Paralysis Resource Guide - (Page 106) HEALTH MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese Medicine, that is, on the theory that life-force energy permeates all living things through meridian channels. Using a needle, other types of pressure or a laser beam at specific points on the skin, acupuncture promotes or unblocks energy flow. Acupuncture may be beneficial to treat spinal cord injury (SCI). According to a National Institutes of Health conference in 1997, 340 out of 360 acupuncture cases (94.4 percent) reported in China had beneficial outcomes, including reduction in muscle spasms, some increased sensation, and improved bladder and bowel function. Authors recommend beginning acupuncture as soon as possible after SCI, even during the acute stage. The treatment was also helpful in reducing pressure ulcers. Laserponcture, as it is known in France, uses an infrared laser to stimulate energy flow and is said to restore function in some people with complete injuries. See http://www.acupuncture.com for more. Magnets: Magnetic therapy is not embraced by Western doctors but it is widely used to treat many ailments related to paralysis, including pain, inflammation, circulation, infections, stress, energy enhancement, wound healing, etc. Dolphin therapy: Many people, including those with paralysis, have reported feelings of well-being and even euphoria after swimming with these graceful marine mammals. For reasons unknown, this leads to beneficial healing effects; some with serious illnesses and depression have reported dramatic, long-term, favorable changes in their emotional state. Massage and therapeutic touch have been linked to health and healing but mainstream doctors have been slow to utilize this hands-on approach. But recent research indicates that massage therapy is beneficial as a treatment for people with spinal cord injury. Massage reduced depression scores, improved range of motion and muscle strength and lowered the general levels of anxiety in a group of quads. Massage also has benefits in treating pain. 106 http://www.acupuncture.com
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