Cauterization (Thermopuncture, Moxotherapy). Moxibustion of biologically active points Moxibustion oriental medicine

Moxibustion (CMJ) is a therapeutic method based on the effect of heat on acupuncture points. Since ancient times, moxibustion has been used in conjunction with acupuncture, which complement each other. Therefore, in the 73rd chapter of Ling Shu it is said:

“Diseases that cannot be cured by acupuncture are treated by moxibustion.”

9.1. MOXICATION PROPERTIES AND MATERIALS

When carrying out cauterization, the so-called moxa wool is used, which is dried and crushed wormwood powder. In the “New Edition of Medical Medicine” there is the following description of wormwood:

“Mugwort leaves are bitter and pungent in taste, when used in small quantities they create heat, and when used in large quantities they create intense heat. By nature, wormwood is a true Yang and has the ability to restore Yang when it is depleted. It can open the twelve main channels, pass through the three YIN channels to regulate QI and blood, remove dampness and cold, warm the uterus, stop bleeding, regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve the fetus... When burned, it penetrates all channels, eliminating hundreds of diseases "

This quote shows the main properties of moxibustion and the reason for using wormwood in this procedure.
Basic properties cauterizations are as follows:
1. Warming up the channels and expelling the cold. Stagnation of chi and blood in the channels is usually caused by the introduction of pathogenic cold into them. Cauterization, by warming up the channels, normalizes blood flow and circulation of chi in them. Moreover, in the 75th chapter of Ling Shu it is said:

“If stagnation of blood in the vessels cannot be relieved with cauterization, it cannot be cured with acupuncture.”

2. Normalization of the current of chi and blood. Cauterization causes a smooth flow of chi and blood up and down. For example, cauterization of a point located on the sole is used in the treatment of diseases manifested by excess in the upper part of the body and deficiency in the lower part. Chapter 64 of Ling Shu says:

“When there is excess chi in the upper part of the body, it can be brought down by cauterizing the points located in the lower part of the body.”

If there are disorders due to a deficiency in the upper part and an excess of it at the bottom, then you can force the Chi to rise upward by cauterizing the point located on the top of the head.
3. Restoration of Yang from collapse. Wormwood, in addition to its warming effect, has the power of yang, which is successfully used in the treatment of symptoms of yang collapse, such as loss of consciousness and coldness of the extremities.
4. Preventive action. It has long been known that in order to maintain health and longevity, in addition to physical exercise, you should do cauterization of points. in the first 10 days of the new lunar month. In addition, the “Notes on the Cauterization of Bian Chue” says:

There are two main methods used in moxibustion: moxibustion with moxa cones and moxibustion with moxa cigarettes (Fig.).

Moxa cones are prepared as follows. Place a small amount of dry wormwood powder on the tray and press it into a cone shape on three sides with your fingers. It should be compressed tightly enough so that it does not crumble during combustion. Moxa cones come in various sizes: the smallest are the size of a grain of wheat, the rare ones are the size of half a date pit, and the largest are the size of the end phalanx of the thumb (i.e., about 1 cm high and 0.8 cm in diameter). Small and medium cones are used for direct cauterization, and large cones for indirect cauterization.
It is not recommended to make large cones, as they begin to crumble - it is better to prepare two normal-sized cones than one twice as large.
Clinically, one cauterization unit is considered to be a cone that burns at approximately 2/3 of its height. Cauterization of points usually requires 1-3 cones.
Preparationmoxa cigarettes.
Take a sheet of tissue paper measuring 20x2cm, roll the moxa powder into a tight roll about 1.5cm in diameter and place it in the paper, which after wrapping the moxa, glue it with egg white. But it is best to prepare moxa cigarettes in special detachable sleeves, filling them tightly with moxa powder.

In addition to moxa cigarettes made from pure moxa, there are a large number of special official moxa cigarettes, sometimes having a very complex multi-component composition. Depending on the patient’s condition and the characteristics of the disease, doctors often compose recipes for the preparations themselves or add the necessary additives to official moxa cigarettes.

9.2. TYPES OF CAUTION

There are three main methods of moxibustion: moxa cone, moxa cigarette and warming up the needle.

9.2.1. CAUTION WITH MOXA CONE

Moxibustion using a moxa cone can be direct, when the cone is placed directly on the skin and set on fire, and indirect, when some kind of spacer is placed between the skin and the cone.

1. Direct cauterization has two varieties - with scar formation and without scar formation. Cauterization without scar formation is carried out as follows: a cone is placed on the skin, set on fire, and when the patient begins to feel a burning sensation or slight pain, it is removed and a new one is placed. This is repeated several times and usually about 2/3 of the cone burns out. Typically, such a procedure takes 3-5 large cones. There should be no burn blisters, much less suppuration or scars after the procedure. Sessions of such moxibustion are usually done every other day.

Cauterization with scar formation, also called “cauterization with suppuration,” is carried out as follows: a little garlic or onion juice is dripped onto the skin so that the cone sticks better, a small cone is placed, set on fire and completely burned. The procedure is repeated up to 5-10 times until local hyperemia and a bubble are formed. After opening the bladder, it festeres and an ulcer forms, after healing of which a scar remains. This method is currently rarely used and its indications are some chronic diseases, such as bronchial asthma, gastritis. Treatment at one point is repeated no more than two times. During one session, only 1-2 points are used.

2. Indirect cauterization classified by the type of gasket between the moxa cone and the skin, and there are 4 main types of gaskets:
A) Moxibustion with ginger : A piece of ginger about 5mm thick is made with many holes and placed between the cone and the skin. As the cone burns, the patient begins to feel warmth and burning, and the doctor replaces the ginger and cone with new ones, and the procedure continues until a distinct hyperemia is achieved. A session usually requires 3-5 large cones; sessions can be done every other day. This method is mainly used to treat weakened spleen and stomach syndromes, joint pain, and Yang Chi deficiency.
b) Cauterization through garlic: A clove of garlic, about 5mm thick, is prepared in the same way as a clove of ginger and placed between the cone and the skin. The moxibustion procedure is similar to ginger. The method is used to remove tumors, poisons from snake and insect bites, tuberculosis, and in the early stages of boils. The method is contraindicated in febrile patients.
V) Cauterization with salt It is usually used on a point located in the navel. Fine salt is poured into the navel up to the level of the skin and a large moxa cone is placed on it. If the navel is convex (for example, with ascites), then a roll of raw dough about 1 cm high is first made around it and salt is poured into it, and the minimum thickness of the salt layer between the navel and the cone should not be less than 5 mm. This method is used for abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, collapse of the urinary tract, accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity (in the latter case, cauterization is carried out for up to 2 hours).
d) Cauterization through aconite (wrestler): aconite powder is mixed with a small amount of wine or garlic juice and formed into a cake, which is pierced in several places and placed between the cone and the skin. The further procedure is similar to moxibustion using ginger. This method is used only for YIN deficiency and persistent cold syndromes, manifested by impotence, emissions and frigidity.

9.2.2. CAUTION WITH MOXA CIGARETTE

This method is now used more often than moxibustion with moxa cones. When performing cauterization with moxa cigarettes, it is easy to control the intensity of skin heating and the duration of the procedure. There are three main methods of moxibustion with moxa cigarettes:
1. Thermal cauterization: The moxa cigarette is held at a distance of about 3 cm above the selected point, and the patient should feel a slight warmth. The procedure continues for 5-10 minutes until the skin turns red. This method is used for deficiency syndromes. Cauterization should not be forced - in this case we mean light stimulation, so the patient’s sensations should not go beyond pleasant warmth.
2. Pecking cauterization: lit cigarette quickly<клюет» над точкой, не касаясь, однако, кожи. Она может также совершать при этом круговые движения вокруг точки. Этот метод используется в основном при артритах, поносах, болях в животе и при неправильном положении плода.
3. Ironing cauterization: a lit cigarette moves up and down along the channel at a distance of approximately 1 cm above the skin. This method is used for stagnation of chi in the channels due to cold and dampness, for BI syndrome and pain.

9.2.3. CAUTION THROUGH A NEEDLE

Needle moxibustion is a combined method of acupuncture and moxibustion. After inserting the needle to a given depth and the arrival of the chi, the needle is warmed up in several ways (Fig.), or a special needle with a cup at the end is immediately inserted. In this case, the patient experiences a feeling of warmth around the point, which spreads along the canal. To prevent possible burns from falling ash, it is recommended to place a piece of cardboard with a cutout to the middle under the needle. This method achieves heating of the channels, acceleration of the flow of chi and blood. It is used mainly for pain in the joints caused by cold and dampness, for stiffness of the limbs and paralysis.

SOME SPECIAL METHODS OF MOXICATION

The clinic sometimes uses some special methods of cauterization, of which I would like to focus on the following:
1. Wick cauterization: a wooden stick about 5 mm thick is lowered into the oil and set on fire. Then she quickly. touches the selected point, and a cracking sound is clearly heard. This method is used for the treatment and prevention of mumps by cauterization of points and (er-men TK.23.?)
2. Wax cauterization: the wax is softened to a tolerable temperature and placed on the point, after which the area is wrapped to retain heat. The effectiveness of this cauterization method in the treatment of bone tuberculosis by applying wax to the external opening of the fistula is described. Instead of wax, you can use paraffin.
3. Sulfur cauterization: A small number of small sulfur crystals scatter over the affected area. Then a lighted stick is held over the skin at a distance of 1 cm, the sulfur crystals ignite and are immediately extinguished with a rubber sponge, so that no burn is formed. This method is described for the treatment of arthritis of the elbow joint (“tennis elbow”).

9.3. MOXICATION SEQUENCE

The sequence of exposure to cauterization points is in principle similar to acupuncture. So, the back is treated first, and then the stomach and chest; first the head, and then the torso and limbs. Older and frail patients usually require fewer cones; Cauterization for children is performed only with large cones with careful monitoring of the patient.

9.4. CONTRAINDICATIONS TO CAUTION

General contraindications include excess and fever syndromes (including false fever syndromes). Cauterization with a scar is not performed on the head and face, in the joint area and over large vessels. The treatise “Zhen Jiu Da Cheng” contains a number of points, the cauterization of which is undesirable or contraindicated, but some of them are successfully used in practice (table). Pregnant women should not cauterize points on the abdomen and lumbosacral region.

Points not recommended and prohibited for cauterization.

Channels	Points
Lungs	; ; ;
Large intestine	;
Stomach	; ; ; ; ; ;

Acupuncture and moxibustion are two different therapeutic approaches that treat various diseases:

1. Acupuncture is the treatment of a disease by influencing biologically active points of the body by sticking (entering) various types of needles into them.

2. Moxibustion methods are the process of burning the moxa plant (wood) over specific acupuncture points of the body. "

Although acupuncture and moxibustion are often used together to treat ailments ranging from various internal ailments in the body to gynecological and pediatric diseases, acupuncture and moxibustion are two different therapeutic approaches in the treatment of various diseases.

Acupuncture treats diseases by puncturing acupuncture points on the body with various types of needles. But when cauterizing, certain moxa plants (wood) are set on fire and held over certain points of the body. Despite the differences in the equipment and materials used, the end result of the treatment and prophylactic procedures is similar.

Stimulating the body's major acupuncture points and channels improves the circulation of qi and blood through vital channels. The expected results often come quickly, with virtually no side effects.

The places where needles are inserted or heat (moxibustion) is applied are known as acupuncture points. By concentrating all your attention on certain points, you can get different effects and responses in the corresponding parts of the body. The discovery of these points and their stimulation led to the creation and implementation of the theory of channels and collaterals. Previously, acupuncturists believed that irritation (stimulation) with a needle at a certain point would affect other parts of the body in a given area. Impact on different acupuncture sites will also lead to similar results. Thus, acupuncturists studied the relationship between these points and developed the theory of channels and collaterals.

The vertically arranged "mainways" were described by ancient physicians as "canals", while the major and minor branches of these "canals" were designated "collaterals". In general, this network can be defined as consisting of 12 channels, 15 collaterals and 8 emergency (auxiliary) channels. This network extends throughout the body and connects various points of the body.

The points that form this network have been studied and discovered one by one during the long history of acupuncture and moxibustion. Archaeological excavations and historical data show that impressive results were obtained at the very beginning of the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). The earliest advances in acupuncture and moxibustion were recorded by Shima Qian in Shiji (Historical Records), a Han Dynasty historian. Confirmation of this fact is presented in the work “Biography of Bian Que,” a man who brought patients out of coma using the method of acupuncture (acupuncture).

Acupuncture and moxibustion have been popular treatments for thousands of years as a method of preventing and treating disease. These methods are an important and integral fact of Chinese medicine.

Treatment with injections and cauterization of certain points of the body (in Chinese, zhen-tseyu-xue) is one of the most important sections of Chinese traditional medicine. Acupuncture (acupuncture) and moxibustion (moxa) have been used in China for several millennia. This method of treatment owes its origin to the exceptional observation and hard work of Chinese doctors. Already in ancient times, it was noticed that wounds, cuts or injections into certain points of the body significantly alleviate the course of a number of diseases or completely cure certain ailments. For example, injections into the Achilles tendon relieve a person of headaches, injections into the upper lip can bring the patient out of fainting, and inserting needles into the back of the hand, at the base of the 1st and 2nd fingers, relieves insomnia.

The oldest Chinese medical treatises indicate that even in primitive society, along with some medicinal substances, treatment with injections (at that time they used stone needles) and cauterization was used. Only in the 4th-3rd centuries BC were stone needles replaced by metal ones, and for cauterization they began to use lumps, cones or candles (cigarettes) made from dried herbs (mainly wormwood).

The methods of Zhen Ju therapy were described in detail in the already mentioned monument of ancient Chinese medicine

Huang Di Nei-ching. In the 3rd century AD, the famous acupuncturist Huang Fu-mi, relying on the experience of his predecessors, wrote a treatise on acupuncture and moxibustion - Dia-i-Ching, which consisted of 12 volumes, most of which was devoted to determining the localization of points for injections or thermal effects . This is the oldest monograph on Zhen Chiu that has survived to this day.

During the Jin Dynasty (265-588 AD), treatment with injections and cauterization became a special branch of traditional medicine. Due to the fact that the methods of acupuncture and moxa were continuously improved, especially during the Tang and Song dynasties (VI-XIII centuries), and at the same time their use in medical practice was steadily expanding, the largest number of special works published at that time were devoted to acupuncture and moxibustion . So, in 1026, during the Song Dynasty (960-1276), the book Tong-ren-shu-xue-zhen-ju (Atlas of the Bronze Man's Points) appeared, which described in detail how to find places for injections on the body or cauterization. The author Wang Wei-de applied to a bronze statue of a man specially cast for this purpose all the points known at that time (more than 600 points were already described in detail), described each of them in detail and noted what effect the use of acupuncture or moxibustion gives on those or other parts of the body. This statue and the atlas of points were widely used for practical training and when passing exams in acupuncture.

After that, a special profile of acupuncture and moxibustion was created in the Chinese traditional medicine teaching system. The method of acupuncture, which has been improved over thousands of years and has given good therapeutic effects for many diseases, has gained great popularity in China. Only during the years of the Kuomintang regime was this method of treatment rejected as unscientific; puncture doctors were boycotted and even persecuted.

In 1944, Mao Tse-tung called on doctors with modern specialized education to cooperate with representatives of traditional medicine and, in particular, to study and further improve the techniques of Zhen Ju therapy. Already at that time, injection treatment became widespread in the liberated areas of the country. After the proclamation of the People's Republic, the Institute of Zhen-Jiu Therapy was organized. In 1954, special departments or rooms were created at hospitals, clinics, outpatient clinics and other medical institutions where they treat with injections and cauterization, and training courses for relevant specialists were also organized.

Currently, in order to master and put into practice some of the most effective techniques of Zhen Ju therapy and to promote their widespread dissemination, these treatment methods are already included in the curriculum of medical schools.

Zhen Ju therapy methods are used by doctors in many countries, and they have gained the greatest popularity in Japan and other Eastern countries, where they are subject to careful study.

Chinese, Japanese and other scientists are conducting research work to study the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on various body functions. In experiments on animals, they achieved well-known results that prove the positive effect of these treatment methods. Acupuncture and moxibustion are also being studied in France, Hungary, the USSR and other countries. Recently, international scientific conferences on Zhen Ju therapy have begun to be convened, and special journals on acupuncture and moxibustion have been published.

In recent years, the methods of Zhen Ju therapy have begun to be studied in depth by Soviet doctors. Using the latest advances in the field of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology and other sciences, based on careful clinical observations and experimental studies, it is possible to obtain a reliable understanding of the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on the peripheral and central nervous system, etc. in particular, on the cerebral cortex, metabolism, the activity of the endocrine glands, respiratory organs, blood circulation and digestion, and on the protective function of the body.

Through the joint efforts of Chinese and Soviet scientists and doctors, we hope to successfully resolve many of the theoretical problems of Zhen Jute Therapy in the near future.

A study of the effectiveness of Zhen Ju therapy in a clinical setting has shown that in some cases it gives encouraging results in the treatment of certain diseases of the internal and, in particular, digestive organs (acute and chronic inflammation of the stomach and intestines, peptic ulcers, functional disorders of the stomach and intestines), diseases organs: respiratory (acute and chronic bronchitis, etc.), cardiovascular system (hypertension), nervous diseases (trigeminal neuralgia, convulsions, paresis and paralysis of the facial and other nerves, sciatica), diseases of the musculoskeletal system (acute and chronic articular and muscular rheumatism). Acupuncture and moxibustion have proven to be an effective remedy in pediatrics, in particular in the treatment of dyspepsia and residual effects after polio, etc., in gynecology - in the treatment of menstrual disorders, in ophthalmology - in the treatment of inflammation of the optic nerve.

Zhen-ju therapy also has an effect in the treatment of tonsillitis and laryngitis, and alleviates the course of infectious diseases such as encephalitis B, etc.

However, it is impossible not to take into account that the techniques of acupuncture and moxa, passed on by folk doctors from generation to generation, are exceptionally diverse, and each technique has its own advantages. To clarify the effectiveness of certain techniques and the scope of their application in medical practice, further in-depth research is necessary.

Significant work has been done in this direction recently. The study of various techniques of Zhen-Jiu Therapy in a clinical setting is carried out in China in numerous medical and health institutions, and primarily at the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion at the Central Institute of Chinese Traditional Medicine. more than 10 thousand people suffering from various diseases, most of which were chronic and could not be cured by other methods for a long time. After treatment with acupuncture and moxibustion, the vast majority of patients received relief, and over 40 percent of patients made a complete recovery.

Let us now dwell in some more detail on the technique of acupuncture and moxibustion.

Needles used for injections have different lengths, shapes, thicknesses, and elasticity; Most often, needles made of an alloy of silver or gold with other metals or soft stainless steel are used. The length of the needle ranges from 2 to 12 centimeters, and the choice of shape, thickness, greater or less elasticity depends on the location and nature of the injection, which in turn is determined by the characteristics of the disease being treated with this method.

In ancient China, nine types of needles were used: prismatic, double-edged, round, spear-shaped, needles with two or three blades, with a sharp or blunt end. They were used mainly in three cases: 1) to massage the skin or muscles - needles with a blunt end; 2) for cutting a vessel (bloodletting), skin or muscles (drainage of pus) - lanceolate and spear-shaped needles; 3) for acupuncture in the literal sense of the word - round needles of various lengths, thicknesses and flexibility.

The appearance of various needles is shown on page 27.

Currently, only more or less thin round needles with a sharp or semi-sharp end, up to 10-12 centimeters long are used (these needles are used for injections in the gluteal region, for example, in the treatment of sciatica), needles up to 5 centimeters long for injections into points located on the limbs, chest, abdomen, lower back and back, and finally, short needles up to 2-4 centimeters long - to irritate nerve endings in the skin and superficial muscles and nerves in the head and face.

For superficial injections (mei-hua-zhen) a bunch of ordinary sewing needles is now also used. Sometimes acupuncture is combined with galvanic current passing through needles.

There are three ways to insert needles. The first is to insert the needle while rotating slowly. In this case, thin needles are used; the needle is held with three fingers - thumb, index and middle; introduce it gradually, so

Otherwise, the needle may bend and become difficult to insert.

The second method is a quick superficial injection. In this case, short thin needles are used and held like a pen. This method is usually used when providing emergency care (for fainting, shock or convulsions in children, etc.); the needle is inserted decisively and quickly to a depth of 3-6 millimeters.

The third method of introducing needles comes down to injections followed by rotation. In this case, an elastic, thin and long needle is inserted with a sharp movement into the body 1/2-1 centimeter, and then it is advanced deeper with slow rotational movements until the patient feels a sensation. After this, the needle continues to rotate in place.

After the needle is inserted, it is necessary to find the nerve; in this case, the doctor is guided by the degree of sensitivity and reaction of the patient. The search for the nerve trunk is carried out by further immersion, removal of the needle or puncture. Puncture enhances the force of insertion, withdrawal and rotation of the needle. Usually they puncture in the direction where a strong sensation appears.

If, when the needle is inserted to a certain depth, the patient does not feel anything, then this indicates that the needle has passed by the nerve trunk, and then it needs to be lightly. As soon as the patient has a strong sensation when removing the needle, it continues to be rotated in place. The sensations experienced by the patient depend on the type of disease, the chosen point and method of insertion, rotation and removal of the needle. Thus, in particular, different methods of rotation cause different sensations in the patient. The faster you rotate the needle in place, the greater the irritation. With different

As the needle rotates, the patient experiences a feeling of aching, bloating, numbness, warmth, coldness, sparks jumping, etc.

Leaving the needles in the body is used in cases where the inserted needle reaches a certain depth and its rotation causes unbearable irritation, if, with prolonged rotation of the needle, the patient’s sensation has disappeared, if the needle penetrates the tissue without any resistance, without causing any sensation in the patient. In this case, the needle is left motionless for 2-3 minutes, and then rotational movements are made again. If the muscle is in a state of tension, the needle should be left motionless until the muscle relaxes. The main purpose of leaving a needle in the body (often for 20-30 minutes or longer) is to treat cramps or pain.

The term cauterization reflects the techniques that existed in ancient times, when lumps of smoldering substance in the form of cones made from dried wormwood fibers or other material were applied to certain places on the patient’s skin. As a result of cauterization, a bubble appeared on the skin, and then a scab formed.

Currently, this method of cauterization has been abandoned. Instead of cigarettes, wormwood cigarettes are used. The lit end of such a cigarette is brought closer to the patient’s skin in certain places, thus influencing certain active points with heat. In addition, there are two more methods of thermal exposure: the pecking cauterization method, when a cigarette is periodically brought to a certain point on the skin at a very close distance, and the thermal cauterization method with constant movements (ironing).

Moxibustion is often combined with acupuncture. In this case, an injection affects deep-lying tissues, and cauterization causes superficial irritations.

Thermal cauterization gives a good effect for neuroses of the gastrointestinal tract and some other diseases. niyah. The pecking cauterization method is used to obtain an exciting effect. This method is indicated for atonic constipation, collapse, shock. The ironing method is used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Cauterization is practiced in cases where the patient is hypersensitive, suffers from eczema or other skin diseases, which complicates acupuncture.

As we have already noted, the essence of acupuncture is the introduction of special needles into special, so-called active points, which reflect on the surface the functional changes of a particular organ and are the centers of influence during acupuncture.

Chinese doctors have developed a whole doctrine about the location of these points on the skin, about for what diseases, at what points and how to prick (in the sense of the method and depth of insertion of the needle, the duration of its stay in the tissues, etc.). The points were connected by 14 lines, or meridians.

Most of the points currently used for therapeutic purposes were described in ancient times. This testifies to the amazing powers of observation of Chinese scientists and the high level of skill of ancient doctors, who, based on numerous experiments and observations, were able to; to reach the discovery of important patterns of vital activity of the human body.

In recent years, the staff of the Institute of Zhen-Jute-Rapia has done a lot of work to systematize points and lines. Based on the study and comparison of data given in ancient medical treatises, as well as facts obtained as a result of research into the effectiveness of acupuncture in the clinic, the total number of points is now G93; Of these, about 150 points are used most often.

Below is a diagrammatic location of some of these points on the head, chest and abdomen, back and arm (see pages 32, 34, 36, 38).

A course of acupuncture usually consists of 10-15 sessions, performed every other day or every day; then take a break for 10-15 days, after which, if necessary, the course of treatment is repeated.

We have already said that acupuncture, as a rule, does not cause pain, but is accompanied by other sensations. Chinese doctors call these sensations intentional, since an experienced puncture doctor can know in advance what the patient will feel when injected by one method or another into a certain active point.

Table 2 provides a list of some active points on the head and hand, indicating for which diseases acupuncture at these points is recommended:

Acupuncture is especially effective for neurasthenia, neuralgia of the trigeminal and sciatic nerves, paralysis of the facial and other nerves, radiculitis, in the treatment of residual effects after polio, chronic rheumatism, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, hypertension, menstrual irregularities, etc. Acupuncture often gives good results in the treatment of tuberculosis, malaria, and night blindness. In these cases, injections apparently increase the body's resistance and thereby contribute to a faster recovery. In the treatment of night blindness and other diseases due to impaired absorption of vitamins, acupuncture appears to have an effect by normalizing the process of vitamin absorption.

Acupuncture is an effective remedy in some cases that require emergency care, such as fainting, shock, seizures, heat stroke, and attacks of angina pectoris.

Let us dwell in more detail on the treatment with acupuncture of residual effects in children after they have suffered

polio. This question is of particular interest, since a system of rational measures has not yet been developed to treat the consequences of polio.

In 1953, Dr. Jin Shi-chung began using acupuncture for this purpose in one of the children's hospitals in Beijing.

Those children in whom all symptoms of paralysis completely disappeared were considered cured. Those patients who showed a clear effect after acupuncture treatment (for example, they began to walk, but not very well) were classified in the group with clear improvement. If after treatment the paralysis became incomplete, then this was considered an improvement.

The data presented indicate that treatment of the effects of polio with acupuncture helps restore the functions of the affected organs. Acupuncture is especially effective when it is started in the first days after the temperature has dropped and the cellular elements in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) have normalized. The success of acupuncture treatment depends on the timing of the start of treatment, the severity of the disease and the activity of the patient.

Typically, acupuncture sessions are performed every other day or two days. In severely ill patients, cure or clear improvement occurs within six months or a year from the start of treatment. In particularly severe patients, acupuncture treatment continues for up to two years. However, in some severe cases, patients recover much faster; cure often occurs within 3-5 months from the start of treatment.

Exceptionally good results were achieved in patients with a mild course, in whom Zhen Ju therapy was started from the first days after the temperature dropped and

normalization of cellular elements in the cerebrospinal fluid. In such cases, rapid disappearance of paralysis was noted.

Paralysis that lasts more than a year usually causes severe deformation and muscle atrophy. Therefore, treating such patients with acupuncture gives less pronounced results. However, even in these cases, acupuncture sometimes produces a dramatic effect.

In the process of treating residual effects, the most effective points were identified on the upper and lower extremities, injections into which gave the most pronounced therapeutic results.

The Zhen Ju therapy method for treating residual effects of polio is as follows: the needle is inserted with a rotational motion, left for a short time in the tissues to cause moderate irritation of the nerve endings, and then quickly removed with a rotational motion. It is advisable to combine acupuncture with moxibustion. Each cauterization, lasting 2-3 minutes, is performed by slowly rotating the lit end of a wormwood cigarette at a distance of one and a half centimeters above the skin.

Cauterization and acupuncture cause irritation of sensory endings and nerve trunks, which, apparently, determines the restoration of metabolic processes and nervous regulation of paralyzed organs.

It is known that in polio, the pathological process is mainly localized in the anterior horns of the spinal cord. The motor nerve cells located in the anterior horns are severely affected and often die as a result of the virus entering them. It is impossible to restore the vital activity, and therefore the function, of dead cells. This is why acupuncture and moxibustion cannot give a satisfactory effect in advanced cases. However, we must not forget that some of the nerve cells in the anterior horns are only subjected to more or less severe damage. Therefore, timely administration of acupuncture, which causes short-term and mild irritation of the peripheral nerves, or cauterization, which causes irritation of the nerve endings in the skin, often helps restore the function of the motor nerve cells of the spinal cord, which were previously more or less severely affected by the polio virus or were even on the verge of death . Hence it is clear why timely started zhen-ju therapy provides a cure or clear improvement even in severe cases

Based on the above, the following conclusions can be drawn.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are justified as

means of treating residual effects after polio, helping to restore the function of the affected limbs.

The success of treatment depends on the duration:; the start of treatment, the severity of the disease and the patient’s activity. Acupuncture and moxibustion in some cases bring cure or clear improvement in patients suffering from paralysis for more than a year, however, as a rule, the effectiveness of treatment for such patients is undoubtedly less than for those whose treatment was started earlier. Treatment started in the first days of the disease is especially effective.

So, the therapeutic effect of acupuncture for a number of diseases is beyond doubt. However, the mechanism of the beneficial effects of Zhen Ju therapy is still not fully understood.

According to I.P. Pavlov, the disease occurs as a result of a violation of the normal relationship between the body and the environment. The disease is a complex reaction of the body to harmful influences, accompanied by more or less serious disruption of the nervous regulation of certain physiological processes. Since the body is a single whole primarily thanks to the nervous system, almost any disruption of its activity immediately affects the functioning of the entire organism. Consequently, each reaction carried out with the participation of the nervous system is not limited to the affected area, but often covers the entire body.

Research by a number of Soviet scientists, in particular M.K. Petrova, K.M. Bykov and others, showed what a decisive role in normal activity and the occurrence of a variety of diseases is played by disorders of higher nervous activity, i.e. disturbances in the normal functioning of the cerebral cortex . Based on these works, we can come to the conclusion that by returning the functions of the central nervous system to normal, a number of diseases can be cured.

The effectiveness of Zhen Ju therapy is apparently explained by the fact that moderate irritation of sensitive endings (receptors) concentrated in the skin, muscles and other tissues, as well as nerve trunks, restores nervous regulation in the body, normalizing strength, mobility and (stability of excitation processes and braking.

Precisely because the therapeutic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion is carried out, apparently, in a reflex way through the central nervous system, which controls the activity of all organs and systems, it is not limited to the area of ​​one or another point or nerve, but often has a beneficial effect on the condition and activity of organs, distant from the injection site.

Scientists from China, the Soviet Union and other countries

There is a lot of work to be done for the purpose of further scientific and theoretical understanding of the techniques and methods of Zhen Ju therapy.

The successful solution of this task, like many others, will be facilitated day by day by the expanding community of Chinese and Soviet scientists - one of the expressions of the continuously strengthening Soviet-Chinese friendship. Zhen-ju therapy is an important part of Chinese traditional medicine, symbolizing the wisdom, hard work and observation of the Chinese people, gaining citizenship rights in various countries of the world. Further theoretical understanding and practical improvement of this ancient method of treatment will make it possible to replenish the arsenal of modern medicine with another effective way of influencing the body of a sick person.

However, one should not overestimate the healing capabilities of Zhen Ju therapy. Excessively widespread use of acupuncture for the treatment of all diseases can lead to discrediting both this method and other means of Chinese traditional medicine.

Acupuncture points on the human body

Acupuncture, whose age is estimated at five thousand years, is one of the main methods of treatment in Chinese folk medicine. And, of course, the test of time is the best proof of its effectiveness and reliability.

Along with the term “acupuncture” you can find such names as “acupuncture”, “acupuncture”, “acupuncture” or even “zhen therapy”.

A little history

The history of acupuncture began in ancient times, namely from the moment when a person, trying to reduce pain, began to rub (with his hand or various objects) painful places on the body.

It is impossible to say unequivocally that the birthplace of acupuncture is Ancient China: there is evidence of the use of acupuncture in Egypt, India and Nepal. However, since this method was most widely used in China and neighboring countries, today it is considered Chinese.

Acupuncture and moxibustion came to Europe, where they received the name “ acupuncture", penetrated into the 17th century. thanks to the missionaries. In Russia, the first attempts to use acupuncture date back to 1901.

The use of acupuncture in medical institutions of the USSR began around the late 40s. as a result of a successful exchange of experience between Soviet and Chinese doctors. Acupuncture received official recognition in 1957 along with the publication of an order of the USSR Ministry of Health, and it began to be actively used in the 60s.

At the moment, many medical institutions have a specially designated office, and sometimes there are entire acupuncture department, where patients with a wide variety of diseases receive the necessary assistance.

What is the meaning of acupuncture and how does it work? According to what was said earlier, each biologically active point is associated with some organ. Therefore, mechanical irritation of it with a steel, silver or gold needle activates the flow of energy or, conversely, absorbs excess energy flow.

When is acupuncture used?. WHO has confirmed the ability of acupuncture to have a positive effect on the body for more than forty types of diseases.

Diseases for which acupuncture is effective

• hypertension, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis
• diseases of the musculoskeletal system (arthritis, osteochondrosis, etc.)
• neuralgia, insomnia, dizziness
• emotional and psychological disorders (fears, depression, etc.)
• gastrointestinal diseases (colitis, food allergies, peptic ulcers and gastritis, chronic diarrhea and constipation, anorexia and bulimia)
• diseases of the ENT organs (emphysema, sinusitis, bronchitis)
• endocrine system diseases
• pain of various localizations (headache, dental, spinal, etc.)
• decreased immunity
• eye diseases
• alcoholism, nicotine and drug addiction, etc.

How does an acupuncture session work?

The procedure begins with the acupuncturist feeling the area of ​​the body where the needles will be injected. This is done to determine points - using an empirical method, over many hours, doctors learn to determine biologically active points on the human body by special thermal and other radiation from them. Next, the doctor treats the area of ​​skin with alcohol and inserts needles. Different acupuncture techniques also determine different ways of inserting needles, as well as insertion depth. Depending on these factors, sedative and stimulating methods of influence are designated.

Sedative method - strong, increasing irritation of the points - in turn, has two variations. First - no more than 2-3 needles are inserted into the tissue with rotational movements to a depth of 1.5-8 mm, leaving them for a period of half an hour to two days; second - needles are inserted into 2-4 points with more gentle rotational movements. This method can even be used on children.

Exciting method - weak, short-term, but at the same time rapid irritation of all points. The depth of needle insertion is from 3 mm to 1 cm, and the exposure period is from 30 s to 5 min.

What happens during a session from a biological point of view

For example, during an acupuncture session aimed at eliminating pain, after the needle is inserted, muscle stimulation begins, which sends a signal to the central nervous system and thereby releases endorphins (morphine-like substances produced in the body during pain and stress), which block pain signals into the brain. So nothing supernatural: the ancient method of treatment has now received scientific substantiation.

Since the needles used for treatment are quite thin (thickness comparable to a human hair), the acupuncture procedure is not painful. The moment of the injection itself may cause some discomfort. Mild numbness and slight itching may also occur.

The undoubted advantage of acupuncture over drug treatment is that drugs are often addictive, which forces you to increase the dose, and acupuncture has a therapeutic effect without harmful consequences.

Contraindications to acupuncture

• skin diseases
• pregnancy
• malignant tumors

Cauterization

In ancient China, local heating or moxibustion was often used in combination with acupuncture. Moxibustion enhances the renewal of qi flow at those acupressure points where heat is applied.

Smoldering moxa is used as a cauterizing agent - dry and ground wormwood (sometimes with the addition of other medicinal herbs), rolled into a cigar. It is lit, and the flame is either brought closer to the biological points or removed. It is not the beneficial properties of wormwood that are used, but its ability, after special processing, to give the optimal temperature (60-70 °C) at the moment of smoldering.

The standard wormwood cigar produced in China looks like a small firecracker, its length is 20 cm, diameter is 2 cm. One such cigar is enough for several sessions.

Cauterization has an antispasmodic, sedative effect on the body and can even stop physiological aging.

Diseases for which cauterization is effective

• gynecological disorders
• rheumatism, arthritis
• insomnia
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
• diseases of the respiratory and genitourinary systems
• colds and flu
• cerebral palsy
• post-stroke conditions
• bruises, subcutaneous bruises, internal hemorrhages
• metabolic disorders, etc.

Cauterization will quickly relieve pain of various origins; will help a hot-tempered and irritable person calm down; eliminates cramps and calms nerves.

How to perform cauterization

The cigar is set on fire and the smoldering end is brought to the desired point at a distance of 1.5-2 cm. The criterion for the correctness of the chosen distance from the surface of the body will be a pleasant warmth spreading from the point throughout the body. There should be no burning sensation. If it is too hot, the cigar should be moved a little away from the surface of the body.

Each point is cauterized for 2-3 minutes, maximum 5 minutes.

Prevention of colds requires 3-5 sessions, treatment of an existing cold requires 7-9 sessions. Preventive cauterizations can be done every other day; it is better to treat an acute illness with daily sessions.

Before starting cauterization of the next point, it is good to pre-lubricate the ju-therapy area with Vietnamese “Star” or any available essential oil (for example, with eucalyptus or pine needle extract) and do a light massage. In this case, the cauterization effect will increase.

Instead of holding the cigar motionless over the point, you can slowly make circles over the surrounding area.

Cauterization of the longevity point

This point - tzu san-li - is located on the front side of the leg, below the kneecap. Place three fingers (2nd, 3rd and 4th) under your knee - you will find the horizontal level of the longevity point. Now set the width of the big toe on the right foot to the right of the central meridian of the bone, on the left foot to the left. These will be the points of longevity. You need to warm up the longevity points once a day for 10 minutes. It is advisable to carry out 2-3 procedures with an interval of 3-4 days.

Warming up should be done only in the first 8 days of each lunar month, since it is believed that it is on these days that the body is able to achieve harmony and strengthen resistance to various diseases, thereby helping to prolong life.

An important part of zhenqiu therapy, that is, acupuncture, is.

Moxibustion in Chinese medicine

Cauterization methods

Cauterization is performed either using a smoldering cigar made from wormwood leaves, or with a smoldering tourniquet.

Artemisia leaf cigars

Cauterization carried out three ways:

1. thermal effects;
2. the so-called “pecking” method;
3. thermal influence with constant movements on a certain surface around a given point (“ironing”).

Thermal impact

The first of these methods, i.e. thermal effect consists of bringing the smoldering end of the cigar close to the skin and gradually moving it away until the patient feels a sensation of pleasant warmth in certain tissues.

Burning with a cigar

The minimum distance between the end of the cigar and the surface of the skin should not exceed 1.5 cm, the procedure lasts 5 - 10 minutes. This method is indicated in cases where a certain calming effect is desired (for example, for pain in the abdominal area).

Method of “pecking” cauterization

Second method - “pecking” cauterization consists of a continuous alternation of movements of the cigar up and down at a given point. It is used to achieve a stimulating effect in cases of collapse and paralysis.

The duration of the procedure is from two to five minutes. The strongest acceptable sensation is burning heat, but not pain.

Ironing method

Third method - “iron” is as follows. Bringing the end of the cigar closer to the skin, they begin to move it over a relatively large area of ​​the body, like an iron. In this case, even very close approach of the smoldering end of the cigar to the skin does not cause a burn. The method is indicated for a large group of diseases: psoriasis, neuroderma, widespread eczema.

It can relieve pain caused by stomach or intestinal spasms. Application duration is 10-20 minutes.

The widely used wormwood cigars were proposed by Dr. Zhu Lian in 1951 (read more: Acupuncture in Chinese Medicine).

Purpose of moxibustion in Chinese medicine

First of all, acupuncture and moxibustion in Chinese medicine are intended to cause strong or weak irritation.

Acupuncture and moxibustion in Chinese medicine

The first of them have an inhibitory effect on the excited nervous system. They are used for excessively increased functional activity of certain internal organs, bones, and tissues.

Sometimes the patient experiences uncontrollable vomiting, which does not stop even after the complete eruption of the stomach contents. This is explained by the weakening of the regulatory function of the higher part of the central nervous system under the influence of pathological changes.

In this case, the urgent application of strong irritation easily has an inhibitory effect on the excited part of the nervous system and leads to the cessation of vomiting.

Mild stimulation has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, enhancing its function, thereby stimulating the body's resistance.

This leads to increased blood circulation. According to the concept put forward by Dr. Zhu Lian, the action of the excitatory and inhibitory methods is based on reflex influences on the central nervous system by transmitting impulses from peripheral receptors to it.

Traditional Chinese medicine originated relatively long ago, more than 2000 years ago. Even in those days, people prevented and completely cured various diseases using the basic techniques and knowledge of Chinese medicine. The basis of this medicine is that diseases arise due to an imbalance of vital forces, which indicates that the body is irrationally using energy resources.

Chinese medicine focuses its efforts on treating not the organ itself that has been affected by the disease, but the entire organism as a whole. Traditional Chinese medicine does not involve surgical interventions, as it is aimed at the body as a whole. Chinese diagnostics is based on a general examination of the patient, that is, an assessment of the complexion and tongue, how the person breathes, and so on. In addition, the Chinese carry out tapping and questioning about complaints, on the basis of which the disease is determined.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is considered one of the main treatments in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This method is based on the impact of needles on the vital points of the body. In ancient times, such needles were made of bones or bronze, but nowadays needles are made of steel. They have different lengths, sharpness and thickness. Massage must be done at the needle insertion sites. The needle must be inserted with both hands and rotated along the axis. By using this method, pain is relieved, and balance is restored in the body, which was previously disturbed.

During the period of acupuncture procedures, you should avoid eating sweet foods, alcohol, coffee and medications. Acupuncture has some contraindications, namely, this procedure should not be performed during an exacerbation of a chronic disease or infectious disease.

Cauterization

In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion involves heat. Usually this method of treatment is performed by burning wormwood, from which special cones of different sizes are made. The effectiveness of this procedure lies in the deep and shallow action of heat. Heat that is on the surface has a sedative effect, and deep heat has a tonic effect.

In the first case, large cones are used, but the grass burns slowly. In the second, small wormwood cones are used, but the combustion is enhanced. In this case, burns on the skin should not be allowed. No more than four small cones are applied to the point during toning. The time for this procedure depends on each person, primarily on his state of health.

The advantages of this method are improved blood circulation and the functioning of the endocrine glands, pain stops, the secretion of gastric juice returns to normal and acidity is regulated, harmful substances are removed from the body faster, and metabolism returns to normal. After cauterization, there may be fever, diarrhea, poor appetite and mood for 2 days. A few days after the procedure, the first positive results will become noticeable.

Acupressure

Chinese medicine has another direction - acupressure. It is based on the influence of fingers on vital points. Pressure is applied with a fingernail or fingertip. It is used in the treatment of digestive organs, headaches, high blood pressure, joint diseases, and inflammation of the respiratory system. After acupressure, the patient’s pain goes away, blood circulation and metabolism improves, cells are cleansed of toxins, and muscle tension is relieved. At the same time, there is cheerfulness and fullness of strength and energy.

Traditional Chinese medicine is very rich in knowledge and accumulated experience in the treatment of many diseases. Its undoubted advantage is the use of natural and natural methods of treatment.

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Moxibustion treatment

We have already noted that moxibustion treatment is associated with acupuncture, both in modern literature and in extant sources, and that both methods are often combined and used simultaneously. This explains why the clinical trials we looked at in the previous chapter also included moxibustion treatment.

The moxibustion treatment process is also known by the older name moxibation. The word comes from the Japanese plant mogusa (latinized moxa), similar to artemisia vulgaris, a type of wormwood, and the Latin word yoke (to burn or scorch).

As the origin of the word suggests, acupuncture points used to be simply cauterized with “cauterization herb,” that is, a medicinal herb. Currently, the affected points are simply heated, although the term moxibustion is still widely used. In my opinion, the term moxotherapy is more appropriate in this case.

According to Professor Yuara, this method of treatment most likely has an earlier origin than pricking with stone needles, although the opposite point of view is found in modern Chinese publications. Traditionally, therapeutic moxibustion developed mainly in the northern regions of China. Based on this, Yuar concludes that Stone Age man used cauterization to relieve rheumatic pain, which more often occurred in the damp cave that served as his home and in colder climates.

Of course, the healing power of warming fire has been known from very early times. And in the oldest collection of medical knowledge, “The Yellow Emperor’s Canon on Internal Medicine,” we find references to the cauterization method as a perfectly developed procedure.

In addition, any method of treatment with heating requires knowledge of the points of influence on the human and animal body. Some points are excluded from moxibustion treatment; they can only be used for acupuncture and vice versa. Both ancient and modern works provide a list of these “forbidden” points.

In the old days, points chosen for therapeutic effects were also cauterized with red-hot iron rods. Today this procedure is used only in veterinary surgery. In addition to iron rods, other means of cauterization were used, usually from the rolled leaves of medicinal plants (mulberry, ginger, aconite, wormwood, etc.). Points of irritation were either cauterized or heated with smoldering leaves twisted into stick shapes. details regarding therapeutic moxibustion are taken from contemporary Chinese publications.

1. One session requires three to five wormwood cones or balls; they can be set on fire and applied simultaneously to different points on the surface of the body, or set on fire and applied one after another to the same point. In cases of chronic diseases, the dosage may be increased.

2. The stick burns for 4-5 minutes. If you want to get the effect of sedation, the stick is held above the corresponding point on the body surface. This procedure can be used, for example, to develop protective inhibition in the cerebral cortex. To achieve a tonic effect, the surface of the skin is lightly tapped with a smoldering stick, preventing overheating of the point on which the therapeutic effect is applied. This is the so-called “pecking method”.

3. In the case of moxibustion treatment with a ginger cone, a ginger leaf is first placed on the treatment point, and then the cone is placed on top of it. If the ginger leaf dries out, it should be replaced with a fresh one. Generally speaking, this method is used for abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting and for rheumatic pain in the limbs.

4. In the case of cauterization treatment through garlic, a clove of fresh garlic is placed on the points undergoing therapeutic irritation. A small hole is made in the garlic clove and the cone is placed on top. Generally speaking, this method is used as an anesthetic and in certain cases to treat pulmonary diseases (asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis).

5. When treating with salt cauterization, the point of application of the therapeutic effect is covered with table salt, and the cone is placed on top. If the salt overheats, it is replaced. This method is usually used for abdominal pain, nausea and diseases caused by organic hypofunction. The purpose of the procedure is to compensate for the “lack of energy” in the affected organ.

Cauterization with cones and sticks should be dosed, it depends on the part of the body that is being treated. For example, in the case of irritated points on the head, the usual dose is based on heating for 3-5 minutes using only sticks and not cones. Other recommended dosages are as follows: on the chest - 3-5 minutes of constant heating with cones or 3-10 minutes with sticks; on the body - 5-20 minutes of constant warming with cones or the same amount of time with sticks; on the back - 3-10 minutes of constant warming with cones or the same amount of time with sticks.

When performing moxibustion, the correct position of the patient’s body is important to provide optimal impact on points on the body surface. Modern publications warn against burning the patient's skin, and thus the old, scarring method is now abandoned, as is cauterization with sulfur. Care must be taken to ensure that no sparks fly during the treatment session; Windows should also be opened to prevent smoke from accumulating when lighting the cone or stick. The fact that smoke sometimes appears is the only drawback of this method of therapy.

Once the session is completed, any visible marks that may remain on the surface of the skin, in the worst case a slight redness, soon disappear. Even if a blister appears, it is pierced with a sterile needle and lubricated with medicinal ointment.

The former method of direct cauterization left ugly scars on the skin, traces of which can still be seen today among older generations in China and especially in Korea.

Modern medical science considers therapeutic cauterization as a method of stimulating the skin as a result of its heating and, probably, exposure to chemical compounds contained in medicinal plants (garlic, ginger, etc.). This opinion is shared by many old school doctors, including Wang Xiaotai, who was trained in both traditional and modern healing methods.

We already know that the internal organs respond to the vasodilatory effect of stimulating the skin. This is explained by the close relationship between these organs and special areas of the skin: any disease of the internal organs causes pain in the latter. On the contrary, any stimulation of certain areas and points on the surface of the skin excites the muscles and blood vessels and affects the corresponding internal organs. This functional relationship explains the effectiveness of moxibustion from a therapeutic point of view. The only slight difficulty is to reconcile traditional moxibustion points with the theories of modern medicine and combine them into one general system.

Chinese moxatherapy: burn away your diseases

Many of us believe that the concept of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is synonymous with acupuncture, especially since even the Chinese term “acupuncture” (Zhen Jiu) literally translates as “acupuncture and moxibustion” (the word “moxibustion” is derived from the Japanese "mogusa" (wormwood)).

In ancient China, placing acupuncture needles was rarely practiced without treating patients with moxibustion, which involved burning certain herbs over acupuncture points. Today, moxatherapy is surprisingly successfully used simultaneously with acupuncture in the treatment of diseases ranging from bronchial asthma to arthritis. To do this, the leaves of wormwood (Artemesiae Vulgaris) are dried and burned using one of several methods.

The most common form of moxa use is the non-contact method of treatment using a wormwood cigar. The dried wormwood is compacted and wrapped in special paper in the form of a cigar-shaped stick. It can be held in one place, moved in circles, or brought to a specific acupuncture point with the movement of a sparrow pecking at crumbs. The cauterization practitioner places his or her finger near the point being stimulated to provide a comfortable level of heat and protect the patient from the unlikely risk of burning.

The tip of the cigar is kept at a distance of 1-3 centimeters from the surface of the skin, which depends on the patient’s well-being. Wormwood sticks can be used independently to stimulate acupuncture points or brought to points where acupuncture needles have already been inserted. This simultaneous use of moxibustion with acupuncture needles enhances the therapeutic effect.

Wormwood cigars are mainly used to treat a deficiency of yang energy in the body. This type of energy controls movement and heat, which is why Yang deficiency manifests itself in the symptoms of Cold. The patient may feel cold or complain of cold extremities. For the very weak and for people with severe Yang deficiency, moxatherapy is chosen as the main treatment due to the fact that it actually adds “Yang Qi” to the body. Yang energy deficiency may also manifest itself as urinary incontinence or loose stools, although these symptoms should be carefully examined by the practitioner as they may have other causes.

Another popular use of moxa sticks is to perform a baby's breech turn. The cigar is held to the outer edge of the little toes of both feet of the pregnant mother for 15 to 20 minutes a day. Best results are achieved when treatment begins at 34 weeks of pregnancy. Moxibustion therapy is stopped after fetal reversal. Stimulating Yang results in movement, and prolonged moxibustion can cause the embryo to return to breech presentation. Reversing the buttocks using moxibustion therapy is a very common practice in Chinese medicine and has been used successfully for centuries.

Another form of cauterization is heating the needle. In this case, a small roll of dried wormwood is attached directly to the end of the acupuncture needle. The wormwood is then set on fire and burns slowly, like an incense stick. Heat penetrates through the needle and is transferred deep to the acupuncture point. This infusion of heat provides instant relief from rheumatic muscle and joint pain and is commonly used to treat arthritic pain.

Ginger moxatherapy combines the therapeutic properties of moxibustion and ginger, one of the most popular herbs in Chinese medicine. The TCM practitioner cuts a 1-2 centimeter thick piece of ginger and makes tiny holes in it. Dried wormwood leaves are rolled into a cone 1-3 centimeters in size. Ginger is placed on the navel of a patient suffering from diarrhea or abdominal pain. The cone is placed on the ginger and carefully lit with a small flame.

Ginger with a burning piece of moxa is left on the navel until the patient sweats and the navel area turns red. When a cone burns out, a new one is added. The ginger slice should be changed after burning 5 moxa cones. In addition to relieving digestive problems, heating with ginger is also beneficial in treating joint pain.

Contact moxatherapy is a method in which dried herbs are rolled into a small cone (about the size of a grain of rice) and burned directly onto the skin. To fix the cone on the body, you can apply Vaseline. Wormwood is lit by lightly touching the top of the cone with the end of a burning scented candle. Tweezers are used to remove the cone when the heat becomes too intense.

Contact moxatherapy is commonly used to stop heavy menstrual bleeding. Women suffering from excess bleeding need to place moxa cones at the corner of the big toe nail. Moxa is only burned two-thirds to prevent scarring or blistering of the skin. During one procedure, 3-5 cones are burned on each thumb. In this, as in the vast majority of cases, contact cauterization brings relief. Western technologies can offer only minor assistance.

Traditional asthma treatment requires burning wormwood cones directly on the upper back. With this treatment, the cones are burned completely and can actually lead to some scarring.

Moxibustion treatment, like acupuncture, is a complex and varied therapy. TCM practitioners can choose from a variety of methods and use those that suit their individual healing style.

Cauterization (Thermopuncture, Moxotherapy)

Thermopuncture (cauterization, moxotherapy)– this is one of the methods of reflexology (cauterization or warming), which consists of a thermal effect on biologically active points of the body. This practice originated many years ago in Eastern medicine and is called “zhen-ju” treatment in Chinese (where “zhen” is acupuncture and “jiu” is thermopuncture).

This method involves the use of heat sources where the thermal effect may be limited in area. Thermopuncture is carried out in various ways: non-contact or remote, contact or distant, as well as stimulation with hot needles or by heating needles already installed at the acupuncture point.

When is thermopuntura used?

Along with other methods of reflexology, thermopuncture can act as an independent method of treatment, or as an auxiliary one - in combination with other practices or in addition to drug therapy.

By influencing the meridians and biologically active points, this method is well suited for the treatment of various chronic ailments, as well as certain critical conditions. In addition, thermopuncture is a fairly effective preventive measure and is widely used in rehabilitation measures.

Thermopuncture helps in treating a wide range of allergic syndromes, various types of pain, many neuroendocrine skin diseases, and some psychosomatic and neurogenic disorders. This practice is also used to normalize blood pressure, improve blood circulation, to rejuvenate the body, calm the nervous system and for problems associated with vegetative-vascular dystonia.

In accordance with the teachings of traditional Chinese medicine, symptoms that arise due to lack of energy or cold (regular colds, inflammatory diseases of bones and joints) are perfectly amenable to the effects of thermopuncture.

The essence of the thermopuncture method

The method of thermal exposure is based on the principle of gradual, continuous heating of the skin at reflexogenic points and tissues adjacent to these points. Thermopuncture using low temperatures over a short period of time produces a weak stimulating effect.

By changing the temperature and duration of irritation, the therapeutic result occurs. Therapy is carried out through the activation of the functions of various systems and internal organs, which are interconnected with acupuncture points that act as objects of manipulation.

In ancient times, sulfur powder, a burning wick, and red-hot metal sticks were used to perform the thermopuncture procedure. In eastern countries, smoldering moxas have always been widely used. They were made from various dried herbs (juniper, wormwood, other medicinal plants), folded into a tube and wrapped in thin paper, forming something like a cigar. In this situation, it is not so much the healing properties of herbs that are of great importance, but their ability to create the required temperature (about sixty or seventy degrees) during the smoldering period.

Thermopuncture procedure

After a thorough diagnostic examination, and in accordance with each specific ailment, a reflexology specialist determines the method, number and duration of procedures. Doctors from China say: the longer the course of moxibustion therapy, the more effective it is.

The minimum duration of thermal treatment is about ten sessions, the frequency of which is from daily procedures to two sessions per week. The duration of each exposure is approximately twenty minutes or about half an hour.

When carrying out therapy using thermopuncture, it is necessary to strictly follow some rules:

• do not expose the cauterized areas of the body to wetness for ten days;
• do not drink alcohol for two months;
• do not overcool;
• don't overeat.

Types of distant cauterization:

• Until the affected area becomes red. During stable stimulation of an acupuncture point, the heat emitter is placed at such a distance from the skin that the patient feels a very noticeable warmth in this area of ​​the body. The duration of this procedure is from two to five minutes. In this case, irritation of biologically active points occurs gently.
• Until a blister forms. The ironing action involves heating not just an acupuncture point, but also a fairly large area of ​​skin due to the non-stop movement of the heat emitter at a close distance from the skin, parallel to the area of ​​the body that is being heated.
• Before the burn appears. Direct contact cauterization is used quite rarely due to the risk of burns. This type of thermopuncture consists of placing various substances on biologically active areas, which provide thermal stimulation during combustion.

The more significant the damage to the skin in the acupuncture area, the more noticeable and effective the result of therapy. Cauterization is performed using wormwood balls of different sizes, which are determined by a specialist. The impact on one point is carried out from five to ten times and is determined by the type and degree of the specific disease.

After the session, water bubbles begin to form around the acupuncture area within about half an hour, which disappear within three days. After ten days (rarely twenty, but no more than twenty-seven), redness forms around the biologically active point - this indicates that the place is inflamed and will soon ooze.

There is nothing wrong with this, and everything happens as it should. The discharge may be in the form of ichor or purulent in nature. This process is determined by the severity of the disease and lasts one or two months. From the moment inflammation appears, you should apply a bactericidal patch to the area one to two times a day and do this until the wound closes. In its place, a keloid scar may remain, which persists for approximately ten years.

“Diseases that cannot be cured with herbs can be cured with needles, and in turn, those ailments that cannot be treated with needles can be cured with cauterization,” say Eastern experts in juju therapy.

Burning technique with wormwood cigarette

Nowadays, a convenient method of thermal influence on biologically active points is widely practiced using tiny wormwood cigarettes (about five millimeters in diameter, about ten millimeters in length) connected to heat-resistant pads, the thickness of which is about three millimeters.

The smoldering end of the cigar emits infrared radiation (wavelength from one to five and a half microns), which is directed to specific biologically active points. Such thermal irritation entails a local increase in skin temperature to 43-45 degrees Celsius, but a burn does not form.

There are three main ways to perform cauterization:

• 1. Sedative (calming) – static warming. The end of the cigar, which is smoldering, is brought to the patient’s skin until a feeling of warmth occurs. The duration of the procedure is from fifteen to twenty minutes.
• 2. Exciting (tonic) – piercing effect. The smoldering end of the cigar is either brought to the surface of the skin or removed from the acupuncture point. The duration of the session is two or three minutes.
• 3. Harmonizing – ironing thermopuncture (continuous movement of a wormwood cigarette along a biologically active area). The smoldering end is placed at such a distance from the skin that the patient feels pleasant warmth. The duration of the procedure is from fifteen to twenty minutes.

The thermopuncture technique practiced by Chinese doctors involves remote cauterization. A cigar made from wormwood is set on fire and slowly rotated over the affected area of ​​the body. At times, to enhance the result, the wormwood cone is placed on a piece of ginger or a clove of garlic.

The cauterization technique, which is popular in Japan and Korea, is a distant method. Medicinal plants are rolled into small balls and placed directly in the acupuncture area, after which they are set on fire using an aroma stick.

Contraindications to thermopuncture

This method of therapy has virtually no side effects and has a very small list of contraindications. You should not resort to heat treatment:

• in the presence of benign or malignant tumors;
• for diseases associated with fever;
• for acute mental disorders;
• in acute conditions that pose a direct threat to human health and life (myocardial infarction, acute respiratory failure);
• for some skin diseases.

Due to the fact that this method of reflexology has a fairly noticeable effect on the entire body, it is not recommended for use by infants, pregnant women and elderly people over 75 years of age.

Zhen-Jiu treatment method (Acupuncture and moxibustion)

In ancient times, the main method with which Chinese doctors treated patients, “Zhen-ju,” originated. What is it? “Zhen” means acupuncture, “jiu” means moxibustion.

The art of acupuncture

Tradition connects the appearance of acupuncture with the name of the famous sage Fu-Xi, who lived at the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC. Tradition attributes to him the first observation of the heavenly bodies and the invention of the doctrine of yin and yang - the two principles of all things in the Universe. According to legend, he taught people to build houses and bridges, catch fish with a net and care for five domestic animals - a horse, a bull, a chicken, a pig and a ram. Fu-Xi was a great healer. He drew up instructions on how to avoid cold in winter and sweltering heat in summer, and how to maintain healthy air and good blood in the body. But his main achievement in medicine was the creation of the doctrine of vital channels and active points located on the human body.

Historical parallels: The estimated life time of Fu-Xi, the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC, coincides with the life time of the well-known Egyptian patron of healing, Imhotep (p. 35). Like him, Fu-Xi was not only a doctor, but also an astrologer and a builder.

“In ancient times,” says the legend, “when China was ruled by Fu-Xi, versed in many sciences, one of his subjects had a headache.” This man became so ill that he could not find peace either day or night. One day, while cultivating a field, he accidentally hit himself on the leg with a hoe and noticed a strange thing: the headache went away after this blow. Since then, local residents began to deliberately hit themselves on the leg with a piece of stone when they had a headache. Having learned about this, the emperor tried to replace the painful blows with a stone with injections of a stone needle, and the results were good. Later it turned out that such injections, applied to certain places on the body, help not only with headaches, but also with other diseases. It has been observed that exposure to certain points of the body leads to relief from pain or illness. For example, squeezing the central fossa of the upper lip helps lift the patient out of a state of fainting, and inserting needles at certain points at the base of the first and second fingers cures insomnia.

Historical parallels: Methods of influencing active points of the body are also known in the medicine of other nations. Residents of South Africa, wanting to be cured of many diseases, scratch certain points on the body with a shell; Arabs, when treating radiculitis, cauterize part of the ear with a heated metal rod; Eskimos inflict injections with a sharpened stone.

Many discoveries have been made in the field of biology and medicine, but one complex mystery has not been solved for several thousand years. This is the mystery of the “life channels” running along the surface of the body.

Each channel is associated with a specific internal organ. The channels of the body, like the points on them, are invisible, but they really exist, since there is a constant mutual dependence between them and the internal organs. The impact on internal organs through these points using acupuncture and moxibustion is the basis of one of the main methods of treatment in Chinese medicine. The first literary data on the use of this method date back to the 6th century. BC They are set out in the “Canon of the Internal” (“Nei-ching”, around the 2nd century BC) - one of the oldest medical books in China.

Historical parallels:

In modern medicine of the East and West, the doctrine of vital channels and active points located on the surface of the human body is widely used. With the help of various instruments in the area of ​​active points (often called BAT - biologically active points), electrical and magnetic phenomena were discovered, as well as radiation carrying certain information. Modern science tends to consider the qi energy concentrated at these points as a certain type of matter - electrical, magnetic, acoustic, light.

The first needles were made of stone. Later they began to make them from silicon or jasper, from bone and bamboo, from metals: bronze, silver, gold, platinum, stainless steel. There were 9 needle shapes; among them were cylindrical, flat, round, triangular, spear-shaped, needles with a sharp and blunt end.

Such needles were not only intended for acupuncture, they also served as surgical instruments. For example, a sharp “arrow-shaped” needle was used to open abscesses; a needle with a round end was used to split muscles during operations; a thin needle with a blunt end was used to treat those patients who were afraid of injections: instead of an injection, they simply pressed on the appropriate points. To treat children, “skin” needles were made, with which shallow, superficial injections were made. Modern needles are usually made of silver or high grade stainless steel. When introduced, they do not destroy tissue because they have a very thin rod.

Cauterization

The active points were affected not only by cauterization. This method is sometimes mentioned in Chinese literature under such poetic names as “wonderful thunder needle” or “night torch hunt.” In the old days, it was believed that cauterization should cause a burn. “Irritation is without, effect is within” - says an old Chinese proverb. Cauterization was performed using a hot metal stick, lit sulfur powder, and crushed pieces of garlic.

Modern doctors usually use moxa (wormwood) for treatment, which gives

smoldering only pleasant warmth. It is traditionally believed that the effectiveness of moxibustion increases with the shelf life of moxa. For example, for the treatment of a disease that arose 7 years ago, moxa was recommended, which was stored for at least 3 years. Cigarettes and burning cones were stuffed with dried and tightly compressed wormwood; sometimes other medicinal plants were added to it. Moxibustion as a method of preventing and treating diseases has become widespread in Japan, Korea, Vietnam and many other Eastern countries.

Teaching the art of Zhen-Jiu

Comprehension of the art of “zhen-jiu” was very difficult and required a long time. The student had to study not only the location of active points on the “life channels”, but also the complex relationships between them. “You need to take a needle as carefully as approaching a tiger,” says an old Chinese proverb.

The first state institution where traditional medicine was taught - the Imperial Medical School - arose in China only in the Middle Ages. The school had 20 students, 1 teacher and assistant, 20 instructors and 20 needle makers. Of great importance for teaching was the creation of the first two bronze figures, which were cast in full human height under the direction of the physician Wang Wei-i in 1027. All the points and their names were marked on the surface of the figures. Each point corresponded to a deep channel for needle insertion. The outside of the figure was covered with wax, and the inside was filled with water: if the student inserted the needle correctly, a drop of water appeared on the surface of the figure. A year earlier, in 1026, Wang Wei-yi completed work on the Atlas of Points, which became the first officially accepted manual on acupuncture. From the 13th century Copying of figures began, the method of acupuncture went beyond China and began to spread to other Asian countries, then penetrated into Europe and America. In Russia, the first report about it was made in the late 20s. XIX century

Traditional Chinese medicine is also widespread in the modern world. In 1980, the World Health Organization recognized acupuncture as a scientifically proven method and recommended its use in the treatment of various diseases.

How to remove a herniated disc in China: a review of treatment methods

Treatment in China should not be considered only from the point of view of traditional techniques and minimally invasive procedures. Chinese clinics have all the necessary equipment and competent specialists who perform complex surgical operations according to generally accepted international standards. This balanced approach ensures more effective treatment results.

Non-surgical treatment methods

Traditional Chinese Medicine

The first stage of treatment is designed to eliminate pain and muscle tension. For these purposes, the following procedures are prescribed:

• acupuncture;
• acupressure;
• vacuum therapy;
• stone therapy;
• spinal traction.

After completing the first stage of therapy, the patient’s blood circulation is normalized, metabolism is activated, nutrition of disc tissue is provided, inflammation and pinched nerve endings are eliminated.

As a result: pain, muscle spasms and a feeling of numbness in the upper and lower extremities disappear without a trace.

The second stage is aimed at eliminating swelling, formed around compressed nerve roots. For these purposes, procedures are prescribed that have a warming effect:

• cauterization with wormwood cigars;
• warming up;
• paraffin therapy.

At the last stage, restorative therapy is carried out with the help of special gymnastics and herbal medicine.

Cost of treatment

ProcedurePrice

Minimally invasive treatment methods

Minimally invasive surgeries are gentle procedures that provide less intervention in the body than open surgeries used for the same purpose. Thanks to the use of endoscopic instruments, after the operation it is possible to preserve the spinal column intact.

Main advantages:

• leave virtually no scars;
• bleeding is minimized;
• local anesthesia;
• fast rehabilitation.

You can get up and walk within a couple of hours after the operation. The hospitalization period lasts no more than 5-7 days.

Needle Knife	The most effective and popular method of treating spinal diseases. Applicable only in China. The needle knife allows you to make accurate punctures with a diameter of 0.4–0.8 mm without damaging the nerve canals.
Hydroplastics	The manipulation is carried out using small punctures, through which a special solution is supplied into the disc cavity under high pressure, removing the affected tissue.
Radiofrequency ablation	A probe with electrodes is inserted into small punctures and heated to a high temperature. The hernia is destroyed by exposure to heat.
Laser vaporization	A relatively new method of treatment through heat. Helps reduce the volume of the hernia.
Laser reconstruction	It differs from the two above in that during the operation the cells of the cartilage tissue are stimulated, which promotes the rapid growth of cartilage tissue that fills the cracks and voids of the disc.

Spinal surgery

Microsurgical discectomy

Discectomy is performed using a microscope and laser. The intervention is performed through a small incision through which tissue from the core of the damaged vertebra is removed. The result is decompression and release of the spinal nerve roots.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia for several hours. Relatively safe for elderly patients.

In the recent past, it was unsafe to perform a complex operation to remove a hernia of the cervical spine, but with the advent of endoscopic microsurgery, such procedures do not pose any danger.

The likelihood of nerve damage during surgery and inflammation in the postoperative period is minimized.

The operation involves replacing a damaged disc with an artificial (movable implant). All actions of the neurosurgeon are controlled using an operating microscope or endoscope. To shorten the rehabilitation period, a laser reconstruction procedure is prescribed.

Patients begin to get up and start walking on the second day after surgery. Sutures are removed on the tenth day. You can return home in two weeks - on your own, without a cane, crutches or other means of support.

The main principle of the method is thermal stimulation of biologically active points. For this they use wormwood cigars,
which light and slowly rotate over the point of impact.

Wormwood has been used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. Impact on acupuncture points using wormwood cigars affects the course of Qi : redistribute energy to places where it is needed, replenish or reduce the intensity of Qi.

Advantages of the method:

In Chinese medicine, it is believed that in the cold, Qi energy “sleeps”, and warming stimulates the movement of Qi energy.

Moxibustion uses the healing herb wormwood, which penetrates well into the channels of the spleen, kidneys, gall bladder and liver.

Moxibustion replenishes Yang vital energy.

The property of wormwood is that, due to its bitter taste, it penetrates well into the channels of the spleen, kidneys, gall bladder and liver.

九洲国际旅行社Natalia 16:00:50

Indications:

Colds (runny nose, acute bronchitis, cough, bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, pleurisy);

Abdominal pain, acute inflammation of the stomach, stomach ulcer, constipation;

Sleep disorders, insomnia;

Hypertension, angina pectoris;

Diabetes mellitus;

Cholecystitis;

Prostatitis;

Keratitis, etc.

Cauterization will quickly relieve pain of various origins; will help relieve irritability and give peace; eliminates spasms, “revitalizes” the nerves.

Contraindications:

1. It is not allowed to do cauterization on open areas of the body (face, etc.);

2. Cauterization is not performed on the surface of thin skin, joints,collection of tendons and nodes, blood vessels; in pregnant women in the lumbosacral region, lower abdomen, etc.

3. During periods of severe body fatigue, menstruation, psychological disorder, excessive sweating, etc.

4. Some infectious diseases, nervous diseases, fever, coma, convulsions, excessive physical fatigue.

Side effects and complications

1. Insomnia

2. Dry mouth

3. Redness on the skin

1. You cannot come to the procedure on an empty/full stomach.

2. After the procedure, you need to drink more warm water.

3. After the procedure, you should not take a cold shower.

The technique of cauterizing points with wormwood cigars (or moxatherapy) is described in detail in the oldest medical treatise known to mankind - “Jud-shi”, which is about five thousand years old. Even then, this technique was considered one of the most effective and is still considered so.

Exposure to certain points (Tzu-san-li, Guan-yuan, Qi-hei) with wormwood cigars prolongs life.

The effect on the He-Gu point has a rejuvenating effect, making the skin tightened and elastic. This effect is achieved due to the effect on the function of the ovaries and uterus, clearing the channels of the liver and spleen.

Tszyu therapy using wax or paraffin was also used. Melted wax was dripped onto the appropriate points, then wrapped around the area for a warm effect. This method of cauterization has proven itself in the treatment of bone tuberculosis.

For some time, the method of cauterization using sulfur was very popular. The sulfur powder was set on fire, wrapped tightly in paper, and a Tszyu therapy session was performed.