What is pattern diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
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Pattern diagnosis (辩证论证 Bian Zheng Lun Zhi ) is a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the identification and classification of patterns of disharmony within the body, which helps guide the diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions.
In TCM, the body is seen as an interconnected system where imbalances or disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and other vital substances can lead to disease. Pattern diagnosis aims to identify these imbalances and understand how they manifest in an individual’s signs and symptoms.
Key elements in pattern diagnosis
There are several key elements involved in pattern diagnosis:
Gathering information: The TCM practitioner collects detailed information through questioning, observation, palpation, and listening. This includes the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and their overall constitution.
Analysis: The collected information is carefully analyzed to identify patterns of disharmony. Patterns may involve imbalances in Qi, Yin and Yang, organ systems, body substances, or the overall flow of energy.
Pattern identification: Based on the analysis, the practitioner identifies specific patterns of disharmony. These patterns are often named according to their characteristics, such as “Liver Qi Stagnation” or “Kidney Yang Deficiency.”
Treatment principles: Once the patterns are identified, treatment principles are determined. These principles guide the selection of acupuncture points, herbal medicine formulas, dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and other TCM modalities to address the root causes of the disharmony and restore balance.
Pattern diagnosis in TCM is a dynamic and individualised process. It takes into account not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances and the unique constitution of each person. By addressing the specific patterns of disharmony, TCM aims to restore harmony and promote the body’s self-healing mechanisms. It is important to consult a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide an accurate pattern diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan based on individual needs.
Almond Wellness Centre
Almond Wellness Centre located in Victoria’s Coburg and Ringwood areas, is a multidisciplinary clinic devoted to fostering wellness. Our clinics place great importance on comprehensive healthcare that encompasses the whole person. We approach each individual as a unique entity, considering their lifestyle, diet, environment, emotions, and attitude.
Whether you are in search of treatment for a particular health issue or aiming to enhance your overall well-being, Almond Wellness Centre is dedicated to delivering personalised care tailored to your needs. Our goal is to assist you in achieving your health objectives and supporting your journey towards optimal wellness.
Taking Care of Yourself After Baby – Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Can Help!
Hey new moms, after giving birth, your body and mind need some extra TLC.
We get it – That’s where Chinese medicine and acupuncture come in, offering a helping hand during the postpartum period. Let’s break down how these ancient practices can make a difference:
Bouncing Back Physically
Chinese herbs and acupuncture aren’t just for pain relief; they’re your buddies in the physical recovery game. They help manage those post-birth aches, reduce inflammation, and get your body back on track. Imagine them as your postpartum superheroes!
Emotional Pick-Me-Up
Hormones after childbirth can play tricks on your mood. Enter Chinese herbs and acupuncture, swooping in to balance those hormones, kick stress and anxiety to the curb, and give your emotional well-being a boost. It’s like a mood makeover!
Breastfeeding Support
Got questions about breastfeeding? Chinese herbs and acupuncture might have the answers. They can lend a hand in boosting milk supply and making breastfeeding a success. No wonder studies show that acupuncture can up the milk game!
Recharging Your Batteries
Postpartum life is a real energy-drainer. But fear not, because Chinese herbs and acupuncture are here to recharge your batteries. They tackle fatigue, support your body’s natural healing, and help you regain that post-baby pep.
Meet Almond Wellness Centre
At our acupuncture clinics in Melbourne, we’re all about tailor-made care. Whether it’s suggesting herbal goodness or crafting acupuncture treatments, we’ve got your back. Plus, we’re not just about needles – we’ll throw in some diet tips and lifestyle advice to make sure you’re on the path to a healthy postpartum recovery.
Still wondering if acupuncture and Chinese medicine are your postpartum pals? Everyone’s different, and we get it.
Ming Ho, 1 Tsai-Chung Li, 2 and Shan-Yu Su 3. The Association between Traditional Chinese Dietary and Herbal Therapies and Uterine Involution in Postpartum Women. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;
Wei Li, 1 , 2 Ping Yin, 1 Lixing Lao,corresponding author 3 , 4 and Shifen Xu. Effectiveness of Acupuncture Used for the Management of Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Biomed Res Int. 2019; 2019: 6597503.
Shuaishuai Wang etc. Efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine Zengru Gao to promote breastfeeding: a multicenter randomized controlled trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018
The Connection Between Sleep, Melatonin, acupuncture Chinese medicine and Fertility
Sleep plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, and recent research has shed light on its importance in the context of fertility. Studies have shown that women who experience better sleep patterns may have an increased chance of conceiving, particularly through in vitro fertilisation (IVF). One key factor that contributes to restful sleep is the hormone melatonin. In here we will explore the relationship between a good night’s sleep, melatonin, and fertility, and also delve into how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can further aid in promoting restorative sleep.
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Understanding Melatonin and Its Sleep-Inducing Benefits
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland in humans. Its primary role is to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and promote a state of drowsiness. The hormone’s secretion is influenced by natural light exposure, with production increasing in response to darkness and decreasing when exposed to light. Beyond its role in sleep regulation, melatonin also acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to repair cellular damage caused by stress and oxidation.
Melatonin’s Impact on Fertility
Recent research presented at the World Congress of Fertility and Sterility and published in the Journal of Pineal Research has revealed the link between melatonin and fertility. Women who were given melatonin showed promising results, with significantly increased melatonin concentrations in their follicles and decreased concentrations of the damaging compound 8-OhdG. Consequently, the melatonin group had a higher success rate of 50% for successful transfer of follicles into the womb, compared to 22.8% in the control group. Furthermore, pregnancy rates in the melatonin group were 19%, compared to 10.2% in the control group.
Naturally Boosting Melatonin Levels
If you’re looking to improve your chances of conception and overall sleep quality through increased melatonin levels, there are several natural approaches you can consider:
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Going to bed early and waking up early can significantly improve your sleep quality. Aim to go to bed at 10 pm for at least four nights a week, and gradually adjust your bedtime if you are used to sleeping later.
Embrace Morning Sunlight: Exposing yourself to natural sunlight in the morning helps inhibit melatonin production, signalling to your body that it’s time to wake up. Engaging in activities like yoga or tai chi during this time can further enhance your overall well-being.
Include Melatonin-Rich Foods: Certain foods contain naturally occurring melatonin, such as green vegetables, fish, turkey, whole grains, lentils, and bananas. Incorporating these foods into your diet may help support melatonin production.
Reduce Stress: High-stress levels can disrupt sleep patterns and melatonin production. Practicing relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and meditation can be beneficial in reducing stress.
Limit Light Exposure at Night: Minimise exposure to artificial light at night, including electronic devices like phones and laptops. Avoid turning on lights when using the bathroom during the night to prevent interference with melatonin production.
Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine for Sleep
In addition to these lifestyle changes, traditional Chinese medicine offers effective methods to improve sleep quality. Acupuncture, an ancient practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, has been shown to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and promote relaxation. It can also address underlying imbalances that may contribute to sleep disturbances.
Chinese herbal medicine, with its rich history of promoting overall well-being, includes various herbs known for their calming and sleep-inducing properties. Combining acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine can create a synergistic effect, helping individuals experience more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Conclusion
A good night’s sleep is not only essential for our daily functioning but can also play a vital role in fertility. Melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle, has been found to positively impact fertility outcomes, particularly in IVF treatments. By adopting natural methods to boost melatonin levels and incorporating practices such as acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, individuals can further enhance their sleep quality and overall well-being. If you are experiencing persistent sleep issues, consider consulting a healthcare professional or an acupuncturist experienced in treating sleep disorders to explore personalised solutions and embark on a path to better sleep and improved fertility.
References
Vickets (2010) Melatonin could improve women”s IVF success, found at http://www.ivf.net/ivf/melatonin-could-improve-women-s-ivf-success-o5387.html, sited 3/9/12
B Best (2012) Melatonin, http://www.benbest.com/nutrceut/melatonin.html, sited 3/9/12
A Hunter (2012) How to increase your natural melatonin production, http://www.livestrong.com/article/510836-how-to-increase-your-natural-melatonin-production, sited 3/9/12
If you live with arthritis, you know what a challenge it can be to find relief from joint pain and other symptoms. But there are many things you can do to manage and control your arthritis and live a healthy, active life.
It occurs when the cartilage between the joints breaks down, usually affecting the hips, hands, knees, low back, or neck.
Some factors can increase your risk, including a joint injury, being overweight, aging, and genetics. Putting stress on a joint through repetitive motion can also increase your risk.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
This chronic condition occurs when the lining of the joints becomes inflamed, and can lead to long term joint damage and even loss of movement. Women are two to three times more likely to get RA than men. RA often starts in the hands or feet, and usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body.
3. Gout and psoriatic arthritis
These are two other common types of arthritis that can affect individuals.
Symptoms
Main symptoms of arthritis include:
Warm, swollen or tender joints
Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
Fatigue
Flu-like symptoms such as fever
Weakness
Treatment options
Treatment generally focuses on relieving pain and preventing further joint damage. Often this is done through the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications, as well as through self-care and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may even be needed.
Arthritis and Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine has a long history of using various approaches to address arthritis and related conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views arthritis as a result of imbalances or disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood within the body. TCM treatment aims to restore the balance of Qi and blood to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health. Here are some common approaches used in Chinese medicine for arthritis:
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and promote balance. Acupuncture is believed to help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. The selection of acupuncture points depends on the individual’s pattern of disharmony and can be combined with other TCM modalities, such as moxibustion (the burning of herbs near the skin) or cupping (the use of suction cups on the skin).
Benefit of acupuncture for arthritis
Acupuncture is a commonly used treatment modality in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various types of arthritis. It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) and promote balance. Here’s how acupuncture can be beneficial for arthritis:
Pain Relief:
Acupuncture is known for its analgesic effects and can help reduce pain associated with arthritis. The insertion of acupuncture needles stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. It can help alleviate joint pain, muscle pain, and general discomfort associated with arthritis.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. By promoting the flow of Qi and blood, it helps reduce inflammation in the affected joints. This can help relieve swelling, stiffness, and improve joint mobility.
Improve Joint Function:
Acupuncture aims to restore the balance of Qi and promote optimal function within the body. By addressing the underlying imbalances contributing to arthritis, it can help improve joint function and range of motion. This can lead to increased mobility and decreased disability associated with arthritis.
Individualised Treatment:
Acupuncture in TCM is highly individualised, and the selection of acupuncture points depends on the specific pattern of disharmony identified in each person. A TCM practitioner will assess your symptoms, medical history, and conduct diagnostic techniques (such as pulse and tongue examination) to determine the appropriate acupuncture points for your specific type of arthritis.
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal formulas are commonly prescribed in TCM to address arthritis. The selection of herbs is based on the individual’s specific pattern of disharmony, which is determined through TCM diagnostic methods. These formulas may include herbs with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties. Herbal medicine is often tailored to the individual and can be used internally (taken orally) or externally (applied topically)
10 common Chinese herbs/herbal formularies for arthritis
Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to manage arthritis symptoms and promote overall health and well-being. Chinese herbs are often prescribed based on an individual’s specific pattern of disharmony identified in TCM diagnostics. Here are 10 commonly used Chinese herbs /herbal formularies for arthritis:
1. Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong):
Known for its tonifying properties, Eucommia bark is believed to strengthen the bones, tendons, and ligaments. It is often used in formulas for arthritis and joint pain.
2. Chinese Skullcap (Huang Qin):
Chinese Skullcap has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is commonly used in formulas to alleviate joint inflammation and reduce pain in arthritis.
3. White Willow Bark (Bai Liu):
White Willow bark has been used traditionally for pain relief and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is often included in formulas for joint pain associated with arthritis.
4. Frankincense (Ru Xiang) and Myrrh (Mo Yao):
These resinous substances are frequently used together in formulas for arthritis. They are believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Clematis Root (Wei Ling Xian):
Clematis root is commonly used in TCM for joint pain and swelling. It is believed to promote blood circulation and alleviate stiffness and pain.
6. Mulberry Twig (Sang Zhi):
Mulberry twig is known for its ability to dispel wind and dampness in TCM. It is often used in formulas for arthritis with symptoms of stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility.
7. Gentianae Macrophyllae (Qin Jiao):
Gentianae Macrophyllae is great for arthritis pain, swelling joints. It relieves pain and reduce inflammation, especially with muscle tension in the upper extremities.
8. San Bi Tang (Three Painful Obstruction Decoction):
This herbal formula combines various herbs such as Rx. Dipsaci (Xu Duan), Saposhnikoviae (Fang feng) and Panax Ginseng (Ren Shen) to relieve all types of joint pain associated with arthritis.
9. Juan Bi Tang (Remove Painful Obstruction Decoction):
This formula includes herbs such as Gentiana Macrophylla Root (Qin Jiao) and Large-Leaf Gentian Root (Da Qin Jiao). It is used to alleviate joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
10. Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica Pubescens and Sang ji sheng Decoction):
This formula contains Pubescent Angelica Root (Du Huo) and Mulberry Mistletoe Stem (Sang Ji Sheng). It is often used for chronic joint pain, particularly in the lower back and knees.
Herbal remedies may be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. Please note that Chinese herbal medicine should be prescribed and administered by qualified registered TCM practitioners like us at Almond Wellness Centre.
Other TCM therapies
Other Chinese medicine therapies including Tui Na Massage, Qi Gong and Tai Chi.
Tui Na is a therapeutic Chinese massage technique that involves applying pressure, kneading, and stretching to specific areas of the body. Tui Na aims to improve circulation, relax muscles, reduce pain, and restore the flow of Qi. It can be used as a standalone therapy or in combination with other TCM treatments.
Qi Gong and Tai Chi are mind-body practices that involve gentle movements, breathing exercises, and meditation. These practices are believed to promote the flow of Qi, improve flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. They can be beneficial for individuals with arthritis by reducing pain, increasing joint mobility, and improving overall quality of life.
Researches
Acupuncture anti-inflammatory effects
A randomised controlled trial published in the Journal of Pain (2017) investigated the effects of acupuncture on inflammatory markers in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study found that acupuncture reduced the levels of inflammatory markers, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), compared to sham acupuncture.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE (2018) examined the effects of acupuncture on systemic inflammatory markers in various diseases. The analysis included studies on rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and post-stroke inflammation, among others. The review concluded that acupuncture showed potential for reducing inflammatory markers in these conditions, but further well-designed studies were needed.
Acupuncture Improved Joint Function
For osteoarthritis:
A randomised controlled trial published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (2004) compared acupuncture with sham acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis. The study found that acupuncture significantly improved physical function and reduced pain compared to sham acupuncture.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine (2020) evaluated the effects of acupuncture on knee osteoarthritis. The analysis of multiple studies showed that acupuncture had a positive effect on improving joint function and reducing pain.
For rheumatoid arthritis:
A randomised controlled trial published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology (2008) compared acupuncture with sham acupuncture in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that acupuncture improved joint function and reduced pain compared to sham acupuncture.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Pain Medicine (2015) assessed the effects of acupuncture on rheumatoid arthritis. The analysis of several studies indicated that acupuncture had beneficial effects on pain reduction and improved joint function.
Almond Wellness Centre acupuncture Chinese medicine clinics
Acupuncture Chinese herbal medicine should be prescribed and administered by a qualified TCM practitioner. At Almond Wellness Centre, both our Coburg clinic and Ringwood clinic have fully qualified registered acupuncture Chinese medicine practitioners. We will consider your individual condition, symptoms, and other factors before formulating a customised prescription and treatment plan. Treatment may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, supplements, dietary adjustments, stretching exercises and lifestyle modifications. We can monitor your progress throughout the course of treatment.
To know if Chinese medicine acupuncture can be beneficial to your arthritis pain, please contact us directly or simply call 8802 1519 to make an appointment.
References
Knee Osteoarthritis:
Acupuncture for patients with chronic knee pain: A randomized controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine (2004)
The Effects of Acupuncture on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine (2020)
Hao Tian etc. Acupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials with Meta-Analyses and Trial Sequential Analyses. Biomed Res Int
. 2022 Apr 21
Rheumatoid Arthritis:
Acupuncture in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial. , Journal of Clinical Rheumatology (2008)
The Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pain Medicine (2015)
Clinical Efficacy of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022; 2022: 5264977.
Herbal Formulas for Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A systematic review of herbal medicines for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2018)
Chinese Herbal Medicines for Osteoarthritis:
Effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine for patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Medicine (2020)
Individual Chinese Herbs for Arthritis:
Efficacy and safety of willow bark extract in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: results of 2 randomized controlled trials. Phytotherapy Research (2015)
The effects of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. bark on cartilage development and inflammatory response in a mouse model of osteoarthritis. Phytotherapy Research (2018)
Living with migraines can be overwhelming. The persistent pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and other challenging symptoms can take a toll on your daily life. If you’re in Melbourne and looking for a natural, holistic approach to managing migraines, acupuncture might be an option worth exploring.
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Understanding Migraines
Migraines are more than just headaches; they are a complex neurological condition that affects many aspects of life. While the exact cause of migraines remains uncertain, it’s widely believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors contribute to their onset. Common triggers include hormonal changes, stress, certain foods, lack of sleep, and even changes in weather.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. For example, a systematic review published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2009 analysed 22 randomised controlled trials involving over 4,000 participants. The study concluded that acupuncture is more effective in reducing migraine frequency compared to no treatment or routine care, although the long-term benefits and optimal treatment parameters are still being explored .
Another meta-analysis conducted by Cochrane in 2016, published in The Journal of Headache and Pain, reviewed 22 randomized controlled trials with nearly 5,000 participants. This study found that acupuncture was superior to both sham acupuncture and conventional migraine treatments in reducing migraine frequency. However, it also noted that the quality of evidence was generally low, indicating a need for further high-quality research .
Moreover, a 2017 study published in Pain compared the effectiveness of acupuncture with sham acupuncture and flunarizine, a conventional migraine medication. The study involved 249 participants and found that acupuncture was not only superior to sham acupuncture but also had similar effectiveness to flunarizine in reducing migraine frequency and intensity .
What to Expect from Your Acupuncture Session
When you visit Almond Wellness Centre – the acupuncture clinic in Melbourne, our experienced practitioners will take the time to understand your unique situation. We’ll discuss your migraine history, triggers, and overall health to create a personalised treatment plan. During your acupuncture session, you’ll relax in a comfortable environment as fine needles are carefully placed on specific points tailored to your needs.
Common acupuncture points for migraine relief include:
Yintang (Extra Point): Located between the eyebrows, this point helps calm the mind and relieve headaches.
Baihui (GV20): Situated on the top of the head, this point regulates energy flow and is commonly used for migraines.
Taiyang (EX-HN5): Found in the temples, this point is effective for easing tension and migraine pain.
Fengchi (GB20): Located at the base of the skull, this point is known for alleviating headaches and promoting relaxation.
Hegu (LI4): Positioned on the hand, this versatile point aids in pain relief and overall relaxation.
acupuncture on hegu LI4
Our approach is holistic, meaning we consider your overall health in addition to treating the migraines. Alongside acupuncture, we might recommend lifestyle changes or Chinese herbal medicine to support your migraine management.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Migraine Relief
In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can play a crucial role in managing migraines. Our practitioners may prescribe a customised herbal formula based on your specific symptoms and health profile. Herbs like Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong), which promotes blood circulation, and Bo He (Mentha haplocalyx), known for its cooling properties, are often included in these formulas.
Your Path to Migraine Relief
At Almond Wellness Centre, with locations in Coburg and Ringwood, we’re here to support your journey to better health. If migraines are impacting your life, and you’re seeking a natural, personalised approach, we invite you to explore the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine with us.
Our fully qualified practitioners are ready to assess your condition, provide tailored treatment options, and help you manage your migraines more effectively. Don’t let migraines control your life—reach out to us today and take the first step toward lasting relief. We’re here to help you feel your best.
References
Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Manheimer, E., Vickers, A., & White, A. (2009). Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD001218.
Cochrane, D. J. (2016). Acupuncture as a treatment for migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 17(1), 1-9.
Wang, L. P., Zhang, X. Z., Guo, J., Liu, H. L., Zhang, Y., Liu, C. Z., & Wang, L. (2017). Efficacy of acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis: A single-blinded, double-dummy, randomised controlled trial. Pain, 158(10), 1864-1871.
Based on the available evidence, acupuncture can be a valuable option for individuals with migraines.
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Review
A review of 22 trials involving 4,985 people found that acupuncture reduced the frequency of migraine episodes. In trials where acupuncture was added to usual care, it resulted in a significant reduction in headache frequency compared to usual care alone. When acupuncture was compared to “fake” acupuncture, the true acupuncture group had a higher rate of halving headache frequency. Acupuncture was also found to be similarly effective as prophylactic drugs in reducing migraine frequency. Side effects were minimal, and dropout rates were lower compared to drug treatments.
The findings suggest that acupuncture can reduce the number of migraine days per month, with an average reduction from six days to three and a half days for those receiving true acupuncture. The quality of the evidence was considered moderate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acupuncture can be considered as a treatment option for individuals with migraines who are willing to undergo this therapy. However, more long-term studies are needed to further evaluate its effectiveness compared to other migraine treatments.
Reference
Klaus Linde, etc, Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Review, June 2016
Double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are the golden standard for high quality of research. However, it can be very challenging to design and implement to acupuncture trials. Here are several factors affect the design of trials :
Needle insertion and sensation
Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body, which creates a unique sensory experience. It can be challenging to create a placebo treatment that mimics the sensation of needle insertion convincingly. Sham acupuncture controls attempt to simulate the sensation, but it is difficult to completely mask the difference between real acupuncture and a placebo treatment.
Acupuncturist involvement
In traditional acupuncture practice, the acupuncturist plays an active role in the treatment. They may have specific training, techniques, and interactions with the patient that contribute to the therapeutic process. It can be difficult to blind the acupuncturist to the treatment being administered, which can introduce bias and affect the blinding of the study.
Expectations and beliefs
Acupuncture has a strong placebo component, and patient expectations and beliefs can significantly influence their perception of the treatment’s effectiveness. It is challenging to completely blind participants to their treatment group, as they may have prior knowledge or beliefs about acupuncture that can affect their responses.
Variability in treatment protocols
Acupuncture encompasses various techniques, styles, and individualised treatment approaches. There is significant variation in the choice of acupuncture points, needling techniques, and treatment durations among practitioners. Standardising treatment protocols for a placebo-controlled trial can be difficult due to these variations, which may limit the ability to compare results across studies.
Despite these challenges, researchers have made efforts to develop sham acupuncture controls to create placebo-like experiences. These sham controls may involve superficial needle insertion, non-penetrating needles, or non-specific needling locations. However, sham acupuncture is not real placebo. These methods may still provide some therapeutic effects or fail to fully replicate the specific physiological effects of true acupuncture.
While may be not impossible achieving complete blinding in acupuncture trials remains a complex task, and studies may still face limitations in achieving a fully placebo-controlled design.
A sham acupuncture needle is a type of placebo device used in research studies to create a control group for acupuncture trials. A sham needle is designed to mimic the sensation of needle insertion without penetrating the skin or stimulating specific acupuncture points.
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There are different types of sham needles. They have their own method of simulating acupuncture without delivering the therapeutic effects with real needling. Here are a few examples:
Streitberger placebo needles
Streitberger placebo needle: This type of sham needle consists of a blunt tip that retracts into the handle upon contact with the skin. It gives the sensation of needle penetration without actually piercing the skin.
Park sham device: The Park sham device resembles a real acupuncture needle, but it has a blunt tip and a sheath that covers the needle, preventing skin penetration during insertion.
Non-penetrating needle: This type of sham needle has a blunt tip and does not penetrate the skin. It may have a collapsible handle or other mechanisms to create the sensation of needle insertion.
non-penetrating needles
Toothpick or placebo needle: In some cases, a toothpick or a specifically designed placebo needle that does not penetrate the skin is used as a sham control. This provides a tactile sensation similar to acupuncture but without actual needling.
What are shame needles used for?
The purpose of using sham acupuncture needles is to create a control group that experiences a placebo treatment closely resembling real acupuncture. By comparing the outcomes of the real acupuncture group with the sham acupuncture group, researchers can assess the specific effects of acupuncture beyond placebo or non-specific effects. The use of sham needles helps control for placebo responses and improves the validity of the study results.
Sham needles creates some stimulation as real needles too
Sham acupuncture needles are designed to create a sensory experience similar to real needles. They provide a placebo-like stimulation. While they do not penetrate the skin or stimulate specific acupuncture points, they are intended to mimic the sensation of needle insertion and create a tactile experience for the recipient.
As sham acupuncture needles contact the skin, the sensation they created can be part of acupuncture sensation
The sensory experience created by sham needles, including the tactile sensation when they come into contact with the skin, can be considered part of the overall acupuncture sensation. Sham acupuncture is designed to mimic the physical aspects of real acupuncture, including the feeling of needle insertion and the associated sensations that patients may expect during an acupuncture treatment.
Sham acupuncture is not real placebo
While sham acupuncture is designed to serve as a placebo control in research studies, it is not a true placebo in the strict sense.
A true placebo would be an inert substance or intervention that has no specific physiological effects.
While sham acupuncture is intended to mimic certain aspects of real acupuncture, it does have some similar sensory experience and the ritualistic aspects of real treatment.
Sham acupuncture may still elicit non-specific effects, such as the placebo response, which can influence participants’ perception of the treatment’s effectiveness. Additionally, the sensory experience of sham needles, even though it does not involve needle penetration or stimulation of specific acupuncture points, can have its own distinct effects on the body and may activate certain physiological responses.
While sham acupuncture attempts to control for placebo effects and other non-specific factors, it is important to recognise that it is not a true placebo. It serves as a method to isolate and evaluate the specific effects of acupuncture beyond these non-specific influences, but it does not completely eliminate all potential confounding factors.
Pattern diagnosis (辩证论证 Bian Zheng Lun Zhi ) is a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the identification and classification of patterns of disharmony within the body, which helps guide the diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions.
There are several key elements involved in pattern diagnosis:
If you live with arthritis, you know what a challenge it can be to find relief from joint pain and other symptoms. But there are many things you can do to manage and control your arthritis and live a healthy, active life.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and promote balance. Acupuncture is believed to help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. The selection of acupuncture points depends on the individual’s pattern of disharmony and can be combined with other TCM modalities, such as moxibustion (the burning of herbs near the skin) or cupping (the use of suction cups on the skin).
Living with migraines can be overwhelming. The persistent pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and other challenging symptoms can take a toll on your daily life. If you’re in Melbourne and looking for a natural, holistic approach to managing migraines, acupuncture might be an option worth exploring.
Based on the available evidence, acupuncture can be a valuable option for individuals with migraines.
Park sham device: The Park sham device resembles a real acupuncture needle, but it has a blunt tip and a sheath that covers the needle, preventing skin penetration during insertion.