Publications

Paraplegia & Acupuncture

Paraplegia which occurs when the spinal core has been injured and nerve's function has been blocked results in paralysis of one or more limbs. Acupuncture with electric stimulation or injection of herbal medicine, plus vitamin B1 and vitamin B12 in points to stimulate and nourish the nerves has seen remarkable results in China. The technique requires knowledge of very specific points, the correct depth of penetration of the needles of local points, and the appropriate rhythm of electrical stimulation. We have performed this technique successfully and have achieved many positive clinical results. One 50–year–old female went on vacation with her family to Egypt in 1998. Unfortunately, she had a tragic accident, in which she had a traumatic spinal injury—her fracture back ended up in paraplegia. She was sent to England immediately and received a spinal operation. Despite the top–rate western medical care at hospitals in both Britain and America, she was still paraplegic (though her leg muscle was not atrophied) when we were invited to visit her at the hospital.

She had no control of her bowel and urine function; under L4 sensory test she showed absence of thermal threshold in the lower back and legs. In addition, her legs and feet did not have any voluntary movement. The patient was diagnosed with a T12 compression fracture, T12–L1 posterior fusion with pedicle screws and iliac bone graft, lumbar laminectomy with lysis of dural adhesions. She was not able to feel pain and was completely paralyzed in both legs. Her doctors and her family thought she would never stand up again.

In March 2, 2000, she started her acupuncture with electric stimulation treatment and her initial response turned her doctor and her family's idea about her perpetual immobility. The patient's condition improved with every passing day–her sensation of skin gradually went from completely numbness to some sensation, then to keen awareness revoked function. She was elated when able to kick both legs, sitting on the edge of a bed, and wriggle her toes. Then she reported feeling her full bladder and regained control of her urine function. Her lower back and both legs resumed normal temperature, and the edema in the ankles disappeared. Very soon, one physical examination stated that her nerves and muscles function responses were close to normal.

Spinal cord injury resulting in paraplegia is most often caused by a severe accident. Statistics show that the majority of paraplegics sustain their injury from road accidents. These, along with diving and other sporting accidents, disable many young people for the rest of their lives. Spinal injury resulting in paraplegia can also occur if the spinal cord is damaged through a disease which causes infection, or when there is a tumor on the spine. Acupuncturists who treat paraplegia need to take reference from precise diagnosis by Western medical doctors. It is vitally important for patients to produce their spinal X–ray, MRI or CT scan to the acupuncturist practitioner—these will help the practitioner correctly assess the problem, select the treatment to address the situation.