“A wise woman who was traveling in the mountains found a precious stone in a stream. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry, and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked the woman to give it to him. She did so without hesitation. The traveler left, rejoicing in his good fortune. He knew the stone was worth enough to give him security for a lifetime. But, a few days later, he came back to return the stone to the wise woman. ‘I’ve been thinking’, he said, ‘I know how valuable the stone is, but I give it back in the hope that you can give me something even more precious. Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me the stone.”
“The Wise Woman’s Stone”-----Author Unknown
“That is just a nice story,” you might be thinking. Perhaps so, but the underlying message is truly one to reflect upon in our daily lives. And, so it is with my passion to see our patients get well and learn what tried and true, as well as new procedures or exercises they can do to be active, satisfied “stakeholders” in their well-being, which is my ultimate purpose in sending these newsletters each month, to share the knowledge that I have gained through my constant research. It is my hope that each of you will glean some benefit to your good health endeavors.
The following article offers light on the utilization of acupuncture for more than just pain control. In previous articles, I have shared that acupuncture (remember that this is a “system” that can be carried out via pin-point laser or piezo electric stimulation, and, not just through needling) is effective for: decreasing the nerve signals that cause pain, stimulating the release of your own endorphins (happy hormones) and other opioids, as well as to modulate (regulate) muscle and connective tissue (fascia) activity.
Effect of acute acupuncture treatment on exercise performance and post exercise recovery: a systematic review.
By Dr. Jennie Gillis
As previous studies have suggested that acupuncture may improve exercise performance and post-exercise recovery, Urroz et al. from the University of Western Sydney (Australia), reviewed data collected in four separate and published studies. They found that acute acupuncture applied during exercise exerted beneficial effects on power and blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen consumption, and blood lactate, as well as the body's ability to recover post-exercise. The study authors submit that: "There is preliminary support for the use of acupuncture as a means to enhance exercise performance and post-exercise recovery."
While these results are promising and exciting, randomized control trials with thorough and standardized reporting of research methods (e.g., acupuncture and exercise interventions) and results should be the next step to determine more adequately the effect of acupuncture on exercise performance and post-exercise recovery.
Urroz P, Colagiuri B, Smith CA, Cheema BS. Effect of acute acupuncture treatment on exercise performance and post exercise recovery: a systematic review. J Altern Complement Med. 2013 Jan;19(1):9-16.
While I have consistently witnessed positive results with post exercise or event recovery, the ability to positively influence performance prior to/during the activity is exciting! As data is gathered, it will be interesting to see the results of these studies. I find that the functional rehabilitation method that I utilize has provided excellent outcomes when patients follow instructions, in fewer visits, and are excited to refer their friends and family for care. So, another month, another calendar leaf in the basket; it is now officially Spring! So, thank you for the privilege of allowing me to be a part of your health care team and I look forward to continuing to assist you, your loved ones and friends with the musculo-skeletal needs as you carry on with the outdoor hobby and sports activities you enjoy. As one who is committed to the practice of Manual Medicine via Chiropractic and complimentary procedures, I adhere to the antithesis of the negative computer axiom, “garbage in-garbage out” with “quality in-quality out” with regard to my research and care in the encounters that I have with each of your prevailing needs. We look forward seeing you! Have a blessed month! Enjoy the snow tomorrow!
(April Fools!)
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