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expert talk
Q. What treatments are available for fibromyalgia?
A. The conventional treatment of fibromyalgia is emphasizing on treating symptoms by using different medications and physical therapy, such as a stretching exercise combined with hot/cold therapy for pain. Alternative treatment, such as acupuncture, may be effective for fibromyalgia pain management. Research from the Mayo Clinic has shown acupuncture significantly improved symptoms of this complicated condition.
According to the principle of oriental medicine, the fibromyalgia syndrome is viewed as a disease condition belonging to the category of Bi syndrome. This is also known as obstructive pain syndrome. If certain energy pathways (meridians) in the body are affected due to invasion of the pathogenic factors such as heat, wind and cold, the flow of vital energy also known as Qi (chi) is blocked or disrupted, which weaken the body’s immune and selfdefense function. The blockage of Qi leads to the chronic pain symptoms of the muscles, tendons and the joints. Acupuncture helps to relieve pain of fibromyalgia syndrome. There are variable forms of fibromyalgia symptoms. Some unique acupuncture points are chosen to manage symptoms of fibromyalgia. There are acupuncture points for fatigue, depression, trouble sleeping, joint pain, numbness and other associated signs and symptoms seen in fibromyalgia.
Q. My son is having trouble learning
in school. How can I tell if he needs glasses or a reading tutor?
A. Because vision and learning are so intimately connected, vision problems can be easily mistaken for learning problems. Correctable vision issues are often misdiagnosed as learning disabilities, ADHD or dyslexia. As many as 40 percent of all children with learning disabilities have vision problems and are misdiagnosed. Only a complete eye exam, done by an optometrist, can truly diagnose a vision-related learning issue. Glasses are helpful for some vision problems, but vision is more than seeing 20/20. Learning to read involves accurate eye movements, focusing and binocularity. As a result, learning is difficult if any of these systems are not functioning at an optimum level. Vision-related learning problems are often unidentified right away, and the person who is suffering from them might not even know. Signs and symptoms can include: *Skipping or re-reading of lines *Using a finger while reading *Closing or covering an eye *Seeing double-vision *Avoiding close-up work. This list is not comprehensive, and children have the best chance to succeed when their families seek proper eye care with an eye professional.
According to the National Institute of Health, acupuncture works by enhancing the pain control mechanism of the brain. During treatment, certain pain control hormones, such as opioid and endorphins are increased naturally inside the brain and reduce pain sensation.
The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not for use in diagnosing any condition. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding any possible medical condition.
–Dr. Qiu Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network 623.972.8400
– Dr. Feis Midwestern University Eye Institute 623.537.6000
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May 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
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