Definition:
Loss or impairment of motor function because of a condition of the
neural or muscular mechanism.
Etiology:
• Spinal cord injury: Paralysis following a spinal cord injury
may be temporary (concussion or contusion) or permanent (from lacerations
or transection).
• Polio: This causes asymmetric flaccid limb paralysis or bulbar
palsies without sensory loss.
Signs and symptoms:
• history of accident/trauma or polio.
• The most serious injury, an acute transverse cord lesion,
causes immediate flaccid paralysis that gradually changes into spastic
paralysis over days or hours from an exaggeration of the normal
stretch receptors. The paralysis occurs below where the cord was
transected:
» Above C-5: Causes respiratory paralysis and is usually fatal.
» C4-5: Causes complete quadriplegia.
» C5-6: The arms can abduct and flex.
» C6-7: Paralyzes the legs, wrists and hands, though shoulder
movement is normal and the elbows can flex.
» Above T-1: Causes miotic pupils.
» C8-T1: Causes Horner's syndrome.
» T11-T12: Affects leg muscles above and below the knees.
» T12-L1: Paralysis below the knee.
Lab findings:
• CSF findings in polio will show increased protein and AST;
these findings are also present in many viral CNS diseases
• check associated blood findings
Course/Prognosis:
• Spinal cord trauma: Compressed nerve tissue will recover
its function, although severed or degenerated nerve processes will
lead to permanent disability. Any dysfunction remaining after 6
months will probably be permanent.
• Polio: Fewer than 25% of afflicted patients suffer permanent
disability, 25% have mild disabilities, and greater than 50% recover
with no residual paralysis.
Differential Diagnosis:
• differentiate among the many causes of paralysis by clinical
picture and etiology
• water exercises: begun as soon as possible, see water exercise
of affected part
• passive exercises: right after onset
• paralysis exercises
Hydrotherapy:
• hot fomentations
• see multiple sclerosis
• wet sheet pack
• hammock bathfor muscle spasms
• massage
• Chapman's reflex: check and treat lateral to SP's of C3-C5,
then check and treat between TP of C1, C2
• spine: during polio infection without fever, check and align
C1-C3
Electrical/oscillating:
• diathermy: include region of cord where lesion is between
two electrodes (Johnson, 1946, p. 375)
• sine: 15-20 surges/min. for 5 min., gradually increase time
as muscles improve
Therapeutic foods:
• foods that invigorate the Qi and Xue (Blood), nourish the
Xue (Blood), tonify the Qi
• increase foods rich in Calcium, Phosphorus, Manganese, Sulfur,
Iodine, tryptophan (Jensen, p. 63)
• egg yolk, kale, celery, fish, raw goat's milk, veal joint
broth, cod roe, rice polishings, brewer's yeast, nutritional yeast
(Jensen, p. 63)
Fresh juices:
• celery, carrot, prune (Jensen, p. 63)
• prune and rice polishings (Jensen, p. 63)
• raw goat's milk and 1 tsp. sesame, sunflower or almond butter,
1 tsp. honey and sliver of avocado (Jensen, p. 63)
• black cherry and egg yolk (Jensen, p. 63)
• carrot, celery, spinach, and parsley (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot and spinach (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot and parsley (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot, celery, and parsley (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot, beet, and cucumber (Walker, p. 143)
• carrot, beet, lettuce, and turnip (Walker, p. 143)
Avoid:
• meat, alcohol, hot sauces, spicy foods, fried foods, fatty
foods, rich foods, salty foods, coffee, caffeine, sweet foods and
sugar, cow's milk and other dairy products, white bread, refined
foods, processed foods, catarrh-forming foods: tofu, meat, ice cream
Supplements:
• essential fatty acids 2 Tbsp q.d.
• Vitamin B-complex, esp. B2, B6
• Selenium 300 mcg q.d.
• Vitamin C 3 g q.d.
• choline, inositol (Bastyr)
• Arnica montana (toxic): chronic milder forms, paraplegia,
hemiplegia after acute inflammation from injury has passed (Ellingwood,
p. 148; Felter, p. 207)
• Avena sativa: hemiplegia following apoplexy, wasting diseases
(Harper-Shove, p. 186; Ellingwood, p. 204)
• Capsicum frutescens: local or general of central origin (Ellingwood,
p. 164)
• Claviceps purpurea (toxic) (ergot): hemiplegia, paraplegia
(Felter, p. 356)
• Collinsonia canadensis: with Avena sativa: infantile (Harper-Shove,
p. 186)
• Conium maculatum (toxic): from below upwards; vertigo, staggering
gait (Harper-Shove, p. 185, Felter, p. 320)
• Crataegus spp.: paralysis of the left side with heart involvement
(Ellingwood, p. 220)
• Gelsemium sempervirens (toxic): after rheumatism, inflammatory
conditions of cerebrospinal system (Harper-Shove, p. 186; Felter
and Lloyd, p. 921)
• Hypericum perforatum: helps nerve growth, spinal injuries
(Hoffman; Felter, p. 424)
• Physostigma venenosum (toxic): for temporary use in progressive
paralysis of the insane (Ellingwood, p. 188)
• Rhus toxicodendron (toxic): hemiplegia or paralysis of legs
after rheumatism (Harper-Shove, pp. 185-86; Felter and Lloyd, p.
1672; Felter, p. 607)
• Strychnos ignatii (toxic): local, hysteric, neurasthenic,
following diphtheria or syphilis; due to lead or arsenic; nerve
stimulant (Harper-Shove, p. 186; Felter and Lloyd, p. 1043)
• Strychnos nux vomica (toxic): local, not caused by hemorrhage
with the nervous system, or inflammation (Felter and Lloyd, p. 1315)
• Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang: Qi Xu (Deficiency) with Xue Yu (Blood
Stasis). (Yeung, p. 50; Bensky and Barolet, p. 320)
• Jian Bu Hu Qian Wan (Chen Pu Hu Chien Wen) (patent): Sequelae
of poliomyelitis: Yin Xu (Deficiency) with False Fire: muscle atrophy,
limbs without strength. (Naeser, p. 289)
• Ginseng and Tang Kuei Ten C. (Shi Quan Da Bu Tang); Ginseng
and Longan C. (Gui Pi Tang); Gui Bi Wan/Kwei Be Wan (patent): Qi
Xu (Deficiency) with Xue Xu (Blood Deficiency): post-polio paralysis
(Ginseng and Tang Kuei: Hsu, 1980, p. 262; Yeung, p. 209; Dharmananda,
1986, p. 107; Bensky and Barolet, p. 260; Ginseng and Longan: Hsu,
1980, p. 425; Yeung, p. 112; Dharmananda, 1986, p. 244; Bensky and
Barolet, p. 255; Kwei Be Wan: Zhu, p. 274)
• Niu Huang Jiang Ya Wan (patent): Liver Wind Arising from
Liver Yang Rising: paralysis with hypertension (Zhu, p. 147)
• Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan (Niu Huang Ching Hsin Wan) (patent):
Fire Toxin (Zhu, p. 146)
• Da Huo Luo Dan (patent): Xue Yu (Blood Stasis) with Qi Stagnation:
flaccid or spastic paralysis (Zhu, p. 139)
• Tu-huo and Vaeicum C. (Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang) plus pseudoginseng
(san qi), clematis (wei ling xian) and chaenomeles (mu gua): Wind-Damp
Bi Syndrome: heavy and painful sensations at fixed locations in
low back and lower extremities with weakness and stiffness, aversion
to cold; may be paresthesias or numbness
(Hsu, 1980, p. 459; Dharmananda, 1986, p. 384; Bensky and Barolet,
p. 207)
• Gastrodia 9 (patent): Liver Wind Stirring: tonic paralysis
(Dharmananda, 1990, p. 83)
After assessing the person and palpating,
consider these patterns:
paraplegia:
- of back: injury to either the Du Mai (Governing Vessel) or the
Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel), which prevents the Qi and Xue (Blood) from
circulating through them;
- of lower extremities: Humidity Heat; Damp-Heat in Lower Warmer;
Yin Emptiness; Qi and Xue (Blood) Empty and Weak; Liver and Kidney
Empty and damaged; dysfunction of the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel)
- of common perineal nerve: Xue Yu (Blood Stasis); Damp Cold; Damp-Heat.
traumatic paraplegia: injury of the Du Mai (Governing Vessel)
paralysis: Wei syndrome: Lung Heat; Damp-Heat; Xu (Deficiency) of
Liver and Kidney Jing (Essence); Stomach and Spleen Xu (Deficiency).
post-polio: Infantile Paralysis: Xu (Deficiency) (most cases)
polio: Wind, Dampness, and Heat invade the Lung and Stomach through
the nose and mouth. Where they collect, Heat is formed, which injures
the channels and disrupts Qi and Xue (Blood), leaving Muscle channels
malnourished.
» therapeutic notes:
• Scalp needling is often extremely effective when the paralysis
originates in the brain
• When needling hua tuo jia ji and Shu Associated points, select
one or two sites, bilaterally, over the involved nerves or muscles
and use a medially directed insertion, ideally stimulating the spinal
nerves. First treat the superior segmental levels of affected nerves
and muscles, then move downward treat the lower affected portions
of the body through their respective lower spinal segments. Consider
also needling distal points, esp. at the ends of the fingers and/or
toes, on the affected limbs. (Lee and Cheung, p. 309; Shanghai,
p. 615)
• Use thin needles when treating nerves, esp. the spinal cord,
directly. Mild technique, with limited manipulation, esp. avoiding
vigorous withdrawal and insertion, is most appropriate. (Lee and
Cheung, p. 309; Shanghai, p. 615)
• Threading between contiguous points is a valuable technique
when treating muscles.
• When treating spasm needle points on the paralyzed muscles
first. Utilize the complementary relationships of flexors and extensors.
"For example, if there are spasms in a flexor muscle, points
may be needled in that muscle with strong stimulation for a relatively
lengthy period of time. Needle points in the related extensor muscles
for a shorter period of time. In this way, relative muscle strength
will be balanced." (Shanghai, p. 615)
• see also "cerebrovascular accident/TIA" if appropriate
» palpate and consider:
• GB-20 (-): expels External Wind and dissipates Internal Wind;
reduces and relieves Heat; awakens the Shen and clears the Brain;
subdues Liver Yang and Fire to calm and regulate the Liver, esp.
disperses and descends Liver Yang from the head; harmonizes Qi and
Xue (Blood); frees the channels and invigorates the collateral vessels
• hua tuo jia ji (+): disperse local Stagnation and restore
flow of Qi and Xue (Blood); benefit the back; strengthen and relax
the sinews and tendons; sedate pain; use a medially directed insertion,
ideally stimulating the spinal nerves
• bei shu xue, i.e., the Shu Associated points (+): disperse
local Stagnation and restore flow of Qi and Xue (Blood); benefit
the back; strengthen and relax the sinews and tendons; sedate pain;
use a medially directed insertion, ideally stimulating the spinal
nerves
• Bl-18 (+): pacifies the Shen; stimulates the Brain; clears
and drains the Liver and Gall Bladder; extinguishes Liver Wind;
cools Damp-Heat; moves Stagnant Qi; strengthens Xu (Deficiency)
conditions; nourishes and regulates the Xue (Blood); nourishes Liver
Yin; Liver Shu Associated point
• Bl-20 (+): regulates Spleen Qi; tonifies the Spleen and Stomach;
benefits the Ying (Constructive) Qi; enhances Spleen Yang to mobilize
Stagnant Qi; tonifies and harmonizes the Xue (Blood); warms the
Middle Warmer (&Mac198;); provides strength to the extremities;
Spleen Shu Associated point
• Bl-23 (+): tonifies and adjusts the Kidney; nourishes Yin,
Xue (Blood) and Kidney Jing (Essence); strengthens the Brain and
Marrow; spreads and clears Obstructed Kidney Qi; strengthens Yang
and Qi Hai; counterbalances Liver Fire; resolves Dampness; strengthens
the spine, esp. the lower back; controls the bones; Kidney Shu Associated
point
• Bl-30 (-): transforms Damp-Heat; consolidates Jing (Essence);
regulates Qi of the anal sphincter; sensitizes lumbar and pelvic
regions; treats urinary incontinence due to paralysis
• GV-14 (+): removes Stagnation from the Du Mai (Governing
Vessel); opens and restores the Yang by spreading Yang Qi through
the Du Mai (Governing Vessel) and whole body; clears and cools Heat;
stimulates the immune system, increases white blood cell count,
and prevents or slows inflammation; clears and awakens the Brain
and Mind; calms the Shen and pacifies the Will; stimulates the Bone
Marrow to reach the Brain (Maciocia, p. 257); clears Lung Heat;
relaxes the sinews and muscles; Jiao Hui Intersecting point of the
Yang channels on the Du Mai (Governing Vessel); Entry point of the
Sea of Qi, with GV-13
• GV-4 (+): pacifies the Shen; clears the Brain; strengthens
the Kidney; warms, benefits and replenishes the Kidney Yang and
Yang Qi; nourishes the Yuan (Original) Qi; relieves mental and physical
exhaustion; strengthens the back, esp. benefits the lumbar vertebrae;
reinforces and astringes the Jing (Essence); frees the channels
and invigorates the collateral vessels
• shi qi zhui xia: removes Obstructions from the channel; benefits
the lower back and regulates the Lower Warmer; treats traumatic
paraplegia and infantile paralysis
• GB-30 (-): dispels Wind and Cold; invigorates the Kidney;
strengthens the lower back; regulates the hip joint; strengthens
the thigh; facilitates movement of leg and encourages femur growth
in children (Finkelstein, p. 68); benefits the knee; dissipates
Wind-Damp in the channels and connecting vessels; frees the channels
and removes Obstructions; relaxes the muscles and tendons; treats
Bi, paralysis and atony of the lower extremities
• GV-26 (-): clears the Shen, Brain and senses; cools Heat;
dispels Wind and Wind-Phlegm; regulates the Du Mai (Governing Vessel);
expels Internal Wind, esp. of the face; frees the channels and invigorates
the Qi circulation; benefits the spine, esp. lumbar and cervical
• CV-23 (-): clears Fire and Heat; benefits the tongue; transforms
Phlegm; treats paralysis of hypoglossus muscle; meeting point of
the Kidney and Heart (Finkelstein, p. 93)
• GB-21 (=): spreads Liver Qi; extinguishes Liver Wind; dissolves
Phlegm; disperses Stagnation and stops pain; benefits tendons and
muscles; benefits the shoulder; clears and invigorates the channels
• LI-15 (-): expels Wind; harmonizes the flow of Qi and Xue
(Blood); frees the channels and invigorates the collateral vessels;
stops pain; facilitates the joints; treats paralysis of the upper
limbs; budding point of Hand Yang Ming (Large Intestine) Muscle
channel
• LI-11 (= or +): clears Heat and eliminates Wind; regulates
and harmonizes Qi and Ying; regulates the Xue (Blood); improves
immune function (Finkelstein, p. 9); tonifies Metal to cool inflammatory
processes and restrain Wood, esp. the Liver; eliminates Dampness
through the Intestines; benefits sinews, tendons and joints; frees
the channels; Large Intestine Upper He Sea Uniting, Earth and Tonification
point; budding point of Hand Yang Ming (Large Intestine) Muscle
channel
• LI-4 (= or +): dispels Exterior Wind; regulates Qi and Xue
(Blood); stimulates dispersing function of Lung; activates Wei (Protective)
Qi and stimulates the immune system; tonifies Metal to cool inflammatory
processes and restrain Wood, esp. the Liver; cools and drains Lung
Heat; moves the bowels; elevates Clear Qi and descends Turbid Qi;
clears Toxins; relaxes sinews and tendons; sedates pain; frees the
channels and invigorates the collateral vessels; Large Intestine
Yuan Source and Entry point; Command point of the face and mouth
• TW-5 (=): dissipates Wind and clears Heat, esp. from Triple
Warmer channel; opens and moves the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel)
and regulates the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel); dissolves Toxins; tonifies
Wei (Protective) Qi; frees the channels to facilitate the circulation
of Qi in the channels; invigorates the collateral vessels; strengthens
and relaxes the sinews and tendons; alleviates pain; esp. with paralysis
and pain in fingers inhibiting grasp; Triple Warmer Luo Connecting
point; Master point of the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel); Couple
point of the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel)
• TW-3 (=): dispels Wind and clears Heat; facilitates the circulation
of Qi; treats weakness of the arm, elbow and fingers, esp. inability
to bend fingers and grasp objects tightly; Triple Warmer Wood and
Tonification point
• bi zhong: treats spasms, numbness or paralysis of the upper
extremity
• SI-3 (+): pacifies the Shen and clears the Mind; opens the
Du Mai (Governing Vessel) and regulates the Yang Qiao Mai (Yang
Motility Vessel); dispels Dampness and Internal Heat; tonifies the
Small Intestine; strengthens the spine; relaxes the sinews and muscles;
benefits the joints; releases muscle spasms; invigorates the channels;
Small Intestine Wood and Tonification point; Master point of the
Du Mai (Governing Vessel); Couple point of the Yang Qiao Mai (Yang
Motility Vessel)
• shi xuan (- and/or bleed): clear Shi (Excess) and clear Stagnation
by bleeding; subdue Internal Wind; clear the Heart Orifices
• shi wang (- and/or bleed): clear Shi (Excess) and clear Stagnation
by bleeding the tip of each finger
• Jing Well points (-): clear Shi (Excess) and clear Stagnation
by bleeding
• CV-4 (+): pacifies the Shen; warms and replenishes Yang Qi;
regulates the Qi and benefits Yuan (Original) Qi; nourishes Xue
(Blood) and Yin; regulates and reinforces the Qi of the Chong Mai
(Penetrating Vessel) and Ren Mai (Conception Vessel); nourishes
and stabilizes the Kidney; warms the Kidney Yang (&Mac198;); resolves
Damp-Heat; regulates the Bladder; Small Intestine Mu Alarm point
• CV-3 (+): assists the transforming functions of Qi; tonifies
the Kidney Qi and Yang; regulates the Bladder, Lower Warmer and
the Water Pathways; relieves pain; esp. for paralysis with incontinence;
Bladder Mu Alarm point; Jiao Hui Intersecting point of the Foot
Tai Yin (Spleen), Foot Jue Yin (Liver) and Foot Xiao Yin (Kidney)
Muscle channels
• St-30 (+): harmonizes the Xue (Blood) and Ying (Constructive)
Qi; dispels Qi Stagnation and Xue Yu (Blood Stasis); warms the Lower
Warmer; distributes Jing (Essence) and Yuan (Original) Qi to the
genitals, Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel) and the five curious organs
(Brain, Spine, Bones and Marrow, Gall Bladder and Uterus); relaxes
the tendons; Entry point of Sea of Nourishment; Entry point of the
Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel)
• GB-26 (=): regulates the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel); alleviates
Damp-Heat; promotes Kidney Qi circulation; clears and invigorates
the channels; Entry point of the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel); special
point for paralysis
• GB-34 (+): soothes and regulates Yang of the Liver and Gall
Bladder; clears Dampness and cools Heat; facilitates and harmonizes
the Liver; extinguishes Liver Wind; tonifies the Spleen; regulates
the Large Intestine and increases peristaltic action; strengthens
and relaxes sinews and tendons; relieves soreness from fatigued
muscles; benefits joints, esp. knees and hips; frees the channels
and invigorates the collateral vessels; alleviates pain; Gall Bladder
He Sea Uniting and Earth point; Hui Reunion point of Jin (sinews
and tendons)
• GB-37 (=): clears and reduces Fire of Liver and Gall Bladder;
regulates the Liver; dispels Wind and Damp; transforms Damp-Heat;
relaxes the sinews and muscles; invigorates the channels; treats
flaccid paralysis of the lower extremities; Gall Bladder Luo Connecting
point
• GB-38 (-): reduces Liver and Gall Bladder; dispels Wind and
Dampness; frees the channels; invigorates the collateral vessels;
Gall Bladder Fire and Dispersion point
• GB-40 (- or +): treats external trauma, esp. below the waist;
promotes decisiveness, courage and initiative (Maciocia, p. 451);
clears and drains Fire from the Liver and Gall Bladder; spreads
the Liver Qi; transforms Damp-Heat; benefits the joints; frees the
channels; Gall Bladder Yuan Source point
• GB-41 (-): dissipates Wind; removes Fire; harmonizes and
regulates the Liver and Gall Bladder; removes Stagnancy of Liver
Qi; spreads Liver Qi to reduce Stagnation of Phlegm and Xue (Blood),
esp. in the Liver channel; clears and regulates the Dai Mai (Girdle
Vessel); dispels Damp-Heat; Gall Bladder Wood and Horary point;
Master point of the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel); Couple point of the
Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel)
• Lv-8 (+): drains Liver Fire; nourishes the Liver, esp. Liver
Xue (Blood); clears and cools Damp-Heat; soothes the sinews and
tendons; benefits the Bladder; invigorates the collateral vessels;
Liver He Sea Uniting, Water and Tonification point
• Lv-3 (-): expels Wind; pacifies the Shen; clears and regulates
the Liver and Gall Bladder; promotes smooth flow of Qi and Xue (Blood);
spreads and eliminates Liver Qi Stagnation; cools and drains Heat
and Fire from the Liver and Gall Bladder; subdues Liver Yang; calms
and extinguishes Liver Wind; tonifies Liver Xue (Blood); opens the
channels and relaxes spasms; sedates pain; Liver Yuan Source and
Earth point; Independent Associated point for spasms
• St-36 (+): calms the Shen; regulates and strengthens Qi and
Xue (Blood); facilitates the Lung and regulates Wei (Protective)
Qi so as to resist External invasion; dispels and eliminates Dampness;
strengthens weak and deficient conditions; regulates the Stomach
and strengthens the Spleen; strengthens all striated muscle; regulates
Ying (Constructive) Qi and spreads Liver Qi; nourishes Kidney, Liver
and Spleen; tonifies Kidney Yin; drains Shi (Excess) from the Yang
channels; frees the channels and invigorates the collateral vessels;
Stomach He Sea Lower Uniting, Earth and Horary point; Sea of Nourishment
point
• Kd-7 (+): strengthens Wei (Protective) Qi; clears Heat and
nourishes Yin; strengthens Spleen and tonifies Yuan (Original) Qi;
regulates Qi, esp. Kidney Qi, and restores Qi to the vessels; strengthens
and enriches the Kidney; facilitates and regulates Bladder and Water
Pathways; clears and cools Damp-Heat; disperses Stagnation; strengthens
the low back; treats paralysis in children, esp. poliomyelitis sequelae;
Kidney Metal and Tonification point
• Bl-60 (-): disperses Wind; promotes Qi function and Xue (Blood)
circulation; reinforces the Kidney; strengthens the lower back;
descends the Turbid; relaxes the sinews, tendons and muscles of
the neck, shoulder, waist, back, ankle and foot, esp. the lower
back; frees the channels and collateral vessels; relieves pain;
Bladder Fire point
• Bl-62 (+): dispels Wind and clears Fire; clears the Shen
and Heart; regulates the Du Mai (Governing Vessel) and benefits
Du Mai (Governing Vessel) disorders; opens and moves the Yang Qiao
Mai (Yang Motility Vessel); soothes sinews, tendons and vessels;
relaxes the Muscle channels; Master point of the Yang Qiao Mai (Yang
Motility Vessel); Couple point of the Du Mai (Governing Vessel)
• qi duan (- and/or bleed): release Shi (Excess) by bleeding
the tip of each toe
• ear: dermis/subcortex, sympathetic, shen men, affected area(s)
» illustrative combinations for paralysis in general:
• GB-21, LI-15, LI-11, TW-3, LI-4, GB-38, GB-34, St-36 and
Bl-60 for paralysis (Lee and Cheung, p. 311; Shanghai, p. 616)
• SI-3 and Bl-62 open the Du Mai (Governing Vessel) to increase
Qi flow through, relax and strengthen the spine
• GB-41 and TW-5 open the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel) for which
paraplegia is a symptom of dysfunction
• GV-4 and CV-4 (+) warm and replenish Yang Qi (Finkelstein)
» combinations for paralysis as sequelae of brain trauma:
• ear: shen men, dermis/subcortex (Huang, p. 56)
» combinations for paralysis of the face
• St-2, St-4, LI-4, GB-14 and GB-20 (also consider: GV-26,
jia cheng jiang, tai yang, St-7, St-7, St-36, St-44 and LI-19) for
facial paralysis (Shanghai, p. 609);
• qian zheng, St-4, GB-20 and GB-14 for facial paralysis (Shanghai,
p. 156);
• GB-14, St-2, St-4 and qian zheng for facial paralysis (Shanghai,
p. 146);
• St-2, St-4, Bl-2 and TW-23 for facial paralysis (Shanghai,
p. 148);
• St-2, Bl-2, GB-20 and LI-4 for facial paralysis (Shanghai,
p. 152);
• qian zheng, St-2, St-4, LI-19 and GB-14 for facial paralysis
(Shanghai, p. 154);
• St-2, Bl-2, GB-20 and LI-4 for facial paralysis (Shanghai,
p. 152).
» combinations for paralysis of the neck
• Bl-10, SI-17 and hua tuo jia ji of C2 to C6
» combinations for paralysis of the upper extremities
• select bilateral hua tuo jia ji and bei shu of the injured
vertebrae or similar loci 1-2 segments above and below vertebrae;
use a medially directed insertion, ideally stimulating the spinal
nerves (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with jing bi, ye ling, SI-9, etc.
for brachial plexus (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with SI-9 for axillary nerve (Lee
and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with SI-9, LI-11 and Lu-5 for
radial nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with PC-3 and PC-6 for median
nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with SI-8 and Ht-7 for ulnar nerve
(Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with nao shang, LI-15 and SI-12
for deltoid and supraspinutus, i.e., arm abducters (Lee and Cheung,
p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with jian nei ling for anterior
deltoid, coracobrachialis, i.e., muscles which lift the arm forward
(Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-17, Bl-19, SI-9 and TW-14
for latissimus dorsi, teres major, posterior deltoid, i.e., muscles
which raise the arm backward (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai,
p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with gong zhong for biceps brachii
and brachialis, i.e., muscles which flex the lower arm at the elbow
(Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with ying shang for triceps brachii,
i.e., muscles which extend the lower arm at the elbow (Lee and Cheung,
p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with yin xia, TW-9, LI-10 and
LI-8 for extensor carpii radialis and ulnaris, i.e., muscles which
extend the wrist (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with bi zhong, PC-5 and Ht-4 for
flexor carpii radialis and ulnaris, i.e., muscles which flex the
wrist (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with LI-4 through to PC-8 for
muscles which controls the fingers, esp. contracture of digital
joints (Lee and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji of T5 to T7 (+) promote local flow of Xue
(Blood) and Qi
• GV-14, TW-14, GB-21, SI-9, LI-15, LI-11, LI-10, TW-5, LI-4
and shang ba xie (+): open channels in fingers and wrists
» combinations for paralysis of the abdomen and organs in
the pelvic cavity
• jia ji of T8 to T14 with CV-12, St-21, CV-6, St-30, St-25,
St-27 and St-29 for paralysis of abdominal muscles; can add: CV-4,
CV-10, Sp-16, Sp-15 and Sp-14 (Shanghai, p. 581)
• CV-12, St-21, St-25, CV-6 and St-37
• Bl-30, CV-3 and yin bian for disruption of bladder function
(Lee and Cheung, p. 309; Shanghai, p. 615)
• Sp-15, tong bian and TW-6 for disruption of rectal function
(Lee and Cheung, p. 309; Shanghai, p. 615)
» combinations for paralysis of the lower extremities
• GB-30 and GB-34 to treat hemiplegia and infantile paralysis
in the lower limbs (Flaws, 1989, p. 100)
• GB-39, and then St-38 for difficulty in moving the legs (Ellis,
et al, 1988, p. 134)
• GB-41 and TW-5 open the Dai Mai (Girdle Vessel) for which
paralysis of the legs is a symptom of dysfunction
• select bilateral hua tuo jia ji and bei shu of the injured
vertebrae or similar loci 1-2 segments above and below vertebrae
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with wai yin lian, Lv-11 and Sp-12
for femoral nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-49 and Bl-51 for sciatic
nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with hou yang guan for common
peroneal nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with ling xia for superficial
peroneal nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with St-36 for deep peroneal nerve
(Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-54 and Bl-57 for tibial
nerve (Lee and Cheung, p. 307; Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with GB-27 and shu xi for psoas
major and other hip flexors (Lee and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p.
614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-49 through to GB-30; Bl-51
and zhi li for gluteus maximus, biceps femoris, semimembranosus,
semitendonosus and other hip extensors (Lee and Cheung, p. 308;
Shanghai, p. 614)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with tiao yue and other local
points for hip abductors, i.e., gluteus medius and minimus (Lee
and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with jie jian, ji xia, Sp-11 and
Lv-9 for hip adductors, i.e., gluteus medius and minimus (Lee and
Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with St-32, mai bu, jian xi and
ting xiang for quadriceps femoris and other knee extensors (Lee
and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-51 and zhi li for biceps
femoris, semitendonosus, semimembranosus and other knee flexors
(Lee and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-55, Bl-57 and luo di for
gastrocnemius, soleus and other ankle flexors (Lee and Cheung, p.
308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with St-36, li shang and jing
xia for tibialis anterior and other ankle extensors (Lee and Cheung,
p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with Bl-57 and jiu wai fan #2
for posterior tibialis, flexor digitorum longus and other ankle
inversors (Lee and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• hua tuo jia ji and bei shu with GB-34, jiu nei fan and GB-39
for peroneus longus, peroneus brevis and other ankle eversors (Lee
and Cheung, p. 308; Shanghai, p. 615)
• GV-4, GV-3 and hua tuo jia ji of L1 to L5
• Bl-23, Bl-31 to 34, Bl-49, Bl-51, Bl-54, Bl-57, Bl-60, St-31,
St-41, GB-30, GB-34, GB-39, Sp-9, Sp-6 and Kd-3, on affected side,
clear Stagnation and regulate Xue (Blood) and Qi in leg channels
» combinations for postpoliomyelitis sequelae
• GV-20, GV-16, GB-20, GV-14, Bl-11, Bl-12, GV-4, GV-3, LI-15,
LI-11, PC-6, GB-30, St-36 and Sp-6 for acute stage of poliomyelitis
(Lee and Cheung, p. 314; Shanghai, p. 583)
• GB-20, GV-14, GV-7, Bl-23, St-25, St-36, Bl-10, GV-12, GV-4,
Bl-22, CV-6 and GB-34 for post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p.
314; Shanghai, p. 583)
• GB-20, Bl-11, GB-34 and "press points on spine with
bamboo needle" (can also add: LI-4, TW-4, SI-4, GB-30, Kd-8,
Kd-3 and Bl-62) for paralysis in children, including poliomyelitis
presenting as Wei syndrome in which the legs are weak and soft upon
palpation, the lungs are hot and the bronchi dry, and the face is
tinted white (Mann, p. 155)
• GV-12, GB-20 and GB-30 (can also add: GB-34 and Sp-9) for
paralysis in children, including poliomyelitis presenting as a Wind-Cold-Damp
Bi syndrome in which the legs are stiff and hard upon palpation
and the face is tinted blue-green (Mann, p. 156)
• GV-14, GB-21, LI-15, LI-11, LI-4 for upper extremity paralysis
of post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 317; Shanghai, p. 583)
• GV-14, LI-15, TW-14, SI-9, LI-11, LI-10 and LI-4 (also consider
jia ji of C5 through C7; SI-8, TW-5 and TW-10) for upper extremity
paralysis of post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 313; Shanghai,
p. 583)
• St-7, St-6, qian zheng and LI-4 for facial paralysis of post-polio
sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 313)
• CV-12, St-21, St-25, CV-6 and St-37 for paralysis of abdominal
muscles from post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 314)
• GV-4, Bl-23, GV-3, ba liao (bilateral Bl-31, Bl-32, Bl-33,
Bl-34), GB-30, GB-31, GB-34, St-34, St-36, Bl-57 and Bl-62 for lower
extremity paralysis of post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 318;
Shanghai, p. 583)
• GV-4, GV-3, hua tuo jia ji L1 to L5; on the affected side
add: Bl-31, Bl-32, GB-30, Bl-51, St-32, St-36 and GB-34 (also consider
Bl-49, jian xi, ling hou, Bl-53, Bl-54, nao qing and St-41 for lower
extremity paralysis of post-polio sequelae (Lee and Cheung, p. 313;
Shanghai, p. 580)
• ear: corresponding area(s), shen men, adrenal, endocrine
(Huang, p. 57)
• Arnica montana: paralysis of extravasation of blood in brain,
from concussion of spine or brain, of apoplexy; sore, bruised, everything
on which he lies feels too hard
• Conium: paralysis from periphery upward to spinal cord and
medulla oblongata after concussion of spine; acute ascending spinal
paralysis, painless lameness
• Kali phosphoricum: paralytic lameness in back and extremities,
< exertion, > motion; pain especially felt after rising from
sitting or on beginning to move; softening of spinal cord with gradual
deadening of nerves
• Lathyrus sativus: reflexes always increased; spastic paralysis
of lower extremities; excessive rigidity of legs; no atrophy; abductors
more attacked than adductors; sensibility remaining intact or even
hyperesthetic; affects lateral and anterior columns of cord
• Magnesia phosphorica: neuralgia every night, but well during
day; acute pains coming periodically, excruciating, spasmodic, extending
to the ends of nerve fibers; drawing, constrictive kind of pain
• Mezereum: cause is syphilis, herpes zoster; painful parts
sensitive to pressure; severe, constant shaking, chill with anxiety
and stitches in right side
• Phosphorus: ascending sensory/motor paralysis; paralysis
of spinal origin; tingling and formication in limbs, > from friction;
heat in paralyzed part
• Ranunculus bulbosus: sharp shooting pains about chest; chest
feels sore, bruised; < from touch, motion or turning body
• Zincum metallicum: neuralgic pains between skin and muscle
in subcutaneous tissue; great weakness of all limbs; deficiency
of vital power
pain:
• Mendelssohn's Spring Song
• Meditation from Thais
• Chopin's Preludes
• On Wings of Song
• Andante, Beethoven's Fifth Symphony
• Adagio, Beethoven's Pathetique Symphony
(Heline, p. 18)
musculoskeletal:
• Sousa's marches
• The Anvil Chorus
• William Tell Overture
• Brahm's Hungarian Dances
• By the Waters of the Minnetonka
(Heline, p. 18)
• red chestnut
• vervain
(Chancellor, p. 159)
• Abrams: 94 (shock); 98, 321 (paralysis)
• green (promotes tissue and muscle restoration; is antimicrobial
and acts as a disinfectant and antiseptic) on front
• blue (promotes relaxation; lowers high temperatures and reduces
inflamed tissue) on front with fever
• motor nervous system schedule on whole body (refer below)
• scarlet (a general stimulant; strengthens arteries) on whole
body with muscle atrophy or dystrophy
the protocol for the motor nervous system schedule is:
• lemon (helps to dissolve blood clots; acts as a chronic alterative)
and yellow (acts on the motor nerves, thereby helping to energize
muscles; acts on the lymphatic system as it is a mild tissue stimulant)
for 2 weeks, then:
• lemon and orange (a decongestant) for 4 weeks
• this is repeated for as long as is necessary
(Dinshah, 1985, p. 105)
• Fear; terror; escaping a situation or person; resistance.
(Hay, 1984, p. 178)
astrology:
• birth chart indicators: Uranus prominent, and usually afflicted.
other constants may be present, depending on the type and cause
of paralysis.
• progressed indicators: an aspect to Uranus. Aspects need
not be discordant if accompanied by other strong discordant progressed
aspects.
Chinese psychophysiology:
• Liver &Mac197; Gan is the home of the Hun (Ethereal Soul);
it relates to decisiveness, control, and the principle of emergence;
stores and cleanses the Xue (Blood); maintains smooth flow of Qi
and Xue (Blood); controls the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, especially
the contractility of the muscles and moistening of the sinews; and
expresses itself in the nervous system; and reflects emotional harmony
and movement.
» Healthy expressions are kindness, spontaneity, and ease
of movement.
» Liver Xu (Deficiency) signs include impotence; frigidity;
pain in thighs, pelvic region, and throat; ready tendency to "the
blahs" (Seem, p. 28); timidity; depression; irritability; vertigo;
pruritus; dry eyes, skin, and/or tendons; asthma; aching at the
waist; hernia; and difficulty raising head up and down. Liver Xue
Xu (Blood Deficiency) predisposes to Xue Yu (Blood Stasis). Liver
Yin Xu (Deficiency) predisposes to the Shi (Excess) conditions of
Liver Wind, Liver Yang Rising, and Liver Fire Blazing.
» Liver Qi Stagnation reflects and accentuates emotional constraint
as the Liver's function of facilitating smooth flow in the body
is constricted. Stagnation is associated with frustration, irritability,
tension, and feeling stuck. With time this pattern tends to produce
a gloomy emotional state of constant resentment, repressed anger
or depression, along with tightness in the chest, frequent sighing,
abdominal tension or distension, and/or a feeling of a lump in the
throat with difficulty in swallowing. (Maciocia, p. 216) Xue Yu
(Blood Stasis) often begins with Qi Stagnation.
» Liver Wind derives from Liver Yin Xu (Deficiency) and/or
Liver Xue Xu (Blood Deficiency) and their subsequent inability to
embrace the Yang, and can manifest as joint stiffness, dizziness,
tremor, paralysis, convulsions, rashes, itching, and neurological
problems. Wind can also be internalized after exposure to inclement,
especially windy, weather and any concomitant influences of Damp,
Cold, and/or Heat.
• Heart &Mac197; Xin houses the Shen (Spirit) and reveals itself
through the brightness in the eyes; governs Fire and Heat; rules
the Xue (Blood) and its vessels and directs the circulation; opens
into the tongue and controls speech; and relates to the integration
of the organs and the personality.
» Healthy expressions are warmth, vitality, excitement, inner
peace, love, and joy.
» Heart Xu (Deficiency) signs include sadness; absence of
laughter; depression; fear; anxiety; shortness of breath (Seem,
p. 28); cold feeling in the chest and limbs; palpitations; cold
sweat; inability to speak; memory failure; nocturnal emissions;
and restless sleep.
» The Heart is the Emperor of the bodily realm so that when
the Heart is disturbed all the other organs will be disrupted.
• Spleen &Mac197; Pi governs digestion and manifests in the
muscle tissues; transforms food into Qi and Xue (Blood); resolves
Dampness and Phlegm; maintains upbearing; and relates to the ability
to assimilate, stabilize, and feel centered and balanced.
» Healthy expressions are fairness, openness, deep thinking,
and reminiscence.
» Spleen Xu (Deficiency) signs include slightness (deficient
"form"); abundant elimination; morning fatigue; cold,
wet feet (Seem, p. 28); abdomen taut and distended like a drum;
craving for sweets; flatulence; nausea; mild edema; memory failure;
heavy feeling in legs; pale lips; loose stools; muscular weakness;
and, indirectly, obesity. Unresolved Spleen Xu (Deficiency) predisposes
to Spleen Shi (Excess), particularly accumulation of Dampness and
Phlegm, as the Spleen's functioning declines. The Heat produced
by Liver Stagnation may then transform the Dampness into Damp-Heat.
» The excessive use of the mind in thinking, studying, concentrating,
and memorizing over a long period of time tends to weaken the Spleen
and may lead to Xue Yu (Blood Stasis). This also includes excessive
pensiveness and constant brooding. (Maciocia, p. 241) Likewise,
inadequate physical exercise and excess consumption of sweet and
Cold foods will also deplete the Spleen. Environmentally, the Spleen
is highly susceptible to attack from external Dampness and Cold.
• Kidney &Mac197; Shen stores Jing (Essence) and governs birth,
growth, reproduction, development, and aging; houses the Zhi (Will);
expresses ambition and focus; provides the "Fire of Life"
through its Yang functions; provides the nourishing and stabilizing
qualities of Yin and Water that balance the Yang and the Fiery qualities;
produces the Marrow which generates the spinal cord and"fills
up" the brain; nourishes the brain to sustain concentration,
clear thinking, and memory; and displays the effects of sexual dissipation
(especially excessive ejaculation), overwork, aging, chronic degenerative
processes, and extreme stress.
» Healthy expressions are gentleness, groundedness, and endurance.
» Kidney Xu (Deficiency) signs include indecisiveness; confused
speech; dreams of trees submerged under water; cold feet and legs;
abundant sweating (Seem, p. 28); fearfulness; apathy; chronic fatigue;
discouragement; scatteredness; lack of will; negativity; impatience;
difficult inhalation; low sex drive; lumbago; sciatica; and musculoskeletal
irritation and inflammation, especially when worse from touch. As
always, chronic Yin Xu (Deficiency) predisposes to Empty Heat and/or
acute inflammation.
» Intense or prolonged fear depletes the Kidney. Often chronic
anxiety may induce Xu (Deficiency) and then Fire within the Kidney.
(Maciocia, p. 250) Overwork, parenting, simple aging, and a sedentary
or excessively indulgent lifestyle all contribute significantly
to Kidney Xu (Deficiency).
affirmation:
• I am one with all of life. I am safe, and I am totally adequate
for all situations. (Hay, 1984, p. 178)
astrology:
• alchemical treatment: Apply Jupiter energy as an antidote,
and antidotes to any other planetary constants present.
theotherapy:
Prometheus, Tantalus, Typhon, Zeus (Lemesurier, p. 108)
process paradigm: (experientially oriented)
• What is the symptom preventing me from doing? What is the
symptom making me do? (see process interview: psycho/neurological
system)
related materia medica listings:
the shadow and physical symptoms
body reveals: the spirit
converting a symptom to a signal
affirmations: guidelines and precautions
astrology
theotherapy
process paradigm
