Symposium A
Friday, September 20, 1996
THE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH OF ACUPUNCTURE
ESPECIALLY USING ELECTRONIC MICROSCOPY
Nakazo WATARI, Sachiko NAKAI
The Department of Morphology, Postdoctoral Course of Meiji College
of Oriental Medicine. 6-1, Hinotani, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Hunai-gun,
Kyoto Prefecture 629-03, Japan.
Aim: There are several fundamental methods to analyze
the effectiveness of oriental medicines, including acupuncture,
moxibustion and Chiness herbs. They are morphological physiological
and biochemical methods. However, only a few studies have been conducted
using morphological methods, and electronic microscopy in particular.
The authors have used electronic microscopical methids since 1971,
and a number of results were published. Recently, the authors have
used the image processing along with statistical analysis.
Materials and Methods: The authors' experiments were as follows:
(1) Protective effects of a Chinese herb(extract of glycyrrhiza
uralensis), acupuncture and moxibustion for toxic injuries of the
mouse or rat liver, pancreas and kidney were observed by electron
microscopy. (2)Protective effects of acupuncture for aging alterations
of the mouse liver and pancreas were also done. The liver, pancreas
and kidney were taken from animals, and treated as usual for electronic
microscopic studies. Some electronic micrographs were used for image
processing to confirm the electronic microscopic results.
Results and Discussion: With these experiments, the authors concluded
that oriental medicines, including Chinese herbs, acupuncture and
moxibustion, had protective or curative effects for the aforementioned
visceral cell injuries and aging alterations, which were analyzed
by electronic microscopy, including image processing. In conclusion,
electronic microscopic research has contributed to the development
of oriental medicine.
Symposium C
Saturday, September 21, 1996
CONCERNS IN STANDARDIZATION
OF ACUPUNCTURE EDUCATION
(INCLUDING LICENSE EXAMINATION)IN JAPAN
Toshikatsu KITADE
Department of the Third Clinic of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College
of Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
In this paper, an outline of the acupuncture education
curriculum and acupuncturist's license in Japan will be discussed.
(A) Acupuncture Education: By using the Meiji College of Oriental
Medicine as an example, the four-year curriculum of the Acupuncture
Department consists of human sciences, social sciences, natural
sciences, foreign languages, health and physical education, basic
medicine, clinical medicine, general medical education, and a graduation
thesis. Basic and clinical medicine as specialized subjects are
further divided into western medicine and acupuncture medicine.
The minimum education time required for graduation is 3,855 hours.
When students completed the postgraduate courses (the doctoral courses,
5 years) and passed the thesis examination, an academic degree would
be granted. (B) License: There is a state examination (conducted
by the Minister of Welfare) for the acupuncturist's license. The
requirements for obtaining an acupuncturist's license are: (1) Persons
who have qualified to enter a college and have studied the necessary
knowledge and technical skills for 3 years or more (2,865 hours
or more) at schools (73 schools) designated by the Minister of Education
or training institutions (30 institutions) designated by the Minister
of Welfare. (2)Persons who passed the state examination for public
hygiene and health, associated laws and regulations, anatomy, physiology,
general pathology, general clinical medicine, particulars of clinical
medicine, rehabilitation medicine, general oriental medicine, general
oriental medicine, general meridian and meridian points, acupuncture
theory, moxibustion theory, and clinical oriental medicine. The
examination is conducted once a year (1 day), and the number of
questions is 160. There is no examination of skills. The license
does not need to be renewed.
Clinical Research & Application
Pain Management & Osteotraumology
ISHUGAMI MANUAL TECHNIQUE
FOR CORRECTING MISALIGNMENT OF
THE SPINE USING A COMBINATION OF WESTERN MEDICINE
AND CHINESE MEDICINE
Hiroshi ISHIGAMI, Shujian
SUN
2-19-18 Gannosu, Higashiku, Fukuoka-shi, 881-31, Japan.
Aim: Spinal misalignment causes pain, failure of
the autonomic nervous system, poor posture as well as decreases
height and breathing capacity. A new manual technique for correcting
spinal misalignment was developed, incorporating the theory of Chinese
medicine and modern orthopedic methods and its effectiveness was
evaluated.
Methods: An experimental trial of 10 patients (5 men and 5 women
with an average age of 45.1 years old) suffered from functional
pain was carried out using the newly developed technique for a short
period of only 15 minutes.
Results: After the treatment, the subjective symptoms of all the
patients diminished, their height increased and their breathing
capacity improved. Their posture improved and their spinal alignment
changed, even if only slightly, while their blood pressure and heart
beat showed no change. Among those patients who exhibited respiratory
arrythmia, the occurrence of arrythmia decreased according to electrocardiograph
readings. Every patients reported feeling refreshed and comfortable
after the treatment. Judging by the R-R distance on electrocardiograms,
this method was seen to have a direct effect on nerve autonomy.
Conclusion: This new technique for correcting misalignment of the
spinal column is effective for relieving illnesses arising from
such misalignment. Since this method improved the patients' breathing
capacity, it is effective for all patients who have poor lung function.
It is also effective for patients suffering from failure of the
autonomic nervous system, relieving symptoms arising from such failure.
This technique is very effective in practice, is safe and simple,
requires very little time, and if used prior to acupuncture, will
surely increase the effectiveness of the subsequent acupuncture
treatment.
Clinical Research & Application
Pain Management & Osteotraumology
A CLINICAL STUDY OF ACUPUNCTURE
THERAPY FOR OSTEOPOROSIS
Tomomi SAKAI, Fumiko YASUNO,
Akira YOSHIDA, Hajime ORIMO
Dept. of Acupuncture, Tsukuba College of Technology. 4-12 Kasuga
Tsukuba shi, Ibaragi 305, Japan.
Introduction: Osteoporosis is quite a serious disease
which affects the quality of life among the elderly, Low back pain
is its major symptom. Acupuncture has long been known to be an effective
measure to releive the pain. We therefore examined whether acupuncture
can lessen low back pain. Method: 20 osteoporotic patients (1 male,
19 females, average age 72.4 years old) were studied. Acupuncture
treatment was mainly performed at the site of pain by retaining
needle and sparrow pecking method, or electro-acupuncture. Remedial
effect was decided upon the pain score.
Results: There was no relation between the therapeutic effect and
bone mineral. The analgesic effect was more prominent in the patient's
vertebral deformity of fractures.
Discussion: The mechanism of low back pain due to osteoporosis has
not been fully understood. However, it has been known that the main
cause of low back pain is the increased stress in the paraspinal
muscle, ligaments or intervertebral joins caused by vertebral deformity.
The analgesic effect of acupuncture is supposed to be given by relaxing
these muscle, ligamats or joints. Our study suggests that acupunctures
are effective for treating vertebral deformity.
Conclusion: Acupuncture may be an effective treatment for lumbago
in the patients with osteoporosis.
Clinical Research & Application
Paralysis & Nervous System Diseases
A STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF
ACUPUNCTURE THERAPY IN PATIENT
WITH PARKINSON DISEASE
Rie NABETA, Makiko TANI, Toshiaki
SUZUKI, Yoshiro YASE
Kansai College of Oriental Medicine, 2-11-1, Wakaba, Kumatori, Sennan,
Osaka 590-04, Japan.
Aim: To investigate the effect of acupuncture therapy
in Parkinson disease (PD), a clinical and electromyographic (EMG)
study on the effect of acupuncture in a male patient of 51 years
old was conducted.
Methods: The patient has had difficulties with walking since January
1994. He initiated acupuncture therapy in June 1995 with a follow-up
observation by EMG. Cardinal signs were resting tremor of left arm
and generalized muscle rigidity. EMG was recorded from the flexor
carpi ulnaris and radials in a sitting position before, during and
after acupuncture therapy. The treating position was sitting and
the meridian point of Fengchi was used for acupuncture. EMG data
were analyzed for the peak-to-peak amplitude, mean rectified voltage
and frequency of discharge.
Results: The peak-to-peak amplitude, mean rectified voltage and
frequency of discharge during and after acupuncture therapy were
significantly lower than those before acupuncture.
Conclusion: From these results, it is suggested that acupuncture
treatment is beneficial for the PD patient and EMG may be a useful
method for an objective evaluation of the effect on acupuncture
in the patients with PD.
Clinical Research & Application
Paralysis & Nervous System Diseases
THE EXPERIENCE IN THE COMBINATION
OF ACUPUNCTURE AND
CHIROPRACTIC THERAPY FOR AUTONOMIC NERVE DYSFUNCTION
Tsutomu IMAI
17-10 Nishikomatsugawa Edogawaku, Tokyo, Japan.
Aim: Autonomic nerve dysfunction has often the unstable
polycomplaining, and drug therapy has no good effects. The author
found the irregularity of meridian excitement and the misalignment
of cervical spin, namely military neck, perpendiclarity, deviation
of atlas. The author wishes to present this treatment because the
author could have good results by the combination of acupuncture
and chiropractic therapy.
Methods and Materials: There were 51 cases of outpatients in the
latest 3 years ¡ª 20 males and 31 females between the age of 15 to
62 years old. There were 42 cases between the age of 20 to 40 years
old. The therapy period was from 1 week to 3 years. The author used
the apparatus "Neurovision" which was made by neuro-medical-industrial
company for measuring the meridian excitment by skin-electro-conductive
activity, and used mainly electro-acupuncture for the therapy. X-ray:
cervical spin, lateral, frontal, occipital, Arrangement of atlas
deviation was used the apparatus "Spinalight" by R.W.
Sweat in Atlanta, Georgia, atlas orthognal method. Only the physical
treatment was used without the herb.
Results: Total efficacy: The improving of the unstable complaining:
45 out of 51 cases(85%). Electro-acupuncture alone 83%, atlas orthogonal
alone 80%, combination of both 96%.
Conclusion: The combination of acupuncture and atlas orthogonal
method is an effective therapy for the autonomic nerve dysfunction.
Clinical Research & Application
Paralysis & Nervous System Diseases
EMG ANALYSIS FOR ACUPUNCTURE
THERAPY IN A PATIENT
WITH SPASMODIC TORTICOLLIS
Makiko TANI, Rie NABETA, Toshiaki
SUZUKI, Yoshiro YASE
Kansai College of Oriental Medicine. 2-11-1, Wakaba, Kumatori, Sennan,
Osaka, Japan.
Aim: To investigate the effect of acupuncture treatment
for spasmodic torticollis. The clinical status and electromyography
(EMG) analysis of a patient with spasmodic torticollis are presented.
Methods: A 36-year-old man with spasmodic torticollis began to receive
acupuncture treatment in February, 1995. Acupuncture treatment has
been continued once a week, mainly on the neck and the shoulder
girdle. Surface EMG was recorded from the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid
once a month. The effects of acupuncture treatment were evaluated
as follows. (1) The effect of long term acupuncture treatment: We
compared EMG data before acupuncture treatment with those obtained
in five months later. (2) The effect of single acupuncture session
(stimulus to one acupoint): We compared surface EMG data before
and during acupuncture treatments. The treatment position was prone
and the treatment point was on the left trapezius muscle.
Results: (1)As a result of acupuncture treatment for spasmodic torticollis,
the abnormal neck posture was considerably improved due to decreased
high voltage burst discharge in the affected muscles. (2) The amplitude
of EMG during acupuncture treatment was significantly lower than
that before treatment.
Conclusion: It is suggested that acupuncture is a promising therapy
for spasmodic torticollis. Surface EMG may be useful for evaluating
the effects of acupuncture therapy in extrapyramidal diseases, including
dystonia.
Clinical Research & Application
Paralysis & Nervous System Diseases
EVALUATION OF ACUPUNCTURE
EFFECTS ON PATIENTS
WITH THORACIC OUTLET SYNDROME
Kayoko MIYAZAKI, Akira ISHII,
Akiyo MATUMOTO, Daichi MIYAMURA,
Yumiko SAWADA, Tomomi SAKAI
Tsukuba College of Technology, Kasuga 4-12-7, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaragi-ken
305, Japan.
Aim: Patients with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome are
often treated with acupuncture, but an objective evaluation of its
effects with a physical test or by subjective symptoms are lacking.
Three-minutes Hand Raising Test (Roos Test) was chosen as the load
test to compare the change of finger's surface temperatures between
patients and healthy people (control group). Moreover, electric
acupuncture therapy was given to the patients to objectively evaluate
the effects of acupuncture.
Methods: The subjects sat on a chair and their forearms were placed
on a board with elbows flexed at 90 degrees. Thermographs were imaged
before the test, and every 3 minutes until 15 minutes after the
test. A 30-minute rest with no-stimulation was given after the imaging
of thermograph. For the group of patients, 15 minutes of electric
acupuncture therapy was given to scalenus and pectral minor of each
side.
Results: There was not a significant difference of temperatures
of the fingers before the test between the patients and the control
group. After the load test, the temperatures were lowered in both
groups. At the recovery, the temperatures of the control group reached
the same level as the temperature before the test in three minutes.
In the group of patients, reactions were delayed or unstable. The
reactions of patients were much more delayed after rest of no-stimulation.
The recovery patterns of patients became similar to healthy people
by electric acupuncture therapy.
Conclusion: Acupuncture stimulation released neuro-vascular bundles
from the entrapment of muscles and improved the reaction of vaso-mortor
reflex.
Clinical Research & Application
Paralysis & Nervous System Diseases
WEAK GALVANIC STIMULATION
TO THE SPINAL NERVE IN PATIENTS WITH
AUTONOMIC IMBALANCE
Shoji MAEDA, Tameyasu MAEDA
Japan Maeda Medical International. 2-8 Akebono-cho, Daito-shi, Osaka
574, Japan.
Aim: At about 40 years old, the body transfers from
the stage of saturation to that of senility in women. The function
of sex hormones, for instance, of the endocrine system including
the ovaries changes mainly and the elevation of gonadotropic hormones
secreted from the anterior pituitary gland cannot raise the function
of failing ovaries, so that various changes occur in the body. The
authors placed an anode (+) on the central side and cathode (-)
on the peripheral side of the limbs and applied a very weak current
to the circuit and obtained good results.
Method: In patients with various symptoms caused by autonomic imbalance
the authors applied an electric current to Huagai (CV20) (+) - Yamen
(GV15) (-) for "insomnia and headache", to Fengchi(GV20)
(+) - Shenshu (BL23) (-) for "hypertension - cold sensation",
to Tianzhu (BL10)(+) - Jianjing (GB21) (-) for "stiff shoulder
- rush of blood to head", to Hegu (LI4)(+) - Sanyinjiao (SP6)
(-) for "cold sensation of the limbs" and to Tinggong
(SI19) (+) - Yifeng (TE17) (-) for "dizziness - ear noise".
Results: Improvement of symptoms was observed in 96% of patients
with "insomnia and headache", in 89% of those with "stiff
shoulder - rush of blood to head", in 78% of those with "dizziness
- ear noise", in 69% of those with "cold sensation of
the limbs" and in 59% of those with "hypertension - arteriosclerosis".
Discussion and Conclusion: We applied a very weak current to patients
with various symptoms because of autonomic imbalance and obtained
good results. We also observe at present continuous therapeutic
effects in an average of 78% of patients.
Clinical Research & Application
Internal Organ Disorders
DECREASES CHANGES OF HEART
RATES AND SHORTENING OF THE ARTERIAL PULSE PROPAGATION TIME BY ACUPUNCTURE
IN THE SPECTRAL ANALYSES
Masaaki SHINOHARA
Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University.
Yonago 683, Japan.
Aim: To investigate the mechanism between the elongation
in R-R and shortening in R-P intervals by application of acupuncture
on traditional acupoints (HT7: Shenmen and PC4: Ximen).
Methods: By utilizing Naito's indices of the high frequency energy
(HFEI) [ P F (0.15 Hz <frequency < 0.45 Hz)] and the low frequency
energy (LFEI) [ P F (0.025 Hz <f < 0.15 Hz)] combined with
of R-R interval fluctuation combined with Ueda's index of fluctuation
in propagation time of radial arterial pulses (i.e. R-P intervals),
this research work was performed. The spectral heart rate analyses
have been performed in 16 male and 14 female subjects, composing
18 physically healthy volunteers and 12 patients. Those who were
suffering from heart diseased were not included among them.
Resrlts: (1) The mean R-R intervals were observed significantly
prolonged from 10 minutes after the needle insertion until directly,
5 and 10 minutes after the removal of the needles. (2) Both HFEIRR
and LFEIRR decreased insignificantly during acupuncture, except
directly after the needle insertion when corrected by means of HFEIRR;
however, their figures returned back to their initial levels after
10 minutes of the needle insertion and after the removal of the
needles. (3) The R-P intervals were significantly shortened after
10 minutes of the needle insertion (corrected by mean R-P intervals).
(4) HFEIRR decreased insignificantly during acupuncture; however,
their figures began to return back to their initial levels at 10
minutes. (5)The sympathetic nervous system activity decreased significantly
at 5 minutes of the needle insertion, and began to return back to
their initial levels at 10 minutes of the needle insertion and maintained
afterwards.
Conclusion: (1) It is assumed that decreasing of the heart rates
by acupuncture was explained by decreasing of the sympathetic nerve
activities. (2) The R-P interval time was shortened so as to expedite
the arterial blood pulse wave propagation by influencing the R-P
high power values from HFEIRR, LFEIRR, thus, affecting the power
values of the R-R and R-P by acupuncture was confirmed. It is suggested
that the shortened propagation time was influenced by the R-R fluctuation.
Clinical Research & Application
Internal Organ Disorders
EFFECTS OF ACUPUNCTURE
ON PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS
Jia Xiang LIU
Japan Institute of Chinese Medicine. 2-3-13 Sonezaki-Shinchi, Kita-ku,
Osaka 530, Japan.
Objective: A 25-year-old male student was admitted
to the Osaka City Medical University Hospital in 1992, because of
marked fever associated with the cold. The initial treatment for
pneumonia was later changed to the treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis.
He was subsequently referred to a hospital which specializes in
the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. He was discharged after
4 months, but tuberculosis recurred in 1993. At that time, he was
admitted to the Osaka Habikino Hospital, where he received a daily
injection of SM, KM and EM as well as an oral 500 mg dose of RFP
for 6 months. When the physician in charge proposed surgery, the
patient refused and left the hospital. Since then, he has been treated
at our clinic. Chest X-rays taken upon admission revealed tuberculosis
of the left lung proximal to the heart and of the superior region
of the right lung. I applied the Kibari technique, systemic vital
energy is discharged through his fingers through the needle into
the patient's body. The energy is discharged simultaneously with
needle insertion, resembling the production of static electricity.
The voltage is higher than Manpuku, but the W is very low. The potential
discharged into the patient's body immediately circulate through
the patient's entire body. It replenishes energy into the hypogastric
region. A characteristic of this technique lies in almost unendurable
potential, lasting for less than 1/100 of a second, being produced
immediately after needle insertion.
Results: I have successfully treated an unoperated case of pulmonary
tuberculosis by stimulating CV by the Kibari technique. I have also
treated many cases of Parkinson's disease, ischialgia and lower
back pain, using the same technique. I now plan to combine the Kibari
technique with the static electricity technique.
Discussion: I will now present how the Kibari technique is used.
You can see sparks of static electricity immediately before the
needle insertion. The meridian point CV22 is stimulated.
Clinical Research & Application
Dermatology, Surgery & Oncology
ACUPUNCTURE AND MOXIBUSTION
TREATMENT OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS (AD) WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SERUM
IgE, ACIDOCYTE AND LDH
INVOLVED IN THE ONSET OF ALLERGIC DISEASES
Hiroe IINUMA
Iinuma Acupuncture and Moxibustion Clinic. 401 Rainbow Bldg. 591,
2-45-2 Matsubara, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156, Japan.
Introduction: I gave acupuncture and moxibustion
(A&M) treatment to 56 seriously ill children (between the age
of 2 months old to 10 years old) who had atopic dermatitis (AD)
and various types of allergic diseases.
Methods: (1) We gave blood-test on serum IgE, acidocyte, and LDH
to patients. (2) Skin conditions were photographed for record. (3)
By using disposable needles (30 mm #14), we slightly punctured on
points of general inflammatory spots, dermatitis-frequented spots,
and meridian points in stratum corneum epidermis. (4) And then,
we gave moxibustion treatment under 38¡É. (5) After A&M treatment,
we washed diseased parts with refined water (of 30¡É to 36¡É).
Results: (1) All patients could stop using drugs which had been
used for temporary palliatives of their diseases. (2) Acidocyte
and LDH showed tendencies to get near normal ranges.
Discussion: Although AD is said to be susceptible to hereditary
disposition, I succeeded in systematic allergy control and recovery
of health through treatment under the concept of inflammation; however,
excessive application oh A&M treatment possibly would worsen
allergic disease.
Conclusion: AD and all allergic diseases may be cured and prevented
through A&M treatment.
Clinical Research & Application
Dermatology, Surgery & Oncology
THE CLINICAL EVALUATION
OF COMBINED THERAPY
USING ACYCLOVIR AND ACUPUNCTURE FOR HERPES ZOSTER
Masato EGAWA1, Fumihiko FUKUDA1,
Yoshiyuki OKAMOTO1, Naoto ISHIZAKI1,
Masaki HIRO1, Nobuyuki YAMADA1, Tadashi YANO1, Kazutoshi SHIMOO2,
Yoshiharu YAMAMURA2, Naoto NAKAMURA2
1Department of First Clinical Oriental Medicine, Meiji College of
Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
2Department of Internal Medicine, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine.
Aim: To investigate the clinical efficacy of a combined
therapy using acyclovir and acupuncture for herpes zoster.
Methods: 22 patients with herpes zoster were treated with a combines
therapy using acyclovir and acupuncture. The mean age of subjects
we studied was 54.1 (range from 18 to 85). Acyclovir, 250 to 4000
mg, was administered daily for 3 to 14 days. Acupuncture therapy
was applied everyday around the eruption by lateral insertion of
the needle. The therapeutic efficacy of the treatment was assessed
from changes of pain scale and from the rate of development to post
herpetic neuralgia.
Results: Pain relief of herpes zoster was found in all of the patients.
20 patients showed either an excellent or moderate improvement (pain
scale 10¡æ0 or 1), and 2 patients showed a slight improvement. Although
3 patients showed recurrence of pain after acycrovir was discontinued,
none of them had post herpetic neuralgia. There were no adverse
effects due to the combined therapy we used.
Conclusion: The treatment with only acycrovier does nor prevent
post herpetic neuralgia completely but the prevention rate may increase
by combining the therapy with acupuncture. The combined therapy
using acycrovir and acupuncture was very effective in the treatment
of herpes zoster.
Clinical Research & Application
Dermatology, Surgery & Oncology
A CLINICAL STUDY OF ACUPUNCTURE
THERAPY
FOR ARTERIOSCLEROTIC OBLITERANS
Fumiko YASUNO, A. YOSKIDA,
H. ORIMO, T. SAKAI
2-3-6 Nishigahara, Kitaku, Tokyo, Japan.
Oriental Medical Center, Tokyo Hospital, Ministry of Finance.
Aim: Ten patients with arteriosclerosis obliterans
(ASO), peripheral vascular disease due to atherosclerosis, were
treated by acupuncture.
Method: Ten patients were seven males and three females with an
average age of 77 years old. On Fountain classification, eight patients
were Grade II. One patient was Grade III, and one patient was Grade
IV. The acupuncture treatment is mainly performed on pain point
with retaining needle and/or sparrow pecking method, or electroacupuncture.
To evaluate the effect of acupuncture on peripheral blood flow,
thermography was used to measure skin temperature and plethysmography
was used to estimate blood flow.
Result: Just after the acupuncture stimulation, the rise of the
skin temperature of the patients was noted. This rise lasted several
hours and one case it lasted even for 24 hours. As the treatment
progressed, an increase in the skin temperature and a rise in the
height of the pulse waves were observed. In the Grade II patients
on Fountain classification, pain intermittent claudication, feeling
of cold, etc. were lessened.
Conclusion: These results indicate that acupuncture, may become
one of the useful therapies for the treatment of ASO.
Clinical Research & Application
Gynecology, Obstetrics & Pediatries
ACUPUNCTURE AND MOXIBUSTION
TREATMENT FOR INFERTILITY
Shuichi KATAI1, Sumi MIMURA2,
Yumiki SAWADA2, Tsuyoshi MATSUMOTO2,
Akemi OONO2
1Department of Acupuncture and 2Department of Clinic, Tsukuba College
of Technology.
4-12 Kasuga Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305, Japan.
Introduction: Since 1993, we have been administering
acupuncture and moxibustion as a treatment for infertility on an
experimental basis.
Methods: During the 33 months from January 1993 to October 1993,
a total of 20 patients visited the clinic to receive acupuncture
and moxibustion treatment for infertility. The average patient was
31.8 years old and had been married for 6 years. Patients underwent
treatment once a week. Acupuncture was used in the upper and lower
extremities, lower abdomen, lumbar sacral, and cervical areas: while
moxibustion was administered to the lumbar and abdomen. The patients
were further requested to undergo moxibustion treatment on Sanyinjiao
(SP6) at home every day if possible.
Results and Discussion: Of the original 20 patients, 5 discontinued
treatment within a month while the remaining 15 continued to undergo
treatment. Two have undergone 10 weekly treatments and are continuing.
On average, the 13 remaining patients were treated 27.4 times over
a period of 11.7 months. Eventually, 3 of these became pregnant.
6 stopped receiving treatment without conceiving, and 6 are still
undergoing treatment.
Conclusion: The number of patients who eventually became pregnant(3
out of 15) is in itself, not large. However, given the fact that
all the subjects had previously undergone various other treatments
involving hormones, herbs, or in vitro fertilization, without conceiving,
and that some of these patients had not been allowed to continue
their hormone treatment, it is the opinion of this author that acupuncture
and moxibustion are worth further examination as effective treatments
for infertility.
Clinical Research & Application
ENT & Ophthalmology
STANDARDIZATION OF OPHTHALMOLOGICAL
ACUPUNCTURE MOXIBUSTION BY PATTERN IDENTIFICATION
Masako YOSHIKAWA, Takaaki
SUDO, Hitoshi KATO
The Japan Society of Acupuncture, Toho Acupuncture Clinic. 14-2,
Minami-21, Ohdori, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080, Japan.
Aim: To promote ophthalmological acupuncture moxibustion
for myopia, astigmatism and other ophthalmological diseases through
treatment by pattern identification.
Methods: (1) Description of a medical report; (2) Measurement of
pre-treatment visual acuity; (3) Differentiation of eight parameters,
yin-yang organs and meridians by four diagnostic methods, chiefly
tongue, abdominal and pulse diagnosis; (4a) Fundamental treatment
by pattern syndrome to eliminate tenderness, induration, coldness,
etc. in the abdomen; (4b) Branch treatment of reactions around the
eyes such as tenderness and induration through selection of remote
points along particular meridians (e.g. treatment of tenderness
on the jing ming, leaving the needle under the epidermis on the
zhiyin of the Bladder Meridian for about 15 minutes; (4c) Treatment
of reactions in the cervix and back. In addition to selecting remote
points, treatments included head acupuncture, auriculotherapy with
semen vaccariae, wrist acupuncture and plum blossom needle treatment;
(5) Post treatment measurement of visual acuity; (6) Instruction
of patients in home therapies such as warm moxibustion, roller needle
treatment and eye massage.
Results: A total of 1,000 eyes in 516 patients (217 males and 299
females) between the ages of 3 and 78 years old (with an average
age of 20.6 years old) were treated in the manner described above
for myopia, astigmatism, cataracts and other ophthalmological diseases.
After one ten-treatment cycle, visual acuity improved by an average
of 0.36. Additional treatment resulted in further improvement in
visual acuity.
Conclusion: The treatments described above proved more effective
than branch treatment alone using selection of adjacent local points
and caused patients no fear of pain from the needles or extravasation
in the face. Moreover, branch treatmetns were not sufficiently effective
in treating many kinds of ophthalmological diseases.
Clinical Research & Application
Therapeutic Methods & Acupoints
HEALTH PROMOTION AND IMMUNOPOTENTIATION
BY ACUPUNCTURE
Minoru MAENO, Jia Xiang LIU
Japan Institute of Chinese Medicine. 2-3-13 Sonezaki-Shinchi, Kita-ku,
Osaka 530, Japan.
Objective: Acupuncture is effective not only for
healing diseases, but also for potentiating immune function and
aiding disease prevention.
Methods: Kyu used acupuncture to promote the health of Chingiz Khan.
Shi Un Ko in Beijing also used acupuncture to prevent climacteric
disorder of women during their menopausal years. He also used acupuncture
to prevent dizziness, tinnitus, vomiting, sleeplessness and other
symptoms associated with Meniere's disease.
Results: We stimulated meridian points such as ST36, GV14 and GB20
to prevent dyspepsia and cold. For women in their menopausal years,
we stimulated PC6 and HT7 to prevent the onset of Meniere's disease.
Discussion: The SP6, CV6 and CV4 of elderly people were stimulated
by acupuncture, to induce diuresis and to prevent cardiovascular
as well as neurovascular diseases. In children, youths, middle-aged
adults and elderly people, we stimulated appropriate meridian points
to prevent diseases specific to those age groups.
Conclusion: Taoism was initiated by Kenenkotei Riji. Since then,
Kyu Cho Shun during the Yuan Dynasty and Shi Un Ko during modern
times succeeded in preventing the onset of various diseases by acupuncture.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, it is recommended to
perform acupuncture on children and elderly even when they are free
from disease. This is aimed at preventing gastoenteric, cardiovascular
and cerebrovascular diseases. We have followed this principle and
performed acupuncture to potentate immune function and so aid disease
prevention. This principle of ours has gained the trust and attention
of people. In brief, we use acupuncture to maintain the health of
children and elderly people.
Clinical Research & Application
Therapeutic Methods & Acupoints
THE AVAILABILITY OF GENERAL STIMULATING METHOD
AS A BASIC AND STANDARD WAY OF THE ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT
Hajime SATOH
Japan Acupuncture Association. 166 Furukawa, Wakayanagi, Kurihara,
Miyagi-Pref. 989-55, Japan.
Aim: The moderns have always received natural or
social stress, which sometimes lowers their homeostasis. The author
tries to apply the "General Stimulating Method" as a basic
and standard way of the acupuncture treatment to improve their homeostasis
and to maintain healthy condition.
Methods: (1) Treatment based on the pattern. (2) Treatment based
on the symptom. (3) Treatment based on the General Stimulating Method
of the Du Meridian (Governing Vessel), the Ren Meridian (Conception
Vessel), the Back-Shu points, the Front-Mu points and some Primary
points. Retaining 40 mm stainless steel acupuncture needles and
small direct moxibustion by both prone and supine positions.
Results: (1) The elevation of the locomotive ability of high school
girls in athletic clubs was observed. (2) Some middle-aged women
have recovered from the menopausal syndrome and autonomic nervous
ataxia. (3) Some young men have recovered from the sexual disorder.
(4) Some junior high school boys could improve the condition of
their allergy.
Conclusion: It seems that any case could be drawn by the effect
of the three treatments. And after the recovery from their main
disease, the author may be able to maintain healthy condition by
using "General Stimulating Method". So it seems that this
method can be evaluated as one of the effective trials and as a
basic and standard way of the acupuncture treatment.
Clinical Research & Application
Therapeutic Methods & Acupoints
A CLINICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE LOCATION OF MERIDIANS
AND ACUPOINTS BY MEANS OF BI-DIGITAL O-RING TEST (PART 1): A STUDY
OF THE HEART MERIDIAN(6)
Toshikatsu KITADE
Department of the Third Clinic of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College
of Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 62-03, Japan.
Aim: The author recently attempted to map the heart
meridian on the skin of subjects, using the Bi-digital O-ring Test
(BDORT), and to compare the image obtained from BDORT with the classical
meridian chart.
Methods: The subjects form a ring with their first and fourth fingers,
while holding a normal myocardial preparation in the palm of the
other hand. The skin of the subject's arms is compared slightly
at various points by a rod made of an insulating material. At the
same time, the ring is pulled by the examiner, to determine whether
the finger ring opens (a response which indicates that the compressed
point is related to the myocardium) or does not open (a response
which indicates that the compressed point is not related to the
myocardium). The border between myocardium-related and non-myocardium-related
areas was marked on the skin. Some other preparations of the normal
heart were also used in this test.
Results and Discussion: (1) In all 11 of the healthy subjects, 9
regular circles and thin lines connecting these circles could be
depicted on the anterior ulnar surface of the upper limb. (2) The
author performed BDORT to determine which preparations are associated
with the 9 points of the heart meridian on the bilateral in 5 healthy
volunteers. The author wishes to express his gratitude to K. Kurokawa
for his cooperation and assistance with this article.
Clinical Research & Application
Therapeutic Methods & Acupoints
ORIENTAL MEANING OF THE POINT BL52
Shoji KOBAYASHI
Kanto Acupuncture College. 3-7-3 Izumihoncho, Komaeshi, Tokyo 155,
Japan.
Introduction: Every clinical healer knows that the
kidney and the adrenal gland are not located directly below the
BL52 point. It is therefore supposed that stiffness or pain at that
point is caused by a hypertrophic kidney or the adrenal gland having
pressed against the neighboring tissues. I hope to demonstrate that,
contray to the western medical belief, stiffness or pain at the
BL52 point is not necessarily related to kidney or adrenal disorders,
and may rather indicate an imbalance of "Qi".
Subject: The subjects of this study are 108 male and female adult
patients of Taishido Acupuncture Clinic.
Method: I had my patients lie on the stomachs, and pressed their
BL52 points slowly until they felt uncomfortable, using my left
thumb and index finger. I strictly checked to see whether they experienced
stiffness or pain at the BL52 point, or whether they did not. I
didn't investigate the degree of stiffness or pain exerienced and,
where the patient claimed only a subtle difference of sensation,
I regarded the two variables as equal.
Result: (A) A stronger response on the right side: stiffness (34.3%),
pain(40.8%); (B) A stronger response on the left side: stiffness
(19.4%), pain(15.7%); (C) The response on both sides: stiffness
(46.3%), pain(43.5%); 16% of the "C" group experienced
no stiffness. 14.3% of the "C" group experienced stiffness
without pain 25% of the "C" group experienced no pain
and 10% had no discomfort.
Discussion: 90% of patients in this study had some response to pressure
on BL52, and 85.7% of them experienced pain. The response to the
right BL52 was generally stronger than that to the left. The position
of BL52 point on the back is at the Water position (in the Five
Phases Theory), also known as "Kidney". Since Water is
the most Yin of the Five Phases, and as it represents the lowest
and most stable position of the five, BL52 would seem to be a good
indicator to diagnose a patient. I have found that it is most effective
to test for sensitivity on both the right and left BL52 points before
commencing treatment of the back. Once the most sensitive side is
determined, I treat the appropriate points on the opposite side
of the back with acupuncture and check the results of this treatment
at the initially sensitive BL52 point.
Experimental Research
Mechanisms of Acupuncture Analgesia
EFFECTS OF ELECTRO-ACUPUNCTURE (EA) AND TRANSCUTANEOUS
ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION (TENS) ON THE SURVIVAL OF
MUSCULOCUTANEOUS FLAP IN RATS
Yoriko NIINA1, Kazuhisa IKEDA2, Masahiro IWA2, Masakazu
SAKITA2
13-17-25-513, Takewara, Matuyama-shi, Ehime-ken 790, Japan.
2Department of Surgery, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine.
Aim: The effects of electro-acupuncture (EA) and
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) were investigated
in the musculocutaneous flap in a rat model by measurement of surviving
area and increase of blood flow in the flap.
Methods: The rats were divided into the control group and groups
treated by EA and TENS. The EA and TENS groups were further divided
into subgroups according to the intensity and frequency of othe
electrostimulation used.
Results: In the EA group, 35¡50% area of the flap survived, ad there
being no signifiiicant difference with that in the control group
of 34¡46%. In the TENS group, the surviving area was significantly
larger than that in the control group; the surviving area in the
subgroup of TENS treated with 20 mA at 80 Hz, 10 mA AT 2 Hz, 10
mA at 80 Hz, 2 mA at 2 Hz, and 2 mA at 80 Hz, was 74, 62, 72, 69
and 73%, respectively. The suruviiving area in the 80Hz stimulation
group was slightly larger than that in the 20 Hz stimulation group.
The blood flow at the periphery of the flap of these TENS groups
was significantly higher than that at the base.
Conclusion: (1) a wide area of stimulation using plate electrodes
might be more efficiient than a pointed area of stimulation using
needles, (2) in TENS treatment, high-frequency stimulation tended
to increase flap survival, and (3) TENS treatment increased blood
flow in the flaps, mainly at the periphery.
Experimental Research
Mechanisms of Acupuncture Analgesia
THE POLYMODAL RECEPTOR HYPOTHESIS IN ACUPUNCTURE
AND MOXIBUSTION
Kenji KAWAKITA, Kaoru OKADA
Department of Physiology, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Hiyoshi-cho,
Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: Various evidences suggesting the participation
of the polymodal receptors in the acupuncture and moxibustion were
summarized, and the "polymodal receptor hypothesis" was
proposed.
Methods: Flare and local blood flow were measured in human subjects.
Extravasation of dye in the skin and the jaw opening reflex (JOR)
was recorded in anesthetized rats. Suppressive effects of intramuscular
or intraarterial injections of bradykinin (BK) or thermal stimulation
of the fascia were examined.
Results: Acupuncture and moxibustion produced clear and similar
flare reaction and increment of local blood flow. The extravasation
was also induced by both stimuli. The JOR was clearly suppressed
by the BK injections and thermal stimulus, and their effects were
partially antagonized by naloxone.
Conclusion: Based on these results and other experimental evidence,
we proposed a working hypothesis. The polymodal receptors are the
candidates for acupuncture and moxibustion, and the acupuncture
points (tender/trigger points) are the sites where the polymodal
receptors are sensitized. When an acupuncture needle is inserted
into sensitized tissues, the polymodal receptors can provoke stronger
responses than those applied to normal tissues, and these afferent
discharges can trigger the endogenous pain inhibitory systems and
other regulatory systems.
Experimental Research
Mechanisms of Acupuncture Analgesia
TOPICAL APPLICATION OF CAPSAICIN ABOLISHES THE SUPPRESSIVE
EFFECTS OF MANUAL ACUPUNCTURE ON THE JAW OPENING REFLEX IN RATS
Kenji KAWAKITA, Kaoru OKADA
Department of Physiology, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Hiyoshi-cho,
Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: Participation of thin afferent fibers in the
activation of endogenous pain inhibitory mechanisms has been well
demonstrated. In the present study we examined the role of capsaicin
(CAP)-sensitive thin afferent fibers in acupuncture (ACP) analgesia.
Methods: Thiamylal anesthetized Wister rats were used. Blood pressure,
ECG and rectal temperature were monitored and kept in physiological
range. Bilateral sciatic nerves were exposed and CAP (1.5%) or saline
were applied on the nerve trunks for 60 minutes. Evoked digastric
EMGs(d-EMGs) elicited by electrical stimulation of the tongue (1.5
XT) was monitored, and the suppressive effects of manual rotation
of acupuncture or hot water immersion (53¡É, 40s), and the influence
of CAP treatments on their effects were examined.
Results: On the saline-treated side, the d-EMGs were gradually inhibited
by manual ACP of ipsilateral hindpaw (80s), and the effects lasted
after the cessation of the stimulus. On the contrary, the JOR was
not affected by ACP on the CAP-side. Immersion of hindpaw into hot
water induced rapid and potent suppression of the d-EMG in the saline
side.
Conclusion: These results suggest the polymodal receptors, which
are selectively sensitive to CAP, may play the important role in
the suppression of d-EMG induced by manual ACP.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
INFORMATION ANALYSIS OF ULTRAWEAK BIOPHOTON EMISSIONS
ORIGINATING FROM ACUPUNCTURE POINTS ON FINGERS
Masaaki JIN, Humio INABA, Masashi USA, Masaki KOBAYASHI,
Barashigmani DEVARAJ, Motohiro TAKEDA
Information Lab. Tohoky Inst. of Tech. 35-1 Kasumi-cho, Yagiyama
Taihaku-ku, Sendai 982, Japan.
Aim: We measured the ultraweak light (biophoton)
emissions orginating from the fingertip. In this paper, we report
the results of analyzing information of the properties of biophoton
emissions from the Shangyang (LI1) when a needle was inserted into
the Hegu(LI4) of the Large Intestine Meridian (LI) on the hand,
which is linked to the Shangyang (LI1) by a common route.
Methods: Subjects were five male medical personnel in their 40s.
Each subject washed his hands and wore gloves for 15 minutes prior
to the measurement. The biophotons measured were counted using the
single photoelectron counting method. The results were then analyzed
using a personal computer. The biophoton emission was measured on
both the finger cushion and LI1 of the right index finger. These
measurements were repeated with needle insertion into LI4.
Results: The results from measurements with and without needle insertion
into LI4 were compared. Measurements with more conspicuous wave
properties were obtained with needle insertion. Stimulation seemed
to be transmitted from LI4 to LI1 immediately after needle insertion
because these acupuncture points are on the same route.
Conclusion: Measurement of the biophoton emission from the acupuncture
points on the fingertip demonstrated that biophoton emission properties
statistically vary among healthy adults. However, the properties
gradually diminished as physical condition became unsatisfactory
due to hangover or insufficient sleep. This result seems to be associated
with metabolism and diurnal variation.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
A TOPOGRAPHIC ANATOMICAL STUDY OF THE SAFETY OF
MERIDIAN POINTS BASED ON CADAVER DISSECTION AND CT IMAGES
Tomofumi OZAKI1, Hidetoro MORI1, Yasuji, NONOI1,
Masako ADACHI1, Shungo MORI1,
Si YU1, Tadashi YONEYAMA2, Seiichi KITAMURA3
1Osaka College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. 4-1-8, Nakamoto,
Higashinari-ku, Osaka City, Japan.
2Department of Neurology, Kawamura Hospital and Oyamada Memorial
Spa Hospital.
3The First Department of Oral Anatomy. The University of Tokushima
School of Dentistry.
Aim: Though the kidneys lie beneath Zhishi (BL52),
Shenshu(BL23), we frequently used these points as a acupuncture
therapy. This study is made to clarify the safety of two meridian
points. So we measure the distance from skin to other kidneys (D-SK)
to clarify the anatomical relationship between these BL52, BL23
and the kidneys.
Methods: (1) Using a cadaver, we carried out vertical insertion
with needles at BL52, BL23 and we observed the anatomical relationship
between the inserted needles and the kidneys. (2) Using 57 patients
(age of 46¡96 years old), CT images were obtained at the level between
the spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebrae and that of 3rd
on the coronal and axial section and we measured the distance from
the skin to the kidneys on the display.
Results: (1) In the dissection, it was found that the needle inserted
into BL23 did reach to the inside of the kidney approaching the
costal process, while that of BL52 did reach the kidney. (2) In
the CT images, the average of D-SK (mm) at BL23 were 59 (Lt), 72
(Rt) in the overweighed, 48 (Lt), 51 (Rt) in the normal, 39 (Lt),
36 (Rt) in the underweighted. In B52, 63 (Lt), 56 (Rt) in the over,
41 (Lt), 42 (Rt) in the normal, 31 (Lt), 30 (Rt) in the under.
Conclusion: This study suggests that the safe depth of an inserted
needle in Shenshu (BL23) is desirable under 40 mm in order to avoid
an injury of the kidney and in Zhishi (BL52), it is desirable under
30 mm. Moreover, even in case of GV4, the safe depth of inserted
needle is desirable under 25 mm.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
A STUDY OF THE MECHANISM OF ACUPUNCTURE
WITH A HISTOPATHOLOGICAL APPROACH
Sakae YONEYAMA1, Yochi KAWAMURA1, Akemi TAKANO2,
Tadashi YONEYAMA3,
Tomohumi OZAKI3, Si YU, Hirohumi TAKEDA3, Hitoshi MIZUTANI4
1Department of Neurology, Kawamura Hospital and Oyamada Memorial
Spa Hospital.
8-1 Shirokita-cho, Yokkaichi City. Mie 510, Japan.
2Department of Neurology, Nagoya University school of Medicine.
3Osaka College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion.
4Department of Dermatology, Mie University, Faculty of Medicine.
Aim: Few morphological studies from the viewpoint
that acupuncture stimulation begins with a small tissue injury have
been reported. This study is made to clarify the mechanism of acupuncture
with a histopathological approach.
Methods: We carried out punch biopsies (3 to 6 mm in diameter) of
6 volunteers (age 22 to 44 years old) at the Xuehai (SP10) in which
an acupuncture needle was inserted. The samples of biopsy (after
15 minutes, 3 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 5 days, 7 days) were prepared
with a serial section (embedded in paraphin and frozen, H&E
and immunological staining; CD4, CD8, CD19, CD68, UCHL-1).
Results: A careful examination of the serial sections of the samples
shows that there were remarkable micro-gaps and slight inflammatory
reactions around the tissue which was inserted by acupuncture needles
(after 15 minutes, 3 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 5 days). And also
an immunological reaction (CD4 positive cell) was demonstrated in
the sample taken after 24 hours.
Conclusion: The study suggests that the healing course of a wound
made by acupuncture is different from that of an incision of operation
technique which there were many experimental reports in the past.
From these results, we think that a tissue injury by an acupuncture
therapy is relatively safe for the human body. In addition, our
study suggested that the healing course of a wound and a immunological
reaction participate in the mechanism of acupuncture.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
CHANGES OF PHENOMENON FOLLOWING THE STIMULATION
ON AN ACUPOINT AND A NON-ACUPOINT
Kazuro SASAKI,1 Masahito SAITOH2, Toshihiko SAITO2,
Mutsumi UCHIDA2,
Munekado KOJIMA2, Akio IIDA2, Hiroki WATANABE2
1Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Hiyosi-cho Funai-gun, Kyoto
629-03, Japan.
2Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine.
Kyoto 602, Japan.
Aim: The jet phenomenon (spouting of urine into
the urinary bladder via the ureteral orifice) was observed, using
Color Doppler Imaging, following the stimulation of the acupoint
Sanyinjiao (SP6) or a non-acupoint (about 4 cm lateral to the center
of the medial plane of thigh). The effects of acupuncture on the
jet phenomenon were thus examined.
Methods: The subjects were 33 healthy male volunteers. Of these
subjects, 25 were allocated to the acupoint stimulation group and
8 to the non-acupoint stimulation group. The urinary bladder was
scanned transabdominally using a color Doppler machine (SSA-270A,
Toshiba), and the jet phenomenon was observed on both sides. The
frequency of the jet phenomenon from both ureters was examined before
the stimulation, 0¡5 minutes and 10¡15 minutes after starting the
stimulation, and after the end of the stimulation.
Results and Conclusion: The frequency of the jet phenomenon during
stimulation increased significantly in the acupoint stimulation
group. However, it did not increase significantly in the non-acupoint
stimulation group. We speculate that the stimulation of SP6 affects
urine transport and provides an effective mean of treating urological
diseases such as ureteral stone disease.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
EXCITABILITY OF SPINAL MOTOR NEURON FUNCTION
DURING ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT ¡ª F-WAVE STUDY
Toshiaki SUZUKI, Makiko TANI, Yoshiro YASE, Rie
NABETA, Ikuro WAKAYAMA
Kansai College of Oriental Medicine. 2-11-1, Wakaba, Kumatori, Sennan,
Osaka 590-04, Japan.
Aim: To investigate the neurophysiological mechanism
of the effect of acupuncture treatment, we analyzed F-waves, an
index of the excitability of the spinal motor neuron function, during
acupuncture stimulation in healthy subjects.
Methods: We recorded the F-waves in 5 healthy subjects, 10 upper
extremities. Mean subject age was 28.8¡¾3.5 years old. F-waves after
median nerve stimulation before (relaxation), during and after acupuncture
stimulation were recorded from the abductor pollicis brevis in a
sitting position. Acupuncture stimulation was performed on LU7.
F-waves were analyzed for frequency, amplitude ratio of F/M and
latency.
Results: Frequency and amplitude ratio of F/M during and after stimulation
were changed compared to those before stimulation. Latency during
and after stimulation was the same as that before stimulation.
Conclusion: The frequency and amplitude ratio of F/M were indices
of the excitability of the spinal motor neuron function. These results
suggested that excitability of the spinal motor neuron function
was affected by acupuncture stimulation of LU7.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
CARDIOVASCULAR RESPONSES DURING MANUAL ACUPUNCTURE
STIMULATION
Hiroshi TSUKAYAMA1, Hidetoshi MORI2, Kazushi NISHIJO2
Clinic and 2Department of Acupuncture, Tsukuba College Technology.
Kasuga 4-12-7, Tsukuba city 305, Japan.
Aim: We investigated the autonomic responses during
manual acupuncture stimulation. We reported previously that acupuncture
stimulation inhibited cardiac sympathetic activity and activated
cardiac parasympathetic activity. In this study, cardiovascular
responses we studied were blood pressure, skin blood flow and heart
beats.
Methods: Subjects were 22 healthy male adults (ages from 19 to 56
years old). They were treated with manual acupuncture (tapping 1
Hz, 30 seconds) at the Hegu point. Blood pressure was measured with
Finapres 2300 (Ohmeda), heart beats and finger plethysmograph were
measured with polygraph system RM-6000(Nihon Khoden).
Results: Of the 22 cases, 15 had transient decreases in both systolic
and diastolic blood pressure during acupuncture stimulation, and
the heart rate decreased in most of these cases. Decreased wave
heights in finger plethysmography were also observed in all of the
cases, suggesting peripheral vasoconstriction in the extremities.
Conclusion: In the peripheral extremities acupuncture stimulation
activated skin sympathetic activity. On the other hands there was
an increase in cardiac parasympathetic activity, a decrease in cardiac
sympathethic activity and a decrease in blood pressure. We therefore
conclude that manual acupuncture stimulation is different from typical
nociceptive stimulation.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
AN OBSERVATION ON THE OBJECTIVE EVIDENCE AND TOPOLOGY
ON NEEDLING SENSATION WITH EMG AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY
Si YU1, Hidetaro MORI1, Tomofumi OZAKI1, Washiro
YASHUMO1, Tadashi YONEYAMA1, Yashuji NONOI1, Sakae YONEYAMA2, Hirofumi
TAKEDA3
1Osaka College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Japan.
2Department of Neurology, Kawamura Hospital & Oyamada Memorial
Spa Hospital.
3Keifuku Acupuncture Clinic.
Aim: The effect of the acupuncture treatment is
mostly dependent on whether or not there is a needling sensation
(NS) during the time of therapy. But the presence of a needling
sensation is hardly understood objectively, so its measurement with
objective criteria is one of the key points for improving the clinical
treatment effects and improving the acupuncture education.
Methods: The study was carried out on five healthy male adult volunteers
between the age of 20 to 41 years old (with an average age of 33.5
years old). We selected three acupoints. Yanglingquan (GB34), Chengjin
(BL56), Xiguan (LR7) were inserted with a needling electrode. When
NS was produced, its character EMG discharged and its image was
recorded.
Results: The amplitude and frequency of EMG discharge (waves) recorded
during the time of the presence of NS was different from light muscular
contractions. The character of NS (soreness, numbness, distended,
painful and propagated sensation along meridians) seemed to be different
from NS to another, sometimes specific waves. We also found that
it is possible that NS is related to the structures involved in
the intermuscular spaces.
Conclusion: The EMG of NS seems to be a normal physiological activity.
It seems that the muscular tissues play a roll in the activity of
NS. One of the substantial bases of NS is suggested to be muscular
tissue, especially membranes of muscles.
Experimental Research
Meridians & Acupoints
EFFECTS OF LOW FREQUENCY ELECTRICAL STIMULATION
WITH A XENON FLASH LAMP ON A MERIDIAN
Toshikatsu KITADE1, Keisou ISHIMARU1, Masahiro IWA1,
Kenji IMAI1,
Shoji SHINOHARA2, Katsuyuki WATANABE2, Tadashi WATSUJI2
1Department of Third Clinic of Oriental Medicine and 2Department
of Diagnostic Oriental
Medicine, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun,
Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: The present study was undertaken to examine
the effects of this therapy on the state (deficiency and excess)
of a meridian using an AMI, an apparatus for measuring the function
of the meridian and corresponding internal organs.
Methods: Eight healthy volunteers were divided into two groups:
the xenon therapy group and an untreated control group. All meridians
were measured using an AMI, then the most deficient meridian was
selected. The bilateral back-shu points corresponding to that meridian
were stimulated with xenon rays. For example, when the kidney meridian
was most deficient both right and left BL23 (Shenshu) were stimulated.
The apparatus used for stimulation was an Xenon-550 (Nihon Iko,
co., Ltd., Japan). Using this apparatus, the above mentioned points
were stimulated for 15 minutes with xenon rays (radial 0.2 Hz) and
low frequency (3.3 Hz) electricity. BP(before polarization current,
¥ìA) is considered to reflect the flow of Qi (life energy).
Results: The time course of the BP for the most deficient meridian
was investigated. In 7 subjects, the BP before stimulation was lower
than 1.0 (the cut-off level) and averaged 0.858 (the level indicating
deficiency). Thirty minutes after the start of stimulation, the
BP in 6 subjects rose to 0.913 on average(that is, it became closer
to the cut-off level), while the BP in the other subject remained
unchanged (that is, remained deficient).
Conclusion: Xenon therapy was found to tonify the meridians shifted
to Kyo (deficiency). On average for all meridians, xenon exerted
a slightly sedative effect.
Experimental Research
Immunity & Neuroendocrine Effect
THE EFFECT OF MOXIBUSTION ON SERUM ANTIBODY
AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS IN RABBITS
Hitoshi YAMASHITA1, Masami TAKAHASHI2, Kazushi NISHIJO3,
Yoshitoshi ICHIMAN4, Jingoro SHIMADA4
1Tsukuba College of Technology Clinic. 4-12-7 Kasuga, Tsukuba City
305, Japan.
2Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Tsukuba College of Technology.
3Department of Acupuncture, Tsukuba College of Technology.
4Department of Microbiology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine.
Aim: Since ancient times, moxibustion has been used
for preventing some infectious diseases. However, there are few
reports which clarify the effect of moxibustion on host defense
systems against bacterial infection. The purpose of our research
is to examine the effect of moxibustion on the antibody production
and its protective activity in rabbits against a strain of Staphylococcus
aureus.
Methods: The moxibustion test group of four rabbits and the control
group of four rabbits were all immunized subcutaneously with Smith
strain of Staphylococcus aureus. Sera samples were collected weekly
and antibody production was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay(ELISA).
Results: Compared to the control group, the titer of IgM antibody
of the moxibustion group increased significantly (p=0.05) with time,
especially between the 5th and 9th weeks after the first immunization.
The titer of IgG antibody of the moxibustion group increased after
the 6th week. Furthermore, ELISA inhibition test with Smith surface
antigen (SSA, a protective antigen) extracted from Smith strain
of Staphylococcus aureus showed significantly (p<0.05) higher
activities of IgM and IgG antibody in the moxibustion group at the
9th week after the first immunization.
Conclusion: The stimulating effect of moxibustion could increase
the amount of circulating antibody in these animals.
Experimental Research
Immunity & Neuroendocrine Effect
A CLOSE RELATION BETWEEN VESSELS AND CGRP-, SP-CONTAINING
NERVE FIBERS IN RAT SKIN
Kansho YAMADA, Takeshi HOSHING
Chuwa School of Oriental Medicine. 1-1-81, Higashimidori-machi,
Inzawa, Aichi 492, Japan.
Aim: In order to elucidate the relation between
calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP)-substance P (SP)-containing
nerve fibers and the immune system in rat skin, the immunohistochemical
technique was employed.
Methods: The streptoavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method was
employed, using anti-CGRP rabbit serum and anti-SP rabbit serum
in wister rat (n=7) skin as the primary antibodies.
Results: A close relation was observed between these peptides containing
fibers and the vessels (blood vessels, lymphatic vessels and lymphatic
capillaries).
Discussion: It is reported that under noxious stimulation, these
peptides were emitted from the terminals of these peptides-containing
fibers; the CGRP caused vasodilation and inhibited the immune function,
the SP activated the vessel permeability and the immune function.
Based on this noxious stimulation, the peptide-containing fibers
in the vicinity of blood vessels gave off respective peptide and
triggered inflammatory reaction, thus increased tissue fluid. Some
of these peptides and many of the peptides given off around lymphatics
(lymphatic vessels and lymphatic capillaries) carried in the increased
tissue fluid were then absorbed by lymphatics, and these peptides
reached the lymph nodes. This was considered to modulate the immune
function in the lymph nodes. It seemed quite possible that acupuncture
and moxibustion, similar type of noxious stimulation, could serve
to modulate the body's immune system through a similar mechanism.
Experimental Research
Immunity & Neuroendocrine Effect
ROLES OF INTERLEUKIN-2 AND INTERFERON-¥ã ON THE ENHANCEMENT
OF SPLENIC NATURAL KILLER (NK) CYTOTOXICITY
BY ACUPUNCTURE STIMULATION IN F344 RATS
Tadashi HISAMITSU1, Ying YU1, Takako KASAHARA1,
Shi-Yu GUO1, Yan-Qing LIU1, Kazuhito ASANO2
Department of Physiology1 and Medical Biology2, Medical School,
Showa University.
1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142, Japan.
Aim: To investigate the effect and possible mechanism
of acupuncture stimulation to the immune function, the effect of
S36 acupoint stimulation on splenic natural killer (NK) cytotoxicity
and on the levels of interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-¥ã were
examined in inbred strain of F344 rats.
Methods: Electro-acupuncture stimulation (intensity: 1¡5 V, duration:
1 msec, frequency: 1 Hz)was applied to bilateral S36 acupoint once
a day (1 hour) for 3 days. The NK cytotoxicity was measured by standard
4-hr 51Cr release assay. IL-2 and IFN-¥ã activities in the aqueous
spleen extracts prepared from acupunctured rats were analyzed using
standard IL-2 assay and IFN-¥ã ELISA Test Kit.
Results: The successive acupuncture treatment for three days significantly
enhanced splenic NK cytotoxicity (p<0.01) as compared to that
of control. The extracts of acupunctured rats contained high levels
of IL-2 and IFN-¥ã than that of control (p<0.01). A significant
positive correlation (p<0.05) was found between the levels of
each of cytokines tested and splenic NK cytotoxicity. The same positive
correlation was also found between the levels of IL-2 and IFN-¥ã(P<0.05).
Conclusion: Electro-acupuncture stimulation of S36 acupoint enhances
splenic NK cytotoxicity. IL-2 and IFN-¥ã may be important factors
in the regulation of NK cell activities in this system.
Experimental Research
Immunity & Neuroendocrine Effect
THE EFFECTS OF ELECTROACUPUNCTURE AND MOXIBUSTION
ON THE CYTOKINE PRODUCTION FROM PERITONEAL MACROPHAGESEX VIVO
Takako KASAHARA, Kazuhiro NARITA, Eri KASAHARA,
Tatsutaka YAMAMOTO, Masaaki SAHARA, Tadashi HISAMITSU
Department of Physiology, Medical School, Showa University. 1-5-8,
Hatanodai,
Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142, Japan.
Aim: We reported previously that electroacupuncture
(EA) and moxibustion (Mox) at an acupoint equivalent to GV4 modified
the trinitrochlorobenzene-induced delayed type hypersensitivity
in mice. The aim of this study is to assess the modulating effects
of EA and Mox on the function of murine macrophages (M s) ex vivo.
Methods: Eight-week old, male C57BL/6 mice were used. EA was applied
using low frequency stimulation (10V at max., 500 and 50 §Á duration,
1 Hz for 15 and 5 min) and Mox was applied with moxa 10 and 2 mg/body
to an acupoint anatomically equivalent to GV4 of the human body.
Mice were injected intraperitoneally with a priming agent, OK-432
(Streptococcus pyogenes preparation) and applied with EA or Mox
simultaneously. At least 96% of the peritoneal adherent cells were
M s as judged by morphologic and phagocytic criteria. The M monolayers
were incubated for 1 to 24 hours in the presence of Gram negative
bacteria, lipopolysaccharide (LPS. E. Coli 026:B6). The culture
supernatants were collected and assayed for tumor necrosis factor
(TNF) ¥á, Interferon(IFN) ¥ã, and interleukin-1 (IL-1) ¥â using ELISA
kits.
Results: EA and Mox application suppressed the production/release
of TNF¥á, IFN¥ãfrom M s, while potentiated that of IL-1¥â. Although
M s are known to produce IFN¥á/¥â, the primed-, elicited- M s produced
and released IFN¥ã(confirmation needed).
Conclusion: The M TNF¥á and IL-1¥â are major mediators of inflammation
and immune defense and the M IFN¥ã may play a role in the regulation
of cell differentiation and immune response. These findings suggest
that EA and Mox may modify the responsiveness of elicited M s to
LPS through modification networks of neuro-immune systems.
Experimental Research
Immunity & Neuroendocrine Effect
ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDIES OF THE CURATIVE EFFECTS
OF
MOXIBUSTION FOR DIABETIC PANCREAS CAUSED BY
THE STREPTOZOTOCIN ADMINISTRATION
Sachiko NAKAI1, Nakazo WATARI1, Tadashi YANO2, Takatoshi
ONOE3,
Koichi TAKEMURA3, Hirosuke SAGAWA4
1Department of Morphology and 2Department of Oriental Medicine,
Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Japan.
3Department of Bacteriology, Osaka Dental University.
4Ultrastructural Research Laboratory, The Center for Adult Diseases.
Aim: To analyze the curative effects of moxibustion
for rat diabetic pancreas caused by the administration of streptozotocin
(STZ), we designed ultrastructural studies using transmission electron
microscopy and image processing.
Materials and Methods: Wistar male rats were divided into 4 groups.
The first group (10 animals) was used as the control without any
treatments. The second group (14 animals) was the diabetic group
injected of 50 mg/kg BW of STZ intraperitoneally at the first experimental
day. The third and fourth groups (10 animals each) were the curative
groups, which were given the moxibustion treatments of 5 half-rice
grains of moxa, three times a week following the STZ administration.
Acupuncture used were Tian men (3rd group) the Tian Ping (4th group)
according to the animal acupoint chart. The animals were sacrificed
after one month, and treated as usual for transmission electron
microscopy. Some electron micrographs were input in the image processing
to calculate area-ratio of the autophagic vacuoles, zymogen granules
and lipid droplets.
Results and Discussion: Pancreatic exocrine and endocrine cells
were strongly injured by the STZ alone. The exocrine cells contained
a number of autophagic vacuoles and lipid droplets. The endocrine
¥â-cells contained also the autophagic vacuoles and glycogen particles.
On the other hand, in animals treated with both STZ and moxibustion,
pancreatic cell injuries disappeared in exocrine and endocrine cells
indicating the curative effects of moxibustion for STZ injuries.
These curative effects of moxibustion were also confirmed by image
processing.
Experimental Research
Others
THE DECREASED ACTIVITY OF SUDOMOTOR IN
SYMPATHETIC NERVE FUNCTION IN HIESHO
Shunji SAKAGUCHI, Masazumi KAWAMOTO, Osamu FUJIKAWA
Department of Clinical Acupuncture, Kansai College of Oriental Medicine.
2-11-1, Wakaba, Kumatori-cho, Sennan-gun, Osaka 509-04, Japan.
Aim: In Oriental medicine, Hiesho(to be sensitive
to the cold) is generally considered to be closely related with
peripheral circulatory obstruction or staganation. And the localized
cutaneous blood flow is closely associated with not only cutaneous
vasoconstrictor, but also sudomotor. We previously reported that
the thermographic features of Hiesho indicated the hyperactivity,
unbalance or instability of cutaneous vasoconstrictor. In order
to clarify the pathogenetic mechanism of Hiesho, as one of indications
of sympathetic nerve activities, the influence of sweat secretion
on cutaneous temperature was examined in this study.
Methods: 30 female subjects were divided into two groups by questionnaire,
17 in a Hiesho group and 13 in a normal group. After 30 minutes
of adaptation in a thermography room, cutaneous temperature and
sweat secretion on the right sole were measured before and after
four loading using CORETEMP, Model CTM-205(TERUMO) and KENZ-PERSPIRO,
Model OSS-100(SUZUKEN).
Results: Results obtained in this study showed a significant decrease
of sweat secretion of the sole in the Hiesho group compared to that
of the normal group without a significant difference of cutaneous
temperature between both groups.
Conclusion: Sweat secretion of the sole has no influence upon cutaneous
temperature, although sweat secretion in the Hisho group showed
a significant decrease. It is, therefore, supposed that there is
a discrepancy between sudomotor and cutaneous vasoconstrictor activities
in Hiesho, suggesting a possible characteristic in the occurrence
of Hiesho.
Experimental Research
Others
EFFECTS OF ACUPUNCTURE STIMULATION ON SYMPATHETIC
SKIN RESPONSE, EMOTIONAL SWEATING AND SYMPATHETIC FLOW RESPONSE
Tadashi YANO, Nobuyuki YAMADA, Masaki HIRO, Naota
ISHIZAKI,
Masato EGAWA, Fumihiko FUKUDA, Yoshiyuki OKAMOTO, Ippei WATANABE,
Mitsuru NAKAMURA, Kazu MORI
Department of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho,
Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: Although acupuncture treatment is very often
applied for dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, the mechanism
of those effects are still unknown. In the present study, we investigated
the effects of acupuncture stimulation on skin sympathetic nerve
activities to clarify one of the effect of acupuncture stimulation
on the autonomic nervous system.
Methods: Subjects were classified into three different response
groups as SSR (Sympathetic Skin Response) group (n=37), Emotional
Sweating group (n=15), and SFR (Sympathetic Flow Response) group
(n=18). Responses during no acupuncture stimulation in each subject
were recorded as a control group to compare with those receiving
acupuncture stimulation. SSR and SFR evoked by electric stimulation
on the median nerve were recorded from the palm or from the finger.
Emotional sweating evoked by electric stimulation at the finger
was recorded from the palm. Acupuncture stimulation was given to
Hegu (LI4) using the technique of the sparrow pecking needle, leaving
the needle or the electroacupuncture.
Results: (1)The amplitude of SSR was significantly decreased and
the latency of SSR was significantly extended by acupuncture stimulation.
(2) Emotional sweating activity was inhibited by acupuncture stimulation.
(3) The reduction rate of SFR was inhibited by acupuncture stimulation.
Conclusion: These results suggest that acupuncture stimulation might
inhibit the skin sympathetic nerve activity. SSR, emotional sweating,
and SFR might be a kind of somato-autonmic nerve reflex. It was
considered that the center of those reflexes is located in the medulla
and are controlled from the reticular formation. We considered that
acupuncture stimulation might influence the center of the somato-autonomic
nerve reflex via the reticular formation and inhibit the function
of the skin sympathetic nerve activity.
Literature Review & Acupuncture Theory
Acupuncture Theory
TREATMENT BASED ON BUDDHIST AND EASTERN ASIAN MEDICAL
5-ELEMENT THEORIES CORRELATED TO THE 3 YIN AND YANG MERIDIANS (HEART-LUNG
MECHANISM OF THE MERIDIANS)
Yuji S. SASAKI
Japan Society of Acupuncture. 1-1-102 Green Heights, 363 Nagasawa,
Yokosuka, Kanagawa 239, Japan.
Aim: The author investigated the correlation between
the order of the 5 elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space) in
Buddhism and that of the 5 elements (earth, water, fire, wood, metal-gold)
in Chinese, Korean and Japanese classic medical texts and will hereby
announce a new therapy.
Text: The Japanese classic "I Shinpo" and Buddhist texts
cite the same order of elements and explain the characteristics
of the Yin-Yang 5 elements clearly. This order represents the growth
of a tree (seed, sprout, growth, leaves swaying in the wind, golden
fruit). The flow of the 12 meridians comprising 3 Yin-and 3 Yang
represent the Buddhist 5 elements in the shape of a 5-storied pagoda,
as it is described in the Shan Han Lun to explain the flow of Qi
through the meridians. Also, this is closely related to the Yin-Yang
5 elements of the Su Wen Ling Shu and the 3 Yin and 3 Yang of the
Shan Han Lun. The author further discovered that a correct flow
of these meridians can be induced and the 3 Yin meridians of the
arm all have "pump" functions, forming the heart-lung
mechanism of the meridians. Regarding this mechanism the Buddhist
5-element etiology, diagnosis and therapy permit a suitable, fixed
rules following acupoint selection.
Conclusion: The therapeutically important 5 healing points (LU9,
HT3, LU10, PC9, PC5) are used for this treatment. I will also report
some clinical cases where treatment of these acupoints produced
good therapeutic results
Literature Review & Acupuncture Theory
Acupuncture Theory
HISTORICAL STUDIES OF ORAL ACUPOINTS
Yoshio IKAI, Miyuki SUGIYAMA
Department of History of Medicine, Oriental Medicine Research Center
of the Kitasato Institute.
5-9-1 Sirokane, Minatoku, Tokyo 108, Japan.
Seijinsou Acupuncture Clinic. Nagoya, Japan.
Aim: Oral acupoints have been used clinically since
the era of "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine".
Many more oral acupoints came into use after this, as shown in the
works "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Acupuncture and Moxa's
Three Books Jia Yi", "A Thousand Golden Remedies"
and "The Classics Classified". But some of these acupoints
are not used so much clinically now. Therefore, we think it is necessary
to once more study the classic literature of acupuncture to renew
our knowledge of oral acupoints.
Methods: We have studied oral acupoints' positions, effects and
diagnoses in historical and contemporary acupuncture literature.
The main oral acupoints that we have studies are Chun Li, Ju Quan,
Jin Jing Yu Ye, Shang E, Yin Jiao, She Xia, Jia Li, Hai Quan, She
Zhu, Xuan Ming, Yan Kou, etc. The meridians involved in oral acupoints
are Large Intestine Meridian, Stomach Meridian, Kidney Meridian,
Liver Meridian, Governor Vessel, Conception Vessel, Chong Vessel,
Branch of Heart Meridian, Bladder Meridian of Tendon, Triple Energizer
Meridian of Tendon.
Discussion: Many meridians are connected with the oral and tongue
area. Oral acupoints and not only used for oral diseases, but they
are also used in treating internal diseases. If they are used to
determine treatment based on the differentiation of signs and symptoms,
the effectiveness of many treatments can be increased. Many oral
acupoints are not located in the same position in each text, and
without knowing the exact position, they are difficult to use effectively.
There is no current discussion or study of this clinical technique
at all. We wish to initiate a renewed discussion and study of positions,
effects and diagnoses with these important acupoints. We think that
oral acupoints are important and useful in the acupuncture clinic.
Literature Review & Acupuncture Theory
Acupuncture Theory
ACUPUNCTURE DEVELOPED FROM TATTOOS
Katsuhiko IGUCHI
Nara Municipal Midori-no-ie Clinic of Acupuncture, Nara City Welfare
Center. 5-3-1 Sakyo, Nara 631, Japan.
Aim: an attempt was made to search for the origin
of acupuncture.
Methods: Acupuncture was born in ancient China. According to old
Chinese literatures, "Stone knives came from the eastern area
and nine needles came from the southern area." In the old times,
there was a custom of tattooing among peoples in both areas of China.
They usually dived for fishing and designed tattoos with dragon
mark. In addition, some forms of Chinese letters show symbolic similarity
with tattoo.
Results: Following the above introduction, it was known that tattoos
were very popular and therefore there was a chance to develop tattooing
into a medical treatment and to experience various reactions such
as meridian phenomena. Moreover, a human skin with tattoos and its
regional lymphnodes were histologically observed. They showed that
pigments had a tendency to gather around blood vessels in the dermis
and pigments of the tattoos flowed into the lymphnodes.
Conclusion: It seems likely that acupuncture and meridian theory
were developed form the ancient custom of tattoos. It is also suggested
that acupoint and meridian are anatomically related to lymphatic
system.
Acupuncture Instrument Development
STUDIES OF CLINICAL EFFECTS OF INFRARED RAY LASER
Kazuhiro MORIKAWA1, Cai Yuan WANG1, Masazumi KAWAMOTO1,
Satoru KITAMURA1, Noboru KIBI1, Kiyoko HIRAI2, Akira KAWACHI2, Hiroshi
ENDO,2
Kohei INAMORI2, Hidemaro MORI2
1Kansai College of Oriental Medicine. 2-11-1 Wakaba Kumatori Sennan,
Osaka 590-04, Japan.
2Department of Anesthesiology, Osaka Medical College.
Aim: LASER that can stimulate profundus region of
the body has been used for the irradiation therapy. Recently, LASER
that can irradiate infrared ray has been developed and excepted
to be applied as thermotherapy apparatus. The author studied effects
of SUPER-LIZER (HA-30) that can irradiate infrared ray LASER for
pain from both experiment and clinical evaluation.
Method: The authors selected 45 patients with various pain symptom
and 5 volunteers. Patients were investigated of comfortable degree
and clinical effect in VAS. Five volunteers were divided into two
groups, a stimulation group and a control group, and analyzed them
in crossover design. The stimulation group is irradiated at Quchi
(LI11) for 15 minutes without interval. The distance between the
site of irradiation and the probe is maintained at 5 cm. While the
control group rested quietly in bed for 15 minutes without any stimulation.
In the stimulation group the authors check the core temperature
and the blood flow volume with the help of determination electrodes
of skin surface temperature thermometer and the blood flowmeter
at Quchi (LI11) when it is being irradiated and at Hegu (LI4) as
a point in a distance. The determination electrodes were placed
by the side of the both LI4 and LI11.
Result: The 45 patients selected for the clinical evaluation reported
that the Laser beam is effective for 63.9% of them and the comfortable
degree they feel is more than 80.0%. The volunteers of the stimulation
group showed the significant increase of temperature and blood flow
at both LI4 and LI11. In the control group the temperature at LI11
remained unchanged while LI4 showed the tendency of a decrease.
Blood flow of LI11 showed the tendency of an increase at LI11 and
while LI4 remained unchanged.
Discussion: After considering the results of the experiment, the
authors realize that SUPER-LIZER Stimulation could be used as the
substitute for moxibustion.
Acupuncture Instrument Development
EFFECTS OF PHOTO-STIMULATION THERAPY ON THE PAIN
THRESHOLD: COMPARISON BETWEEN LOW-ENERGY SEMICONDUCTOR LASER
AND POLARIZED LIGHT IRRADIATION
Keisou ISHIMARU, Masahiro IWA, Kenji IMAI, Toshikatsu
KITADE
Department of Third Clinic of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College of
Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Introduction: Recently, the pain-relieving effects
of low-energy laser irradiation and polarized light irradiation,
which can be used for spot irradiation similar to a laser, have
attracted attention. Such irradiation has been successfully applied
clinically by procedures such as near-stellate irradiation for nerve
block.
Methods: In this study, we examined the effects of low-energy semiconductor
laser (Ga-Al-As, wavelength 0.7 §, output 10mW, FLAT10) and polarized
light irradiation (wavelength 0.6 to 1.6 §, output 1800 mW, SUPER
LIZER HA-550 Tokyo Iken Co., Ltd.) near the human antebrachial palmar
medial nerve on the thermal pain threshold distal to the irradiation
site.
Results and Conclusion: The thermal pain threshold increased by
2.3¡É compared with the control value obtained 5 to 20 minutes before
the beginning of the polarized light irradiation and by 1.5¡É compared
with the control value obtained 5 minutes before the beginning of
low-energy semiconductor irradiation.
Acupuncture Instrument Development
EFFECT OF LOW FREQUENCY ELECTRICAL ACUPUNCTURE AND
SILVER
SPIKE POINT THERAPY ON BLOOD FLOW ¡ª CHANGES IN LOCAL
BLOOD FLOW AT THE SITE OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION
Keisou ISHIMARU, Masahiro IWA, Kenji IMAI and Toshikatsu
KITADE
Department of Third Clinic of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College of
Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: Low frequency electrical acupuncture (LFEA)
and silver spike point therapy (SSP therapy) have been reported
to be able to increase blood flow in peripheral areas and at the
site of stimulation in addition to their analgesic effects. However,
the frequency that increased blood flow at the site of electrical
stimulation is still unclear. We carried out a clinical study on
changes in blood flow according to frequency at the site of stimulation.
Methods: Six healthy males (mean age, 22.8 years) were divided into
3 frequency groups: (1) 2 Hz, low frequency; (2) 20 Hz, intermediate
frequency; (3) 100 Hz, high frequency. The probes of a laser Doppler
blood flow meter ALF2100 and a skin thermometer Coretem CTM-205
were fixed in the central area of the right forearm. Acupuncture
and SSP therapy were performed, surrounding the probes. After a
control period of 15 minutes, electrical stimulation was performed
for 15 minutes in each group. Measurement was performed until 30
minutes after the termination of the stimulation. For low frequency
electrical stimulation, a Trimix 101H (Nihonmedix Co,. Ltd.) was
used.
Results and Discussion: Blood flow increased during electrical stimulation
of both LFEA and SSP therapy in the 2 Hz group. No consistent findings
were observed in the 20 Hz group. In the 100 Hz group, blood flow
increased from the initiation of electrical stimulation until 20
minutes after its termination. The skin temperature showed similar
findings. These results suggest the usefulness of electrical stimulation
at 2 or 100 Hz for increasing local blood flow.
Qi, Qigong, Daoyin & Massage
A STUDY ON LIFE ENERGY THERAPY COMBINED WITH ACUPUNCTURE
THERAPY
Toshio SUGIHARA1, Masaaki HIRAI1, Kazu MORI2, Ippei
WATANABE2
1Life Energy Institute. Wing 410-201, 4-10-8 Sendagaya, Sibuya-ku,
Tokyo 151, Japan.
2Meiji College of Oriental Medicine.
Aim: The life energy therapy is a treatment method
in which life energy generated from sheets or mats containing ceramics
such as tourmaline is supplied directly to patients to call forth
the natural healing powers of the body, and thus to promote healing
from the illness and create health. In this study. clinical significance
of life energy therapy in combination with acupuncture therapy was
evaluated from medical electronic stand point.
Methods: The study was conducted on 60 subjects consisting of healthy
adult volunteers and patients with various diseases. Skin and deep
tissue temperatures, peripheral blood flow, autonomic nervous system
function, EEG, blood chemistry, and pain score were determined as
biological responses before and after the life energy therapy.
Results: The life energy therapy increased skin and deep tissue
temperatures and regulated the autonomic function, suggesting both
physically and mentally relaxing effects.
Conclusion: Acupuncture therapy applied in combination with a mat
generating life energy (Beamer) put on the treatment bed is expected
to produce a synergic effect of life energy therapy and acupuncture
therapy.
Qi, Qigong, Daoyin & Massage
A STUDY ON SCIENTIFICATION OF THE CONCEPT OF QI
COMMON TO ACUPUNCTURE MEDICINE AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE
Kazu MORI, Yujiro IKEMI
Graduate School of Meiji College of Oriental Medicine. Hiyoshi-cho,
Funai-Gun, Kyoto
Prefecture 629-03, Japan.
Institute of Psychosomatic Medicine.
Aim: Voice print was regarded as a general indication
of physical and mental function at the individual level (Qi print).
The relationship between voice print and individual attributes,
that is, physical and mental characteristics, was evaluated from
the viewpoint of acupuncture and integrated medicine.
Methods: Subjects were 49 patients with psychological factors involved
in the onset and course of the disease. The phonetic analysis method
consisted of an analysis of the vowel sound by a sound-spectrograph
to determine the characteristic phonetical patterns observed commonly
in each diagnostic group. Then the input data on the subjects in
both physical and psychological aspects were subjected to a multivariant
analysis.
Results: (1) The phonetic analysis revealed unique voice prints
or Qi prints for each group of disease; (2) The factor analysis
revealed four latent factors.
Conclusion: The phonetic analysis using the multivariant analytical
method allows us, to some extent, to determine the character, emotional
stress and susceptibility to diseases represented in the voice.
Its application in the field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is expected
in the future.
Qi, Qigong, Daoyin & Massage
THE EFFECT OF ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT COMBINED WITH
QIGONG:
A CASE STUDY
Ryoichi TAKENAKA, Sinketu YO, Kenkou I
Universal Acupuncture and Qigong Institute 651-13.
Kobe-shi Kita Ku Fujiwaradai Minamimach 5-8-16.
Aim: We treated pain, palsy, stiffness, psychosomatic
disorder, etc. by acupuncture combined with qigong and have achieved
good results.
Methods:(1) Therapy of acupuncture: According to the symptoms, we
acupuncture once a day, one to three days a week, three month at
the most. (2) Therapy of Qigong: After meditation, the therapist
sends "Qi" to GV20 (Baihui) and KI1(Yongquan)of the patients
and let them practice Fangsong Qigong. After acupuncture, they are
taught "Guishi" Qigong and told to practice once a day.
(3) At the Qigong training class: According to the symptoms, the
patients practice Fangsong Qigong, Bachang Qigong, image training
and meditation with music for 60 minutes each time, twice a month.
Results: We had impressive effects on cervical hernial, headache,
livnertention, shoulder stiffness, constipation, and automatic imbalance.
Qi, Qigong, Daoyin & Massage
THE BENEFIT OF LINES AND CHAKRA ON THE BODY
Kenichi KUMAKIRI
3-18-22 Hodokubo, Hino-city, Tokyo 191, Japan.
The division of a fertilized egg is carried out
by the universal energy. These energy-divided lines are vertical
and horizontal and they divided a body into yin and yang parts.
They are right and left, upper and lower, and front and back of
the body. The mid-line is a vertical line which divides a body to
right and left and it runs from the top of a head to the nasal bone,
throat, navel, till the urethra. The vertical line on the side of
a body divides the body into front and back and it runs at ear hole,
shoulder joint waist side, hip joint, knee joint, and ankle joint.
The mid horizontal line divides a body into upper and lower and
it runs at navel, waist side, and low back. The line divides the
head to cap and the other part. The horizontal line which runs the
center of face; nasal bone, ear, back-head bone. The horizontal
line which divides a body into face and trunk; chin, neck side and
back. The horizontal line runs into arms and trunk; throat pit,
shoulder joint. The horizontal line runs into legs and trunk; the
urethra, hip joint and anus.
CHAKRA: The crossing points of these horizontal and vertical lines
are the energetic points called CHAKRA.
Basic Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine
BASIC RESEARCH ABOUT OBJECTIFICATION OF TONGUE INSPECTION
Yoshiyuki OKAMOTO, Nobuyuki YAMADA, Masaki HIRO,
Naoto ISHIZAKI,
Masato EGAWA, Fumihiko FUKUDA, Mitsuru NAKAMURA, Tadashi YANO
Department of Oriental Medicine, Meiji College of Oriental Medicine.
Hiyoshi-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-03, Japan.
Aim: Diagnoses with Oriental medicine are performed
according to subjective inspections or symptoms. Therefore, as one
of the objectification of the diagnostic method in Oriental medicine,
we investigated the relation between the tongue inspection, the
structure of tongue surface observed by a microscope, and an Oriental
medical questionnaire.
Methods: Subjects in the present study were 30 healthy volunteers
and 30 patients who visited our clinic. Tongue inspections were
performed under a standard source of light, and the form, color,
coating condition, coating color were observed. The original questionnaires
of our college, Meiji Oriental Medical Score (MOS), were used for
Oriental diagnosis of the subjects. For the observation of the microstructure
of the tongue surface, microscopes (HIROX, Compact micro vision
system KH2200) were used, and distribution, form, and color of the
papillae were observed.
Results: (1) Micro vessel of fungiform papillae were observed as
purple spots on the tongue. (2) The thickness of the tongue coating
was related with the length of the filiform papillae. (3) The color
of tongue coating was related with the color of the filiform papillae.
(4) The condition of the filiform papillae was related with the
deficiency of Qi or symptoms of the lung. (5) The micro blood vessels
at the papillae fungiformes form were related with symptoms of the
liver, heart, the deficiency of Yin, and the deficiency of the blood.
(6) Relations between tongue observations with Oriental medical
systems of the patients with any disease were stronger than those
of healthy subjects.
Conclusion: Observations of the tongue surface with a microscope
were useful for the objectification of a tongue inspection. We considered
that the presence of any disease was reflected in the tongue conditions.
|