Acupuncture and NeuroDegenerative Disorders
Acupuncture can be used to treat NeuroDegenerative Disorders
In this brief introductory discussion, four different methods to treat Neuro-degenerative disorders are offered as examples that Licensed Acupuncturists can choose from and apply in clinical treatment settings. They include; Scalp Acupuncture, Microsystems Acupuncture, Primary Meridian Acupuncture, and Master Tung’s Method.
1. Scalp Acupuncture, also known as Neuroacupuncture, is a treatment based on the knowledge of traditional acupuncture and neurology. This method inserts acupuncture needles into loose tissue layer of the scalp to stimulate the brain neurons of the underlying area.
This study demonstrates the impact on paralysis using scalp Acupuncture:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3833481/
2. Other forms of Acupuncture can also access the Brain: MICROSYSTEMS.
“Microsystems” can be found on the EAR, HAND and FEET. You may have heard the term, “Reflexology”. This form of microsystem therapy uses manual pressure predominantly on the Feet and Hands.
Auricular Microsystem Acupuncture is also called Ear Acupuncture.
This study shows the impact of Auricular Acupuncture on the Amygdala of the Brain.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6604906/
3. This study devotes the scientific inquiry on the role of Primary Meridian Heart 7 on the Brain:
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2017/2850124/
4. The final example of Acupuncture’s role on Brain stimulation and rehabilitation:
Master Tung’s Points are used on the bottom of the foot to access the Brain. Here is an example of a point used to treat concussion:
https://www.mastertungacupuncture.org/acupuncture/tung/points/shangliu-t-5506
The Role of Acupuncture in the treatment of neuro-degenerative disorders is not only effective but also very under-utilized in the United States. With a team-lead approach that includes acupuncture treatment, the brain is likely to respond more quickly to brain rehabilitation and to have longer lasting effects.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second-most-common chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease. The long-term use of levodopa leads to a loss of efficacy and to complications. Therefore, many patients with PD have turned to complementary therapies to help relieve their symptoms. Acupuncture is most commonly used as a complementary therapy in patients with PD. This Study below presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of acupuncture for patients with PD. This study was performed to summarize and evaluate evidence regarding the effectiveness of acupuncture in the relief of PD symptoms.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5279085/
And Finally, I hope you will enjoy this documentary film made in 2009 that demonstrates one man’s struggle to regain his functional losses and neurological injuries after a severe stroke. This is a real life demonstration of one acupuncture method of brain rehabilitation and recovery.
9000 Needles, by Doug Dearth