Oat For those feeling frustrated because of the feeling that they need to do something with their lives but they have no certain direction. "Lost souls" who have yet to find their niche in life.

Wild Rose If resigned to drift through life, making no effort to improve your situation or find joy. "Stuck in a rut". Quietly accepting what life has in store.

Willow For those suffering from adversity or misfortune which is felt to be unjust. Resentful, self-pitying and often bitter.

Rescue Remedy A combination of 5 of the essences: Impatiens, Star of Bethlehem, cherry Plum, Rock Rose and Clematis. It is useful for general stress, emergencies and first aid. Also available in topical
cream, lozenges and a spray bottle.

Disclaimer: The above information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for conventional medical advice or treatment. Consult your doctor.