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HERE'S PLENTY MORE STUDIES ON THE EFFECTS OF CHINESE MEDICINE! translated by Bob Flaws, Dipl. Ac. & C.H., FNAAOM & Charles Chace, Dipl. Ac. & C.H., FNAAOM
Copyright © Blue Poppy Press, 2000. All rights reserved.
Hiccups
"Two Cases Histories of the Acupuncture Treatment of Hiccup" by Pan Xian-ping, Si Chuan Zhong Yi (Sichuan Chinese Medicine), #1, 1993, p. 53
This article describes the treatment of two cases of hiccup treated by needling Tai Chong (Liv 3) and Nei Guan (Per 6).
Case 1. Huang X X, male, 39 years old, Oct. 15, 1990
The patient had had an argument with his neighbor and this had given rise to hiccuping. The hiccuping had lasted for three days. He had tried Western medical treatment but without success. He presented with chest oppression, epigastric glomus, pulling pain in his chest and diaphragm when he hiccuped, continuous hiccuping without cessation which had affected his intake of food, tidal fever, night sweats, vexatious heat in his five centers or hearts, insomnia, profuse dreams, lack of strength in his low back and knees, heart vexation, a red tongue with scanty, yellow fur, and a bowstring, fine, rapid pulse. His Chinese medical pattern discrimination was liver depression not soothed, liver and kidney yin vacuity, and chong qi stirring (i.e., surging) against the diaphragm.
Nei Guan (Per 6) and Tai Chong (Liv 3) were needled bilaterally. Strong stimulation was applied to the needles until the hiccuping stopped. The needles were then retained for another 15 minutes before withdrawing them. The patient was then completely cured and there was no relapse.
Case 2. Liao X X, male, 28 years old, Jan. 10, 1992
The patient habitually had chronic, mild gastritis. This was then followed by an outbreak of bronchitis. For this, the patient had taken various Western medicines after which he developed hiccups. His hiccups came one after the other without stopping. These caused repletion and distention. The nape of his neck was tense, tight, and painful, and there was glomus and distention of his chest and diaphragm. The bitterness (of his suffering) was unspeakable. He had tried various traditional Chinese medicines without result. One treatment as above affected a complete cure.
According to the author, hiccups are primarily due to counterflow qi surging up against the diaphragm. In general, this is due to loss of balance of the qi mechanism of the viscera and bowels. In particular, the liver governs coursing and discharge and it balances and keeps uninhibited the qi mechanism. Further, its channels and vessels traverse the two rib-side regions (the word xie also includes the hypochon drium) and pass through the diaphragm to enter the abdomen. Tai Chong (Liv 3) is the source point of the foot jue yin liver channel. It is a place where the transportation and flow of the source qi can be affected. Needling Tai Chong has the power to course the liver and regulate the qi, level the chong and descend counterflow. This is based on the principle of needling below for a disease located above. Nei Guan (Per 6) is the luo or network vessel point of the hand jue yin pericardium channel. It connects with the hand shao yang triple heater and opens the yin qiao mai. It also unites with the foot yang ming stomach channel. Therefore, needling Nei Guan is capable of opening and descending counterflow qi in several channels. It also balances and harmonizes the qi mechanism of the viscera and bowels. In general, it is able to rectify the qi and descend counterflow, while in particular, it loosens the chest and disinhibits the diaphragm.
Cervical Pain
"The Use of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on the Jia Ji Points as the Primary Therapy in the Treatment of 70 Cases of Cervical Nerve Root Pain" by Du Ming-fang & Wang Wei-hong, Shan Dong Zhong Yi Xue Yuan Xue Bao (Journal of the Shandong College of Chinese Medicine), #1, 1993, p. 24-25
The authors applied acupuncture and moxibustion to the Jia Ji (paravertebral) points as the primary therapy in the treatment of 70 cases of cervical nerve root pain between the years of 1986 and 1991. Twenty-five of the participants in this study were male and 45 were female. They ranged in age from 27-65 years old. The duration of their illness ranged from two months to 15 years. Fifty-two of the participants had experienced symptoms for from two months to three years, 11 of the participants had experienced symptoms from 4-5 years, and seven participants had experienced symptoms for more than six years.
The primary points selected were the Jia Ji points on both sides lateral to the affected area. Jian Zhong Shu (SI 15), Jian Yu (LI 15), Jian Zhen (SI 9), Qu Chi (LI 11), Wai Guan (TB 5), Hou Xi (SI 3), and San Jian (LI 3) were also selected on the affected side. Two of the above points were selected for each treatment, and these ancillary points were rotated with each treatment. One and a half to 2.5 cun, filiform needles were routinely sterilized.
The primary points were needled obliquely, while the ancillary points were needled with a perpendicular insertion employing a lifting and thrusting, twisting and shaking manipulation with even supplementation-even draining technique. Once the qi had been obtained, electro-acupuncture was applied with a G6805?II machine producing a continuous wave form for 45 minutes. Moxibustion was applied to the Jia Ji points and Kun Lun (Bl 60) such that the skin became red. Therapy was administered daily and 10 treatments was considered one course of therapy. There was a rest period of three days before beginning the second course of treatment, and participants were evaluated for therapeutic effect after three courses of treatment.
Complete cure was defined as the disappearance of symptoms with radiological findings showing slight enlargement of the intervertebral spaces, recovery of normal activity, and no recurrence of symptoms 6 months later. Marked effect was defined as the fundamental disappearance of symptoms, the ability to generally function, and the ability to sleep at night. Positive changes were defined as slight improvement in symptoms but a recurrence of fatigue and an exacerbation of symptoms when exposed to wind, cold, or dampness. No result was defined as a lack of any improvement in symptoms or constitution. Based on these criteria, 35 cases (50%) achieved a complete cure, 23 (32.8%) cases achieved a marked effect, 10 cases (14.3%) achieved some positive changes, and two cases (2.9%) reported no result. The total amelioration rate was 97.1%.
Case history: Female, 65 year old. The patient had experienced stubborn neck pain, dizziness, and vertigo for five years. This was accompanied by soreness and numbness in the upper limbs that had become worse in the last year. She had been taking muscle relaxants and anti?inflammatory medications through a local hospital for 2 months, but her condition was gradually worsening. She was first seen by the author on August 20 1991. The patient appeared to be suffering, she had a sallow yellow facial complexion, and her lips were dull and pale. Her tongue was pale, the sides had small static spots, and her pulse was deep and choppy. Physical examination revealed that there was obvious pressure pain bilateral to the 2nd-6th cervical vertebrae. Contraction produced numbness in both of the upper extremities, although it was particularly pronounced on the right side. With the head in a supine position, the neck flexed, and the brachialis plexus traction test was positive. Radiological examination revealed varying degrees of osteophytic formation at the anterior margin of 3rd-6th cervical vertebrae, narrowing and degeneration the 5?6th intervertebral spaces, and narrowing of the vertebral foramen.
The conclusion was that the patient suffered from cervical vertebrae disease with degeneration of the intervertebral discs. The Chinese medical pattern discrimination was insufficiency of liver and kidneys, depletion of qi and blood, and a loss of nourishment within the sinew vessels. Treatment was administered as outlined above. With acupuncture and moxibustion, the patient was able to sleep. Following three courses of therapy, she was completely cured and, on a follow?up visit, reported no relapses.
Cervical vertebrae disease may have many etiologies, including external trauma, extreme exhaustion, and the contraction of wind, cold, and damp pathogens. 1) Acute trauma or obvious external injury is quite rare. Most often the patient is not even aware of the trauma. Cervical trauma tends to occur in young people, but, after middle age, osteophytic development is the most common etiology. 2) Chronic wear and abrasion may consist of hanging one's head while working. This will definitely cause laxity in the ligaments and joint capsule, leading to vertebral subluxation and creating joint malposition. 3) The etiology of intervertebral disc degeneration is universally internal in nature. 4) Congenital factors may be present.
According to the authors, Chinese medicine understands cervical vertebrae disease as being related to kidney vacuity and blood vacuity. External causes include, wind, cold and dampness. The Nei Jing (Inner Classic) says: "Wind cold and dampness are the three miscellaneous qi and these combine to produce impediment." Acupuncture and moxibustion at the Jia Ji points provide direct stimulation to the local area. The midline of the spine and the regions lateral to the spine must be discriminated as to whether the governing vessel or the urinary bladder channel is involved, since disease in either channel may result in stiffness and pain in the neck. The (chapter in the) Ling Shu (Spiritual Axis), "Miscellaneous Disease", states: "In the case of neck pain characterized by inability to bend or lift the head, prick the foot tai yang, while if one cannot turn (one's head), prick the hand tai yang." Therefore, the point Kun Lun (Bl 60) on the foot tai yang channel is combined (with the Jia Ji points).
Jian Zhong Shu (SI 15), Jian Zhen (SI 9), and Hou Xi (SI 3) are located on the hand tai yang small intestine channel. Hou Xi adjunctively unblocks the governing vessel. San Jian (LI 3) functions to course the channels and benefit the joints and is an empirical point in the treatment neck pain. Jian Yu (LI 15) and Qu Chi (LI 11) function to unblock the connecting vessels, benefit the joints (along the large intestine channel), and treat numbness. Wai Guan (TB 5) courses the channels and quickens the network vessels. It primarily treats impaired flexion and extension of the arm and elbow and numbness, soreness, and pain in the hands and fingers.
The combination of the primary points and the adjunctive points are employed with the intention that if governing and the shao yang vessels flow freely, if the channels and connecting vessels are warmed and flow freely, if the sinews are soothed and the blood is quickened, and if the qi mechanism is regulated, then there will be no pain.
Shoulder Pain
"The Acupuncture Treatment of 86 Cases of Periarthritis of the Shoulder" by Zhou Qu-zhi, Shang Hai Zhen Jiu Za Zhi (Shanghai Journal of Acupuncture & Moxibustion), #1, 1992 p. 25
In this clinical study, the author needled the point Ling Xia in the treatment of 86 cases of periarthritis of the shoulder. This point is located in a depression two cun below Yang Ling Quan (GB 34) and was tender upon palpation in the patients treated. Ling Xia was needled on the side of the shoulder pain or bilaterally if the pain was bilateral. A lifting and thrusting needle technique was employed. The needles were retained for a duration of five minutes once the qi was obtained. Patients were then instructed to rotate the affected joint through a wide range of movements. Each treatment lasted 30 minutes and was performed once daily. Ten treatments constituted a single course of treatment. An mo (i.e., massage) therapy was performed concurrently with the acupuncture.
According to the author, Ling Xia is on the gallbladder channel which runs through the shoulder. This point courses and promotes the free flow of channel qi. Once qi is obtained, a forceful technique must be applied in order to circulate the qi and, therefore, maximize the analgesic effect on the shoulder. When combined with local an mo massage treatment, this therapy promotes the flow of qi and blood locally. It is effective whether or not electricity is used (to stimulate the needle). It is the author's opinion that the combination of Ling Xia and an mo shortens the course of therapy for the treatment of this condition.
Chest & Flank Pain
"The Treatment of 65 Cases of Chest & Flank Pain with Acupuncture" by Huang Jin-quan & Lin Jie-li, Zhe Jiang Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Zhejiang Journal of Chinese Medicine), #12, 1992, p. 548
This article describes the treatment of 65 cases of chest and lateral costal pain with acupuncture. They begin with a case history.
Lin X X, male, 27 years old
The patient was tense, agitated, and easily angered. He said that lack of happy resolution of certain family matters had resulted in his feeling aching and needle-like piercing pain in both sides of his chest and lateral costal regions. His signs and symptoms included a red face, chest oppression, torpid intake, a red tongue with thick, yellow coating, and a wiry pulse. Based on these signs and symptoms, it was appropriate to balance and regulate the qi mechanism, open the channels, and quicken the network vessels. The points chosen were Nei Guan (Per 6) and Yang Ling Quan (GB 34). They were first needled to obtain the qi. Then, every five minutes, the needles were moved once (i.e., manipulated) with draining technique. The needles were retained 30 minutes. After needling once, the pain was diminished. After needling three times, the pain was completely eliminated.
Sixty-five cases of chest andrib-side pain were treated in the same way. Of these, 50 cases of aching and pain were due to liver qi depression and binding. The remaining 15 cases were due to traumatic injury. Of the 65 cases, 50 had their pain eliminated and 12 their pain reduced. Three experienced no result. This yielded a total 95.3% amelioration rate.
One-sided Sweating of the Head
"The Treatment of One-sided Sweating of the Head with Acupuncture" by Zhang Li-xin, Zhe Jiang Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Zhejiang Journal of Chinese Medicine), #12, 1992, p. 548
This clinical audit describes the acupuncture treatment of eight cases of sweating on one side of the head and face. Zhang begins by remarking that, in modern Western medicine, such one-sided sweating is regarded as a functional nervous disorder. According to Chinese medical theory, it is associated with lack of securing of the defensive qi. This allows the fluids and humors to be discharged outside.
Among the eight cases treated by Zhang, all were males. Their ages ranged from 21-49 years of age, and the duration of their condition had lasted from as short as one half year to as long as eight years. They were all treated by needling Yi Feng (TB 17) and Qu Chi (LI 11) with 28 gauge, two cun needles. These were inserted to a depth of from 1-1.5 cun. Every five minutes the needles were moved (i.e., manipulated) and they were retained for a total of 30 minutes. The patients were treated one time per day. All cases recovered completely. One case recovered after one treatment; two cases recovered after two treatments; four cases recovered after three treatments, and one case recovered after five treatments.
Inability to Ejaculate
"The Treatment of 46 Cases of Inability to Ejaculate by Electro-acupuncture" by He Xin-zhu, Shan Xi Zhong Yi (Shanxi Chinese Medicine), #6, 1992, p. 39
This clinical audit describes the treatment of 46 cases of inability to ejaculate by electro-acupuncture. The ages of the 46 men ranged from 19-38 years old. The duration of their disease ranged from 1-13 years. Forty-four of the patients suffered from primary onset inability to ejaculate, while two suffered from secondary onset inability to ejaculate.
The main points used were divided into two groups. Group #1 consisted of Shen Ting (GV 24), Bai Hui (GV 20), Qi Hai (CV 6), Guan Yuan (CV 4), Zhong Ji (CV 3), Yang Ling Quan (GB 34), and Tai Chong (Liv 3). Group #2 consisted of Da Zhui (GV 14), Shen Shu (Bl 23), Ci Liao (Bl 32 ), and San Yin Jiao (Sp 6). Supplemental points consisted of Shui Dao (St 28), Gui Lai (St 29), and Hui Yin (CV 1). Electrodes were attached to either Guan Yuan or Qi Hai and Zhong Ji or Shen Shu and Ci Liao depending upon which group of points were selected. The two main groups of points were alternated each treatment. Electric stimulation was given via the WQ-10C machine at 60 cycles per minute. Needles were left in place from 24-30 minutes per treatment. One treatment was given per day and 10 treatments constituted one complete course of therapy. None of the patients was treated for more than three such courses of therapy.
Cure meant that the patient was able to ejaculate and, in some cases, was able to father a child. Lack of cure meant that after one month of treatment, the patient was still not able to ejaculate. Of the 42 patients suffering from primary onset inability to ejaculate, 39 or 92.9% were cured and three or 7.1% were not cured. Of the two patients with secondary onset inability to ejaculate, one was cured and one was not. And, of the two patients with counterflow ejaculation (into their bladders), both were cured. This resulted in a 91.3% cure rate with an 8.7% failure rate.
He Xin-zhu notes that, according to Chinese medical theory, failure to ejaculate is mostly categorized as liver qi not coursing with obstruction and stagnation in the channels and network vessels. Therefore, the principles for treating this condition in the majority of men are to course the liver, rectify the qi, and free the flow of the channels and network vessels.
Dysmenorrhea
"Hand Technique & the Treatment of Dysmenorrhea with Acupuncture" by Zhong Ya & Zhang Shou-qun, Zhe Jiang Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Zhejiang Journal of Chinese Medicine), #2, 1993, p. 79
This is a report on a comparative study of two acupuncture protocols for the treatment of painful menstruation or dysmenorrhea. Seventy-six women were treated with a combination of acupuncture using the technique known as "setting the mountain on fire" (shao shan huo) and moxibustion. Another control group of 40 women received acupuncture with even supplementing-even draining method. The women in this study presented with aching and pain in their abdomens at the onset or arrival of the menses accompanied by chilled extremities, perspiration, a pale, white facial complexion, nausea, vomiting, etc. Zhong and Zhang primarily attribute these symptoms to cold and dampness damaging the lower burner, settling in the bao gong, causing congelation of the menstrual blood.
The 76 women in the warming cold treatment group were needled at San Yin Jiao (Sp 6) and Shui Dao (St 28) with setting the mountain on fire method. This consists of inserting the needle beneath the skin and manipulating it at each of the three layers, superficial, medium, and deep. Then the needle is withdrawn up to the surface in one quick movement. Traditionally, this technique is believed to lead the warm wei yang or defensive yang qi from the superficial level to warm the constructive qi within. The needles were withdrawn when the patient felt a warm sensation extend to and reach the area of the disease. Treatment was given approximately every day. In addition, Guan Yuan (CV 4) and Zhong Ji (CV 3) were moxaed for 20 minutes each day. The 40 women in what Zhong and Zhang refer to as the control group were needled with even supplementing-even draining at San Yin Jiao (Sp 6), Zu San Li (St 36), Guan Yuan (CV 4), and Qi Hai (CV 6). In this case, needles were retained for 30 minutes and treatment was given once per day.
Of the 76 women treated, 28 were between 16-20 years of age, 22 between 21-25, 18 between 26-30, and eight were over 30 years of age. The shortest disease course was three months and the longest was two years. Fifty-two women were unmarried and 24 were married. Of the 40 women treated in the other group, 14 were between 16-20, 12 between 21-25, nine between 26-30, and five were over 30 years old. The range of duration of their dysmenorrhea was the same as the other group, from three months to two years. Twenty-six of these women were unmarried and 14 married. Thirty-one women among the 76 had their dysmenorrhea eliminated, 34 markedly improved, nine somewhat improved, and two experienced no result. This yielded a 85.52% total amelioration rate in the women treated by warming cold. Whereas, in the comparison group, 13 of the 40 women experienced complete cure, 15 marked improvement, four fair improvement, and eight go no result for a total amelioration rate of only 70%.
"The Analgesic Effect of Acupuncture on Endometriosis Patients" by Ni Sheng-ju, Shang Hai Zhen Jiu Za Zhi (Shanghai Journal of Acupuncture & Moxibustion), #1, 1992, p. 16
This article describes the treatment of pain due to endometriosis with acupuncture. In this study, there were 54 cases treated, eight of whom has never been pregnant and 46 of whom had been pregnant. Four cases were in the 21?25 year old age group, seven cases in the 26?30 age group, 24 cases in the 31?35 age group, 15 cases in the 36?40 age group, and four cases in the 41?45 age group. All the participants had been diagnosed with endometriosis and suffered from symptoms such as increasingly painful dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, infertility and dyspareunia.
In the Chinese medical treatment of endometriosis, treatment principles for prescriptions include: 1) warming the menses and unblocking the connecting vessels in order to transform stasis; 2) dissipating and resolving to dissipate bondage and transform stasis; 3) rectifying the qi and cracking stasis to dissipate bondage; 4) warming the menses and supplementing the kidneys to transform stasis; and 5) transforming phlegm and softening hardness to transform stasis.
The patients in this study had been treated with Chinese medicinals but had not experienced a positive analgesic effect from this therapy. They were then treated with acupuncture and moxibustion with 92.6% effectiveness.
Body points used consisted: Zhong Ji (CV 3), Guan Yuan (CV 4), Qi Hai (CV 6), and San Yin Jiao (Sp 6). These were each needled one time per week using lifting and thrusting technique with even supplementing and even draining methods. The needles were retained for a duration of 20 minutes and, after 10 minutes, they were manipulated with lifting and thrusting technique so as to elicit soreness, distension, and a sensation of diffusing numbness. Ear points used consisted of Ovary, Sympathetic, and Endocrine points. Each of these had a needle embedded in them 1?2 days premenstrually or during menstruation or one piece of Semen Vaccariae Segetalis (Wang Bu Liu Xing) was tapped over each point. The patient was instructed to press these points at least 10 times daily. During each of these sessions, they were instructed to press on the points 10?15 times so as to elicit a bearable degree of soreness and pain. Moxibustion was applied to Xian Bai (Liv 1), Yin Ling Quan (Sp 9), and Di Ji (Sp 8). One or two points were selected and moxaed for a duration of 5?10 minutes. In cases of chilly pain in the lower abdomen, moxibustion was applied simultaneously with the needles. Two to three sessions with body needles and one session with ear needles constituted one course of therapy. Three courses of therapy were the statistical target.
Over a duration of 1?3 courses of treatment, 7.4% (4 cases) achieved a complete cure. This was defined as an overall disappearance of abdominal pain and cessation of dysmenorrhea for a duration of at least six months or the patient became pregnant. Over a duration of 1?3 courses of treatment, 53.7% (29 cases) achieved a marked therapeutic effect. This was defined as a clear diminishment of overall abdominal pain and a discontinuation of the use of analgesics. Over a duration of 1?3 courses of treatment, 31.5% (17 cases) achieved some therapeutic effect. This was defined as a decrease in abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, and the need for analgesics. And, over a duration of 1?3 courses of treatment, 7.4% (4 cases) achieved no therapeutic effect.
Menopausal Syndrome
"31 Cases of Menopausal Syndrome Treated by Auriculotherapy" by Yang Qing-fang, Yun Nan Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Yunnan Journal of Chinese Medicine), #5, 1993, p. 27-28
In this clinical audit, 31 women between the ages of 45-50 years old were treated for menopausal syndrome with auriculotherapy. These women suffered from menstrual irregularity, heavy or scant bleeding, episodic sweating, heart palpitations, vexation and agitation, dizziness, tinnitus, and, if severe, emotional depression, unsociability, paranoia, and wild thoughts, insomnia, excessive dreams, easy excitability, etc. Of the 31 cases, three were between 42-45 years of age, 19 between 46-50, 8 between 51-55, and one was 62 years old. The main points used in this treatment method were: Heart, Liver, Kidney, Subcortex, Sympathetic, Internal Secretion, and Uterus.
If there was heart vexation, insomnia, and excessive sweating, then Spirit Gate, Brain, Lungs, and Small Intestine were added. If there was intestinal and stomach discomfort or constipation, Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine, and Small Intestine were added. If menstruation was chaotic, Uterus, and Ovaries were added. If there was obesity, Spleen, Spirit Gate, Flesh Drop (i.e., Weight Loss), Mouth, Large Intestine, and Ridge Mound were added. If there were heart palpitations and chest oppression, Sympathetic, Small Intestine, and Spirit Gate were added. And if there was high blood pressure, Spirit Gate and Lowering Pressure Groove were added. These points were stimulated by taping Semen Vaccariae Segetalis (Wang Bu Liu Xing) onto each point in the ear bilaterally. Each time, 2-3 different points were selected. These were left in place for three days and the patient was instructed to press them 3-5 times per day. Ten treatments (i.e., 30 days) constituted one course of treatment.
Marked results were defined as complete disappearance of the (above) conditions or their obvious diminishment and, after ceasing treatment for one whole month, no recurrence. Good results were defined as partial disappearance of the above conditions or a turn for the better. And no result was defined as no obvious improvement in the above conditions or a turn for the better but a return of symptoms one week after discontinuing treatment. Of the 31 cases so treated, 11 experienced marked results, 17 good results, and three no results for a total amelioration rate of 87%.
Neurodermatitis
"The Treatment of Neurodermatitis with Auriculo-acupuncture" by Wang Mei-hua & Yue Dong-shan, Bei Jing Zhong Yi (Beijing Chinese Medicine), #6, 1992, p. 42
This clinical audit discusses these two doctors' research on the auriculo-acupuncture treatment of neurodermatitis. Wang and Yue treated 69 cases of neurodermatitis using the following auricular points. Main points: Fei (Lungs), Pi Zhi Xia (Lower Skin), and San Jiao (Triple Heater). If there was severe itching, Shen Men (Spirit Gate) was added. If heat was severe, Er Jian (Ear Apex) was added. If the emotions were not easy, Xin (Heart) was added. If the disease had lasted a long time without being cured, Zhen (Pillow) was added. If heat and itching were extremely severe, Er Jian (Ear Apex) was bled. Ears were first disinfected. Then 0.5 cun filiform needles were inserted on one side only in 4-6 points per time. The needles were only retained a short period of time and were manipulated once during that period. One treatment was given per day with 10 treatments constituting one course of therapy. If no result was obtained after five treatments, treatment was stopped without doing the entire course.
Cure consisted of elimination of the dermatitis with no recurrence within three months. Improvement consisted of elimination of dermatitis but recurrence within three months. No result meant that there was no change after the treatment from before in the dermatitis. Of the 69 cases treated, 10 were cured after one course of therapy, 49 after 2-3 courses. Thus the total number cured was 59 or 85.51%. Another nine (13.04%) experienced improvement, and only one (1.45%) failed to register any improvement. Therefore the total amelioration rate was 98.55%.
Pediatric Enuresis
"The Acupuncture Treatment of 62 Cases of Pediatric Bed-wetting" by Bao Bei-yi, Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Journal of Chinese Medicine), #1, 1993, p. 26
This report describes the acupuncture treatment of 62 cases of pediatric enuresis or bed-wetting. There were 37 boys and 25 girls among this group. They ranged in age from five years to 17 years old with most of the children falling between 6-10 years of age. The shortest duration of this condition had lasted half a year and the longest 12 years. Thirty-five children wet their beds 1-2 times each night; 17 children wet their beds 3-4 times each night, and 10 children wet their bed one time every several nights.
Treatment consisted of needling Tong Li (Ht 5) and Da Zhong (Ki 4). Tong Li was needled to a depth of three fen and manipulated with draining technique. Da Zhong was also inserted to a depth of three fen and manipulated with supplementation technique. The needles were retained for 10-15 minutes. In addition, Guan Yuan (CV 4) was moxaed for 3-5 minutes. One treatment was given per day and six treatments constituted one course of therapy. Thirty-five of the 62 cases were completely cured after one course of therapy; another 21 were markedly improved; and four were somewhat improved. Two cases failed to experience any result. The total amelioration rate in this research was 96.8%.
À}Ü.Pediatric Night-crying
"The Treatment of 13 Cases of Pediatric Night-crying" by Liu Bai-sheng, Jiang Su Zhong Yi (Jiangsu Chinese Medicine), #2, 1993, p. 30
This clinical audit describes the treatment of 13 cases of pediatric night-crying. There were seven boys and 6 girls in this group ranging in age from 2-10 months of age. The duration of this disease was mostly 2-3 months. The points needled consisted of Si Feng (M-UE-9) and Da Ling (Per 7). Both points were treated bilaterally. The Si Feng points were needled with a triangular needle to a depth of one fen. Then the points were squeezed manually until a yellowish white fluid or a drop of blood were expressed. Da Ling was needled with a fine needle with even supplementation, even drainage hand technique for one minute. The needles were not retained. One treatment was given per day and the night crying completely disappeared in all 13 children after three treatments. Lui says that needling Si Feng and Da Ling resolves heat and eliminates vexation, tranquilizes the heart and quiets the spirit, frees the flow the intestines and the hundred vessels, regulates and harmonizes the viscera and bowels.
Tourette's Syndrome
"A Report on the Treatment of 156 Cases of Tourette's Syndrome with Acupuncture" by Yi Lian-chong et al., Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Journal of Chinese Medicine), #7, 1993, p. 423-424
This clinical audit discusses the specifically acupuncture treatment of 156 cases of pediatric Tourette's Syndrome in 1991. One hundred two of these cases were boys and 54 were girls. Thus the ratio of boys to girls was 1.5:1. One hundred fourteen cases were between 6-10 years of age, and 42 were between 11-15. the course of disease ranged from as short as six days to as long as one year. Seventy-eight cases had already been treated with modern Western medicine and 36 cases had received Chinese medicinals and acupuncture. During their previous treatment, 144 cases had received EEG, with 84 showing some abnormality. All the children had been x-rayed, with six showing some abnormality there. In addition, 84 had received CT scans, with six abnormalities found.
According to the authors, sufferers of this syndrome can be divided into two patterns: 1) yang ming heat accumulation pattern and 2) sea of marrow insufficiency pattern. The signs and symptoms of the yang ming heat accumulation pattern are a strong, fat constitution, a moist, red face, the repeated emission of vocal sounds, twitching of the facial region with possible constipation, a red, moist tongue with thick, slimy, possibly yellow fur, and a flooding, large or slippery, rapid pulse. Based on these signs and symptoms, 66 of the 156 children were categorized as manifesting this pattern. The signs and symptoms of the sea of marrow insufficiency pattern are a weak, emaciated body constitution, and somber white facial color, less emission of vocal sounds, slow, gentle twitching of the skull and body, clear, disinhibited urination or frequent urination, a pale, fat tongue, and a fine, weak pulse. Based on these symptoms, 90 of the 156 cases were categorized as manifesting this pattern.
The treatment principles for the yang ming heat accumulation pattern were to clear and discharge the yang ming. This was accomplished by using the lifting and thrusting draining method at Nei Ting (St 44), Qu Chi (LI 11), and Pian Li (LI 6). Sparrow-pecking draining method was used at Si Bai (St 2). After obtaining the needle sensation, the needles were not twisted. The treatment principles for the sea of marrow insufficiency pattern were enrich the kidneys, nourish the heart, and regulate the du (mai). This was accomplished by using the twisting and rotating supplementing method at Shen Men (Ht 7) and Fu Liu (Ki 7). Ya Men (GV 15) was needled to a depth of between 1.5-2 cun until an electric sensation was felt in the upper extremities emanating from the needle. And Lian Quan (CV 23) was needled using sparrow-pecking method until the area felt distended. One treatment was given per day with the needles retained for 30 minutes. Every 10 minutes, the needles were stimulated one time. Two weeks of such treatment equaled one course of treatment.
Cure consisted of complete disappearance of the twitching and vocalization with no recurrence of this condition. Control of this condition meant that the twitching was reduced in frequency and intensity and the symptoms were mostly diminished. If there was no obvious improvement in the symptoms after three complete courses of treatment, this was defined as no result. Based on these criteria, 114 or 73.1% were cured, 30 or 19.25 were brought under control, and 12 or 7.7% experienced no result. Thus the total amelioration rate was 92.3%. Eighty-one point eight percent of those categorized as manifesting the yang ming heat accumulation pattern were cured as compared to 66.7% of those manifesting the sea of marrow insufficiency pattern being cured.
According to the authors of this report, most convulsive disorders are categorized as liver wind in Chinese medicine. However, in the case of this disease which occurs in children, it should not be treated as wind stroke. Heat accumulating in the yang ming is due to lack of discipline in food and drink coupled with the child's inherent flourishing yang constitution. Whereas, sea of marrow insufficiency is due to former heaven (i.e., prenatal) insufficiency, i.e., kidney essence deficiency and vacuity. In the former case, accumulated heat in the yang ming transforms into fire and engenders wind. In the latter case, essence fails to nourish the ancestral sinews, treasure essence, and act as residence of the source spirit. Thus in the former case, treatment is directed at points on the yang ming, while in the latter case, points on the kidney and heart channels and conception and governing vessels are selected.
Suppurative Moxibustion
"The Clinical Use of Suppurative Moxibustion" by Li Ming-zhi, Shang Hai Zhen Jiu Za Zhi (Shanghai Journal of Acupuncture & Moxibustion), #3, 1992, p. 33-34
Suppurative moxibustion is an ancient moxibustion technique, the administration of which is quite painful and leaves a permanent scar. Under normal conditions, patients are generally unwilling to submit to this technique. However, since suppurative moxibustion at local acupoints enhances and prolongs the positive (therapeutic) stimulus within the body, it can, therefore, have an unusual effect on (the treatment of) recalcitrant diseases. Following administration of suppurative moxibustion, one may often observe the immediate resolution of lingering illness. The Zi Sheng Jing (The Classic of Nourishing Life) states that, "All moxa should must produce a sore in order for the patient to recover." As a result of this, it would seem that suppurative moxibustion has a distinctive therapeutic effect. The following selection of case histories illustrates its clinical value
1. Herniation of a lumbar disc
Tian, a 35 year old male carpenter, was first diagnosed on August 20, 1987. He complained of left-sided lumbar and leg pain that had lasted for half a year. The pain radiated from his lumbar region along his urinary bladder channel (with pain) shooting into his foot such that he was unable to walk. It was also difficult for him to turn over.
Examination revealed a severely laterally rotated torso and lateral prominence (of the bulging disc) on the affected side. The patient had a positive straight leg raise test (i.e., a Cram test. This is accomplished by the examiner raising the straight leg. This will cause pain. The knee is then slightly flexed while the thigh remains in the same position. This causes the pain to disappear. Next, thumb or finger pressure is then applied to the popliteal area to reestablish the painful radicular symptoms.) He also had a positive bowstring test and a positive Kernig test (i.e., Kernig-Brudzinski test. In order to perform this test, the patient lies supine with their hands cupped behind their head. They are then instructed to flex their head to their chest. Next, the extended leg is actively raised by flexing the hip. The test is positive if pain is felt.) There was (also) pressure pain in the L4-5 intervertebral space, and percussion produced a shooting pain. And there was obvious pressure pain at Cheng Fu (Bl 38) and Wei Zhong (Bl 40). Radiology reported herniation of the lumbar disc at the L4-5 level.
The patient had undergone a combination of massage, acupuncture, and Chinese medicinal therapies and, over the past two months, his symptoms had improved somewhat in that he was now able to walk approximately 30 meters. Nevertheless, the lateral rotation remained severe, lumbar flexion was still difficult, and the straight leg raise test remained positive. (Conventional) moxibustion was added to the therapy for one month but produced no major progress.
Finally, suppurative moxibustion was administered. The selection of points included: a shi points (i.e., painful points lateral to the spine), Cheng Fu (Bl 38, left), Wei Zhong (Bl 40, left). A major moxa burn was induced with the radius of the base area being raised approximately onecm. This was accomplished with four cones of moxa to produce a second degree burn. Self-composed Jiu Cang Gao (Moxa Sore Ointment) was applied topically to the moxa burn. After four days, the moxa sore opened and suppurated for a period of 34 days. On the 15th day of suppuration, the patient returned to our clinic for a follow up visit. The patient's back had become perfectly straight and he was so overjoyed that he was nearly delirious. After one month, the straight leg raise test was negative, the bowstring test was negative, the Kernig test was negative, and he walked normally. In a follow?up visit three years later, he reported no recurrence of the symptoms.
2. Heel pain
Jiang, a 86 year old male, was first examined in July of 1988. He had been experiencing left heel pain for the past 6 months and this made walking difficult. The radiology report indicated heel spurs. He had been to a public hospital and had undergone both Chinese and Western therapies. The application of plasters, anti?inflammatories, and medicinals, such as Gu Ci Pian (Anti?osteophyte Pills) and Fu Fang Ruan Gu Su Pian (Softening the Bone Compound) had been ineffective. Examination revealed obvious pressure pain on the medial aspect of the left heel and pressure pain 1cm below the acupoint Zhao Hai (Ki 6). First the point, Zhao Hai Xia (Below Shining Sea, an experiential point) was needled with a filiform needle on the left side, followed by (the needling of) reactive points on the palm of the right hand. Therapy was administered one time per day for 10 consecutive treatments. Although the symptoms diminished somewhat, walking continued to produce heel pain.
Five days later, the patient returned for treatment. Suppurative moxibustion was applied directly to a shi points (i.e., the painful points on the bottom of the heel). Since the skin on the heel was thickly calloused, a fire needle was employed. In other words, the point was pricked four times instead of using four cones of moxa. And Jiu Cang Gao was applied topically to the needle hole. In three days, the needle hole suppurated. After two weeks, the sore had scabbed over and the heel pain had completely disappeared. Re?examination two years later revealed no recurrence of symptoms.
3. Dysmenorrhea
Xu, a 40 year old female, was first examined on April 21, 1989. Menarche had occurred at 14 years of age and she had married at age 20. After one year of marriage, she gave birth to a single child. At age 22, an inadvertent fall brought on mid-cycle bleeding. After this, her menstruation became so painful that she was bedridden. She had since suffered from dysmenorrhea for 18 years and treatment at both Western and Chinese hospitals had proved futile. Gynecological examination revealed a soft abdomen without masses or appendages. There was no cervical dysplasia, no uterine tumors, nor was there any vaginal or uterine inflammation. Her facial complexion was slightly yellow, she had an aversion to cold and liked warmth, and she had a small volume of menstruate which contained clots. Her tongue was pale purple with thin, white fur, and her pulse was fine and bowstring. The pattern discrimination was cold in the sea of blood with stasis obstructing the uterus. Therefore, therapy was aimed at warming the menses and quickening the blood.
Chinese medicinal therapy consisted of Si Wu Tang (Four Materials Decoction) with the additions of Ramulus Cinnamomi Cassiae (Gui Zhi), Radix Lateralis Praeparatus Aconiti Carmichaeli (Fu Zi), Rhizoma Corydalis Yanhusuo (Yan Hu Suo), and Rhizoma Cyperi Rotundi (Xiang Fu). Acupuncture and moxibustion were administered to Guan Yuan (CV 4, warm needle), Guan Yuan Shu (Bl 26, warm needle), He Gu (LI 4), and San Yin Jiao (Sp 6). Prior to each cycle, five ji were administered and acupuncture and moxibustion were administered five times. With continuous therapy over the course of three menstrual cycles, the dysmenorrhea had diminished slightly. However, when acupuncture and medicinal therapy were discontinued over the course of the fourth menstrual cycle, abdominal pain increased again in intensity.
Thus, suppurative moxibustion was indicated. An a shi point was selected ? a painful point one cun above Guan Yuan (CV 4). Over the next 32 days, the moxa sore suppurated. Eight months later, she made a special visit to report that, following the suppurative moxibustion, she had experienced a complete cure of her dysmenorrhea within two menstrual cycles. She had experienced no abdominal pain over the subsequent 6 months. On a follow?up call a year later, she reported that the ailment had not returned.
The above cases were all recalcitrant (to prior treatment). However, with appropriate use of suppurative moxibustion technique, one treatment affected a cure and the long-term therapeutic effects were excellent.
Upper Abdominal Pain
"385 Cases Utilizing Measures for Coursing the Channels & Rectifying the Qi in the Treatment of Localized Upper Abdominal Pain" by Zhang Zhen-xing, Zhong Guo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi (Chinese Journal of Integrated Chinese-Western Medicine), #2, 1992, p. 124
In this study, musk plasters were used in conjunction with an mo finger pressure in the treatment of upper abdominal pain. A Hu Gu She Xiang Gao (Tiger Bone Musk Plaster) or a Ru Xiang Zhui Feng Gao (Tracking Wind Plaster) was applied to a sore area in the gastric region. The patient then massaged the specific points with his middle finger for a duration of five minutes three times per day so that a strong needling sensation was elicited. Points normally chosen included a shi points, Shang Wan (CV 13), Zhong Wan (CV 12), Liang Men (St 23), Tian Shu (St 25), Nei Guan (Per 6), and Zu San Li (St 36). One course of therapy lasted three days.
The duration of illness ranged from 10 minutes to 30 years, and the age of the patient ranged from age 10 to over 40. Two hundred fifty-six cases were acute, and 120 were chronic. The range of illnesses with which these patients had been diagnosed included duodenal ulcer, enteritis, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, ascariasis, and gastric ulcer. Therapy was judged effective if there was complete disappearance of the pain.
This technique enhances the therapeutic effect of other modalities. It is simple and uncomplicated. The massage may be applied by physicians or patients alike and is safe. It may be used alone, when medication has proven to be ineffective, or it may be combined with medication. As such, its use merits popularization.
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