Acupuncture Cured My Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - A Patient Testimonial

My chronic fatigue was so debilitating that I thought I might never be able to lead a normal life or return to work again. Simple tasks such as taking a short walk down the street or driving to the nearby grocery store for a few items were impossible for me. My husband had to do all the housework, buy groceries, cook my meals, and sometimes help me with daily activities such as taking a shower. Just getting dressed was a major ordeal. I had trouble sleeping. My thinking was often unclear that I had trouble completing simple tasks. When I tried to help in the kitchen, I burned pots until they melted, placed clean items in the refrigerator instead of the shelf and frequently dropped dishes. I was desperate! I consulted numerous medical specialists, took various prescriptions, followed strict diets. Still there was no increase in my energy level. I felt as if my life had been drained out of me.

I first met Dr. Zhou after being on medical leave for 6 months. I had tried to start working again, as I feared loosing my position. I vividly remember my struggle to work those first few weeks before I started acupuncture. I had trouble even driving to work. Then after working only one or two hours, I would become so tired that I had to stop and literally lie down on the office floor to rest. I was just too tired to even sit up, to even think. I worked only a few hours a day and then had to return home and stay in bed until the next morning. On the weekends, I could do absolutely nothing. I could not care for my home or even visit with friends.

Although I was initially nervous about having acupuncture, Dr. Zhou calmly reassured me and gave me both videotape and reading materials, before my first session. She also explained how the acupuncture and herbs would help in my recovery. I was amazed at the difference the very first session made. That very first evening, I could feel my feet becoming warm (I had Reynaulds Syndrome, which causes my hands and feet to be cold.). I was elated that I had enough energy to be able to return to work full time and remain at work all day long. Due to the severity of my case, I returned for acupuncture on a regular basis. When I felt my energy start to wane; the next acupuncture session would then restore my strength so I could continue to function. Over a period of acupuncture treatments, I finally not only was able to continue work, but also was able to have a normal life, including managing my home and socializing with friends.

Dr. Zhou also taught me how to manage my energy. Before my chronic fatigue, I had boundless energy and was very active. This made learning how to manage my chronic fatigue especially difficult for me. With Dr. Zhou’s help I became aware of warning signs that I was doing “too much” and needed to rest to conserve energy. She explained to me that my “extra” energy was like a savings account. You can take money out, but it you never replenish your money (energy) into the account, there eventually will be none left. I have learned that activities should be done in moderation. Although I can now work in the yard again (my love), I have learned that I need to stop after working 3 hours or I may be too tired the next day to enjoy a planned activity.

I thank Dr. Zhou for treating me with all her skills of Traditional Chinese Medicine. I believe that I would never have been able to continue working or have a normal life without the help of her acupuncture treatments and Chinese herbs. Just as important as all of her medical skills, Dr. Zhou is a supportive and caring person. She truly understands the “art of healing.” Dr. Zhou has made a dramatic difference in my ability to again enjoy life. I will always be thankful.

Acupuncture is a Natural & Safe Method of Treatment for Depression, Anxiety & Stress

Depression has been perceived as a condition caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Conventional treatments include anti-depressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and sleeping pills. The common side effects of these drugs are drowsiness, blurred vision, headache, low libido, and anxiety. Acupuncture offers a more natural and effective solution by stimulating the central nervous system and increasing the production of endorphins and enkephalins, which are naturally occurring chemicals in the body that improve a person’s mood and overall feeling of well-being.

Acupuncture is based on balancing the body's “Chi” or "life energy", which regulates spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical balance. Depression, anxiety and stress are caused by abnormal emotions leading to stagnation in the flow of Chi. Chinese medicine believes that the emotions are governed by individual organs. The body and the mind are a real part of the same functional system. Acupuncture, a holistic method, integrates the body and mind and balances emotional distress naturally, safely, cost effectively and more successfully, because it

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promotes the body’s natural healing abilities.
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is a holistic medicine, has never separated the mind and body, and comprehensively treats both the physical and mental symptoms of conditions.
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enhances the health of anyone with conditions caused by drug side effects, cancer, endocrine abnormalities, etc.
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helps patients by reducing or eliminating the need for medication and its inherent side effects and thereby lowering the cost of treatment.
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emphasizes prevention and health maintenance. A healthy diet, exercise and stress reduction techniques can be very helpful in maintaining mental and physical health.

Dr. Lin Zhou believes that people suffering from depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia should always try the simplest, safest, and the most natural approach first, and prescription medication should only be used as a very last resort. Dr. Zhou welcomes all who seek acupuncture as an alternative choice to improve their health, well-being and self-confidence. She can analyze the body’s individual disharmonies making a diagnosis based in Chinese medicine and will design a precise personalized treatment plan to correct underlying deficiencies or remove obstructions, and help her patients regain a sense of control and pleasure in life. Not only can this treatment substantially reduce the consumption of drugs such as Prozac, but it can also treat their side effects and the patient’s dependence. Most patients feel immediately calm, and experience a sense of peace and deep relaxation. Approximately 6-10 treatments are required for stabilizing and favorable results, while major depression requires more intensive treatment and herbal medicine.

Acupuncture can help balance disharmonies in the body--mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. Additional benefits include:

* Improved overall health and well-being.
* Better emotional balance, calmed the body and mind.
* Mental clarity and enhanced concentration.
* Reduced pain and muscle tension.
* Enriched sleep.
* More positive feelings about self, more interest in life and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
* More energy and increased regular exercise.
* Improved ability to handle changes and problems in life.
* Reduction in eating disorders.
* Fewer concerns about small things.

In addition to treatment Dr. Zhou prescribes the following lifestyle changes for the prevention of all emotional or mental disturbances and the reclamation of good health:

* Eliminate nicotine, caffeine and alcohol which aggravate stress.
* Avoid hot, spicy, or cold, raw foods and iced drinks.
* Balance your diet, eat 80% alkaline food, and avoid excessive meats and carbohydrates.
* Avoid over thinking and overly ambitious goals.
* Avoid physical exhaustion; get plenty of rest.
* Strive to be open hearted, open minded and content.
* Exercise moderately and have a steady routine; employ deep breathing techniques such as meditation, Tai Chi or Qi Gong.
* Make sure you are taking a full complement of Vitamin B, magnesium and iron; a deficiency in any of these can lead to symptoms of depression.

Dr. Zhou is committed to helping you achieve your health goals. You are not alone! Together we can reach the most successful optimum results and a fuller expression of health, wellness and quality of life!

Acupuncture Can Effectively Stop Smoking & Help Withdrawal Symptoms!

Each year, hundreds of people try unsuccessfully to stop smoking with the help of hypnosis, nicotine gum, and/or counseling. However, this strong addiction can be successfully overcome with the help of acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture is used as the primary mode of treatment in the most successful detoxification program in the United States for drug, alcohol and nicotine addictions. Researchers in Norway reported: “Smokers who want to kick the habit can indeed find success with the help of acupuncture” (Reuters Health).
How does acupuncture help you stop smoking?

Acupuncture can detoxify the body of nicotine Modern science has confirmed that smokers develop higher levels of nicotine-induced endorphins, and acupuncture stimulates the nervous system naturally to regulate the amount of endorphins in the body and helps clear away nicotine buildup. Unlike the patch, acupuncture actually rids the body of nicotine instead of adding more to it.

Acupuncture helps to eliminate the mental and physical symptoms of withdrawal Acupuncture is highly effective in calming, and relaxing the mind, enhancing the ability to concentrate, minimizing anxiety and alleviating feelings of depression. In addition, acupuncture successfully suppresses appetite and diminishes food cravings.
How many treatments will I need?

Generally four, one-hour sessions are necessary within a ten day period. Of course, the number of treatments depends on how many years and how heavily you smoke. Based on Dr. Zhou’s years of experience, over 90% of people successfully quit smoking after four sessions of acupuncture.
What is the treatment procedure?

Treatment involves the insertion of sterile, disposable needles into specific acupuncture points on the hand, wrist and ear. Mild electrical stimulation is passed through some of these needles to augment their effectiveness. After treatment, press beads are taped to the ear and remain in place for a few days to maintain the stimulation.
What changes can I expect during sessions?

One of the possible contributions to smoking cessation is a change in the taste of smoke after one or two sessions of acupuncture. Many people come to realize that cigarettes taste like burning ash, are too weak or too strong and/or generally seem unpleasant and distasteful. They are unable to finish the whole length of a cigarette, and completely lose the urge to smoke. About 90% of people are willing to reduce their cigarette consumption by 50% after their first session. In addition, most people experience a sense of calm and relaxation; a reduction in cravings and appetite; clear-headedness; greater energy and find they can breathe easier.

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, fast, inexpensive, painless, drug-free and effective way to kick the habit and stay nicotine free. Try this alternative therapy today, and make your life healthier!

re on Musculoskeletal Pain in Primary Health Care

Acupuncture and herbal medicine can alleviate many menopausal symptoms by stimulating endocrine systems to rebalance hormone production and reduce a wide variety of menopausal disorders. Recent studies show that acupuncture is a safer and effective way to treat women with menopause, especially breast cancer survivors (University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing researchers).

Conventionally, Western medicine has used hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as the primary treatment for menopausal symptoms. However, not all women can tolerate HRT and some experience many distressing effects. The Journal of the American Medical Association showed that HRT might increase the risk of heart disease, breast cancer, stroke and blood clots, which prompts many women to seek complementary solutions. Acupuncture and herbal medicine offer an alternative, more successful approach to dealing with menopause, including freeing blocked circulation while balancing energy, blood flow, yin (body fluids) and hormones.

According to Chinese medicine, to reverse signs of menopause and aging, it is important to build kidney energy (renal and adrenal function). Acupuncture stimulates the flow of intrinsic energy in the body, enhancing blood circulation in the kidneys. Herbal medicines restore kidney energy and gently correct underling deficiencies. These increases in performance and kidney function support both the endocrine and immune systems and help them to work harmoniously to control and remove the symptoms of menopause. Additionally, building kidney energy will enhance moisture production, replenishing tissue throughout the entire body and improving beauty, vitality and youthfulness.
Our Mission:

We view menopause as a period of natural transition and unique experience in a woman’s life.

We focus on a holistic approach to restore balance and harmony in both physical and emotional aspects.

We help you empower your body’s own innate intelligence and with integrity, love, and compassion smooth the way through pre and post menopause.

We treat conditions humanely, without side effects and inexpensively for a wide variety of disorders.

We create a personal health plan to enhance and fit your lifestyle to promote healing and prevent discomfort and pain.
Our Services:

We provide a safe, natural and incredibly effective solution to the following symptoms:

* hot flashes, night sweats
* dry skin, painful vagina
* gray hair and hair loss
* weight gain and sugar craving
* insomnia and nervousness
* irritability, mood swings and emotional stress
* palpitations
* headaches
* back pain and muscle tension
* bone density loss
* poor memory and concentration

Our Goals:

To harmonize that phase of life when women experience a transition from being reproductive to non- reproductive, and help them do so with minimum discomfort.

To work with specific symptoms and help you achieve your goals for a fuller expression of health, wellness and quality of life.

from :
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=8558564

C-Vitamin and Cancer

The result of a Danish Vitamin C study, sponsored by Fight Against Cancer, and published in the Dutch periodical Cancer, Causes, Control 14:695-704 (2003), was released to the Danish TV and press media December 22, 2003 with the sensationalistic news headline: “the incidence of breast cancer in post-menopausal women increases with increasing intake of Vitamin C”. In spite of the melodramatic manner in which the announcement was made, a careful reading of the study’s own data shows, that the interpretation is essentially untrue and scientifically untenable.

This is shown in all clearness with one of the results from the study, which the press release was careful not to mention. They got the evidently absurd result, that the risk for breast cancer is doubled (2.06), when Vitamin C is ingested through fruit and vegetables in the diet, whereas the risk is slightly greater than statistical insignificance (1.00), when it is ingested as a supplement (1.06).

From a biological perspective this is nonsense. The body does not distinguish between dietary-Vitamin C and supplemental-Vitamin C. It is biologically the same substance. If high levels of Vitamin C were generally carcinogenic, as the Danish researchers amazingly would have us believe, it would be more consistent from their point of view to advise against ingesting too much of the vitamin in fruit and vegetables.

When a team of scientists get a result, which deviates so strongly from prior research on a subject, not to mention common sense, one could imagine, that the research team would seriously question the design of their experiment or the way they got their numbers. This was absolutely not the case with Fight Against Cancer’s senior researcher Anne Tjønnelund, who was not reserved, but rather bombastic in pronouncements to the press about her groundbreaking study: ”....The study is the first of its type, which shows that women after menopause have an increased risk for getting breast cancer, if they ingest high doses of Vitamin C from the diet or in the form of supplements and natural medicine.”

Scientifically speaking, her study cannot support such an interpretation. To attribute a causal effect to Vitamin C for breast cancer from marginally elevated values of Vitamin C ingested per day, and calculated from questionaires filled out by unsupervised study subjects before the period of observations began, is not only invalid in terms of the ordinary rules of scientific research, but also emphasizes how estranged from reality much of the academic, drug-oriented research industry has become. An important organization like Fight Against Cancer ought to have reconsidered, before they so sent out so serious a misinformation as a Christmas present to the Danish people, because there is massive and growing documentation, that high dose Vitamin C (2-100 gram) is one of the most important weapons we have in the fight against cancer.

Research results over the last 40 years have shown that Vitamin C:
• prevents many forms for cancer
• inhibits tumor growth in animal studies
• improves the effect with many forms of chemotherapy
• is cytotoxic for cancer cells in sufficiently elevated concentrations
• is practically speaking without side effects at even the highest intravenous concentrations
• enhances the immune response (activation of killer cell, lymphocyte formation)
• is the only nutrient which has been repeatedly shown to increase life expectancy, when taken in doses that exceed the recommended daily requirement (100 mg).

What did the study itself measure?
The Danish study was a case-control investigation, where 24,697 menopausal women were observed over 4.7 years with a view to analyzing the relation between vitamin ingestion (A, C, E) and the development of breast cancer. Every time there was a subject in the database, who developed breast cancer, a control person was selected of the same age. All together 418 cases of breast cancer were registered in relation to 394 kontrols. The reason there were fewer controls was, that the control subjects did not always take supplements. Therefore the research team had to use the same control for several breast cancer cases.

For the results of a scientific study to prove causation, it is normally one of the criteria , that there are two clearly defined groups, similiar to each other in all important ways except exposure to the alleged harmful agent. The one group is exposed and the other is not. This is called randomization. In this study that condition is not met, because both breast cancer cases and controls are exposed to vitamin C ingestion through diet and supplement.

This is one of the reasons that case-control studies are known to be extremely vulnerable for confounders; that is, decisive factors that influence the outcome . You can adjust for confounders that are known, but you cannot adjust for those that are unknown. According to experts in statistics, the relative risk for case-control studies must be at least greater than 3 before one can claim to have compensated for hidden confounders.

In the Danish study the relative risk is 2,06 per 100 mg for dietary-vitamin C; 1.06, if vitamin C is ingested as a supplement; and 1.10 with the two calculated together. The strength of the association between exposure (vitamin C) and the adverse outcome (breast cancer) is therefore weak. If the relative risk had been 1.00, breast cancer would be no more likely to occur with or without the alleged harmful cause. It is therefore a question of such marginally small statistical measurements, that it would not have taken much to get a completely different result.

Does the study make biological sense?
The research result is unimportant in terms of known biological mechansims, but is emphasized as being important, ”...the first of its type”. Actually, the interpretation of the result represents a misuse of statistics.

Imagine, for example, that women predisposed to breast cancer because of genetic vulnerability, smoking, pesticides in food and water together with other forms of chemical pollution and free radical stress (just to mention several confounders not measured in the study), begin to include more fruit and vegetables in their diet as well as vitamin C as a supplement. Later, they develop cancer anyway.

Senior researcher Anne Tjønneluund would argue, that increased ingestion of vitamin C has increased the risk for breast cancer. A more intelligible explanation would be, that the risk for breast cancer has increased with increasing ingestion of toxic pesticides. Vitamin C- containing fruit and vegetables can be very polluted depending on where they are grown. Apart from this, pesticides are filled with estrogen-like chemicals , which are known to cause cancer, especially in the female breast, where diverse toxins accumulate in fat cells that are found close to milk-producing cells.

It is much more probable and logical from the biological knowledge we have today, that vitamin C has helped the breast cancer cases to prevent og fight the disease. Vitamin C is known to stimulate the immune system, detoxify cancer causing chemicals together as well as protect our DNA fra mutations injuries. Both chemo- and radiation therapy cause cancer. High dose vitamin C protects the patient against these side effects and at the same time enhances their cytotoxic effect. Undersigned would be glad to document this for interested colleagues.

What is the conclusion?
The true relation between vitamin C and cancer has been turned on its head. The leadership of Fight Against Cancer has chosen to ignore a vast body of research results, which show high dose vitamin C’s importance as a life-prolonging, cancer cell-destroying, immune-enhancing cancer agent. Instead a pseudo-scientific conclusion has been passed off in the mass media as a warning to an unsuspecting public. Their press statement is not only misinformation of the worst type, but is potentially to the detriment of Danish women, who might take the study’s results seriously and avoid taking vitamin C.

One can only hope that Fight Against Cancer gets new people in the organization, who are more receptive to to the enormous information, that is, for instance, to be found on the internet and in the development of holistic science over the past decades. For a more truthful information than that which is presently found on Fight Against Cancer’s website, it is recommended that interested individuals investigate the relation between vitamin C and cancer on the following websites:

from : http://www.holistic-medicine.dk/artikler/c_vitamin_e.htm