Treating Systems Disorders Using Chinese Medicine

10/27/2009

Many people are familiar with acupuncture, Tai Chi, herbs and meditation techniques from the East to enhance health. On a trip to Hong Kong I learned how to use ancient methods of Chinese medicine for difficult-to-treat disorders. Some methods used special massage techniques or exercises. Sound was also used to vibrate the body and stimulate the flow of energy in specific areas.

These specialized techniques take into account the dynamic flow of blood and energy in the body, linking different organs to achieve a balance of "nutrition in, waste products out." Blockages in any part of that dynamic flow can be the reason for disease and non-optimum health. Removing these blockages in the pathways is therefore the main focus.

In the West, energy has also been used to treat various disorders. Light therapy has been developed to treat open wounds, acne and psoriasis. Ultrasound is used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for relieving muscle spasm, improving blood flow and decreasing scar tissue. Sound waves can be used to break up kidney stones and gallstones. Electricity can treat pain and muscle spasms, and restores heart rhythm. Magnetic energy has been used to stimulate bone healing.

The difference in the East is that many Eastern techniques such as acupressure and meditation utilize energy which the human body can harness and apply directly, versus the techniques used in the West which require specialized equipment.

Our high technology society has brought us many benefits but, unfortunately, has also created numerous problems. Some of the disadvantages of living in a high technology society include the following:

environmental pollution; increased sitting time in cars, at desks and in front of TV; decreased activity levels; increased exposure to radiation from computers, TVs, cell phones and microwaves; and significantly higher stress levels

All of the above can lead to the development of cancer, heart disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, endocrine/hormonal problems, and brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and strokes. The detrimental effects of these factors can be lessened by improving your diet, exercising, taking nutritional supplements and utilizing various stress reduction methods.

Qigong, or chi gong, an ancient Chinese method of health enhancement and longevity, can enhance organ health and immune systems, improve detoxification and energy levels, and prevent the deleterious effects of aging. Qi (chi) means the vital life force circulating through the body and gong (kung) means practice. Qigong uses the mind to move the chi and puts healing messages along the energy channels, unlike acupuncture, which uses needles to stimulate the flow of energy. Movement of the chi creates movement of the blood, bringing oxygen and nutrition to all the cells.

Some of the benefits of qigong include: improved immunity; better sleep; less pain from arthritis; improved memory; improved cardiovascular and lung function; normalization of cholesterol levels; improved hearing and eyesight; improved kidney function; increased energy and endurance; softer skin; better coordination; improved spirits; increased bone density, and enhanced abilities. Qigong emphasizes internal health and compliments Western exercise, which emphasizes strength, flexibility and cardiovascular function. East meeting West could provide an awesome combination for maximizing health.

Sheila Yonemoto, P.T.,
Yonemoto Physical Therapy
55 S. Raymond Ave., Suite 100,
Alhambra, CA 91801
PHONE: 626 576 0591 / FAX: 626 576 5890

Links:
http://www.yonemoto.com/ - Yonemoto Physical Therapy home page
http://www.yonemoto.com/programs/IMT.htm - Integrative Manual Therapy, a Hands-On Approach
http://www.yonemoto.com/programs/qigong.htm - Qigong to boost the immune system