I recently attended the annual meeting of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture in Denver. As usual, it was a very eclectic group with a very interesting and informative meeting. Much of the focus was on scientific research on the effects of acupuncture and on different approaches for treatment of common conditions.
Several presentations were of particular interest to me. Gary Stanton, MD, a neurologist in Massachusetts, gave an informative talk and workshop on auricular acupuncture. Auricular acupuncture is one of the "micro-system" approaches that uses only points on the ear for all treatments. Other micro-systems include Korean hand acupuncture and Japanese scalp acupuncture. His talk presented some excellent information on the mechanisms and benefits of auricular therapy as well as practical applications. I've used this technique successfully for years, but it was great to get some additional pointers from an expert.
Joseph Audette, MD, Chief of Pain Management at Harvard, also gave a very informative presentation on acupuncture research. In addition, he did an afternoon workshop on trigger point releases, a technique that is very helpful in musculature pain problems.
Jay Sandweiss, DO, from Ann Arbor, MI, discussed osteopathic manipulations and the use of functional medicine approaches to augment acupuncture treatments. This was of obvious interest to me as that combination constitutes a significant part of my current practice.
Stephen Aung, MD, PhD was there as well from Edmonton, Canada. As usual, his discussions of the spiritual aspects of health and the role of compassion in the doctor-patient relationship was both informative and inspirational. And his Qi Gong lessons are always a lot of fun!
Finally, Glenn Rothfeld, MD addressed the topic of "Shen Disorders". This refers to disorders of the mind and spirit, including various emotional issues, insomnia, and spiritual dysfunction, which we seldom address in western medicine. Shen disorders are almost always a significant factor in any physical illness, or may be an serious issue in and of themselves. Acupuncture has been shown to have significant benefit in addressing such imbalances and Glenn's presentation addressed some of these areas very nicely.
On another note, I've added some more information and resources to my "Store" page. There are now sites that have high quality supplements and medical foods available and I've arranged for significant discounts off retail price for most of these. The Metagenics site has many very good products, but there is no discount available as of now. They assure me that it should be possible by summer.
Finally, I remind you that Nicola Williams is available for massages. A good massage is good for pretty much whatever ails you, or, better yet, for staying healthy in the first place. Nicola is usually available for appointments on Friday, but give her a call at 325-8416 to set up your appointment. You'll be glad you did!
Enjoy this beautiful Spring! We all certainly deserve it after this past winter!
Until next time,
Nat Kirkland, Jr. MD
Several presentations were of particular interest to me. Gary Stanton, MD, a neurologist in Massachusetts, gave an informative talk and workshop on auricular acupuncture. Auricular acupuncture is one of the "micro-system" approaches that uses only points on the ear for all treatments. Other micro-systems include Korean hand acupuncture and Japanese scalp acupuncture. His talk presented some excellent information on the mechanisms and benefits of auricular therapy as well as practical applications. I've used this technique successfully for years, but it was great to get some additional pointers from an expert.
Joseph Audette, MD, Chief of Pain Management at Harvard, also gave a very informative presentation on acupuncture research. In addition, he did an afternoon workshop on trigger point releases, a technique that is very helpful in musculature pain problems.
Jay Sandweiss, DO, from Ann Arbor, MI, discussed osteopathic manipulations and the use of functional medicine approaches to augment acupuncture treatments. This was of obvious interest to me as that combination constitutes a significant part of my current practice.
Stephen Aung, MD, PhD was there as well from Edmonton, Canada. As usual, his discussions of the spiritual aspects of health and the role of compassion in the doctor-patient relationship was both informative and inspirational. And his Qi Gong lessons are always a lot of fun!
Finally, Glenn Rothfeld, MD addressed the topic of "Shen Disorders". This refers to disorders of the mind and spirit, including various emotional issues, insomnia, and spiritual dysfunction, which we seldom address in western medicine. Shen disorders are almost always a significant factor in any physical illness, or may be an serious issue in and of themselves. Acupuncture has been shown to have significant benefit in addressing such imbalances and Glenn's presentation addressed some of these areas very nicely.
On another note, I've added some more information and resources to my "Store" page. There are now sites that have high quality supplements and medical foods available and I've arranged for significant discounts off retail price for most of these. The Metagenics site has many very good products, but there is no discount available as of now. They assure me that it should be possible by summer.
Finally, I remind you that Nicola Williams is available for massages. A good massage is good for pretty much whatever ails you, or, better yet, for staying healthy in the first place. Nicola is usually available for appointments on Friday, but give her a call at 325-8416 to set up your appointment. You'll be glad you did!
Enjoy this beautiful Spring! We all certainly deserve it after this past winter!
Until next time,
Nat Kirkland, Jr. MD
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