Acupuncture For Hypertension

Chinese medicine believes health and wellness can be achieved through balance and equilibrium. The ancient Chinese believed there is a universal life energy (called chi) present in every living creature. This energy circulates through a network of channels called meridians. As long as this energy flows freely through the meridians, health is maintained. But once this flow of energy is blocked, the system is disrupted and pain and illness occur.

Imagine rivers that flood and cause disasters. Or an electrical grid short-circuits and causes blackouts. Acupuncture works to restore normal function by stimulating certain points on the meridian in order to free up the vital energy. As you read in the feature article, blood pressure is determined by the amount of the blood pumped by the heart, the size of the arteries and other factors. More than 90% of hypertension has no underlying disease. This is called “essential hypertension.” Or it may also be caused by other diseases or physical problems (called “secondary hypertension”). Common causes are kidney or thyroid disease. Traditional Chinese medicine takes the view that it’s an inharmonious condition of the whole system, which involves the improper function of the heart, liver, kidneys and digestive system.

Acupuncture is used clinically for the treatment of hypertension. And some symptoms of heart disease such as muscle spasm may respond to acupuncture. The treatment helps patients relax and can ease their pain.

Scandinavian studies showed that acupuncture can increase the heart’s capacity, reducing anginal pain and the need for medication. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are playing a very important role in the management of hypertension. Based on the theory of
by Mark Talle, L.Ac. the traditional Chinese Medicine, the elevated blood pressure and symptoms are regarded as the superficial aspect of a deeper underlying health condition, so the treatment is not just to eliminate or alleviate the symptoms, but rather treat the underlying cause, and to have a prevention-oriented, holistic approach for hypertension patients. We believe the partnership between the patient and practitioner is extremely important. Self management should always be empha-sized along with the treatment, which includes:

• Daily Tai-Chi exercises
• Daily Meditation
• Regular aerobic activity (55% to 70% of maximal heart rate) for 30 minutes and light resistance training at least 3-4 times a week
• Eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber
• Reduce fats and high cholesterol food (animal fats, fatty meats, full fat cheese, butter, egg yolk, oysters)
• Avoid excessive salt intake
• Stop smoking
• Avoid alcohol, coffee, and spicy foods
• Stress Management
• Weight control program