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Monday, February 25, 2013

Bell's Palsy and Acupuncture

 

Good Morning!

Bell's Palsy and Acupuncture

Bell's palsy is a form of facial paralysis resulting from damage to the VII (facial) cranial nerve. This nerve disorder afflicts approximately 40,000 Americans each year. It can strike almost anyone at any age; however, it disproportionately attacks pregnant women and people who have diabetes, influenza, a cold, or some other upper respiratory ailment.

In addition to one-sided facial paralysis with possible inability to close the eye, symptoms of Bell's palsy may include pain, tearing, drooling, hypersensitivity to sound in the affected ear, and impairment of taste.

The common cold sore virus, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and other herpes viruses are the likely cause of many cases of Bell's palsy. HSV has been observed in saliva (Furuta, Fukuda et al. 1998) as well as muscle biopsy and tears (Kaygusuz, Godekmerdan et al. 2004) of Bell's palsy patients at significantly higher rates than control groups. One study found that approximately 50% of Bell's palsy patients show signs of the virus compared to approximately 19% of the normal population (Furuta, Fukuda et al. 1998). However, an opposing trial found HSV as well as VZV to be non-significantly represented in affected groups (Linder, Bossart et al. 2005). The life span of the virus and the timing of testing for HSV may explain these conflicting conclusions. Furuta (1998) discovered in his trial that HSV became undetectable after two weeks onset of Bell's palsy. The evidence suggesting HSV as the major cause of this condition is demonstrated further by the success of specific antiviral agents which have shown continued success against HSV infections (Adour, Ruboyianes et al. 1996; Allen and Dunn 2004; Allen and Dunn 2005). Furthermore, injections into rat specimens with HSV have recreated facial paralysis in approximate 50% of specimens (Gok, Alpay et al. 2005).

In Western medicine, recent studies have shown that steroids are probably effective and that the drug acyclovir combined with prednisone is possibly effective in improving facial function. This is now the protocol of choice for Western doctors.

Other treatments are usually aimed at protecting the eye from drying at nighttime. Some physicians may prescribe a corticosteroid drug to help reduce inflammation and an analgesic to relieve pain.

The prognosis for Bell's palsy is generally very good. With the Western Medicine approach of drug treatment, most patients begin to get significantly better within 3-4 weeks, and about 80 percent recover completely within 3 months. For some, however, the symptoms may last longer. In a few cases, the symptoms may never completely disappear. The odds with electrostim-acupuncture are much higher. Treatment started with a week of the event, can improve the symptoms with 6 visits with complete recovery and normal facial symmetry within 12 -14 visits. The longer a persons goes without treatment, the longer the recovery time.

Acupuncture Therapy

I treat Bell's Palsy in my practice all the time, as acupuncture gets incredible results. My choice of protocol is electro-stimulation acupuncture. This effectively stimulates the facial nerves on a deeper level than TENS, electro-pads or anti-viral medications alone. I have found that approximately 12-14 treatments are needed to return the face back to its normal look and feel. This form of acupuncture stops pain, relaxes the facial paralysis, brings the feeling back through the nerve endings, stops the drooling and tearing and helps the eye close again. This protocol essentially returns the face back to normal in one-third the time of any other treatment I have seen for this disorder.

Bell's Palsy (Zhong Feng) is considered a Wind Attack or External Wind Stroke attack. The main pattern differentiation being a Wind invasion due to emptiness of the Channels (Maclean and Lyttleton 1998). In Chinese Medicine, Wind is said to be the carrier of 1,000 diseases. Wind is thought to take advantage of the deficiency (weakness) a patient is experiencing and enters the body attacking the sinews and vessels in the area of the face. This results in vital energy (Qi) and the blood to stagnate causing the inability of the facial muscles to relax and therefore contract (Wolfe 2003). The principle of treatment is to expel Wind and promote the movement of Qi and blood by scattering the stagnation.

More times than not, the patient that walks into my office is often, under great stress! They are either dealing with work related stress, having difficulties in their home or family life and are often the type A personality.

As I work in the area of fertility, it is the occasional pregnant patient that will present with this disorder, as well.

Patients who come in for treatment of Bell's Palsy will often tell me they sleep with a fan on them (wind) or near an open window. I seem to get a flux of Bell's patients in the office in the Spring and Fall more than any other seasons.

Bell's Palsy is the most common disease of the facial nerve. It is presumably due to an inflammatory reaction in or around the facial nerve near the stylomastoid foramen. According to Liu (1995), when acupuncture was initiated within three days postonset in 684 cases of facial nerve paralysis, 100 percent of the patients were cured or there was a marked improvement (5). Other studies (Gao, Chen, 1991) revealed that 80% of cases that were treated at more than 2 months post-onset, and 83 percent of severe cases, were cured or had excellent effect (6). Treatment, as with this patient, may include numerous diagnostic procedures, different classes of medications, lifestyle alterations, and still, continued suffering. Acupuncture may often lead to significant clinical improvement (7).

Acupuncture points used in this protocol include Stomach 2,3,4,5,6,7 Bitong, Large Intestine 19, 20, Small intestine 18, Gall Bladder 14, 20, YuYao, San Jiao 17, Du 26, Du 20, Urinary Bladder 2, JiaChengJiang, Yintang, TaiYang, Stomach 36, Gall Bladder 34, Liver 3, Large Intestine 4, Lung 7, San Jiao 5 and Spleen 6.

Herbal Therapy

For patients who are not pregnant, an herbal formula is recommended based on their pattern and signs and symptoms. The most important herbs for this disorder should include herbs to treat wind attack and anti-viral herbs such as Qin Jiao, Fang Feng, Xi Xin, Bai Shao, Di Long, Fu Ling, Gan Cao, Chuan Xiong, Pu Gong Ying, Dang Gui.

Variations on this formula are important to change as the patient's situation change.

In conclusion, Bell's palsy is a physical and emotionally debilitating condition in which conventional medicine has limited understanding and efficacy. The exposure to external sources (stress, environment) cause the immune system to produce an inflammatory response. This inflammation can then obstruct the normal function of the nerves and vessels resulting in paralysis. Chinese medicine has treated conditions such as Bell's palsy for centuries. Chinese medicine and acupuncture on a regular basis can significantly improve results and help to resolve this condition.

Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac
http://www.proacumed.com
The Purveyors of Healthy Qi

References

1. O'Connor J, Bensky D. Acupuncture a comprehensive text. Seattle: Eastland Press 1981; 367-372.
2. Ibid, 609-610.
3. Stux G, Pomeranz B. Acupuncture textbook and atlas. Berlin: Springer-Verlag 1987; 296.
4. Evans RA, Hames ML, Baguley DM, Moffat DA. Reliability of the House and Brackmann grading system for facial palsy. J Laryngol Otol Nov 1989; 103(11): 1045.
5. Liu YT. A new classification system and combined treatment method for idiopathic facial nerve paralysis: report of 718 cases. Am JAcup 1995; 23(3),205-210.
6. Gao HB, Chen D. Clinic al observation on 60 cases of peripheral facial paralysis treated with acupointure penetration needling. Int J Clin Acup 1991; 2(1),25-28.
7. NIH Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, Nov 1997; 93-109.
8. Gok, U., H. C. Alpay, et al. (2005). "Comparisons of steroid, acyclovir, lipoprostoglandin E1 and steroid + acyclovir treatments in facial paralysis: A rat study." International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology 69(9): 1199-1204.
9. Grogan, P. and G. Gronseth (2004). "Practice parameter: Steroids, acyclovir, and surgery for Bell's palsy (an evidence-based review): Report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology." Neurology 56(7): 830-836.
10. Hato, N., S. Matsumoto, et al. (2003). "Efficacy of early treatment of Bell's palsy with oral acyclovir and prednisolone." Otology & Neurotology: Official Publication Of The American Otological Society, American Neurotology Society [And] European Academy Of Otology And Neurotology 24(6): 948-951.
11. He, L., D. Zhou, et al. (2004). "Acupuncture for Bell's palsy." Cochrane Database Syst Rev(1): CD002914.
12. He, S., H. Zhang, et al. (1995). "Review on acupuncture treatment of peripheral facial paralysis during the past decade." Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 15(1): 63-67.


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[AlternativeAnswers] Stephanie........

 

GOD BLESS DEAR ONE!  I will get to it tomorrow with my shopping! I do appreciate.
Rita

>________________________________
> From: Stephanie Miller journeyintolife2006@yahoo.com>
>To: "AlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.com" AlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.com>
>Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2013 11:30 AM
>Subject: Re: [AlternativeAnswers] Muscle cramps and tension
>
>

>Rita, I take for my own muscle cramping, Magnesium Citrate Complex 400mg. capsule once in morning and again at bedtime. Hope this helps you like it has helped me. I am not the only one it has helped my elderly parents take it, and it improves their symptoms as well. If it cause too much diarhea, then only take one daily at night. Take CAre of yourself and God Bless You. Sincerely, Stephanie
>
>From: Rita Childers rchilders36@yahoo.com>
>To: "AlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.comAlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.com>
>Sent: Wednesday, February 20, 2013 3:04 PM
>Subject: Re: [AlternativeAnswers] The Primary Functions of CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)
>

>Sir, I do hope you can help with my problems. I have numb legs during night time sleep, once I get up and have coffee etc. they are fine , no pain...also I have muscle cramping in all muscles of my body...awake or asleep. I am 82 yrs old and my health is fair, I have bouts of asthma,,pulse a bit rapid pulse, had "graves disease" 30 yrs or more , was taken care of with a "radioactive capsule," slightly high blood pressure, Dr. has me on 1 bp pill a day.
>When my husband passed away in 2007 Dr. put me on effxor 150, klonopin ,which helps me sleep .I fell 2 yrs ago and tore all the way thru., my left rotator cup...part of right one..I function fine if I am careful.
>
>I realize this is really a lot to ask,but I do have complete confidence in what you have written and really enjoy the website with all the naturals" and info.
>
>Hopefully in advance" a huge THANK YOU and GOD BLESS.
>Rita L. Childers
>
>>________________________________
>> From: Andrew Pacholyk mailto:yogiguruji%40aol.com>
>>To: mailto:AlternativeAnswers%40yahoogroups.com
>>Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 5:19 AM
>>Subject: [AlternativeAnswers] The Primary Functions of CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)
>>
>>
>> 
>>Good Morning!
>>
>>The Primary Functions of CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)
>>
>>CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is a vitamin-like compound also called ubiquinone. It is an essential component of cells and is utilized by the mitochondria in the normal process of energy production. It helps convert food into energy at a cellular level. Coenzyme Q10 acts as an antioxidant, much like vitamins C and E, helping to neutralize the cell-damaging molecules known as free radicals. CoQ10 is one in a series of ubiquinones, naturally occurring compounds produced in nearly every cell of the body, and was discovered as recently as 1957.
>>
>>The primary function of CoQ10 is as a catalyst for metabolism. Acting in conjunction with enzymes, the compound speeds up the vital metabolic process, providing the energy that the cells need to digest food, heal wounds, maintain healthy muscles, and perform other bodily functions. It is especially abundant in the energy-intensive cells of the heart, helping this organ beat more than 100,000 times each day. [38,40].
>>
>>CoQ10 may play a role in preventing cancer, heart attacks, and other diseases linked to free-radical damage. It's also used as a general energy enhancer and anti-aging supplement. Because levels of the compound diminish with age (and with certain diseases), some doctors recommend daily supplementation beginning about age 40. CoQ10 has generated much excitement as a possible therapy for heart disease, especially congestive heart failure or a weakened heart. [39].
>>
>>In some studies, patients with a poorly functioning heart have been found to improve greatly after adding the supplement to their conventional drugs and therapies. [35, 36] Other studies have shown that people with cardiovascular disease have low levels of this substance in their heart. [38,39,40].
>>
>>Further research suggest that CoQ10 may protect against blood clots, lower high blood pressure, diminish irregular heartbeats, treat mitral valve prolapse, lessen symptoms of Raynaud's disease and relieve chest pains (angina). [40, 41, 42]
>>
>>CoQ10 also appears to aid healing and reduce pain and bleeding in those with gum disease, and speed recovery following oral surgery. [43] CoQ10 shows some promise against Parkinson's [44] and Alzheimer's Diseases [45] and fibromyalgia. [46].
>>
>>For daily supplementation, the dosage range is from 30 - 100 mg, with the most common dosage at 30 mg. It takes up to eight weeks to see results with CoQ10.
>>
>>INTERACTIONS:Certain medications may have beneficial or harmful interactions with coenzyme Q10:
>>
>>- Atorvastatin (Depletion or interference)
>>- Doxorubicin (Side effect reduction/prevention)
>>- Fluvastatin (Depletion or interference)
>>- Gemfibrozil (Depletion or interference *)
>>- Lovastatin (Depletion or interference)
>>- Perphenazine (Side effect reduction/prevention *)
>>- Pravastatin (Depletion or interference)
>>- Propranolol (Depletion or interference *)
>>- Simvastatin (Depletion or interference)
>>-Thioridazine (Side effect reduction/prevention)
>>- Timolol (Side effect reduction/prevention)
>>- Tricyclic Antidepressants (Depletion or interference *)
>>- Warfarin (Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability)
>>
>>The use of Warfarin and coenzyme Q-10 together increases your risk of excessive bleeding. Coenzyme Q-10 may reduce the effectiveness of some chemotherapy. Some drugs, such as those used to lower cholesterol (lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin), blood sugar (glyburide, tolazamide) and blood pressure (beta blockers such as Inderal, Lopressor), can alter coenzyme Q-10's effectiveness. Also, people with diabetes should be aware that coenzyme Q-10 may decrease their need for insulin.
>>
>>Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac
>>http://www.peacefulmind.com/anti-aging.htm
>>Therapies for healing
>>mind, body, spirit
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
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Re:Re: periodontal disease

 

Diane...
Did you have bleeding gums?
Thanks

DM


In a message dated 2/21/2013 8:44:24 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
Boonight@aol.com writes:

I bought white oak bark powder do not recall where. I rub it on my gums at
bedtime and leave it on. It is gritty, but it worked for me.

Diane

In a message dated 2/21/2013 3:28:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
_barbara.barbaella@gmail.com_ (mailto:barbara.barbaella@gmail.com) writes:

Thank you very much fr the in sights on healing my periodontal disease I
will try some of them ,how do you use the white oak bark?

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