Understand and Relieve Your Back Pain with TCM

Understand and Relieve Your Back Pain with TCM WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Back pain is a common health problem in the modern society Many people seek TCM treatment for pain conditions. While pain can occur in every part of the body, back pain is one of the more common issues that we see in our patients. Research has shown that approximately 15% to 30% of adults suffer from back pain each year. [1][2] This roughly translates to one out of five adults reportedly having back pain annually! The back covers a huge area, starting from just below the neck all the way to the tailbone. This area can be further divided into three segments, namely upper back (connecting to the neck), mid-back and lower back (connecting to the hip, tailbone, and buttocks). [3] It is important to identify the location of back pain as the causes of pain, treatment given as well as advice for rehabilitation would vary accordingly. Back pain locations and common causes Area Location Common Causes Upper Back Poor posture (looking downwards for prolonged periods) Prolonged deskbound work and lack of exercise Pillow too high or too low Whiplash or other neck injuries Injury from weight-bearing activity Injury during exercise Sudden change of posture or twisting Wear and tear Mid Back Poor posture (slouching on a soft sofa for prolonged periods) Overweight Injury during exercise Wear and tear Lower Back Poor posture (when carrying or lifting heavy items) Prolonged sitting and lack of exercise Overweight Sudden change of posture or twisting motions Overexertion of force Wear and tear Back pain in different age groups In the past decade, there have been reports of back pain in young people rising and this coincides with our observation during clinical practice. [4][5] Most of the back pain observed in this young population are musculoskeletal in nature and recovers well with appropriate treatment, rest and change in poor lifestyle habits. In contrast, back pain in older adults tend to be chronic and recurring – existing evidence suggests that the prevalence of severe and chronic back pain increases with age. Seniors are more likely to develop certain pathologies such as osteoporotic vertebral fractures, tumours, and spinal stenosis. This coupled with various age-related physical, psychological, and mental changes (e.g. spinal degeneration, comorbidities, physical inactivity, age-related changes in central pain processing, and dementia), make the seniors more susceptible to back pain. Therefore, it is important for seniors to get the cause of their back pain diagnosed and treated promptly to prevent the development of debilitating and serious complications. Back pain is a common health problem in the modern society Many people turn to TCM treatment for back pain relief. Symptoms of back pain include localized pain, swelling, stiffness, tightness, and tenderness to touch. Upper back pain Can be associated with headache, numbness in the hand Low back pain May also refer to areas down the legs or can cause numbness/weakness in the legs There are many factors causing back pain, and these can be divided into two main categories: external factors and internal factors. Internal factors predispose the body in a vulnerable state (soft tissue weakness and tightness) where injuries are more likely to occur. External factors, on the other hand, are direct insults to the body which result in the stagnation of Qi and Blood in the meridians. Stagnation of Qi and Blood means poor circulation to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones at the back. This results in pain, stiffness and swelling. External factors Internal factors Exposure to Wind, Cold, Dampness Old age Sprains and strains from poor posture, trauma, overuse or overexertion of force Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise Poor diet and malnutrition Late-night sleep and insufficient rest TCM home remedies for back pain relief Acupressure massage It is important to identify the painful regions and use the corresponding acupressure points so that it will be effective. Recent studies support the use of acupressure for back pain relief as it improves pain and fatigue symptoms [6], is low risk, low cost and easy to administer. How to massage your acupoints at home: Get into a comfortable position and relax your body and mind Firmly press on acupoint in a circular or up-and-down motion for about 3 minutes at a time You should feel a dull, aching sensation but not excessive pain from pressing too hard Back pain location Back exercise for pain relief Jian Jing (GB-21):Situated halfway between the top of the neck and shoulder Jian Wai Shu (SI-14):Approximately 4 fingers lateral to the spinous process of T1 Wai Guan (TH-5):Approximately 3 fingers proximal to the dorsal crease of the wrist, halfway between the radius and ulnar Fu Yang (BL-59):Approximately 4 fingers above the lateral malleolus, in a depression, between the borders of fibula and the Achilles tendon Yao Tong Dian (Ex-UE7):On the back of the hand, midway between the wrist crease and knuckle joint. The points are located between the second and the third metacarpal (finger) bones, and between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones Exercises for back pain relief Below are some exercises to relieve back muscle tightness to keep them supple and reduce strain on the back. You should do them daily and as frequently as needed. Try to relax while doing the exercise, feel your body loosening as you stretch and do not rush through the exercises. Location Back exercise for pain relief Upper back Chin tuck Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Your shoulders should be relaxed and down.Now pull your chin in toward your neck. Count to five, then relax. Repeat 10 times. Chest and upper back stretch Clasp your hands behind your back or behind the back of your chair and stretch your chest forward. Slowly lift your head and stretch as far back as possible. Hold for at least 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times. Low back Low back

A Day in the Life of Traditional Chinese Medicine Physician Ang Lee Fang

A Day in the Life of Traditional Chinese Medicine Physician Ang Lee Fang WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share – This article was originally published on Voices Wellness Physician Ang Lee Fang explains how TCM can appeal to a younger generation and how the traditional practice works in tandem with Western medicine. By Samantha Francis. If Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) brings to mind bitter herbal drinks, cupping marks, and acupuncture, you’re not alone. While once widely thought to be pseudoscience, the branch of traditional medicine with its origins in China is now considered a valid practice in the Lion City. In fact, TCM practitioners in Singapore are governed by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Act. What does a TCM practitioner do? And are their treatment plans in conflict with Western medicine? We speak to physician Ang Lee Fang from Oriental Remedies Group to understand TCM’s place in the modern world. What’s in a day’s work for you? I spend the majority of my day with my patients. While the more experienced physicians see more than 30 patients a day, I’m slowly making my way there. I pride myself on accurately diagnosing and prescribing the appropriate treatment for my patients—nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing their weekly improvements. My role as a physician in a modern TCM clinic extends beyond seeing patients. I’m also involved in creating educational content for our patients and the public, as well as training the team on common health conditions. What’s the most fulfilling part about your job and what’s the most challenging? The most fulfilling part is when I see my patients recover, especially those who have failed to see improvement from prior treatments. I enjoy taking on challenging cases and conditions. When my patients feel their pain and discomfort going away, it’s all worth it. The most challenging part is that many patients expect TCM practitioners to be old because they relate the experience to age. Some are surprised by my youth and may hesitate to fully heed my advice. Thankfully, they become receptive once they see good results from my treatment plan. How do you think TCM has evolved and changed in Singapore over the past decade or so? Singaporeans are now more accepting of TCM. Back then, many held the idea that TCM and western medicine were mutually exclusive. With time and research, it has been proven that the two can work together to bring greater benefits to patients. For example, TCM is an effective complementary treatment for cancer as herbs can be used to minimise the side effects of conventional cancer therapies. These include reducing nausea and increasing appetite, which significantly improves one’s quality of life. The integration of TCM and technology results in better treatment and diagnosis. At Oriental Remedies Group, we offer technology-enhanced therapies that complement traditional treatments for better and faster results. Many of us are graduates from the NTU Chinese Medicine course, where we were schooled in both Biological Sciences (western human anatomy and body systems) and TCM. This allows us to tap on both Eastern and Western perspectives to provide patients with a more efficacious treatment plan. What’s one thing you wish more people knew about TCM? Many think that TCM is only good for sprained ankles or body aches. While it is true that acupuncture is effective in pain management and muscle tension, there is so much more that it can offer. Often, health problems arise due to disruptions in homeostasis (a stable and balanced internal state of the body) and TCM has the ability to regulate your body systems and help improve your quality of life. Some serious chronic conditions that TCM can support include (but are not limited to) male and female fertility, eczema and skin issues, autoimmune conditions, mood disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. It can also treat functional illnesses like “tiredness” and “lethargy”—conditions that are not necessarily recognised as health issues in western medicine but can greatly impact one’s quality of life. How does TCM work in harmony with Western medicine? Or does it have to be one or the other? TCM often acts to support Western medicine. The combination of both is already widely adopted by many in China, which I witnessed first-hand when I shadowed physicians in the hospitals there. More often than not, the two can be used in conjunction to bring about better overall results than using only one form of treatment. TCMOne example is the treatment of fertility conditions. TCM can be used to increase the success rate of IVF/IUI via acupuncture and herbal medication. Even after successful conception, TCM can continue to support the mother-to-be in stabilising the pregnancy and development of a healthy fetus. What are some challenges that come with making TCM relevant and appealing to a younger audience? As our younger audiences are more well-read and more likely to consume information online, they may read about the allopathic view of healing when it comes to specific conditions and therefore disregards TCM. Understandably, TCM may be confusing with abstract concepts such as Yin, Yang, and Qi to the general public. TCM may be seen as old-fashioned by those who do not believe in concepts such as heatiness and dampness. Other sceptics may also prefer methods backed by science. Despite these challenges, I believe we make TCM more relevant to all age groups through education on the right platforms and presenting facts through scientific papers, research, and clinical tests. What does wellness mean to you, and why? Beyond physical health, it’s important to be mentally and emotionally healthy as well. Often, people find it challenging to function properly due to stress. As such, it is vital to address these issues to prevent lapses in concentration and a lack of motivation. With healthy mental and emotional states, people can become almost twice as productive as before. How do you relax when things get too stressful? I enjoy going for a walk

Is Facial Acupuncture the new Botox?

Is Facial Acupuncture the new Botox? WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Rejuvenating your skin and wellness naturally with Facial Acupuncture! A mere mention of acupuncture often makes people scrunch their face in anticipated pain, what more when you tell them that you will poke acupuncture needles into their face! While there has been a recent resurgence of interest in Facial Acupuncture, it has a long history. Before the Warring States period in Chinese history (475- 221 BC), acupuncture treatments for cosmetic purposes were mostly a luxury, generally reserved for the Empress and the Imperial concubines for their beauty, health and longevity. 1 More recent research points to the efficacy of Facial Acupuncture for aesthetic results. A 1996 report in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture reported that in 300 cases treated in China with cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, 90% reported marked effects with just one course of treatment. The effects included improvement in skin texture and colouring, increased elasticity, reduction of wrinkles and overall rejuvenation (not merely confined to the face). 2 However, acupuncture is not used to treat beauty concerns singularly because it is believed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that beauty originates from inside out, given the strong relationship between health and appearance. From the TCM perspective, many meridians either start or end on the face or some have branches that go to the face, correlating the relationship of health and appearance. 3  For example, facial skin pigmentation is often associated with poor Qi and blood flow to the facial region. Hence, acupuncture can be applied to selected acupoints away from the face which in turn helps relieve the pigmentation. What exactly is Facial Acupuncture and how does it help your skin? Facial Acupuncture involves inserting thin and disposable acupuncture needles into specific points on the face, head and neck. This is usually for aesthetic purposes with a focus on facial anti-ageing and facial rejuvenation. Collagen is the protein responsible for tightness and vibrancy in the skin. Its production slows down as we age, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles and a decline in elasticity in our skin. The act of needling into the skin causes positive micro-trauma to the skin which encourages blood flow and collagen production, leading to the treatment and prevention of the signs of ageing. The improved localized blood supply helps to strengthen and tighten the facial tissues for a glowing complexion. 4 [Facial Acupuncture] reduces the sign of aging by revitalizing the skin, brings youthful glow and cultivates Qi circulation, increase in blood flow, production of collagen & elastin, balances Qi, balancing internal zang fu organs.   It enhances radiance of complexion rejuvenation for body, reduce stress, promote overall health & well-being diminish fine lines & wrinkles, age spots, decrease dark circles/bags, increases moisture decrease puffiness of entire face and under eyes, increases in facial muscle tone balances hormones, clears acne and hormonal acne, tightens pores, improves elasticity of facial muscles”   — Lisa LaCova-Bhat, President of Lmar Integrative Holistic Medicine & Anti-Aging Therapies, Inc, USA How does Facial Acupuncture help with your wellness? In TCM, the body system is seen as a whole, and skin problems often reflect disharmony in the body. Facial Acupuncture aims to improve the body’s constitution and create balance in the internal environment of the body to bring out better complexion from within. Thus, other than stimulating acupoints on the face, related acupoints on other parts of the body, such as hands and legs, are also utilized. This will help to address the underlying root cause of the problem. The specific acupoints are chosen depending on the underlying health imbalances of the individual and their specific ageing concerns. According to the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine reportedly written by a famous Chinese emperor around 2600 BC (Huang Di Nei Jing), the complexion, hair and skin are related to the state of the internal zang fu organs. [3] Specifically, the hair is governed by the kidneys and the skin is governed by the lungs. This medical classic also explores the relationship between diet, health, and appearance and has dietary recommendations for food and Chinese herbs. Unlike Western facial treatments, Facial Acupuncture is often not a quick fix. It is a customized treatment based on the body’s overall condition and offers a holistic approach to managing skin problems. This will help to create long term changes to the skin and body health, such as a brightened skin tone, reduced dark eye rings and improved skin elasticity leading to a sharper jawline.  Similar to acupuncture, the common side effects of Facial Acupuncture is light bruising which happens in about 1 out of 5 sessions. It is almost a zero-downtime facial treatment as compared to other more invasive treatments. Who is Facial Acupuncture suitable for? Facial Acupuncture is safe for most healthy individuals. However, for people with skin infections, open wounds, tumours, bleeding disorders, serious health conditions and acute diseases, it is best to seek a consultation with our Physicians before embarking on Facial Acupuncture. In cases of severe acne, the session will be focused more on acupoints on the body rather than the face. What does a complete Facial Acupuncture treatment plan look like? A suggested treatment plan will be 10 sessions, 1-2 times a week, to see optimum results. After that, depending on the body’s condition, one can get a session every 2-4 weeks to maintain the results. Your beauty and wellness is the most important In Oriental Remedies Group, we have more than 10 certified bi-lingual TCM Physicians. Each of them has been trained in Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) and China for a minimum of 5-8 years, in both Biomedical Science and TCM before being certified to practice in Singapore. Specifically, we have Physician Poh who specializes in female beauty and infertility. After knowing all the benefits of Facial Acupuncture, are you ready to book a session with us and get the glow back to your skin? Please contact us at +65 8142 2163

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support?

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support? WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share We understand that a cancer diagnosis for you or your loved one can be a distressing and emotional time for you and your family. In this article, we will explain how Oriental Remedies Group can help improve the quality of life for the patient during this tumultuous period, by providing cancer support via Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Technology-Enhanced Therapies, along your route to recovery. In recent years, more cancer patients are turning to TCM as a form of cancer support. In our clinic, we see an increasing number of patients who suffer from side effects of chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy and are seeking complementary TCM therapies to reduce the side effects and alleviate symptoms such as pain. Why use TCM for cancer support? Many clinical studies have shown that TCM is effective in supporting treatments against breast, gastric and lung cancer. An example from one of the researches shows that when TCM is used as a complementary therapy combined with conventional chemotherapy, patients increased the survival rate, had a better response to chemotherapy and experienced reduced side effects, including vomiting and the decline of red blood cells.[1] On top of that, TCM also improves the effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in fighting cancer, guided by therapeutic principles of tonifying Qi and producing Blood[1], strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, nourishing the Liver and Kidney and removing Heat or inflammation from Blood and toxic materials from the body. TCM also plays a strong role in helping patients with advanced cancer diagnosis or patients, especially elderly ones, where radiotherapy and chemotherapy are deemed as unsuitable treatment therapies. Research shows that TCM can stabilise tumour lesions, improve symptoms, enhance the quality of life and prolong survival time.[1] If you’re getting a little lost above, fret not. In this article, we hope to demystify TCM and help you gain better knowledge and awareness so that you can make an informed decision with the use of TCM treatments in your recovery. The efficacy of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in cancer treatment. Source: NCBI What exactly is cancer? According to the Singapore Cancer Society, cancer is a term that refers to a group of diseases, all of which are characterised by abnormal cell growth.[2] When the normal regulated process of cell division and growth malfunctions, the cells will grow and divide uncontrollably. As they continue to grow and multiply, they may amass to form tumours. There are two kinds of tumours; benign and malignant. The former is a tumour that continues to grow and divide in the same place, without spreading to other parts of the body. On the other hand, when the tumour spreads and invades into other parts of the body via metastasis, it is a life-threatening tumour known as malignant tumours. What causes cancer from a TCM perspective? 1) Weak immunity Qi has a defensive mechanism that protects the body, thus weakened Qi formed from poor digestive function results in weakened immunity Coldness restricts the flow of Qi and Blood resulting in stagnation Stress and emotions stagnate Qi flow 2) Poor Blood circulation It can result from coldness accumulated in the body. This could be from external environment or frequent ingestion of food of cold nature Weak Qi (energy) is unable to encourage Blood flow. Hence, many cancer patients tend to feel cold and have cold extremities Blood is thick and turbid thus stagnated 3) Phlegm Dampness accumulation Weakened digestive function Excessive intake of food of cold nature or oily/greasy food Exposure to cold environments weakens Spleen’s ability to transform food into nutritive essence, thereby reducing the formation of Qi and Blood Poor bowel movement results in the accumulation of toxins 4) Exposure to Dampness from the environment Environmental toxins Exposure of damp and cold environment Patient trying Electro-Lymphatic Therapy at Oriental Remedies Group How does Oriental Remedies Group support cancer recovery? TCM views the treatment of cancer holistically, with a systematic approach being taken to treat and improve the overall condition of the body. Physicians customise a treatment plan suited to the patient, based on the identified root cause(s). At Oriental Remedies Group, a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatments and Technology-Enhanced Therapies are prescribed to boost the patients’ immune system and to strengthen and nourish the body. Even when you are undergoing conventional cancer treatments, you can still work on improving your quality of life! Find out some of the key therapies prescribed for cancer warriors below: Acupuncture Acupuncture utilises very fine needles placed at different parts of the body to help regulate, realign and improve the condition of the body and its organs Acupuncture treatments are focused on improving the patients’ quality of life Cancer patients report the below benefits: Strengthened immune system More energy and reduced lethargy Reduced cancer treatment side effects Reduced anxiety Herbal Medication Helps to recuperate the body, replenish the Qi and energy, nourishing the body so that it can fight the cancer cells Some herbal medication are supported by research to help suppress the growth and spread of cancer in the body Electro-Lymphatic Therapy Improves the function of the lymphatic system which is closely linked to ‘San Jiao’ in TCM Cancer patients report better well-being: Strengthened immunity Reduced pain, aches and inflammation Reduce water retention and lymphedema (especially for cancer patients who have gone through lymph node removals) Better sleep and mobility Aside from TCMxTech-Enhanced Therapies recommended by your physicians, it is equally important for cancer patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet for their body system to function optimally while/after undergoing treatments. Here are some strategies on How To Eat Right During and After Chemotherapy/ Radiotherapy. Is TCM suitable for every cancer patient? Yes! TCM Physicians work alongside major hospitals in Singapore like Tan Tock Seng Hospital to provide care to patients with all sorts of conditions, not just cancer. However, it is important to seek professional consultation from certified physicians as some patients may be allergic to certain herbs, or certain herbs are not suitable when patients

Western Pain Diagnosis Through an Eastern Lens

Western Pain Diagnosis Through an Eastern Lens WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share The following content was presented by Physician Leong at the Helping CHEN Summit by Pfizer on 11 May 2019. Many people have experienced pain relief with TCM treatments, but often don’t understand why they felt their pain go away. In this article written for allopathic doctors (or any curious audience, really), we will cover: What are the ‘western medical names’ for pain conditions identified in TCM? Acupoints that are useful for pain relief If one does not have access to a certified acupuncturist, you can also do acupressure massage on these points for relief. Ethiology (TCM) Common Corresponding Issues/Symptoms Acute Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region Traumatic Injury, Soft tissue Sprains and strains Bone Spurs Pain usually fixed and aggravated upon movement and/or pressure Chronic Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the meridians (Urinary Bladder (UB), Gall Bladder (GB) and Governing Vessel (GV) Channels) Bone Spurs Slipped Disc/Nerve Irritation Sciatica Pain Pain began after exposure to pathogenic cold/wind/damp (symptoms could be weather related) Heavy sensation and pain in the lumbar region Stiffness of the muscles with possible limitation of movement Chronic Deficiency of the Kidneys Osteoporosis Pain is not severe – experience a sensation of soreness Weakness in the lumbar area as well as in the knees Ageing symptoms – fatigue, frequent urination, blurry vision, cold hands and feet Principles of acupoint selection: Etiology of Pain Acute vs Chronic Pain Patient’s condition:  Ability to lie down?  Tolerance of pain? Localised Treatment Huantiao (GB 30) Yaoyan (Extra 9) Shenshu (UB 23) Dachangshu (UB 25) Yaoyangguan (GV 3) Mingmen (GV 4) Distant Treatment Etiology & Pathology (TCM) Corresponding Issues/Symptoms A Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region Traumatic Injury, Sprains, Contusion Bone Spurs Pain usually fixed and aggravated upon movement and/or pressure B Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the corresponding channels and collaterals Bone Spurs Slipped Disc/Nerve Irritation Sciatica Pain Pain began after exposure to pathogenic cold/wind/damp (weather related) Heavy sensation and pain in the lumbar region Stiffness of the muscles with possible limitation of movement C Deficiency of the Kidneys Osteoporosis Pain is not severe – experience a sensation of soreness Weakness in the lumbar area as well as in the knees Ageing symptoms – fatigue, frequent urination, blurry vision, cold hands and feet Etiology & Pathology (TCM) Distant Acupoints to Resolve Root Causes A Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region S1-S2 pain, difficulty in rotation – Houxi (SI 3), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09) Pain above L2, bone spurs – Yaotongxue, Zhongbai (T 22.06), Xiabai (T 22.07) B Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the corresponding channels and collaterals L4-L5 pain/Sciatica – Weizhong (UB 40) Xuanzhong (GB39), Dabai (T 22.04), Linggu (T 22.05) Bleeding for UB 40. Sciatica with bone spurs – GB 30, Yanglingquan (GB 34), Quchi (LI 11) Expels cold – Yaoyangguan (GV 3), Huofuhai (T 33.07), Jianzhong (T 44.06) Dispel wind – Fengshi (GB 31), Shouwujin (T 33.08), Shouqianjin (T 33.09) Dispel dampness and bone spur – Minghuang (T 88.12), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Qihuang (T 88.14) C Deficiency of the Kidneys Nourish kidneys – Taixi (KD 3), Guanyuan (CV 4), Qihai (CV 6) Improving weakness in the knees – Shenmen (HT 7), Shaohai (HT 3), Yanglingquan (GB 34), Weizhong (UB 40) Do you have issues that may require a physician? Contact us at +65 8087 0486 or drop us a Whatsapp to make an appointment. Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. RELATED TOPICS

3 Steps to Good Quality Sleep

3 Steps to Good Quality Sleep WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Originally posted on Mednefits.com written by Physician Leong Weizhen 1) Recognising what poor quality sleep is Most people see poor sleep and think “Oh, I have good quality sleep. I fall asleep so fast. I don’t need to read this” and flip the page. But do you know what really defines poor sleep? If you experience lethargy, brain fog and food comas in the day, or have vivid dreams and wake up to urinate often at night, you very likely have poor sleep. Although these traits seem normal because you have had them for so long, all of them are red flags for insufficient sleep in quality and/or quantity. According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School [1], insufficient sleep in the short term can affect emotions, learning and increase the likelihood of severe accidents and injuries. Extended periods of poor and insufficient sleep can result in a plethora of health issues including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and shortened lifespans. 2) Leveraging TCM to identify the accurate root cause of poor quality sleep Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) aids sleep quality in many ways but it is important to first understand the right root cause. For example, some patients may be having poor appetite or excessive food intake which results in dreams and worries in the night. This is likely due to spleen deficiency causing sleep disturbance. Depression and anxiety also prevent one from having good quality sleep, and that could be due to Qi and blood stagnation. Working adults typically struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep or achieve deep rested sleep, driven by stress and an overactive mind. In this case, it is likely liver fire disrupting the mind. Hence, TCM physicians need to know more about patients through a detailed consultation – not just about sleeping patterns but also daily living habits. There are usually other symptoms which will point out the relevant imbalances that need to be corrected and harmonised. 3) Effective TCM solutions for great sleep and energy TCM solutions for resolving poor sleep issues are highly customised depending on the root cause identified through our diagnosis. In our herb prescriptions, we aim to balance patient’s specific body constitution and blend herbs such as FuShen 茯神, SuanZaoRen 酸枣仁, ZhenZhuMu 珍珠母 and GuiYuan 桂圆 which are specific to improve sleep quality. Acupuncture is also an effective treatment option to help improve sleep quality. According to Pacific College of Oriental Medicine [2], by targeting and rectifying the imbalance of Qi and Yin Yang in the body, acupuncture helps the body and mind regain balance and harmony. The stimulated flow and unblocking of stagnated Qi in the meridians and the body helps improve your mind and body, helping you to rest better and thus get better sleep There are typical acupoints used to improve sleep quality such as YinTang印堂, ShenMen神门, NeiGuan内关, SanYinJiao三阴交. You can try massaging these points daily, 5 mins each point, for home therapy as well. Our clinic also utilizes state-of-the-art FDA-registered medical device to improve lymphatic drainage via Electro-Lymphatic Therapy. By reducing water retention, pain and clearing lymph congestion, many patients report feeling relaxed and experience better sleep. How would you be able to tell when your sleep has improved? Good rest happens when you have a peaceful sleep, fall asleep within 20 minutes of getting in bed, stay asleep most of the time you spend in bed as well as waking up feeling refreshed and energized throughout the day. Better rest results in stronger immunity, higher productivity, more energy as well as no food comas! If you have been looking to improve your sleep quality and have tried caffeine reduction and sleeping aids with minimal results, do not despair. Make an appointment with our Singaporean bi-lingual TCM Physicians trained in China today to improve your quality of sleep and life today! Make an appointment with us at +65 8087 0486 or go to our contact page to make an appointment. Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. References: 1. http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/matters/consequences 2. https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/10/03/acupuncture-insomnia-and-sleep-disorders RELATED TOPICS