Ancillary Techniques to Aid with Spasticity and Chronic Fight-Flight-Freeze

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One of the challenges in integrating neurophysiology with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to address patterns of spasticity is the need to translate qualitative TCM concepts (pattern differentiation) into a concrete clinical treatment. In my prior work in clinical toxicology, there was rigorous attention to method development that was objective and could hold up in a court of law. This involved testing using spikes, controls, and repeated analysis to ensure accuracy and reliability. The challenge now lies in how to use TCM, which  employs more qualitative methods, to create objective treatments for various patterns successfully. This approach is particularly important in the treatment of neurogenic diseases, where our understanding of pathology is in its infancy.   The pharmaceutical industry, which is supposed to adhere to similar rigorous standards, is falling increasingly short. 

Despite how little is understood about some of the medications we use and potential side effects, (particularly in conditions that include dementia and spasticity), there is an over-eagerness to prescribe medication that raise ethical and medical concerns. In the media this month, there has been a significant push to suggest that pharmaceuticals like Crenezumab should be used to prevent Alzheimer’s in patients who are gene carriers but have not yet shown any cognitive deficits or show any clinical markers.  How is the off-label use of a drug for patterns that are not fully understood any less 'new age' or experimental than acupuncture or naturopathic medicine? At least with acupuncture or massage, if a treatment is ineffective, aside from tissue discomfort, it doesn't usually cause harm. 

Conversely, there have been anecdotal reports suggesting that extreme dietary and lifestyle changes can help resolve plaques in the brain. A recent CNN documentary highlighted research by Dr. Dean Ornish, shows that lifestyle changes that include a plant-based diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques clinically reverse the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s. 

Given the extent to which the pharmaceutical industry influences medical education, which one of these approaches do you think will garner the endorsement of the AMA?  Which one of these scenarios offers the least amount of accountability and the maximum amount of hope? Many of my retirees still have an almost innocent hope in medical technology. 

TCM must use modern scientific methods to confirm the clinical accuracy of our qualitative methods. Those of us trained in acupuncture orthopedics already use standard orthopedic tests to document medical necessity for insurance cases including Worker’s Compensation and the VA. Functional medicine has enabled many TCM providers to develop competence with labs and supplements, allowing for a quantitative assessment of a treatment's effectiveness. For instance, when a patient with elevated liver enzymes and gallstones (a liver excess pattern) shows a significant decrease in liver enzymes after four weeks of Xiao Chai Hu Tang, combined with the elimination of dyspepsia through digestive enzymes, this is a clinically real outcome. Similarly, we use objective markers like GFR to demonstrate improved kidney function, running labs to provide clear indicators of clinical success. Incorporating such objective clinical data for TCM is essential; otherwise, our medicine will continue to be viewed as new age and ancillary.  

These techniques include holistic methods to restore the balance of the nervous system without the adverse side effects of pharmaceuticals. Although some ideas could be considered anecdotal, they have consistently provided safe symptomatic relief to enhance neuroplasticity, and my clients use them between sessions. Many techniques come from reflex integration training and are widely used in physical and somatic therapy. Since this process takes time, the goal is to provide maximum daily support for the parasympathetic nervous system at minimal cost. No single technique or product will magically restore motor function, eliminate spasticity, or restore digestion, but over time, these methods offer systemic, full-body support to allow the brain's natural healing to thrive. Healing happens naturally when the body moves out of sympathetic dominance, with restored vagal tone.

I try to encourage patients to move away from reactive and reductionistic thinking, expecting an instant fix.  Many long-term cases are discouraging, with patients becoming desperate as the condition deteriorates, and poly-pharmacy is the only option.  True healing requires time, with vigilance in self-care. By adopting a broader perspective on their health, patients can better appreciate the gradual improvements and sustainable benefits of these integrative methods. Emphasizing the importance of persistent and consistent effort in their treatment plan helps in fostering a deeper understanding of the healing process and achieving long-lasting results.

For TCM and TJM practitioners trained in palpation, fukushin, and hara diagnosis, spasticity, also known as high tone, is reflected in the fascia and in the middle jiao an excess, tight induration (high tone/yang dominant/positive charge) or by deficiency patterns (low tone/yang deficient/negative charge). High tone is the basis of the indurations and patterns of resistance we use in meridian therapy, fukushin, and hara diagnosis. Low tone in the abdomen may present as soft and flabby, best reflecting the Dai mai encircling the waist like a bowl of water. (1)  

Plant Based Diet

A plant-based diet has gained attention for its potential benefits in managing neuropathy and reversing cognitive decline, such as in Alzheimer's disease. Pioneers like Dr. Dean Ornish have advocated for plant-based nutrition as part of a comprehensive lifestyle approach to improve overall health and tackle chronic diseases.

Neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness, can be influenced by dietary choices. A plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds provides essential nutrients and antioxidants that support nerve health. Foods high in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and folate, as well as omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, are particularly beneficial. These nutrients help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and repair nerve tissues, offering symptomatic relief and potentially slowing the progression of neuropathy.

In the context of Alzheimer's disease, Dr. Dean Ornish's approach emphasizes a plant-based diet as a cornerstone of his multifaceted program designed to reverse heart disease and improve cognitive function. This diet focuses on whole, unprocessed plant foods that are low in fat and rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Studies have shown that such a diet can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, factors that contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Ornish's program also includes moderate exercise, stress management techniques like yoga and meditation, and social support, creating a holistic approach to health. Research published in the journal Lancet and other peer-reviewed studies have highlighted the benefits of this comprehensive lifestyle intervention in improving brain health and reversing cognitive decline.

Moreover, a plant-based diet helps manage blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, all of which are risk factors for both neuropathy and Alzheimer's disease. By addressing these underlying conditions, patients can experience improved overall health and potentially halt or reverse the progression of these debilitating diseases.

In summary, adopting a plant-based diet can play a significant role in managing neuropathy and reversing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. This diet, coupled with other lifestyle changes, supports overall health and offers a promising approach to preventing and treating chronic neurological conditions.

Sources:

• Dr. Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease
• Healthline on Plant-Based Diets
• National Institute on Aging on Alzheimer's Disease
• Journal of the American College of Nutrition on Plant-Based Diets and Neuropathy

Magnet Therapy

In my clinical practice, Nikken Kenko magnets, particularly the Kenko PowerChip with its 900 to 1,000 gauss strength, have proven to be exceptionally beneficial for patients exhibiting strong flexion synergies associated with high muscle tone, PR demonstration and significant pain. These magnets are strategically placed over key Qi acupuncture points that include primitive reflexes to effectively reduce spasticity in affected areas. The placement of the magnets is tailored to each patient's specific needs, and often vary over time as treatment progresses. Initially, I might start with one PowerChip in the epigastric region to address core stability issues (Moro Reflex). For conditions like digestive disturbances or hip-related discomforts, the magnets can be positioned bilaterally at the 11th rib and hip pointers (Liv 13, GB 25) (Reflexes Spinal Galant/ Moro). Additionally, for shoulder spasticity from PR demonstration and pain management in breast cancer patients, I find their application in the axillary region to be particularly effective for FPR and Core Tendon Guard (GB22, SP21, Sagittal Lu1). This is very effective in supporting median nerve flow (Pericardium Channel) for Carpal Tunnel and Tennis elbow cases.

Grounding

In addition to using Nikken magnets, I incorporate earthing mats in my treatments to further reduce sympathetic nervous system activity. These mats are designed based on the concept of grounding, or earthing, which involves creating an electrical connection between the human body and the Earth. This connection is believed to help the body maintain a less sympathetically charged state, akin to the natural electrical balance experienced when barefoot on the ground.

Grounding, also known as “earthing,” involves connecting the body to the Earth's natural electric charge, which has shown significant health benefits. This practice allows the body to absorb electrons from the Earth, stabilizing the body's electrical environment and reducing oxidative stress. Research shows that ungrounded humans resonate at a higher electrical potential (slightly yang, + charge). Grounding shifts this potential to a mild negative charge (slightly yin, - charge), helping transition the body from sympathetic dominance (fight-or-flight response) to a parasympathetic state (rest-and-digest) (Chevalier et al., 2012; Sinatra et al., 2011). Clint Ober, a pioneer in grounding research, notes that the best results from using grounding mats occur when clients feel a tingling sensation in their abdomen.*

Grounding has been shown to significantly reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells (Oschman, Chevalier, & Brown, 2015). One of the most significant benefits of grounding is its impact on the vagus nerve, a key part of the parasympathetic nervous system. Proper vagal tone is essential for regulating heart rate, improving digestion, and reducing anxiety. 

Incorporating grounding practices into daily routines can be simple and effective. Walking mindfully, barefoot on natural surfaces (grass, sand, soil), swimming in natural bodies of water, or using grounding mats can help connect the body to the Earth's electric field. An important note is that for many of us with complex neurogenic disease, these practices are additive, rather than a cure.  This is about healing, not symptom relief and as such will take multiple modalities and real lifestyle change. Cell regeneration takes time, as only a few cells turnover per day, and neuroplasticity requires a parasympathetically dominant environment.   I use a grounding mat on my table with each client, as the shift in polarity significantly aids releasing spasticity during a treatment, and I recommend these for clients for whom chronic sympathetic dominance is a factor to aid in relieving oxidative stress.  Patients with strong enteric issues, including gastroparesis and chronic constipation are encouraged to use it daily as, many times, there is not enough fascia transfer from the Achilles to create an electronegative experience into the enteric nervous system.

For more detailed information and further reading on the benefits of grounding, you can explore resources like the Earthing Institute and The Chopra Foundation.

Personal Massager

Using a personal handheld massager over reflex points can be an effective way to work with spasticity patterns, especially in patients with high tone. These patients often cannot benefit from physical therapy and stretching due to a heightened sympathetic state, which prevents further stretching. It's important to remember that while strength is held in the muscle, tone is regulated by the brain and spinal cord. Therefore, massaging the muscle or deep tissue massage alone cannot resolve spasticity patterns that are under the control of the cranial nerves because the descending efferent commands to relax (mediated by the Vagus) cannot be received through the brain stem.  By applying a massager to reflex points, we can flood the brainstem with broad stimulus, causing it to stop firing the flexion command. This technique provides a non-invasive, at-home option that can be easily integrated into daily routines. Professional guidance and additional resources can be found online to ensure proper use and maximize the benefits of this approach.  My patients are encouraged to do this multiple times per day, in order for vestibular work to be more effective. (Pryor)

Castor Oil Packs

The middle jiao, or the central region of the digestive system, plays a crucial role in digestion and overall health in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Adhesions in the middle jiao, often resulting from surgery, infection, or inflammation, can severely disrupt digestive processes, leading to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and malabsorption. These adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form between abdominal tissues and organs, restricting their normal movement and function.

Castor oil packs have been effectively used to address these adhesions, providing a natural and non-invasive treatment option. Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, is known for its healing properties. When applied as a pack, the oil penetrates the skin, promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body's detoxification processes. The application involves soaking a piece of cloth in castor oil, placing it on the abdomen, covering it with plastic, and applying heat to enhance absorption and effectiveness.

In my practice, I have successfully used castor oil packs for clients with gastroparesis, kidney dysfunction, gallbladder pain, and even to shrink keloid and fibroid tumors. These packs have shown good success in providing relief and improving health outcomes. Dysreflexia in the gut, particularly in Parkinson's and MS patients, can be challenging to manage initially. Castor oil packs offer a safe and targeted method to help remove adhesions in the middle jiao, supporting better digestive health and overall well-being.

Research and anecdotal evidence support the efficacy of castor oil packs in softening adhesions, improving lymphatic drainage, and enhancing gastrointestinal function. The heat from the pack increases circulation, aiding in breaking down scar tissue and promoting healing in the affected areas. The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil also help reduce pain and swelling associated with adhesions.

Incorporating castor oil packs into a holistic treatment plan can provide significant relief for those suffering from middle jiao adhesions, supporting digestive health and overall well-being. This therapy can be a valuable complement to other treatments aimed at restoring balance and function within the digestive system.

For more detailed information, you can refer to sources such as:

• Healthline on Castor Oil Packs
• Dr. Axe on Castor Oil Packs
• Verywell Health on Abdominal Adhesions

(1) The Dai Mai, or Belt Vessel, is classically described in TCM as sitting like a bowl of water, encircling the waist and providing stability and regulation to the body's energetic flow.

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