Acupuncture originates from China and has been practiced for thousands of years. Many studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. They can occur locally at, close to the site of application or at a distance. These responses are mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery. Alterations in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, as well as changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented. There is also evidence that there are alterations in immune functions produced by acupuncture.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) can be improved by Acupuncture treatment in the acute stage and post recovery-stage.
GBS is a serious health problem that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks part of the nervous system. This leads to peripheral nerves inflammation which causes muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or paralysis in the legs, arms, breathing muscles and face. It can affect all ages, however people older than 50 years have the greatest risk for developing GBS. GBS is also known as Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating, Polyradiculoneuropathy, Ascending Paralysis and Infectious Polyneuritis
At this time the exact cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome is unknown. However, two thirds of patients have recently suffered from a respiratory illness or flu. Symptoms of GBS can get worse quickly. It may take only a few hours for the most severe symptoms to appear and usually last for a few weeks.
The first symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome include:
• Progressive muscle weakness on both sides of the legs, arms, and face
• Prickly, tingling, or numbness sensations (usually in the feet or hands)
• Pain is a significant complaint (lower back pain is the most common complaint)
• Loss of normal reflexes
Many studies have been conducted on the effects of acupuncture during Guillain-Barry Syndrome rehabilitation. These studies show that acupuncture reduces hospital stays and improves recovery speed. In addition to a primary needling treatment on the liver meridian and the supporting kidney meridians, treatment may also include performing acupuncture on affected limbs.
Acupuncture is recognized by the National institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems.
Other areas acupuncture can assist with include:
• back pain and arthritis
• premenstrual syndrome
• infertility, endometriosis
• morning sickness
• high or low blood pressure
• anxiety/nervousness
• sleeplessness
• ADD/ADHD
• asthma, allergies and sinus problems
• digestive disorders including Crohn’s Disease, irritable bowel
• headaches
• vertigo
• sports and stress injuries
• fatigue
• effects from chemotherapy and other cancer treatments
• detoxification from addictive substances such as drugs, alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes
