An Introduction to Western Medical Acupuncture


Book Description

Now in its 2nd edition, An Introduction to Western Medical Acupuncture provides a broad evidence-based approach to acupuncture when used as part of modern medicine. Illustrated throughout it gives the practitioner an essential guide for deciding where and how to treat conditions with acupuncture, and how to avoid known risks associated with it. Ultimately it provides the practitioner with a tool to develop safe and effective practice. For this edition the text has been revised, updated and extensively re-written. A new chapter brings together the understanding of how pain is recognised by the nervous system, and how acupuncture can influence these pathways. This is followed by six chapters providing detailed explanations of the effects and mechanisms of acupuncture, organised according to three recognised treatment approaches – needling to produce local changes, to generate effects at the level of the spinal segment, and to modify the overall function of the nervous system. The chapters on the evidence from research have been also updated. - An explanation of the various mechanisms of acupuncture linked to how they can best be activated by needling. - Learn the principles of treatment rather than any 'cook-book' approach. - Clear and objective discussion of the evidence for the effectiveness and the risks of acupuncture. - Thorough and detailed description of all aspects of clinical practice. - Reference section for quickly reminding the practitioner of the best approach to treating many problems.




Medical Acupuncture


Book Description

Comprehensively revised and expanded with vital new content, the second edition of Medical Acupuncture continues to explore the realistic integration of acupuncture into conventional medicine. Advocating the Western medical acupuncture approach (WMA), this science-based compendium provides the trained practitioner with all the latest research on the effectiveness of WMA and its associated mechanisms, techniques, clinical practice and evidence. Medical Acupuncture demonstrates a variety of needling techniques and clinical applications within the context of WMA and its evolution from traditional Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology alongside the principles of evidence-based medicine. Split into seven sections the book begins by establishing the roots of WMA in the Introduction and then progresses on to describe the mechanisms of action in Section 2, including peripheral components of stimulation and evidence from neuroimaging. Sections 3 and 4 cover clinical approaches (eg, superficial needling, electroacupuncture, safety of acupuncture) and techniques related to acupuncture (TENS, laser therapy). Section 5 takes a closer look at the difficulties faced by trials and reviews while Section 6 goes on to showcase 21 clinical uses of WMA, ranging from chronic pain, mental health, obstetrics and primary care to sports medicine, respiratory conditions and neurology. The final reference section contains dermatome/myotome maps, meridian/channel charts and standard international nomenclature. - Comprehensive coverage of the scientific evidence and clinical application of acupuncture in medicine - Balances the genuine benefits of acupuncture against unfounded claims - Presents a wide range of treatable conditions from psychiatry and palliative care through to the pain clinic and veterinary medicine - Clinical points boxes highlight key knowledge and learning - Illustrated with over 130 drawings and photographs - Content restructure and overhaul with contributions from over 40 world leading experts - Individual chapters on the use of acupuncture for a wide range of medical conditions including gynaecology and infertility, cancer and palliative care, drug dependence, obesity, sports medicine, dentistry and veterinary practice - Updated with the latest scientific evidence - Expanded information on neuroanatomical and neurophysiological considerations in relation to the mechanisms of acupuncture




Clinical Introduction to Medical Acupuncture


Book Description

An introduction to the theory and practice of acupuncture This introductory text presents a systematized and in-depth clinical approach to medical acupuncture. Covering basic concepts in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, Clinical Introduction to Medical Acupuncture will give practitioners the confidence to apply acupuncture and ancillary techniques, such as needling, moxibustion, cupping and electroacupunture, to treat a wide range of acute and chronic diseases and conditions. Features: Succinct descriptions of theory and points Tips on using anatomical landmarks to ensure precise point localization Clinical pearls on how to apply techniques for common conditions Clear illustrations and comprehensive tables that synthesize key information on indications, acupuncture points, and treatment plans, ideal for quick review and reference Short self-study quizzes for each topic and a comprehensive final exam that help the practitioner identify areas requiring additional study Discussion of the importance of self-care and cultivation, Qi Gong, and other techniques to enhance healing This book will benefit not only acupuncturists and complementary medicine practitioners, but also Western medical practitioners in family medicine, physical and rehabilitation medicine, pain medicine, neurology, oncology, rheumatology, gynecology, dentistry and other specialties. Practitioners studying for certification and licensing exams in medical acupuncture will also find this book an indispensable tool.




Essentials of Western Veterinary Acupuncture


Book Description

The field of pain research is rapidly expanding in both human and veterinary medicine, and has helped increase our understanding of acupuncture. However, many are still highly sceptical about the use of acupuncture and prefer for it to remain far from orthodox veterinary practice. This book seeks to challenge common misgivings by showing how veterinary acupuncture works (for small and large animals), and why it should be established as an orthodox form of treatment. Written from a Western approach, rather than a traditional Chinese Medicine approach, it explains the background and history of acupuncture and includes key information on safety aspects, understanding pain and how acupuncture can help, practical aspects such as types of needles and methods of restraint, and related techniques. Not intended as a techniques manual, this book is a preparatory text for those considering taking an acupuncture course and those wishing to gain a solid understanding of the subject.




Basics of Acupuncture


Book Description

In 1987, our first book Acupuncture: Textbook and Atlas received rave reviews (e.g., in New England Journal of Medicine). This prompted us to write this smaller, affordable version in order to reach a wider audience. The smaller format has been so successful that we are now into our fourth revised edition. This has given us the opportunity to update and improve the book. For example, nu merous new references to scientific advances have been added. Also the section on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was ad ded because it gives a more complete picture of the current prac tice of acupuncture. Acupuncture has come a long way since our first book in 1987. There has been a surge of interest in treating drug addictions by ear acupuncture in 450 centers world wide. The treatment of nau sea and vomiting has been so well tested (scientifically) that the FDA (USA) is considering making this the major indication for acupuncture in America. Research into its efficacy for neurologi cal and pulmonary diseases is also gaining credibility. No longer is chronic pain the only scientifically acceptable use for acupuncture (based on the endorphin mechanism).




Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture


Book Description

This exciting new edition of Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture gives a clear, detailed, and accessible presentation of the main features of constitutional Five Element acupuncture. It covers the context and history of this form of acupuncture, as well as the relevant Chinese medicine theory. After examining the Elements themselves and the functions of the Organs, the book explores the basis of diagnosis in Five Element acupuncture, possible blocks to treatment and the treatment itself. It puts this style of treatment into the context of other styles of acupuncture treatment — especially Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as it is used in the West today. Features - The Five Elements referred to in the title are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. - Gives a clear, detailed and accessible presentation of the main features of Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture treatment. - Covers the context and history of this form of acupuncture, as well as the relevant Chinese medicine theory. - Includes an unambiguous description of the principle aspects of diagnosis within a system, ironing out inconsistencies often present in discussions of these aspects. This edition has been thoroughly revised throughout and includes a new and improved colour page design. Quotes from the foreword to the first edition by Peter Eckman, San Francisco: "...the authors have shown how their approach can even integrate with TCM findings to treat patients more completely and rapidly. As the case histories illustrate, Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture is a style of practice that is second to none, and this innovative text is an excellent resource for learning it"




Chinese Acupuncture


Book Description

Soulie de Morant's masterpiece is the most detailed study of acupuncture available in a Western language. It was nominated for a Nobel prize and provided the foundation for French acupuncture. This text is divided into 5 parts: the energetics of acupuncture, the application of the energetics, physiology, meridians and points, and treatment. This book is a unique historical document, but more than this, it is the most practical of texts and has already served a generation of clinicians well.




The Spark in the Machine


Book Description

Why can salamanders grow new legs, and young children grow new finger tips, but adult humans can't regenerate? What is the electricity that flows through the human body? Is it the same thing that the Chinese call Qi? If so, what does Chinese medicine know, that western medicine ignores? Dan Keown's highly accessible, witty, and original book shows how western medicine validates the theories of Chinese medicine, and how Chinese medicine explains the mysteries of the body that western medicine largely ignores. He explains the generative force of embryology, how the hearts of two people in love (or in scientific terms `quantum entanglement') truly beat as one, how a cheating heart is also an ill heart (which is why men are twice as likely to die of a sudden heart attack with their mistress than with their wife), how neural crest cells determine our lifespan, and why Proust's madeleines evoked the memories they did. The book shows how the theories of western and Chinese medicine support each other, and how the integrated theory enlarges our understanding of how bodies work on every level. Full of good stories and surprising details, Dan Keown's book is essential reading for anyone who has ever wanted to know how the body really works.




Between Heaven and Earth


Book Description

“Comprehensive, encyclopedic, and lucid, this book is a must for all practitioners of the healing arts who want to broaden their understanding. Readers interested in the role of herbs and foods in healing will also find much to learn here, as I have. . . . A fine work.”—Annemarie Colbin, author of Food and Healing The promise and mystery of Chinese medicine has intrigued and fascinated Westerners ever since the “Bamboo Curtain” was lifted in the early 1970s. Now, in Between Heaven and Earth, two of the foremost American educators and healers in the Chinese medical profession demystify this centuries-old approach to health. Harriet Beinfeld and Efrem Korngold, pioneers in the practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine in the United States for over eighteen years, explain the philosophy behind Chinese medicine, how it works and what it can do. Combining Eastern traditions with Western sensibilities in a unique blend that is relevant today, Between Heaven and Earth addresses three vital areas of Chinese medicine—theory, therapy, and types—to present a comprehensive, yet understandable guide to this ancient system. Whether you are a patient with an aggravating complaint or a curious intellectual seeker, Between Heaven and Earth opens the door to a vast storehouse of knowledge that bridges the gap between mind and body, theory and practice, professional and self-care, East and West. “Groundbreaking . . . Here at last is a complete and readable guide to Chinese medicine.”—San Francisco Chronicle




Chinese Medicine and Healing


Book Description

In covering the subject of Chinese medicine, this book addresses topics such as oracle bones, the treatment of women, fertility and childbirth, nutrition, acupuncture, and Qi as well as examining Chinese medicine as practiced globally in places such as Africa, Australia, Vietnam, Korea, and the United States.