Natural Back Pain Relief - Acupuncture
Do you know, in the USA alone back pain is the second most common form of neurological disorders that a person is going to suffer. Although there are many prescribed medications a person can use in order to treat back pain, there are also a number of natural back pain relief treatments a person may want to consider using instead.

However when it comes to treating any kind of back problem the first thing a person should do is discuss the matter with their doctor or health care provider. There are many different reasons which can cause back pain. Anything from a muscle strain through to more serious conditions such as spinal stenosis or a herniated disc or it could have been caused by spondylosisthesis or osteoporosis.

In some cases it may be caused because a tumor is growing on the spine for example. But before you can actually treat the disorder whether using prescribed or natural treatments you first need to find out the cause in order that you can use the most effective back pain treatment possible.

Below I am going to take a one particular form of natural back pain relief that a person may want to consider using instead of prescribed medication.

Acupuncture is considered to be beneficial in helping to reduce the long term symptoms that many back pain patients suffer.In fact in studies carried out at Sheffield University in the United Kingdom, they carried out a study of 239 people. Out

California Apprenticeship (Tutorial Program)
<div>California is currently the last state which allows apprenticeship as a route to taking the state board exam. <br/>The California Acupuncture Board has recently moved to abolish this option. Next, legislation will be authored and voted on and California will join the national norm. Apprenticeship has long carried Chinese Medicine into the future and is itself an important part of the heritage. <br/>If you were considering entering the Tutorial Program, NOW is the time. <br/>If you are concerned with the time honored apprenticeship model remaining an option, stay tuned to this thread for updates on what we can do to make our concerns known and other relevant actions that we can take as concerned members of the Chinese Medical community. <br/> <br/>California Acupuncture Board Tutorial Program; <br/>http://www.acupuncture.ca.gov/ed_providers/tutorial.shtml <br/> <br/>Pine Street Chinese Benevolent Association: <br/>http://www.pinest.org/</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
Apprenticeship versus school? Does anyone know anything about apprenticeships for Acu/ TCM?
<div>I am supposed to start school for Acu/TCM in Hawaii in September and the universe is pulling me to a different geographic locale pretty forcibly. My old acupuncturist mentioned having an apprentice and saying that it took 5 years to be eligible for licensure instead of school (3 1/2). Does anyone know anything about this??? <br/> <br/> <br/>Aloha ; )</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 3 replies </div>
AIMC Berkeley Transfer Credit Warning
<div>Former AIMC student here... <br/> <br/>If you plan to transfer into AIMC, you need to take specific action to insure the credits that you are *told* will transfer and be credited toward sitting for the CA board exam, actually will be accepted. <br/> <br/>When I started AIMC 2 years ago, half the class were transfer students. They promise the world and under-deliver to say the least. There are many horror stories out there about students who *think* they are done, but face mountains of new work because the state board did not accept the credits that AIMC *promised* would transfer. <br/> <br/>I am writing this because I firmly believe there was intentional mis-representation to the student body of what can and cannot transfer. My opinion but corroborated by many others. The background info is that 2 years ago AIMC was nearly bankrupt and about to have their state of CA accreditation stripped-a big reason was financial instability. AIMC did get a 5 year full accreditation recently. <br/> <br/>Many students who transferred in are now screwed and this culture *may* still exist. One student threatened legal action and this seemed to help. AIMC is a great school and has turned the corner on many of these problems, but buyer beware. If you plan to transfer credits in, you need to draft a legally binding agreement with the school and put the burden of insuring your credits will be accepted by the state board onto the school. <br/> <br/>Get it in writing, get it reviewed by a lawyer. Seriously, save yourself some major headaches.</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 4 replies </div>
New related Tribe!!! :)
<div>Hey guys - any of you who are interested in the 9 Star Ki system - I started a new tribe and would love interested people to join :) <br/>tribes.tribe.net/9starkey</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
I hate school !!!!
<div>I am over it !!!! I hate school !!!! I hate studying !!!! I am beyond burnt out!!!! I wish I'd never done this and I only have 1 more of my 4 years to go. I'm disillusioned :( <br/> <br/>If any of you have positive outlooks, advice or just a nice thing or two to say that would be most helpful.</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 9 replies </div>
Comps or whatever your school calls them....
<div>Geez you guys! I picked ACTCM because they put you through so much hell that they have a very successful pass rate for the state and nationals. And now I know why!!! Today - 2nd year comps - almost kicked my ass!!! I have been studying for 3 months, again giving up most of what I called a "life" but people not in acupuncture school call "going to dinner with friends once a week". The testing started at 9am and was over at 3:30pm. We had 5 tests. We have 3 practicals at ACTCM. Herb ID - IDing 5 herbs and filling in all the info about them (but not knowing which 5 of the 350+ will be chosen), diagnosis and point location (10 points in 10 mins). They started this when those were part of the state and national exams but years ago they stopped being part of those exams and most schools stopped requiring them. Ours, however, still requires them and quite frankly, it's crazy!!!! CRAZY!!! And it's crazy making!!!! I have made myself sick with stress. Most people say that 2nd year comps at ACTCM is much harder and more stressful than the state exam and when they finally get to the state exam they think it's cake and I believe it. If anyone fails more than 2 of the written exams we cannot be in clinic for 6 months and have to take the exams over - putting us 6 months behind in school. If anyone fails any one exam twice they are kicked out of school for one year!!!! Personally I think this is all too much. And when I'm freaking out over school - which is a lot - I go on to the AIMC website and I fantasize about transferring. I have been doing this for 3 years. AIMC only has 5 tests for comps for the entire time! We have something like 17!!!! So here I am just blowing some steam, freaking out and wondering what other people at other schools have to say about their comprehensive exams?!?!?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 7 replies </div>
Study Skills
<div>Who am I to give advice on studying? Do I heed my own advice? Would I be here in front of my computer if I did? <br/> <br/>Regardless, maybe these things will work for you? <br/> <br/>Apparently we can only focus for 2 hours. I however, seem to be able to focus for about 15 minutes on a good day. <br/> <br/>An expert says to study for 1 hour straight ? set an alarm for 55 mins, take a 5 minute break for water and the bathroom and then go back and study for another hour. At the end of the 2 hours, take an hour break. He suggests that when you are studying you delete ALL distractions. This means put away the computer and turn off the phone. Do not check emails. Do not answer the phone. <br/> <br/>Here is what I have found kind of works for me. Earplugs!!! I am noise sensitive so I have to wear them or I get distracted. <br/> <br/>This expert says it takes 15 mins for our brains to get fully immersed in a subject. For me, this is not true. I can hyper-focus, but only for short spurts and then my mind wanders. If I don?t do something else I sit in front of my study stuff and space out, not studying. <br/> <br/>I have to study multiple subject because weekly I am tested on multiple subjects. Therefore I spend 15 mins to ½ an hour studying 1 thing, take a 10 minute break and then move on to the next subject. I have also found that what works for me is to add a project. Either artwork or collage ? and this will work for any subject. Getting creative not only helps ideas stick, it makes studying a tiny bit more fun. <br/> <br/>I used to promise myself treats when I completed something but this no longer seems to work for me. <br/> <br/>And in the end, whatever it takes. I always say if they graded on procrastination I would get an A+++++++. And that is also a motivator for me, when it gets down to the last minutes or hours before a test, I cram. This is, apparently, not good. We don?t retain as much. I am told it?s best to rest before tests ? even for a day or two. Ahhh, what luxury. <br/> <br/>Here are some other facts: <br/>1. we retain 5% of what we read <br/>2. we retain 10% of what we hear <br/>3. we retain 50% of what we discuss in a group <br/> <br/>I recommend studying with 1 or 2 other people whenever possible. This not only makes studying a lot more fun but it really does help with retention. <br/> <br/>Good luck to everyone!!! Group hug. </div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 7 replies </div>
PCOM San Diego
<div>Thinking of transferring to SD in Sept. Any advice?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
Hesitating on starting school
<div>I have a question for all you students out there. How did you know TCM is what you wanted to do? I have been thinking about starting school and I find I keep hesitating. I think the stuff is great and so very interesting, but I keep thinking 'what if I start and can't hack it?' or 'what if i realize half way through i'm not cut out for this stuff.' How did you guys finally decide to start school and make such a big investment? <br/>Thanks for the advice. <br/>Sabrina</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
Any SIOM students here?
<div>I'm also looking at transferring to SIOM- Anybody got the insider-scoop on that school and wanna share info?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 5 replies </div>
Mnemonics
<div>Does anybody have some mnemonic devices to memorize points, herbs, etc.? <br/></div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 18 replies </div>
Anyone here attend ACOS in Nelson, BC?
<div>I'm looking into this school and thinking of transferring there to get outta the city and get an education that suits me better. Anyone got info? <br/>Thanks in advance!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
Master/Couple points
<div>can somebody give me the low down on these? Or recommend some reading? <br/>Any info would be appreciated. (this tribe has been really helpful, btw.) Thanks!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 4 replies </div>
I have a wheat allergy...just experienced herbal contamination
<div>I am so sensitive that if I eat french fries cooked in the same oil chicken nuggets are cooked in I will get a headache that lasts for days. <br/> <br/>So... <br/> <br/>I got my first acupuncture treatment at my school, AIMC, on Tuesday. I got herbs: Si Wu Tang and Si Jun Zi Tang, but thought I was taking Gan Mai Da Zao Tang since that was what it said on the bottle. Well if you are not familiar with Gan Mai Da Zao Tang , it has Fu Xiao Mai (Triticus Fructus aka WHEAT) as an ingredient. I told my practitioner I am highly allergic to wheat and she had it marked on my chart. <br/> <br/>I freaked out when I thought she prescribed Gan Mai Da Zao Tang. I called the school three times yesterday and I still have yet to talk to her. But I did find out this morning from the receptionist that conversations happened about my situation and that that she didn't prescribe Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, it was only the bottle they put the other formulas in. <br/> <br/>I am so sensitive to wheat that the dust from the formula that HAD BEEN in the bottle triggered a headache. A two day, knock me off my feet, kind of headache. Good to know my practitioner didn't overlook the wheat allergy and prescribe wheat to me, too bad she didn't take it one more step and check out the bottle she was putting my herbs into. <br/> <br/>PS. I am in my first trimester and haven't had any TCM courses yet, including herbs. The only way I became clued in was that I googled what was on the label. I guess it is common practice to use bottle of one formula for another formula and not write was is really in the bottle on the label. At least this is the second time that has happened. And when I have gotten herbs a couple of times in a bag, the ingredients weren't listed there either. Hmmm...</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
Study/Concentration/Focus/Memorization Techniques?
<div>Would love to hear all suggestions! Figured this might be ripe for a stand alone topic!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
Quiz time!
<div>As if we don't get enough from school already...:) <br/> What category do these herbs belong to? <br/>Chong Bai <br/>Gui Zhi <br/>Zi Su Ye <br/>Jing Jie <br/>Fang Feng <br/>Xi Xin <br/>Xiang Ru <br/></div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 7 replies </div>
Ear Acupuncture ROCKS!
<div>Would love to hear people's success stories with ear acupuncture! I am in the ear clinic this quarter and have seen amazing results! We do a lot of NADA, quite a bit of the pain protocol and this season have been using the Immune protocol as well. Personally (on myself) I've had ear points cure headaches and nausea. On patients I have seen them cure sciatica, incontinence and high blood pressure to name a few. What are people's favorite points?! I love relax muscle, adrenals, brain - ohh too many to list!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
AIMC vs. ACTCM
<div>Hello! <br/>I am currently thinking of ditching my career for acupuncture school, and I'm comparing AIMC vs ACTCM. <br/>I was wondering if any of you guys go to these shools and if you could tell me some pros and cons of each?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 8 replies </div>
Dr. Wang Mi Qu on TCM Psychology
<div>Dr. Wang Mi Qu ??? <br/>post doc teacher @ Chengdu University <br/>grad of Beijing Uni ? graduate w/Dr. Fu here @ACTCM <br/>1979: - Ping Wu wrote insomnia study w/ him, as well as study about ? insomnia <br/> <br/>72 kinds of differences betw. male &amp; female <br/> <br/>1970-1980 TCM psychology made surge of development: involved branch of TCM, but not systemized. <br/> <br/>next year: psychology conference in Beijing: invitation to go <br/> <br/>dr. Wang: more focused on genetics now <br/>: 7 emotions: how impair internal emotions <br/>---------- <br/>research case: animal research on fear/KI (cats&amp;rats) <br/>-scared rat (from cat); (?cat also scared of rat?)- research how scared next generation of rat?s Yang def. <br/>-use Jing gui san qi wan- usually used to tx KI yang def. <br/> <br/>fear: cause qi ji to go down: rat has freq. incontinence (test if sudden bright light scares &amp; check for incontinence) <br/>-measure urination/BM freq/amount <br/>-after formula, comes back down to normal (proof Jing gui san qi wan helps KI qi def.) <br/> <br/>-measure thickness of brain layer (cerebral cortex?)- back to normal after <br/>-presences of gene (? structure) changed ? tonifies KI def. <br/>---------- <br/>psychology tx started before acupuncture or herbs developed!!, but most immature of modalities <br/>-research is more high level (physiological, mechanical low level more research) <br/>-mental dev. more complicated <br/>character of medicine: Yi: lower portion morphed from shaman to alcohol (shaman tx more psych. issues) <br/> <br/>Ling shu: speaks of psychol. tx <br/>Shang Han Lun: <br/>Sun Si Mao?s: <br/>Yi Tian Shi (Wen Bing related) <br/> <br/>TCM psychol. tx: narrow meaning ? just use words (psychotherapy?) <br/>- just hearing famous doctor?s name is beginning of tx (already getting a little better) <br/> <br/>relationship w/ dr. &amp; px: in every interaction <br/>-negative emotions possible: anxiety, fear, cautious, dependence, hopeless, depression, suicidal tendencies, anger, grief? <br/>-what px want: best doctor for them, respect for them, need understand, accept, comfort, someone they can depend on, need information on their health, feel safe, in good hands <br/>---------- <br/>Key points of success <br/>-Ling shu: teaching chapter: use of language to help px: how educate, comfort, give guidance <br/>1) trust/faith in doctor <br/>2) communication w/ doctor <br/> <br/>in dr. wang?s reseach: 100 cases of mental DO: 73.8% male px!! (hard to get women to get tx) <br/>-50% anger related <br/>-next: overthinking, terror, sadness, grief, fear, overjoy <br/> <br/>TCM: consulation is tx, tx is consultation <br/>when get consultation: mental DO is not very severe yet <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/>---------- <br/>-TCM psychol. related to general TCM fundamental theories <br/>basic characteristics of TCM?? ? <br/>1) holistic --tx body, spirit, environment (human body w/ nature &amp; society) <br/>2) differentiation ? indiviual?s specific case <br/> <br/>TCM TREATMENT METHODS <br/>1) talking to people ? basic method <br/>dx: key points: what cause wrong: educate, then advice <br/> <br/>2) 7 emotions &amp; 5 element relation to tx <br/>-use controlling relationship <br/> <br/>A) case: King has depression/SP: dr. Wen zi to come: use anger/LV to tx <br/>-doctor healed, but burned to death by King <br/> <br/>B) dr. Zhang zi he: TCM psychol. dr. <br/> px ds by fear (robbed @ hotel): wife (husband ? respect dr., but other dr. ? help) <br/>-dr. Zhang agreed ? use any herbs: she scarred, ?sound: even little sound gives palpitations <br/>-wood bells: woman to concentrate, then banged on bell loudly, then repeated it; px gradually get more calm <br/>-@ night: got someone to knock on window: then told her that sent someone to <br/>-earth control water: get px to think.. (patient not even scared of loud thunder!!) <br/> <br/>dr. Wo be: behaviour tx <br/>: systematic desensitization <br/> <br/>C) uncontrolled laughing: <br/>D) joy control sadness (got tumor: get playful doctor to cure tumor) <br/>E) anger control sadness <br/>-concubine pretend to have distress ? doctor tell her <br/> <br/>3) Yang vs. Yin treatment <br/>Huang di neijing <br/> <br/>Yin - Yang <br/>Joy - Anger <br/>Neg ? Positive <br/> <br/>F) dr. Zhang zi he: woman anger easily: husband powerful, but she has low appetite (get her very happy: get two comedians to make her laugh); 2 comedians also eat with her a lot; <br/> <br/>E) opposite will transform to other > schizophrenia: <br/> <br/>4) tx method: neijing: transform your focus <br/>-since childhood: chest pain, SOB, cough, asthma: works @sea <br/>-parents very care: repeatly constant: px thinks more about own disease <br/>-dr.: nothing wrong with your chest: pbx in your ear: bleed ear, very painful (get px to focus on ear, not chest) <br/>-did use chest point on ear, so chest did get better <br/>-px transform focus on ear, gradually chest pain got better <br/> <br/>transmit &amp; transform into something else <br/> <br/>-use cold/hunger to treat memory <br/>-use funny talk to tx diarrhea <br/> <br/>5) pretend to use acupuncture &amp; herbs: hint/suggestive treatment <br/>case: parasite in abdomen (px thinks so) <br/>-drunk: confused &amp; went back home; thirsty &amp; drink water from pool <br/>-saw lots of worms in pool (think abdomen has so many parasites) <br/> <br/>dr. wu: says he does believe px: I can take care of you <br/>-gave real herbs (purging) <br/>-dr. had poo in pot (already prepared w/worms in it, to show BM gone) <br/> <br/>dr. use method: to HINT curing (think needle kill worm) <br/> <br/>6) dream analysis <br/>TCM: according to Yin/Yang &amp; 5 element theory <br/>vs. Frued (subconscious &amp; sexual desire) <br/>-dreams indicates, water/fire, yin/yang <br/>-if dream of fire/red=yang excess (rel. to heart) <br/>-dr. wang px: always dream of water; T= pale: def. cold, cold extremities <br/>-use fu zi: very warming <br/>-a diff. dr. had treated, ? good results, but still think px needs them. <br/>-use diff. method: use tea to soak feet (? intake): heavy dosage (30 qian each) 2x a day (evening &amp; morning) <br/>-after this, much less dreaming about water: extremities gradually warmer <br/> <br/>px: carbuncles (yang excess ds): cold herbs <br/>dream: lots of research still need (theories diff. than freud) <br/>-dream: higher level <br/>-need lotsa method <br/> <br/>7) change the environment method <br/>-good environment: help good emotions/mental activiites <br/>-natural: high mountian, sea, travel <br/>-society: family, work <br/> <br/>case: stress/anxiety: <br/>high official: lotsa competition/stres: ? like job; dr. shen zi tell him to give up job <br/> <br/>case: woman: over 30 yrs. old (? married): depression, lotsa of vomit) <br/>herbs: qi go down > ? help with vomit <br/>got husband to marry her <br/> <br/>8) meditation <br/>Tai qi, qi gong, imagination?, prayer, Buddist tx <br/>-calm, peace, can control hyperactivity <br/> <br/>case: high offical px: lost his power/favor from boss > got mental DO, HA, dizzy, disconnected, ?appetite, insomnia <br/>-Buddhist monk told him his past life (have to experience this): advise to do meditation: gradually got better <br/> <br/>SPECIFIC METHODS: TX MENTAL/EMOTIONAL DO <br/>1) Huan Hen Dao Yin Gong (book: how to ) <br/>-related to anger, (also sadness, overthinking ) <br/>Huan: ?suffer from? (huan bing: suffer disease) <br/>Hen: anger <br/>(both have HT radical) <br/>-general characteristics: all go to Heart <br/>> regulates qi <br/>> if have anger or other mental DO: can blow qi out <br/>dr. wang: one day @ school: female px: husband in car accident &amp; died (very loud belching, ? sleep, ? appetite, hypchondriac distention) <br/>: TCM: partner:? 100 points to cause mental DO <br/>> ST qi ji rebelling <br/>> dr. wang taught her to blow out the qi (belching got less); she feel hypchondriac discomfort better <br/>> also taught how to make abdominal breathing, &amp; one prescription: but she didn?t take the two bags, she didn?t think she needs them; now she?s much better. <br/>>> all emotinal stemmed from qi ji DO <br/>neijing/su wen: pathologies from qi dysfunction > regulate qi <br/> <br/>breathing <br/>1) before : lower lips more forward than upper. <br/>2) lift up arms: level w/ shoulder, facing same direction as qi blowing out <br/>3) use abdominal breathing, contract to make qigo out <br/>4) posture slightly leaning forward <br/> <br/>Qi character: original meaning=breath <br/>gigong: use for regular maintenaince <br/>10-15x /session <br/>-how long/frequent depend on severity of case (5-6x for severe case) <br/>-usually twice a day (morning &amp; afternoon) <br/> <br/>case: schizophrenia <br/>group 1: 22% (11 people): gigong <br/>group 2: just arm exercise (same movement) <br/>-nurse guides <br/>-monitor: 70 days <br/>-16 specific signs: dislike speech, hypochond. pain, plum pit qi? <br/>-3 points: 0-4: ? sx, low, mid, high severity <br/>> signif. difference betw. groups : esp. hypochondriac pain &amp; plum pit qi <br/>> emotional signs/sx? ? delerium or excessive talking, quiet, hypoactivity, abnormal behaviour,dull complexion, anger easily, vexation, meloncholy, grief, crying, low energy, insomnia, hallucinations, compulsive behavior,</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
new at AIMC
<div>Hi all, <br/> <br/>I just wanted to say hi...HI! <br/> <br/>I just started at AIMC and am thrilled. After doing massage for 20 years and studying interior design for three (including Feng Shui) I have decided to become a doctor of oriental medicine. It has been a long time since my brain has had to wrap around the science, but I am loving the challenge so far. I am part time this trimester and thinking I will bump up to full time with the T/TH/Sat schedule in the fall. For now I am taking Anatomy and Physiology I, Western Medical Terminology I, Surface Anatomy and Observation I. Oh, and I am commuting from Santa Rosa and taking Physics at the JC. Still making my nut doing massage, but seriously considering applying for student loans to cover living expenses so I can really focus in on school. <br/> <br/>Any feedback, tips or suggestions are welcome. <br/> <br/>Thanks!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
anyone have books for sale?
<div>Hi all - <br/>I've moved from SF to Austin TX to attend the school here (AOMA.edu). It's been amazing so far. <br/>Was wondering if anyone has any books they'd like to unload. Mainly: <br/>Pocket Manual of Chinese Med by LEE <br/>Chinese Acupuncture &amp; Moxibustion (CAM) by Cheng <br/> <br/>Or is there something else that's been really helpful to your studies besides the basics?? <br/> <br/>Thanks! <br/>Agnes</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 9 replies </div>
TCM Reconsidered (An Article)
<div>I've read and heard so much about the debate on whether TCM is really "traditional." <br/> <br/>From my understanding of chinese culture/history and the development of confucianism vs daoism, this article really seems to ring true. <br/>http://www.chineseherbacademy.org/articles/tcm.shtml</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 3 replies </div>
herb samples
<div>I am taking my first herb class next term. I think they require us to get these herb samples set that's $100. I heard that the herbs in the sample packages are pretty crappy. I am wondering if anyone has gotten herbs (like 1oz of each) from a herb store and divide it among classmates to make their own herb sample set. Would it be cheaper/better that way? <br/> <br/> Thanks!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
Networking while in school
<div>My mentor has been drilling into my head that it's really important to get out and socialize and network with professionals in my new career. Especially since I'm moving to a whole new place, where my current contacts dont really reach. I haven't moved yet, but I have sent out a dozen or so letters to acupuncturists that practice around my new home and plan to call all of them right after I've gotten settled in. I've been pleasantly surprised that two practictioners have actually taken the time to call me and wish me well. They both encouraged me to call them after I've moved and we've discussed my shadowing them in their practice. <br/> <br/>I'm just tickled pink that this effort has produced any results this early. But I know that once my classes start, I'm going to be absolutely loaded with work. Does anybody here actively work at networking? How can you do that and still have time for work and study? Is there anyone here that finds this aspect easy?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 10 replies </div>
Acupuncturist friend looking for crash space in Tuscon
<div>Hi everyone, <br/> <br/>I have a friend who is an acupuncturist from Canada who just relocated to <br/>Arizona and has to fulfill some clinic internship requirments to be able to <br/>practice there. <br/> <br/>Her name is Elyse and she can be reached at emerlion@gmail.com. She's looking for crash space in Tuscon, Az for 4 or 5 nights <br/>a week minimum for 7 weeks. She's looking for something inexpensive or a housesitting situation. This would be starting this Monday, July 9th. <br/> <br/>If anyone can help out my friend, I'd really appreciate it. <br/> <br/>Thanks!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
Rooibos Tea
<div>Rooibos = Red Tea = Red Bush = a legume from Africa. <br/> <br/>Here are the TCM properties per Yehuda - a practitioner :) <br/> <br/>Check out http://www.africanredtea.com/ <br/>and http://www.rooibosteacompany.com/rooibosteahouse.html <br/> <br/>"I recommend rooibos to many of my patients. It's warm, sweet, and slightly bitter, has no caffeine, yet has up to 50 times the antioxidants of green tea." -- per Yehuda <br/> <br/>I also read that the longer you boil it, more antioxidants are released. -- per kim</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 4 replies </div>
All Raw Almonds to be Pasturized! Please help fight back!!!
<div>This is an urgent message needing your immediate attention by April 30. <br/> <br/>For me, sprouted raw almonds are a major part of my diet, so this is alarming. <br/> <br/>The Almond Board of California has recently passed a regulation that will require ALL almonds produced in the state of California (which is effectively all almonds available in the US and Canada) to be PASTEURIZED. <br/> <br/>This is because there were two salmonella outbreaks traced to almonds in 2001 and 2004, and they had to come up with an "action plan." <br/> <br/>Incredibly, they will allow pasteurized almonds to be labeled as raw, which is a lie, and should be considered fraudulent. And: 'pasteurizing' can include fumigating almonds with propylene oxide, which the epa says causes cancer, and really shocking: "Its use in treating food for human consumption is banned in the European Union, Canada, Mexico, and most other countries." http://foodconsumer.org/7777/8888/L_aws_amp_P_olitics_42/041601572007_Act_Now_to_Save_Raw_Almonds.shtml <br/> <br/>As you know, almonds have a high oil content, so roasting, toasting, or pasteurizing them creates toxic trans-fatty acids. Of course, it also kills the enzymes and damages other nutrients. <br/> <br/>This legislation is to go into effect in August or September of 2007, for the 2007 - 2008 almond crop. Deadline for the final phase of public comment is April 30, so there is still time for a consumer uproar, and that is the only thing that will stop it. <br/> <br/>For more details, go here: www.newstarget.com/021776.html <br/> <br/>To sign a petition, go here: <br/>www.gopetition.com/petition...rong.html <br/> <br/>To write directly to the California Almond board, go here: <br/>www.almondboard.com/utilitie...actUs.cfm <br/>Their phone number is (209) 549-8262. <br/> <br/>If you can take a moment to write them, our best strategy will be to request two things: <br/>1) Truly raw organic almonds be available for sale, clearly labeled as "unpasteurized." (They may want to require a warning label stating that salmonella or other bacteria may be present.) <br/>2) All pasteurized almonds be labeled as such, to allow consumers to make informed decisions about what they are ingesting. <br/> <br/> <br/>You can also write to the California Certified Organic Farmers association, which has the power to contest this. Please write to Peggy Miars, Executive Director: peggy@ccof.org. Ask her to mobilize and protest. <br/> <br/> <br/>To see the rules directly from the Almond Board of California (.pdf files), go here: <br/>www.almondboard.com/files/Cu...-2007.pdf <br/>www.almondboard.com/files/Handler.pdf</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
test score disparity
<div>I just got a letter from ACTCM requesting that we look at the test scores for the CA board exam...and they do fare much better than AIMC. <br/>Do you feel like they are more test driven? <br/>As a teacher, I believe that teaching to the test is why American education sucks. <br/>AIMC has more clinic hours, which I like because practice seems to actually create a greater knowledge source for me. <br/>What do you guys think?</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
clinical training in China report #1
<div> <br/> <br/>I've begun a 3 month training in acupuncture at Xiamen University in <br/>Fujian province, China. I'd like to share my initial impression <br/>and perhaps I will post more on my experience here. <br/>I chose this program for a few reasons, one being the cost , the other <br/>location. Quality, well I have heard that Andrew Ellis trained here in <br/>the past. <br/>The cost is $1000 for 3 months, clinic 8am-12, class 2:30-5:30. I am <br/>aware of the program in Nanjing, 3mo/3000. So, this is less expensive, <br/>and NCCAOM says it qualifies for CEU/PDA's.They offer other short term <br/>training in traumatology/orthopedics for one month. If all goes well <br/>I'll do that as well. <br/>I've lived in China 3 years in several cities and visited a few TCM <br/>hospitals so I can say this one is nicer and cleaner than most. The <br/>conditions can be shocking in some places.This program of short-term <br/>training is aimed at overseas students from Hongkong ,Macao and <br/>Taiwan, so the classroon instruction at this time is in Mandarin. Im <br/>making mp3's and translating the classes.The are many bilingual <br/>overseas students and a few doctors who speak English, but I have an <br/>interpreter and its gone well so far. <br/>In the clinics that I have seen the acupuncture dep't does not do <br/>bian zheng/differential dx, rather directly treat the western disease. <br/>Thats the trend, but today I was happy to see the doc sometimes doing <br/>pulse and tongue! Of course hes also treating 10 patients at one time <br/>and they are lined up in the hallway. <br/>Of course all needling is freehand style,no guidetubes.I have seen <br/>some agressive needling also; taiyang perpendicular, St12 deeply <br/>perpendicular, deep needling on the throat area, through the cranial <br/>foramen, casually as a matter of course. <br/>All this for (hold on to your hats..) 3RMB which is 35 cents US <br/>dollars!! When I mentioned that I recieved 70-100 /tx in the US I <br/>could hear the jaws hit the floor. <br/>The cost of living is quite low. and Xiamen is a beautiful <br/>sub-tropical island city, the clinic overlooks the ocean and <br/>mainland.Palm trees. Sure I'd rather be at Beijing U, but I believe <br/>its not Where, but Who you train with thats paramount. The staff and <br/>faculty seem very "willing to teach" and thats good enough for me at <br/>this point. <br/> Hopefully I'll have time to post more if anyone is interested.</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 6 replies </div>
Let's Share :)
<div>Thank you all for joining :) <br/> <br/>What school do you attend? <br/> <br/>What year are you in? <br/> <br/>How do you like it and how's it going for you?!</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 16 replies </div>
Very interesting way of seeing patients!
<div>I loved this and wanted to share it! <br/> <br/>> -------------- Original message ---------------------- <br/>> From: yehuda frischman <br/>> > Hi Anne, <br/>> > <br/>> > My sessions are generally 2 hours. I have a couple of impatient businessmen <br/>> > who can't and so I give them one hour sessions, ask them what they would like <br/>> > to focus on, take their tongue and pulses and just jump in. I only see one <br/>> > patient at a time. During the first half hour or so, I carefully review with <br/>> > them their comments and my observations from the previous session as well as <br/>> > asking them to update me on any changes or new developments. We explore any <br/>> > reasons why there might have been setbacks such as reactions to foods, <br/>> emotional <br/>> > issues, etc. I feel that this is an important part of bonding with the <br/>> patient, <br/>> > and opening them up to trust. Based upon their symptoms, constitution and <br/>> > status quo, I will generally prescribe and give them ready made medicines to <br/>> > take for a week. Then slowly I begin to needle. Together with my patient I <br/>> > exhale upon insertion and find when insertion is made with intention, that the <br/>> > qi opens up much quicker and less uncomfortably, <br/>> > even if I insert a full inch on fairly sensitive points. Sometimes, if I sense <br/>> > that a point is quite blocked, I will hold it first with my hands, focus my <br/>> > intention upon it and massage it at times fairly deeply in order to prepare it <br/>> > for needling. This obviously takes longer than regular acupuncture insertion. <br/>> > After all the needles are in, if indicated I will attach electrodes, or do <br/>> moxa. <br/>> > Then, while the needles are in (and BTW, I got slammed when I was in school by <br/>> > my clinical supervisors for doing this, and was told in no uncertain terms, <br/>> > "after the needles are placed you have to leave the patient alone, otherwise <br/>> you <br/>> > will interfere with the smooth flow of qi!") I will carefully do craniosacral <br/>> > therapy. I have developed this protocol intuitively, have found that it <br/>> > exponentially speeds up the healing process, and is particularly helpful in <br/>> > releasing emotional baggage which often blocks the healing of physical <br/>> symptoms. <br/>> > The process is time consuming (sometimes <br/>> > session have lasted longer than 3 hours--though I will retain needles for a <br/>> > much shorter time) , but because I can only treat maximum 4-5 patients a day, <br/>> > bookkeeping is easy, I don't need a secretary or assistant, and simply utilize <br/>> > the receptionist who is employed by the chiropractor whose office I share. <br/>> > <br/>> > I know that what I do is unconventional, but I enjoy it, my patients enjoy it, <br/>> > and we both enjoy the results. <br/>> > <br/>> > All the best, <br/>> > <br/>> > Yehuda <br/> <br/>Re: how I work, (I guess it's a bit unconventionally!) <br/>Posted by: "anne.crowley <br/>Fri Apr 27, 2007 9:26 pm (PST) <br/>What do they spend on average on herbs per week/month? <br/>Do you have clients turn over. Some go to every 2 wks? Every month? <br/> <br/>Thanks, <br/>Anne <br/> <br/>-------------- Original message ---------------------- <br/>From: yehuda frischman &amp;lt; <br/>> They come weekly. I see on the average 3 patients daily, 5 days a week. <br/>> <br/>> anne.crowley wrote: Yehuda: <br/>> <br/>> So they are okay with $180 per tx. and the cost of herbs 20, 30, 40 dollars or <br/>> more per month. How often do they come for tx? Yes, I learned in the beginning <br/>> to spend a lot of time with patients but what we didn't do was charge. This can <br/>> lead to a very paultry income. <br/>> <br/>> Anne <br/>> -------------- Original message ---------------------- <br/>> From: yehuda frischman <br/>> > Hi Anne, <br/>> > <br/>> > My sessions are generally 2 hours. I have a couple of impatient businessmen <br/>> > who can't and so I give them one hour sessions, ask them what they would like <br/>> > to focus on, take their tongue and pulses and just jump in. I only see one <br/>> > patient at a time. During the first half hour or so, I carefully review with <br/>> > them their comments and my observations from the previous session as well as <br/>> > asking them to update me on any changes or new developments. We explore any <br/>> > reasons why there might have been setbacks such as reactions to foods, <br/>> emotional <br/>> > issues, etc. I feel that this is an important part of bonding with the <br/>> patient, <br/>> > and opening them up to trust. Based upon their symptoms, constitution and <br/>> > status quo, I will generally prescribe and give them ready made medicines to <br/>> > take for a week. Then slowly I begin to needle. Together with my patient I <br/>> > exhale upon insertion and find when insertion is made with intention, that the <br/>> > qi opens up much quicker and less uncomfortably, <br/>> > even if I insert a full inch on fairly sensitive points. Sometimes, if I sense <br/>> > that a point is quite blocked, I will hold it first with my hands, focus my <br/>> > intention upon it and massage it at times fairly deeply in order to prepare it <br/>> > for needling. This obviously takes longer than regular acupuncture insertion. <br/>> > After all the needles are in, if indicated I will attach electrodes, or do <br/>> moxa. <br/>> > Then, while the needles are in (and BTW, I got slammed when I was in school by <br/>> > my clinical supervisors for doing this, and was told in no uncertain terms, <br/>> > "after the needles are placed you have to leave the patient alone, otherwise <br/>> you <br/>> > will interfere with the smooth flow of qi!") I will carefully do craniosacral <br/>> > therapy. I have developed this protocol intuitively, have found that it <br/>> > exponentially speeds up the healing process, and is particularly helpful in <br/>> > releasing emotional baggage which often blocks the healing of physical <br/>> symptoms. <br/>> > The process is time consuming (sometimes <br/>> > session have lasted longer than 3 hours--though I will retain needles for a <br/>> > much shorter time) , but because I can only treat maximum 4-5 patients a day, <br/>> > bookkeeping is easy, I don't need a secretary or assistant, and simply utilize <br/>> > the receptionist who is employed by the chiropractor whose office I share. <br/>> > <br/>> > I know that what I do is unconventional, but I enjoy it, my patients enjoy it, <br/>> > and we both enjoy the results. <br/>> > <br/>> > All the best, <br/>> > <br/>> > Yehuda <br/>> > <br/>> > anne.crowley wrote: <br/>> > Yehuda: <br/>> > <br/>> > Very interesting response on your business model. I have a question on point <br/>> #3. <br/>> > Do you do all sessions for 2 hrs or some just 1 hr. Do you see only one person <br/>> > at a time during the 2hr session? During the one hour session? <br/>> > <br/>> > I hate to ask such a mundane question with this eloquent expose below - but <br/>> that <br/>> > mundanity becomes a sticking point (no pun intended) for me. <br/>> > <br/>> > This is great, Yehuda. I'll have to post it somewhere so I can see it <br/>> regularly. <br/>> > "In my tradition there is a Mishna (part of the Oral law) <br/>> > > which says, "If I am not for myself, who will be <br/>> > > for me? if I am only for myself what am I? and if not now, when?" <br/>> > <br/>> > These are two cards I have on my desk: <br/>> > <br/>> > "I dwell in possibility" <br/>> > <br/>> > -Emily Dickinson <br/>> > <br/>> > and <br/>> > <br/>> > "A cup of tea together will make us glad, and a little friendship is no small <br/>> > matter." <br/>> > <br/>> > -Words from a Japanese folk song <br/>> > <br/>> > I <br/>> > Anne <br/>> > <br/>> > -------------- Original message ---------------------- <br/>> > From: yehuda frischman &amp;lt; <br/>> > > Dear Karen, <br/>> > > <br/>> > > I think that there are three prerequisites to successfully start up an <br/>> > > acupuncture business: <br/>> > > <br/>> > > 1. A love of people. Everywhere I go, when I'm in the market, the park, or <br/>> > > the study hall I engage people that I meet. It is so easy to have the <br/>> > > conversation shift to health and invariably it can lead to acupuncture and <br/>> > what <br/>> > > you do. Also, to neighborhood venues that tailor to heath such as gyms, <br/>> health <br/>> > > food stores, physicians offices, etc., make yourself known as a neighbor. <br/>> > Offer <br/>> > > free classes and seminars. When you schedule them, send out releases to the <br/>> > > local newspapers. Also, (and others might disagree with me!) take your <br/>> > patients <br/>> > > or potential patients phone calls and don't charge them for them. I feel <br/>> that <br/>> > > what goes around comes around, and if you are kind, giving, and make it <br/>> clear <br/>> > > that you are available for quick 5-10 minute phone calls, of course, at your <br/>> > > convenience, you will further solidify your relationship. <br/>> > > <br/>> > > 2. A niche. Do things differently than other acupuncturists in your area, <br/>> > > either by treating a specific population (as an Chasidic and orthodox Jew I <br/>> am <br/>> > > constantly getting calls from my community), a specialty such as <br/>> infertility, <br/>> > > cardiology, dermatotogy, etc. or an additional skill or modality such as <br/>> > > integrating CranioSacral therapy, using a laser, etc. <br/>> > > <br/>> > > 3. Presentation. Make sure that your office is attractive, your staff is <br/>> > > pleasant and that location is accessable so that people not only like you <br/>> but <br/>> > > will like coming to see you. <br/>> > > <br/>> > > I disagree with those who say that it is tough to build up a business. I <br/>> also <br/>> > > think that money shouldn't be an issue, either. I charge a lot, I think. My <br/>> > > sessions are 2 hours and I charge $90 per hour plus herbs. I also run a cash <br/>> > > business. I will give a receipt or statement if a patient asks for it, <br/>> > > otherwise, I don't. Those who can't afford that much, I ask them how much <br/>> they <br/>> > > are able to pay for each session up front, and I abbreviate the session to <br/>> an <br/>> > > hour. The one prerequisite, though is that they do pay something, for I have <br/>> > > found that those who say that they can't afford anything don't take their <br/>> > > appointments seriously, and don't show up or come late. Building my business <br/>> > > has been fun and challenging. And it hasn't taken a lot of money, either. <br/>> What <br/>> > > it does take is creative thinking, getting out there, and again, loving <br/>> > yourself <br/>> > > and loving others. In my tradition there is a Mishna (part of the Oral law) <br/>> > > which says, "If I am not for myself, who will be <br/>> > > for me? if I am only for myself what am I? and if not now, when?" <br/>> > > <br/>> > > Much success, <br/>> > > <br/>> > > Yehuda Frischman, L.Ac, CST, SER <br/>> > > www.traditionaljewishmedicine.com <br/>> > > <br/>> > ></div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
why hypertensive patients shouldn't take gan cao habitually
<div>Re: Why should a person with hypertension not eat black licorice? <br/>http://www.madsci.org/posts/archives/feb2002/1014220611.Me.r.html <br/> <br/>This is a fascinating question, and one that I was introduced to in my medical school courses. We had, as a case study, a hypertensive individual that was also a habitual licorice consumer. That is the key: habitual. Having licorice once in a while is not damaging, but over time, licorice ingestion can induce pseudoaldosteronism. Aldosterone is the adrenal hormone that acts on the kidney, telling it to retain water and sodium. This hormone also induces the loss of potassium, which is exchanged for sodium in the kidney. Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which is absorbed as glycyrrhetinic acid. Glycyrrhizin, inhibits an enzyme called 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts cortisol to cortisone. Cortisol, but not cortisone, binds to the aldosterone receptor in the kidney and mimicks the effects of aldosterone, which could explain the effects of licorice - a buildup of cortisol, which is recognized by the body as aldosterone. In fact, in a study by Bernardi et al (ref 3), healthy volunteers given 814mg of glycyrrhizin/day experienced hypokalemia and increased body weight (apparently due to water retention) after 1-2 weeks. <br/> <br/>OK, so licorice causes pseudoaldosteronism. What does pseudoaldosteronism do? Kidney retention of water and sodium lead to increased blood volume. Increased blood volume leads to increased blood pressure (think of it as turning up the tap on a water hose - the more water, the more pressure on the hose). Abnormally increased blood pressure over time is called hypertension. <br/> <br/>As a sidelight, the hypokalemia (reduced potassium) induced by licorice due to the retention of sodium over potassium, can also be dangerous. Hypokalemia is usually tolerated well by most people and is often discovered incidentially with a blood test. If serum potassium drops too low, however, people can experience muscle weakness (due to altered resting potential of the muscle cells), polyuria (lots of urine), polydipsia (lots of thirst) and in some cases can cause cardiac arrhytmias and other EKG changes, due to altered repolarization and increased automaticity. <br/> <br/>I hope this helps! <br/>Have a good day- <br/>Ingrid <br/>MadScientist <br/>---- <br/>Date: Mon Feb 18 11:13:37 2002 <br/>Posted By: Ingrid Dodge, Grad student, Immunology <br/>Area of science: Medicine <br/>ID: 1013803357.Me <br/>Message: <br/>Dear J:</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 6 replies </div>
Online TCM Herb Info :)
<div>http://www.tcm.health-info.org/</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
Great Website for TCM Info!
<div>www.tcmstudent.com <br/> <br/>Finally took a moment to check out this site and was surprised to find all the good info here including: <br/> <br/>TCM Quick Reference Guides!!! Nice!!!! <br/> <br/>? Acupoint Tables <br/>? Body Cun Measurements <br/>? Ear Acupoint Chart <br/>? Extra Vessel Patterns <br/>? Five Element Chart <br/>? Five Shu - Command Chart <br/>? Five Phase Pulse Patterns <br/>? Flow of Qi in Meridians <br/>? Front-Mu &amp; Back-Shu <br/>? Gen &amp; Control Cycle <br/>? Ghost Points <br/>? Needle Gauge Chart <br/>? Pulse Qualities Chart <br/>? Window of the Sky Points</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
TCM Students - Surveys - Different Schools
<div>http://www.tcmstudent.com/2003/05/index.html</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 2 replies </div>
acupuncture documentary
<div>comments please!! <br/> <br/>http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-799443241400641366&amp;pr=goog-sl <br/> <br/>mine are: <br/>I watched the documentary and I feel there are a number of problems. I understand the need for scientists to "prove" scientifically that acupuncture works, but I personally do not see how it has a basis in "science". The concepts we are learning are not scientific and acupuncture is so much more than just putting in needles. <br/> <br/>Her controlled study - on LI-4 of putting in a needle superficially as opposed to deep needling in order to determine the affect on the brain to me were a bit worrying as we have learned there can be quite an affect superficially. I also have a hard time with the line "the acupuncturists are worried that if they don't see anything happen in the brain, it undermines their whole profession". However it was nice to see the results negated her purely scientific stance. <br/> <br/>Also, this documentary doesn't really delve into the knowable/seeable - such as acupuncture being a cure for facial paralysis (only mentioned in passing here) or used for face lifts - cheesy maybe - BUT - seeable proof. <br/> <br/>Just my opinion. A good doc for non-believers and people who don't know anything about acupuncture - but I personally feel it falls short.</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 0 replies </div>
Acupunture school
<div>I wanted to start a Tribe for those of us who are "in it" and hopefully those who have gone before can comment too. <br/> <br/>As a "first year" I realize that there is nothing like being in the thick of Acupuncture school. Longer than Medical School and we have to learn all that and so much more. <br/> <br/>Difficult to wrap our heads around entirely new concepts and ways of healing. The constant tests, the pressure, the intensity.... <br/> <br/>I would love to hear people's comments about where they're at, their process, their study skills/habits, their likes and dislikes and anything else you'd like to share! <br/> <br/>I hope this can be a good support group for us all !!!! <br/> <br/>It's not easy, but it's what we all want to do and helping to heal others is an amazing thing to strive for :)</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 10 replies </div>
Studying
<div>I personally find it extremely challenging and would love to hear everyone's input on techniques, rewards, break downs, epiphanies...........</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>
www.chinesemedicinedatabase.com
<div>Hi, <br/> <br/>My name in Jonathan Schell, I am an acupuncturist in Oregon. I have created an Online Searchable Database of Chinese Medicine for Practitioners and Students of Chinese Medicine. Why did I do this? Because I have hundreds of books, Many binders of Acupuncture Notes, and not that much time when I am seeing patients. I was tired of remembering that I had read something somewhere, but was not able to remember where I read it -- so I would have to look through five or six books to find it, or worse yet my own notes. Then when I went to the coffee shop to study, I would have to bring 3 or 4 big tomes (books) in order to study a particular subject. I broke quite a few backpacks carrying all that Information around. I began to order my information while I was still in school, (I attended 3 different schools) not really knowing what I would do with it once it was ordered, then after I showed some material to Subhutti Dharmadanda he recommended that I create a Database, and well here I am. <br/>I believe that most Acupuncturists will never reach the same greatness as our teachers because of some inherent limitations. Many American Acupuncturists do not read and write Chinese, and are really not interested in learning. This denies us as a profession from having free discourse over many topics, and denies us access to our not to distant past (the Classics), as well as the future (Modern Research Coming Out of China) of Acupuncture. We are left in the Limbo of having a few Authors translate the majority of our clinical texts for us. In any other profession if a few author?s names were on everything, there would not be that much credibility within that field. <br/>My aim is to create a grass roots effort of acupuncturists and acupuncture students to collect enough money to begin to get more translations available to the American and World Audience. With the understanding that TCM came from a style of medicine that arose in the past, and that Chinese Medicine does have Spiritual &amp; Religious Connotations. The Chinese themselves are often quick to distance themselves from anything that could be considered Mystical, and yet in the Ling Shu, the Shang Han Lun, the Mai Jing there are traces of this mystical past. I aim to collect translations that have never been seen in the west that have both modern and ancient applications. I am afraid that if someone does not step forward to do this, many of us will never see this material in our generation, and I think that would be a shame. Acupuncture is quickly becoming main stream, but it is also being controlled by just a few people to be a very groomed and formed Bonzai bush. Meaning we will be no more than "Techs" as long as our profession is dominated by the few, but our profession can treat nearly everything that Western Medicine can. <br/>I am about the power of the people, and giving the people as much information as possible and letting them make their own decisions. <br/>On www.cm-db.com you will have access to 500 Single Herbs, 1100 Formulas &amp; Patents, Specific Modifications for OBGYN, Acupuncture Points &amp; their Combinations, and as much Translated Material (in both Chinese Characters &amp; English) as I can afford, and it is all searchable by key word. I work on the Database Daily, and pledge to add more and more information every day. I am charging a nominal amount of $15.00 per month to have access to the database and an additional $5.00 per month if you want access to the Classics. Because I am charging so little, I cannot drop the price down any more. I chose the price I did because I wanted all practitioners/ students to not feel that they had to come up with massive amounts of money to have access. You can pay with any Major Credit Card. I think back to when I was a student and the teacher asking these obscure questions in class, I would have loved to have had my laptop open, do a quick search on the wireless (that is going into many schools), and had access to more information than I could have thought possible. <br/>I hope that this letter explains a bit about myself, my passions, and why I am doing what I am doing. Thank you for your invitation to join your tribe and I will of course answer any questions that you have. <br/> <br/>Sincerely, <br/> <br/>Jonathan Schell</div> <div> posted in <a href="http://tribes.tribe.net/acupuncturestudents">Acupuncture Students</a> - 1 reply </div>

Of these, 159 people were treated by providing them a course of 8 treatments whilst the other 80 were provided with normal back pain treatments.

After one year it was found that those being treated using not only had reduced amounts of pain but they found themselves also worrying less about the pain as well. Whilst after carrying out the treatment for 2 years the patients being treated using were reporting that they were in most cases pain free from the second year and were now beginning to use less medication.

When it comes to using as a natural back pain relief treatment, a person can generally expect to pay between $60 and $120 for the treatment but it is tax deductible as it is considered to be a medical expense.

Also if you are considering using this method to treat your back pain then it may be wise to check your medical insurance plan as the provider may well cover the costs of such treatment within theirs. Plus, you need to be aware that initially you will need to see the acupuncturist between 1 and 3 times a week for several weeks in the beginning before the effects can be felt.

Ricky is the owner of http://www.reliefbackpain.net. Visit his site today for more information on the best back pain relief products.