Scalp acupuncture is a branch of acupuncture that was enhanced and made public by Professor Ming Qing Zhu. An internationally recognized speaker, educator and acupuncturist, Zhu was one of the first to pioneer the approach I use when working with people affected by neurological disorders or injuries like strokes.
Using very fine needles on the scalp, I target the zones of the brain that have been impacted. This work can dramatically reduce pain, improve motor function and muscle tone, and improve overall quality of life. According to a paper on Dr. Zhu's website, “Scalp acupuncture represents yet another alternative healing modality whose underlying philosophy and successful clinical track record does not negate, but rather supplements, conventional medicine's many important contributions. If we can set aside our progress-inhibiting illusions of knowledge and attempt to open-mindedly integrate divergent healthcare perspectives, such as scalp acupuncture, we will have an expanded healing spectrum that can only benefit people with disabilities.” Do call if you or a loved one would benefit from stroke rehabilitation acupuncture. (970) 223-4422. Acupuncture is used daily in China and Japan for serious medical conditions. In my post-graduate training at Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China, I remember being amazed by how readily physicians turn to it for major medical problems. Compare that to the United States where, if it is used at all, it tends to be seen as a luxury. Something for a spa treatment day.
We in the U.S. are missing out on a powerful piece of integrated healthcare. Acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation (also known as scalp acupuncture) works by opening up blood vessels to send more blood flow to the brain. It is important to work with someone experienced in stroke rehabilitation acupuncture, because anything encouraging more blood flow after a stroke caused by bleeding in the brain should be carefully monitored. As a part of my own continuing education, I have received many hours of training in this area. I have helped patients get better faster, perform better in self-care, walk, and return to a more normal life. But don't take my word for it. Russ Erickson, MD has this to say on the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture website. “Acupuncture is a safe therapy, and my experience has taught that this is especially true when helping stroke victims. Even discomfort is generally minimal. If one compares the possible positive help to be obtained with the risks associated with acupuncture, my contention is that acupuncture is worthy to attempt for stroke therapy.” From the American Stroke Association Website:
“May is American Stroke Month, which is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s annual campaign to increase stroke awareness and to educate Americans that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable. While stroke is the number four cause of death and leading cause of disability in the U.S., many Americans do not think of stroke as a major health concern.” I would add that the awareness of stroke-related treatments is also lagging. Yes, do educate yourself on the preventable risk factors of stroke like high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet. Also arm yourself with knowledge of possible treatment strategies like acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation. No one ever plans to have a stroke. The most resilient and successful people throw every effective treatment at it that they can. Have questions about acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation? Contact me or schedule a consultation. Acupuncture is often used for pain management or stress reduction, but you probably didn't know that it is a powerful tool for stroke rehabilitation. After a neurological event like a stroke, nerves are often damaged. It can be tough to coordinate muscles. Many people find it difficult to walk, talk, eat and generally get through the day.
700,000 Americans a year suffer strokes and treatment options tend to be limited. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, the goals for post-stroke rehabilitation are to help patients find the best possible long-term outcome. Reversing the effects of the stroke isn't usually attainable, they say. And yet, I have aided patients with tremors or drooping eyelids. I have helped people with difficulty walking, speaking, and talking. In many cases, these ailments were completely resolved for my patients. They walk, talk, eat and drive now without the limitations that previously held them back. Acupuncture works by shunting energy to the spot in the body that is suffering. Traditional Chinese Medicine calls that qi – pronounced chee. Essentially it creates the environment in which the body can heal itself by clearing away blockages. If you or a loved one might benefit from a consultation about acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation, please call me or email me. I can help. |
Scott Blunk, LAc.
An NCCAOM-certified and licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, Scott is passionate about acupuncture and herbal care. Categories
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