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December 2009 [Volume 8, Issue 12]
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In this issue of To Your Health:
There seems to be no question that osteoarthritis (OA) is a particularly debilitating disease. Now, a study recently published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatology may offer an alternative to painful surgery for patients suffering from knee OA.
A group of researchers from Tufts University in Boston assigned a group of 40 older patients (ages 55 and up) to a 12-week course of either modified tai chi or wellness education and stretching as a control group. The goal was to determine if tai chi was useful in reducing pain levels for those suffering from knee OA.
At the end of the 12 weeks, the researchers found that patients who were taking tai chi exhibited significantly greater improvement in pain levels than those who were part of the control group. They also showed an improvement in physical function and stiffness levels and depression. The tai chi patients were also able to walk further over a given time period (six minutes) than those in the control group. These improvements all continued to the 24- and 48-week follow-up periods.
The researchers concluded that the tai chi intervention "appears to reduce pain and improve physical function, self-efficacy, depression and health status for knee OA. These observations emphasize a need to further evaluate the biologic mechanisms and approaches of tai chi to extend its benefits to a broader population. Further studies should replicate these results and deepen our understanding of this therapeutic modality."
For more information on the many benefits of Oriental medicine, visit www.acupuncturetoday.com.
Herb of the Month – Homalomena (qian nian jian)
Homalomena is a perennial type of garden plant found worldwide, especially in the tropical and humid climates of Central America and Asia. It can reach a height of approximately nine inches, with dark, heart-shaped green leaves. The rhizomes of homalomena are used in herbal preparations. They are dug up in the spring or autumn, cleaned, dried in the sun, and then cut into slices for use.
In traditional Chinese medicine, homalomena has bitter, pungent and warm properties, and is associated with the Liver and Kidney meridians. Its main functions are to dispel wind and dampness, and to strengthen the tendons and bones. Homalomena is used to treat pain and weakness in the lower back and knees, along with numbness in the lower extremities.
The typical dosage of homalomena is between 5 and 10 grams, usually decocted in water. Sliced, dried homalomena rhizome can be found at some Asian markets and specialty stores. Homalomena pills and powders are also available. In addition, some vendors sell formulas that contain homalomena.
Homalomena should not be given to patients diagnosed with yin deficiency. As of this writing, there are no known drug interactions or adverse side effects associated with taking homalomena. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking homalomena or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
Question: I have BPPV, which is short for benign positional vertigo. This is an inner-ear disorder. Because of this condition, I also have eye issues with regard to shopping or sightseeing. Too much of either can make me dizzy. I pace myself when I do these types of activities because I don't want to cause myself too much distress. I do perform eye exercises when my eyes feel strained from too much activity. I would like to know if acupuncture can help and what points are used to treat someone with vertigo such as the type I have. What happens is that the eyes and ears send conflicting signals to the brain, which can cause dizziness, nausea and overall bad feelings. Please help.
Answer: There is acupuncture treatment available for these symptoms. There are several possible approaches and several possible treatment protocols. There are local points and systemic points related to the energetics of certain organs. You would see an acupuncturist for a better evaluation and treatment plan. In general, you would want to try 10 to 15 treatments and see how you are able to respond.
Do you have a question about acupuncture and Oriental medicine? Visit the "Ask an Acupuncturist" forum at www.acupuncturetoday.com/ask.
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