Articles

Cupping is an ancient practice that goes back at least 18 centuries. The first record of cupping in China is from the book A Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergencies, by Ge Hong, a noted Taoist herbalist and alchemist who lived in the 3rd and 4th centuries C.E. Ge Hong described the use of animal horns for draining pustules. Later, in the Tang Dynasty, a book called Necessities of a Frontier Official prescribed cupping for pulmonary tuberculosis or related disorders. Cupping is however found in many other parts of the world. Hippocrates wrote of its efficacy for treating menstrual problems, and...

Low Level Laser Therapy is an effective adjunct modality for the treatment of both osteo and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies show that it not only reduces pain but also improves the underlying pathology, increase joint flexibility and improves range of motion. Laser has also been shown to improve bone and cartilage production through cellular mechanisms. This is a guide that will show you how to use LLLT in your clinic for the treatment of arthritis and arthritic disorders. Types of lasers, wavelength and power When treating arthritis a number of different types of lasers or laser attachments can be used. The...

Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition which is believed to affect over 6 million people world wide. It is caused by neurological defects in the substantia nigra. Several studies have been done to explore whether or not acupuncture can benefit people with Parkinson's disease. Many of these studies have found some benefit, one acupuncture point that has been particularly effective in studies is GB34. A study recently published in CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics, examined the effect needling GB34 has on the brain using fMRI to try and determine how it affects Parkinson's disease. Previous fMRI studies comparing control groups to...

Ren-17, or Conception Vessel 17, is located in the middle of the chest. It is an important point which is involved in clearing and regulating lung qi. Ren-17 is also front-mu for the pericardium. The point responds well to both moxibustion and needling, but there is a risk to needling Ren-17 that many practitioners are unaware of. Ren-17 is located on the anterior midline, level with the 4th intercostal. It is usually, but not always, midway between the nipples. A more accurate way to locate the point is to find the second rib (the most prominent) and count down to...