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Low back pain

by Team | 55,Aug, 2021 | Traditional chinese medicine

Low back pain (or Yāo tòng) as seen by TCM

The Chinese term yao tong refers to back pain, whether unilateral or bilateral. Low back pain is often encountered in clinical practice. It is not uncommon for this seemingly simple complaint to conceal other complications such as:

a lumbar disc herniation,
a lumbar disc protrusion (collapse of the vertebral discs),
kidney stones,
spinal osteoarthritis (degeneration of the intervertebral disc).

Sciatica or back pain (particularly in the lower back) affects between 50 and 70% of the population. The origins vary, lasting from a few days in the acute phase to several years. Traditional Chinese medicine links these conditions to the kidneys and bladder.

Low back pain is back pain that originates in the muscles located on either side of the spine (the quadratus lumborum). Spasms of these muscles cause significant pain. This pain begins below the last thoracic vertebra (L1), descends through the buttocks, extending behind the thigh, then behind the knees, and sometimes to the toes.

Less well-known is cruralgia, a pain that focuses on the front of the thighs and outer buttocks and can extend to the front of the knee, shins, and toes.

Both types of pain are often felt on only one side of the body.

Etiology

These low back pains can have very diverse origins:

Excess of physical activity
Unsuitable physical activity
Bad posture (or prolonged position)
Sudden movement (without respect for joint physiology)
Exaggerated repetition of a movement
Heavy loads lifted
Traumatic injuries
Lack of physical activity
Excessive sexual activity
Pregnancy and childbirth
Overwork

Clinical signs

Chinese medicine identifies through its diagnosis different syndromes at the origin of the pathology:

A cold wet wind: this is a pervert that can invade the Bladder meridian. The cold contracts the muscles of the back. Moisture hinders the circulation of Qi and Blood, thus causing obstruction, which is a source of pain.
Heat-humidity: when pathogenic factors (heat – humidity) penetrate and stagnate in the body, there is a feeling of heaviness.
The stagnation of Qi and Blood: localized, it causes muscular contractures, and therefore pain.
Emptiness of the kidneys: this reinforces the impact of the above-mentioned perversions, as the kidneys can no longer nourish and strengthen the back muscles.

Depending on the syndrome, the pain may have different characteristics:

acute or chronic,
sensation of cold or heat,
heaviness,
more intense during the day or night,
at rest or in motion,
tingling, numbness,
fixed or erratic,
dull or sharp,
revived by emotions,
more intense after effort…

Soulagez vos douleurs dues à une hernie discale avec une ceintu

The lumbar region, home of the Kidneys

Low back pain is pain in the lumbar region, an area that is connected to the Kidney, Bladder, Governing Vessel and sometimes the Belt Vessel meridians.

According to TCM, the lumbar area is connected to the Kidney. This organ is also coupled to the Bladder. The Bladder meridian is a long meridian that runs down the spine, continues behind the thigh, joins the calf and ends on the side of the foot at the little toe.

“The lumbar region is the home of the Kidneys and the root of the Qi.” Their deficiency promotes the penetration of perverts into the lumbar region. The Zu Tai Yang (Bladder) meridian as well as the Du Mai (Governor) meridian run through the lumbar region. If perverts invade and obstruct these meridians and the Kidneys fail to defend their home, lumbago occurs.

The invasion of external perverts

Sweating, living in a cold and humid environment, working in water or in a humid environment, etc. can all make the body susceptible to external perverts such as Wind, Cold, and Damp. If other internal factors are added, such as excessive consumption of hot, spicy, and greasy foods, these perverts can, in a second stage, transform into Damp-heat.

When attacked by these external perverts, the meridians become blocked. Wind is a Yang pervert that often begins in the Yang meridians when it invades the body.

Cold and Damp are Yin perverts, which often begin by attacking the feet and then spread upward.

The latter two do not necessarily cause lower back pain, except in cases of Kidney Yang Deficiency.

If you sweat a lot or work in a cold and humid environment, your body may be prone to these attacks. Wind is primarily responsible because it is a Yang pervert that attacks the Yang meridians, namely the Bladder and Gallbladder meridians.

The attack, however, will remain superficial, mainly affecting muscle tissue.

Mechanical trauma

Lower back pain can develop gradually following trauma to the lumbar vertebrae, such as an accident. It often develops following prolonged muscle tension related to: tension, stress, poor posture, an accident, or carrying excessive weight.

In the event of a sprain or strain, local meridians are affected, leading to Qi stagnation and blood stasis, and consequently pain.

The consequences can be more or less serious, including the displacement of a vertebra or the pelvis.

Without prompt intervention, the body can quickly compensate by correcting posture, thus creating new tension and therefore new pain.

It is then recommended to consult an osteopath or physiotherapist to restore correct posture.

Emotions and Aging

Any intellectual overwork or sexual excess can affect the Kidney organ, draining its energy and thus impacting the lower back. Strong emotions related to the Kidneys, such as fear and anxiety, can trigger delayed lower back pain.

Chronic illness will also consume Qi and Blood, as will aging. Kidney Qi and Yang function to warm and circulate Blood so that it fills the meridians and nourishes muscles, tendons, bones, tissues, etc.

If Qi and Blood are weakened, they will be unable to fulfill this function, which will generate internal cold and a buildup of mucus. As a result, the lower back will receive less warmth and nutrition. This will result, among other things, in lower back pain.

The Kidneys also govern the bones. Weakness in this area can, of course, trigger lower back pain.

If Qi and Blood are weakened, they will not be able to fulfill this function, which will generate internal cold and a buildup of mucus. As a result, the lower back will receive less warmth and nutrition. This will result, among other things, in lower back pain. The Kidneys also govern the bones. Weakness here can, of course, trigger lower back pain.

Therapeutic techniques

Acupuncture and moxibustion can provide quick and satisfying results. The work involves clearing heat, warming the meridians, and dispelling cold to eliminate perverse conditions. It is also important to regulate Qi and Blood to nourish the Kidneys.

It is important to use Chinese medicine to enhance the work of acupuncture. Qi gong is highly recommended for strengthening and nourishing the kidneys and promoting the circulation of Qi throughout the body.

We also use cupping and Chinese Tuina massage. However, using Chinese medicine is essential.

The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s situation. An acute attack can be relieved in a few sessions. Chronic lower back pain will take longer to heal. The results will be faster and more lasting if the patient makes the appropriate changes in their lifestyle.

Indeed, it is important to adapt your lifestyle (diet, sports activities, etc.) while limiting stress factors.

Osteopathy and exercise

A number of tests should be performed to identify muscle hypertonia or hypotonia, and localized or distal osteoarticular imbalance.

Low back pain can therefore manifest itself as a result of various physical conditions:

an improperly treated ankle sprain,
trauma to the knees (ligaments, menisci, etc.),
a frozen shoulder,
hypertonic quadratus lumborum (which accentuates lumbar lordosis),
hypotonic abdominal muscles, etc.

Osteoarticular adjustments should therefore be performed to restore balance, allowing the free circulation of blood and energy, and to relieve pain.

Physical exercises are also recommended to strengthen the back and abs (especially static exercises).

Treatment of eczema

by Team | 2828,Jul, 2021 | Traditional chinese medicine

Chinese medicine treats the cause

Eczema is a common and rapidly disabling condition. Its causes are multiple, but most often related to blood disorders. Unfortunately, the patients who consult us often have long-standing eczema. We cannot stress this enough: any condition should promptly be consulted by a traditional practitioner to prevent it from becoming chronic.

It is therefore necessary to consider the history, appearance, and progression of the lesions to understand their significance and develop the most appropriate treatment. In the acute phase, it is necessary to cool the heat, disperse the wind, and eliminate humidity. In the chronic phase, it is necessary to nourish the blood and moisturize the dryness.

It’s also important to look for possible damage to one of the eight extraordinary meridians and adjust your diet.

Finally, it’s essential to address the emotional aspect of eczema, as the skin organ is linked to our emotional state.

Our history and our relationship with our parents, especially our mother, also influence our emotions.

Some people retain intense anger from their adolescence, others great sadness, or a strong bond of emotional dependence.

Chinese medicine treats eczema after identifying its origin. It is difficult to get rid of it. The creams and treatments offered by Western medicine may relieve the symptoms, but they do not address the cause and often cause side effects.

This is why many people suffering from eczema turn to traditional medicine, which, according to its holistic approach, will identify and treat the cause of this condition.

TCM uses pharmacopoeia in conjunction with acupuncture to achieve this goal. However, the Chinese medicine practitioner will also advise their patient on their diet and ask about their lifestyle, as poorly managed stress and recurring emotional disturbances have a significant impact on eczema.

The patient will therefore need to adapt their lifestyle in parallel with the treatment they are receiving to support the treatment and promote healing.

In all cases, and especially if the eczema has been present for some time, it will take time to get rid of it.

The patient will therefore have to commit to the long term and not give in to discouragement. However, improvements can be felt quickly, and therefore the discomfort significantly reduced. Since each case is different, it is impossible to predict precisely how and after how long this improvement will be felt.

Causes

Several possible causes or “perverse” factors can be identified that can lead to eczema: heat, wind, humidity, or dryness. The nature of the lesions provides clues as to the origin.

Heat

The skin is red with a local burning sensation, and it is swollen. The origin is what TCM calls Fire, which comes from within.

This Fire can come from an unbalanced diet, including excessive consumption of so-called fatty or hot foods (fried foods, spices, alcohol, dairy products, etc.). This first generates excessive stagnation in the stomach, then Fire in the stomach or gallbladder.

Emotional disturbances can also generate Heart and Liver Fire. Finally, blood heat can turn into dryness with yin deficiency and the release of heat.

Dryness

The skin is dry with scales and crusts. Eczama in this case is linked to a lack of body fluids, due to blood deficiency, or kidney yin deficiency, or sometimes due to lung or liver yin deficiency.

Wind

In cases of pruritus (itching), the origin of the condition will be related to wind. If this wind is of internal origin, it is often the result of a lack of blood. In this case, the itching is less intense but chronic, worsening at night.

If it is of external origin, the itching is intense and widespread, generally on the upper body. It is generally improved by cold.

The origin can also be Wind associated with Heat. The eczema will then be dry but itchy, and the tongue will be very red with a white coating. It is generally the result of stagnation of Liver Qi, itself generated by annoyances, pent-up anger, and frustration.

Dampness

Dampness, like dryness, is often associated with wind or heat. The lesions are sticky, sometimes purulent, and present with vesicles or blisters.

Its origin can be external (accumulation of dampness-heat or penetration of wind-dampness) or internal.

Internal dampness is often linked to an energetic imbalance in the Spleen, such as a Qi deficiency. The origin is often dietary (excessive consumption of cold or sugary foods that exhaust the Spleen).

Treatment

As for any pathology, after a diagnosis to identify the cause(s) of the eczema as precisely as possible, we immediately combine acupuncture with pharmacopoeia. We encourage our patients to go directly to a traditional pharmacy to receive herbal ointments.

During one or more sessions, we also offer an examination of the patient’s eating habits in order to help him/her find a suitable and, if possible, pleasing diet. Finally, we invite our patients to follow the precepts and techniques of Yǎngshēng, the Chinese medicine art of living for health and longevity.

As with any chronic illness, we propose qi gong as a fundamental support for the proper management of one’s emotions. Finally, it is important for each person to identify his or her own priorities in relation to health. It is gratifying to note that those who decide to do everything possible to get out of it, obtain results.

Let’s not forget that each person is his or her own doctor!

The effectiveness of TCM on eczema

Three studies conducted between 2006 and 2008 at the Ming Qi Natural Health Center (New York, USA) aimed to evaluate the impact of Chinese medicine on eczema.

In one study, 37 young patients with eczema were given a herbal decoction, while the other group received a placebo. At the beginning of the study, more than half of the participants had severe symptoms. Those who received the treatment experienced greater symptom relief than those who received the placebo.

“Improvement in symptoms and quality of life was seen by the third month,” says researcher Julia Wisniewski. And after eight months of treatment, most had mild symptoms. Eighteen of the patients experienced a 90% or greater reduction in their eczema.

In another study, several participants drank a Chinese herbal decoction. They also took herbal baths, and applied herbal creams to the affected areas. Finally, they received acupuncture sessions. This combination of therapies significantly reduced the symptoms of most participants, who started the study with severe eczema and ended it with very mild symptoms.

Participants also reported a reduction in the use of antibiotics steroids and antihistamines within three months of their TCM treatment.

“Chinese medicine is a very good alternative to conventional treatment for patients with eczema,” the researchers concluded.

The sadness

by Team | 2929,Jun, 2021 | Traditional chinese medicine

It is associated with the metal element in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sadness is associated with the lungs and the metal element. This emotion is more difficult to experience than joy, as it is often associated with loss, grief, or events experienced as painful.

And yet, sadness is part of the range of human emotions and must therefore be fully experienced. Seeking to suppress it, or perceiving it negatively, can only lead to repression and, ultimately, energy imbalances.

Conversely, experiencing sadness with too much intensity, or remaining trapped in it for too long, can also affect energy balance and lead to pathologies of the lungs, or even the large intestine, the bowel associated with the metal element.

The ability to experience grief, to feel and accept sadness, to let tears flow wisely, will therefore guarantee a good balance of the metal element, and therefore harmonious functioning of the lungs and large intestine.

Function of the lungs in TCM

The lungs are responsible for inhaling clean, oxygen-rich air and for expelling carbon dioxide and toxic waste. The lungs regulate the Qi inhaled with the air and distribute it throughout the body. They contribute to the circulation of blood and Wei Qi (protective Qi).

The lungs help Qi and fluids move down into the intestines. They are responsible for the excretion of bodily fluids in the form of urine and sweat.

In TCM, the lungs also control the skin, regulating the opening and closing of pores and the activity of sweat glands. For example, during exercise or in hot weather, the pores will open to allow perspiration. Conversely, in cold weather or in windy conditions, the pores will close to protect the body from these external aggressions.

The pulmonary system also regulates the sinuses, bronchi, nose, throat, and voice. The ability to feel and speak with a clear voice depends on him.

Lung pathologies

Since the lungs are closely connected to the heart, they also have an impact, along with the heart, on the proper circulation of blood in the blood vessels. For this same reason, certain lung pathologies can develop into heart disease.

Since the lungs control breathing, lung disease can manifest as shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, lack of desire to speak, a weak voice, dyspnea, or even asthma.

Since the lungs control the skin and hair, an imbalance can result in dry or flaccid skin, thinning or dull hair. Since the sweat glands are poorly controlled, spontaneous perspiration, night sweats, or hot flashes can result.

In TCM, the lung is said to “open to the nose.” Therefore, colds, rhinitis, and anosmia (disturbances or loss of smell) can occur in cases of lung imbalance. Finally, since the lung controls the “waterways”, a lung dysfunction can cause oliguria (infrequency of urine) or edema.

The Po or corporeal soul

Since the large intestine is the bowel associated with the lung in TCM, in the metal element, poorly managed sadness can also lead to diarrhea or constipation.

On a subtle level, the lung houses the Po, or “corporeal soul,” which is the most material part of the human soul. It allows for sensations: hearing, sight, touch. It is thanks to it that we perceive heat, cold, itching, and pain.

It is therefore particularly important to take care of our sadness so that it does not lead to lung pathologies.

A full breath

The corporeal soul, or Po, is closely linked to breathing. It is affected by emotions such as sadness or grief, which block its movements. We may then observe short, shallow breaths, and breathing localized in the upper chest.

To take care of our health in general, and our lungs in particular, it is crucial to relearn how to breathe fully. A newborn’s natural breathing is abdominal. But the older we get, the more tension and poorly managed emotions restrict our breathing. Where we should be using our breath to recharge our batteries, we breathe barely enough to stay alive.

It is therefore essential to become aware of our breathing and restore its full mobility. To do this, we should practice abdominal breathing daily, inhaling and exhaling as slowly as possible, in a relaxed manner. Practicing pranayama in yoga, or practicing qigong, frees our breathing, allowing the Breath of Life to fully animate us!

Immunity, our ally

by Team | 88,Jun, 2021 | Traditional chinese medicine

Our immune system protects us

Looking back on the madness experienced during the “Covid-19 Pandemic,” it’s important to remember the importance of our immune system. Indeed, under the same epidemic conditions, people with strong immune systems are more resistant to viruses. Those with weak immune systems are more vulnerable.

This immunity depends on the quality and quantity of our vital energy, according to TCM.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is often known as a preventative medicine. And for good reason, its philosophy is to keep the individual healthy to prevent them from getting sick. Therefore, TCM corrects energy imbalances so that the body can do its natural job of maintaining health.

Indeed, a well-maintained body has good immunity. In Chinese medicine, it is the defensive energy: Wei Qi, which is our primary protection against external aggressions, including viruses. It acts like a second skin. Wei Qi is developed under the control of the Kidneys in conjunction with the Lungs. It is therefore essential that these organs be strong.

It is particularly important to ensure proper kidney function, as they contribute to the proper functioning of the lungs. Therefore, if the kidneys are weakened, the defensive energy, or Wei Qi, will also be weakened.

A healthy lifestyle

To maintain good immunity, it is essential to maintain a balanced lifestyle. We should take care to have:

A balanced and healthy diet,
Restful sleep,
Exercise,
Deep and conscious breathing,
Relaxing practices: meditation, yoga, etc.
Spending time in nature

Emotions play an important role in the quality of our immunity. Indeed, fear, stress, anxiety, etc., experienced excessively or for too long, lead to a weakening of the organs, and therefore a decrease in immunity.

The times we live in are particularly anxiety-provoking and lead many people to fear, even panic.

However, in TCM, the emotion of fear damages the kidneys, the seat of our vital energy. Good vital energy allows us to generate good defensive energy (wei qi), and therefore guarantees good immunity.

This is why it is particularly important to be careful not to dwell on fear or anxiety. Practicing a sport, as well as meditation or practicing an art, are good ways to distance ourselves from fear or stress and reduce their impact.

Qigong and TCM to strengthen immunity

Regular practice of Qigong (at least 30 minutes per day) helps nourish vital energy. It calms the mind (Shen), circulates energy (qi), and ultimately nourishes the Jin (vital energy). Focused on deep breathing and relaxation, Qigong has a powerful effect on both the mind and body.

For people suffering from sleep disorders, emotional instability, or chronic anxiety, it is recommended to consult a practitioner of Chinese medicine. Acupuncture and pharmacopoeia will help them regain physical and emotional balance, and thus strengthen their vital energy. This will boost their immunity.

Knowing how to maintain serenity during times of crisis is the key to good immunity. This is why TCM has always advocated “Nourishing Life” by maintaining one’s health through the principles of Yang Sheng. This is the best way to always be ready to face any external aggression, including viruses.

Health measures harmful to health

In times of epidemics, immunity must be the priority of public health policies. However, the health measures implemented during the “COVID-19 Pandemic” unfortunately all went against this.

Wearing a mask restricts breathing and prevents proper oxygenation of the body.

Confinement prevents us from enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, a source of vitamin D and known to strengthen immunity. It makes it difficult to practice sports like jogging or brisk walking, especially if we have to wear a mask outdoors!

Social distancing hinders affectionate exchanges and natural human relationships, such as smiling and hugging. These are essential to our overall well-being. They are even more essential for children.

Finally, the deluge of anxiety-inducing information constantly broadcast on television and in the media creates a climate of stress. Psychologists all confirm an increase in cases of anxiety and depression, particularly among young people, during this period… and since.

Brigitte Prud’hon

by Team | 3030,May, 2021 | Life paths

A path to healing

Brigitte Prud’hon was born in France in 1962. She started her professional life in office jobs, mainly as an executive assistant. She then worked as an editorial secretary in the print media after retraining.

At the age of 40, her life took a new turn. This is when she met Dominique. Together, they began an in-depth research on the human being in all its dimensions. Together they made the pilgrimage to Compostela, a magnificent experience that would leave an unforgettable mark on her life.

They then left the sedentary life to live and travel in a camper. It is on this way that in 2004 they discover their master Henli Röder. They decided to study Chinese medicine, martial arts and Qi Gong with him.

Brigitte has always been curious about the human being. She was very interested in psychology to better understand the human psyche, and above all to learn more about herself. Suffering from depression and a deep malaise for years, she has undergone numerous therapies and taken many chemical drugs, without real success.

It is along this journey, started with Dominique on Compostela, and continued with her master in Holland, that she will finally find healing.

Brigitte has always been passionate about cooking, plants and nature. She is also interested in Feng Shui, as a valuable complement to Chinese medicine. She also plays classical guitar.

With a caring and sensitive nature, she loves more than anything to help people be healthier, and to discover their path to happiness and true freedom.