This therapy involves pressing points on the body with fingers or hands to alter the internal flow of a supposed vital force or energy called “CHI (pronounced “Chee”), strengthening it, calming it, or removing a blockage of the flow. Acupressure is one of a number of treatment methods regularly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) a system of healthcare that originated in China thousands of years ago and still widely practiced in Asia countries today.
According to TCM, acupressure points are aligned along 14 bodily meridians, or pathways. Twelve of the meridians are bilateral; that is, identical versions of them (with the same sets of points) exist on both sides of the Body. The other two are unilateral, running along the midline of the body. The 14 meridians do not correspond to any known physiological processes or anatomical structures in the body, such as nerves or blood vessels. Nevertheless, some well-controlled studies suggest that acupressure can be effective for a number of health problems, including nausea, pain and stroke-related weakness. A single point may be pressed for relief from a particular symptom or condition; or to promote over all wellbeing of the body, as series of points can be worked on in a specific Order.
The risks of acupressure are minimal, provided certain cautions are observed. During pregnancy, the points designated Spleen (6) and Large Intestine (4) should never be used; avoid the abdominal areas entirely, if possible. Never apply pressure to open wounds, varicose veins, tumors inflamed or infected skin, sites of recent surgery or areas where broken bone is suspected.
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture alike Acupressure is based on the traditional Chinese Theory of Meridian – pathways that are believe to run through the body, carrying the vital force or energy called- CHI is controlled by the insertion of hair-thin needles at specific points- the same meridians- aligned ones used in acupressure. Unlike acupressure, acupuncture must be performed by a trained practitioner.
An average treatment involves the insertion of 5 to 15 fine needles. They may penetrate as little as a fraction of an inch (on the finger tips for example) or as much as three or four inches (where a thick layer of fat or muscle exists). The procedure usually causes little pain, although often there may be tingling or heavy sensation. In addition to (for some times instead of) inserting needles, acupuncturists may opt for treatment called “Moxibustion”. This consists of applying heat directly above acupuncture points by means of small bundles of smoldering herbs, usually Mugwort Leaf.
The ability of acupuncture to relieve pain in many patients is well documented and the physical basis of the pain relief has been demonstrated through laboratory tests on animals’ acupuncture releases endorphins and other forms of neurotransmitters threat serve as the body’s natural pain killers. However, researchers remain unclear as to how acupuncture is able to provide long-lasting pain relief. Along with its pain –controlling benefits, acupuncture has been found effective in stroke rehabilitation and in providing relief in nausea. It has also been as a treatment for drug addiction.
AROMATHERAPY
In Aromatherapy, the essential oils of Plants are used to promote relaxation and help relieve the symptoms of certain ailments. Essential oils are extremely concentrated fragrant extracts, cold-pressed or steam- distilled from blossoms, leaves or roots. The oils are diluted with so-called carrier oils, such as almond or soy and can be applied through massage, mixed with water and used as compresses on the skin, added to a bath, or diffused into the air and inhaled. Essential oils should never be ingested; one drop of oil can be equivalent to an once or more of whole Plant. Taken internally, the oils of such Plants as Thuja, Wormwood, mugwort Leaf, Tansy, Hyssop, and sage are toxic, and can even be lethal.
Aroma therapists believe that the fragrance of the Oils has a soothing effect on the brain’s limbic system, which is involved in memory, emotion and hormone control. Some practitioners also theorize that the oils are absorbed through the skin and work directly in the body. However, critics of aromatherapy suggest that the relaxation attributed to the oils any actually be due to that application by massage, hot baths, and other pleasant methods.
AYURVEDIC MEDICINE
Ayurvedic medicine is a system of diagnosis and treatment that has been practiced in India for more than 5000 years. The Auyrveda comes from the Sanskrit roots âyur, which means “life” and veda meaning “knowledge”. Auyrvedic theory holds that all diseases of the body arise from stresses in awareness, or consciousness, of the individual; the stresses lead to unhealthy lifestyles. Producing a cycle of ill health. Physical manifestations of disease are arrtributed to the imbalance of three basic physiological principles called Dosha.
The “Vaat Dosha” rep[resents kinetic energy of the Body; vata makes the heart beat, causes blood to flow, and stimulates brain and nerve functions.
The “Kaph Dosha” is potential energy, responsible for physical strength and lubrication of tissues.
The “ Pitta Dosha’ considered a mediator between Vaata and Kapha, governs the metabolic processes of the body, from digestion to cell operation. If these three principle cease to operate in harmony, sickness ensues. Evaluation of Dosha is performed by a technique called “ Naadi Vigyan” which involves taking the pulse at the wrist, this assessment determines the precise from treatment will take.
Ayurvedic Practitioners prescribe a variety of precise body postures, all derived from the age-old discipline of Yoga, along with breathing excercises and meditative techniques. In addition Parctitioners use herbs, emetics and enemas, oil massage and Dosha- Specific diets towards a goal of helping detoxify the system and bring it back into balance.
BODY WORK
Body work is an umbrella term for many techniques, both ancient and modern, that promote relaxation and treat ailments ( especially those of the musculoskeletal system) through lessons in proper movement, postural reduction, exercise, massage and various other forms of bodily manipulations. Some type body work- including Massage, Qigong, Reflexology, Shiastu and T’ai chi- can be practiced at home. Others may require the guidance of trained professional. Forms of Body work include followings;
The Alexander Technique
The Allexander Techniques focuses on correcting habitual postures and movement patterns that are believed to damage or impair the body’s functioning.
Aston- Patterning
Aston- Patterning is a technique that tailors guided movement and postural retraining to the particular characteristics of each client body.
The Feldenkrias method
The Feldenkrais method features individual sessions performed by a trained practioner, during which verbally directed exercises, touch and movement are used to teach new patterns in order to improve posture, movement and breathing.
Hellerwork
Hellerwork an offshoot of Rolfing (structural integration) , combines touch and movement retraining to teach stress-free methods for performing everyday activities.
Massage
Massage includes an assortment of manual therapies that manipulate the soft tissues of the body in order to reduce tension and stress, increase circulation, aid the healing of muscle and other soft tissue injuries, control pain and promote over all well being.
Myotherapy
Myotherapy is form of deep massage used to reduce tension andpain originating in specific points in the muscle layers of the body.
Qigong (‘Chee-Goong”)
Qigong (‘Chee-Goong”), an ancient Chinese discipline emphasizes breathing, meditation and stationery and moving excercises to enhance the flow of energy or Chi through the body.
Reflexology
Reflexology involves the manipulation of specific areas on the feet – and sometimes the hands- with the goal of bring the body into homeostasis or balance, according to Reflexologists, distinct regions of the feet correspond to particular organs or the body systems, and the stimulation of the appropriate region is intended to eliminate energy blockages thought to produce pain or disease in the associated structures. The arrangement of reflexology areas on the feet mirrors the organization of the body to the extent that organs on the right side of the body are represented on the right foot, and so the left.
Reflexology features a few basic techniques that can be performed either by yourself or by a partner. The basic thumb techniques uses the inside edge of the thumb pad( the side away from the fingers) to “walk” along reflex areas; walking consists of forward, creeping movement with the first joint of the thumb bending and unbending slightly as the digit inches ahead. The finger technique uses the same walking motion but with the edge of the index finger closet to the thumb. When working a specific area, one hand should work and the other should hold the foot in comfortable position with the sole flat and toes straight.
Practitioners of Refelexology claim that it can relive a wide variety of ailments. Critics say that treatments are no more than glorified foot massage.
Rolfing
Rolfing also called structural integration, is based on the belief that proper alignment of the various parts of the body is necessary for physical and emotional health. The method uses deep massage and movement exercises to loosen or release adhesions in the fascia- the connective tissue covering muscles- in an effort to bring the body back into correct alignment.
Shiastu
Shiastu, Japanese technique similar to acupressure, uses finger and thumb pressure on precise body points to encourage the proper flow of Chi- or ki, as Japanese call it- a vital force or energy believed to circulate through the body.
T’ai chi
T’ai chi, one style of Qigong, is martial art involving meditation and slow, flowing, self-guided movements that follow set forms. It is intended to affect flow of Chi( energy) and bring about physical self awareness.
Therapeutic Touch
Therapeutic Touch does not involve actual physical contact despite its name. The practitioner hands move in slow, rhythmic motions two to six inches above the patient in an effort to detect what are said to be blockages in the body’s energy field that may cause or contributes to illness. The Technique was devised a few decades ago as a contemporary version of various ancient practices in which a healer consciously strives to direct and focus energy to the receiver to balance and unlock energy flow. Sessions typically last about 20minutes and are said to produce a sense of relaxed well-beings well as relief from pain and other symptoms.
Trager Psychophysical integration
Trager Psychophysical integration features gentle touch and rhythmic rocking and shaking movement, along with a series of directed body exercise intended to help identify and correct chronic tension pattern that affect posture and movement. Research suggests that it is beneficial for people with severe neuro-muscular problems produced by injury or such diseases as multiple sclerosis or muscular dystrophy.
CHINESE HERBS
The use of herbs along with acupuncture and acupressure is a major component of the system of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM). In TCM ailments are believed to be caused by disturbances in bodily flow of a type of energy called CHI or by a lack of balance in the contemporary states of Yin( which is characterized by darkness and quiet) and yang ( which is characterized by light and activity).
Chinese herbs like other TCM remedies (such as mineral and animal products, like hide and bone) can be prepared in numerous ways; steeped in hot water to make a tea or infusion; boiled to produce a stronger solution called decoction; used to make powders, pills or syrups that may all be taken internally; and fashioned into plasters or poultices that are applied to the skin. Treatments should be prescribed and monitored by a trained practioner, because some Chinese herbs can be toxic in large doses; other , such as Saffilower Flowers , should be used with caution during pregnancy. Complex mixtures should be formulated only by a trained Practioner.
In recent years, Chinese herbal medicine has been subjected to increasingly rigorous study in China, the United States, and elsewhere .The evidence indicates that although some remedies do not perform as claimed, others are effective. In China today, herbal remedies are often prescribed along with modern biomedical treatments.
CHIROPRACTIC
Chiropractic, a system of healing taught in its own five- year medical colleges and licensed in all 50 states according to standards set by the Council of Chiropractic Education and the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards ,is based on the idea that the human body has an innate self healing ability and seeks homeostasis, or balance. According to chiropractic theory, the nervous system plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis and hence health. But problems in the joints, called subluxations, are believed to interfere with proper functioning of the nervous system, and as a result, the body’s ability to maintain optimal health is diminished.
Chiropractors seek to bring the body back into balance through manual manipulation of the spine and other joints and muscle, allowing the neuromusculoskeletal system to function smoothly.
Today, chiropractors are divided into two major camps. One traditional in stance, see subluxations as the cause of most ailments. The other, considered progressive, aims at establishing chiropractors as provider of primary care, emphasizing the treatment of back pain and musculoskeletal problem, along with manipulation.
Although chiropractic is categorized as alternative medicine, it has gained a degree of acceptance, in part because of number of recent studies that have shown a acute lower back pain. The services of chiropractors are covered by Medicare and, in many states, by Medicaid and most major private plans.
HERBAL THERAPIES
Herbal medicines are prepared from a variety of plant materials- leaves, stem roots bark and so on. They usually contain many biologically active ingredients and are used primarily for treating mild or chronic ailments. (At least a quarter of all conventional pharmaceutical include some of the same ingredients, although generally in purified form.) Herbs can be prepared at home in many ways, using either fresh or dried in ingredients. Herbal tea and infusions can be steeped to verify strength s. Root, bark, or other plant parts can be boiled in to strong solutions called decoctions. Honey or sugar can be added to infusions and decoctions to make syrups. In stores, herbal remedies can also be purchased in the form of pills, capsules, or powders, or in more concentrated form of liquid form called extract an tinctures.
They can be applied topically in creams or ointments, soaked into cloths and used as compresses, or applied directly to the skin as poultices.
In the United States today herbal remedies are not regulated and come in unpredictable strength; the amount of the active ingredients varies greatly, depending on whether more than one species of the herb is used an how and herbs can be toxic or carcinogenic, all herbs should be used under the guidance of healthcare practitioner familiar with herbal medicines.
Across the spectrum of alternative medicines, the use of herbs is varied: Naturopathic medicine, traditional Chinese medicines,and Ayurvedic medicine all differ in how diseases are diagnosed and what herbal remedies are prescribed.
HOMEOPATHY
Homeopathy, founded by German Physician named Samuel Hahnemann in the 1790s is based on the idea that “Like cured like”; that is substance that caused certain symptom in a healthy person can also cure those same symptom in someone who is sick. This so-called law of similar gives homeopathy its name “homeo” for similar,”pathy” designating disease. In his experiments,Hahnemann developed a method of “potentizing” homeopathic remedies by diluting them in a water-alcohol solution and then vigorously shaking ( or succussing) the mixtures. The results convinced him that a high degree of dilution not only minimizes the side effects of the remedies but also simultaneously enhances their medical efficacy.
Modern homeopaths usually prescribe doses at dilution ratios ranging from 1X(1 Part substance to 9 parts dilution medium) to 200c( 200 repetitions of diluting 1 part substance with 99 parts dilution medium); higher ratios indicated with an “m” for 1 to 999 ratio. Critics of homeopathy argue that, in the more extreme dilution ratios( which are considered higher potencies), the remedies may not contain even a single molecule of the original healing substance. Nonetheless, studies have shown that homeopathic remedies may be effective for certain disorders, such as child hood diarrhea,hay fever, asthama and the flu.
Most homeopathic remedies have undergone ”proving” or medical observations in which healthy individuals are given doses of undiluted homeopathic substances. Mental, emotional and physical changes brought on during these tests help provide physicians with a better understanding of which remedy will best suit a particular set of symptoms. Over the past 200 years, proving of almost 2000 substances have been conducted.
The majority of Homeopaths practice” constitutional” homeopathy, based on the idea that each person’s constitution- or mental, physical and emotional make up – may need to be treated along with any specific ailments. Classically, only one homeopathic medicine is used at a time. An extensive patient history is taken and the patient’s physical and physiological symptoms are observed, then an initial prescription is made. If the medication does not have the desired effect or if the symptoms persist, a second analysis is done and a second prescription is given. This process continues until the correct medication for the underlying ailment is found. Constitutional treatment is generally used for chronic problems; acute or short term, ailments are usually treated with remedies specific to the illness.
HYDROTHERAPY
Hydrotherapy, literally meaning water therapy, uses ice, liquid and the steam to relive the symptoms of numerous types of infections, acute and chronic pain, circulatory problems, and more. Treatments include wraps, spray and douches, as well as steam rooms and saunas, and both hot and cold baths- among them, whirlpool baths, hands or foot baths, and stiz baths, which involve immersion of only the pelvic area. The aim is to stimulate an immune response or to detoxify the body by changing body temperature. Hydrotherapy is often used by naturopaths.
MIND/BODY MEDICINE
The umbrella term covers activities and the therapies that focus on the interrelationship of mind and body; the gaol in all forms of mind/body medicine is to address particular disorders and promote overall health by combining both mental and physical approaches. Yoga, for example, involves both physical movement and meditative state of mind, and may condition and combating emotional problems such as Depressions and Anxiety.
As noted below, the two-way connection between mind and body is exploited in many ways to influence hormonal, nervous and immune systems.
Biofeedback : It uses computerized machines to measure and display body functions and states such as heart rate, skin temperature, muscle tensions, and brain activity. By monitoring these functions through stages of rest and activity, patients are able to see how and why they change, and eventually can learn to control them.
Guided imagery : It teaches patients to imagine scenarios that may help influence certain physiological conditions. A cancer patient, for example, may imagine a tumor dissolving under an attack by immune system ”bullets”. While there are no conclusive studies on imagery, patients often report physical and psychological benefits.
Hypnotherapy : It is administered by a professional, uses a relaxed, focused state of awareness to help change physiological and psychological reactions to pain, illness or anxiety. Self hypnosis may be learned and applied certain conditions as well.
Meditation : It includes a number of different Asian and Western practices. All share the basic characteristics of sitting or resting quietly, often with the eyes closed, and performing mental exercises designed to relax the body and focus concentration.
The Relaxation Response is a state of psychological and physiological rest characterized by lowest oxygen consumption and reduced heart rate. It can be induced by many different techniques, including Meditation, Yoga, T’ai’Chi, Qigong, and Hypnotherapy. This deep relaxation can relive stress and its many symptoms.
Spirituality : It is a source of relaxation and comfort for many people, whether it involves practicing a particular religion or contemplating spiritual values outside of a religious context.
Support Groups : It brings together people who are suffering from the same disease or similar types of trauma. Within the group, they share experiences and feelings, which may yield great psychological benefits and perhaps improve the functioning of their natural bodily defenses as well.
Yoga : It is series of body positions and movements developed over thousands of years to calm the mind, relax the body, and ease the spirit. Meditation and breathing exercises lead into cycles of stretches and poses that may vary from sessions to session. Yoga can be learned and practiced at home; however, modified movements may be required during pregnancy or if a person has a condition such as heart disease. A yoga specialist can recommend the appropriate adjustments.
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Naturopathic medicine provides holistic or whole body, healthcare by taking advantage of resources drawn from numerous traditional healing systems. Dating back to the early part of the 20th Century, naturopathy is organized around three fundamental principles; The Physician should strive to aid the body’s natural healing abilities, the root cause of an illness should be addressed rather than its symptoms, and above all, only therapies that cause no harm should be used (which means that toxic drugs and surgery are avoided whenever possible).
A Naturopathic Doctor may pay considerable attention to a patient’s lifestyle, since naturopathic theory holds that physical, psychological and even spiritual elements can all contribute to disease. In treating patients, the naturopathic practitioner may use a number of alternative therapies including homeopathy, herbal remedies, traditional Chinese Medicine, spinal manipulation, nutrition, hydrotherapy, massages and exercise.
NUTRITION AND DIET
Conventional and alternative practitioners alike acknowledge the importance of healthful diet. Alternative practitioners, however place more emphasis on dietary intervention in some conditions where conventional medicine would resort first to drugs or even surgery. Treatment of atherosclerosis, for example, may take the form of an extremely low-fat diet along with a program of meditation, exercise and support-group therapy.
Some diets, such as traditional Japanese and Mediterranean ones, contain small amounts of animal fat. Because they are low in saturated fats, these diets appear to protect against heart disease and some forms of Cancer.
Vegetarian diets have been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Particular food may be beneficial; Garlic for example, is said to reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood stream and protect against some forms of cancer.
Vitamins and mineral supplements figure in the dietary recommendations of many therapies. Although some vitamins such as A and D, are fat –soluble and can reach toxic levels in the body if not carefully monitored, others, like Vitamin C are water –soluble and are not stored; any bodily excess is usually excreted. Generally, Vitamins and minerals are recommended for daily use as a preventive measure. They often come in tablets form, and doses are measured by weight in milligrams(g) or thousandth of a gram; in micrograms (mcg) or millionth of a gram; or in a Universal Standard known as International Units (IU). Orthomolecular medicine, a form of nutrient therapy, uses combinations of vitamins, mineral and amino acids normally found in the body to treat specific conditions, such as Asthma, Heart Disease, Depression and Schizophrenia. Such therapy can be used to maintain general good health.
OSTEOPATHY
Osteopathy focuses on correcting structural problems in the musculoskeletal system to improve overall bodily functioning. To restore structural balance and thus help a patient regain health, an osteopathic physician will combine manipulation of the joints, physical therapy and instructions in proper posture. Because osteopathic care is holistic, or targeted at the whole body, the doctor also considers psychological factors, lifestyle, and diet in addressing an illness and maintaining health.
Ever since it was founded by an American doctor named Andrew Taylor still in 19th centaury osteopathy has blended all aspects of conventional medicine with its central tenets of the importance of the body’s structure and its predisposition towards health over illness.
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