Introduction to Polyvagal Acupuncture (TM)

For over 1000 years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has demonstrated enduring resilience through its ability evolve with changing times. At the heart of TCM is the fundamental principle of maintaining equilibrium between opposing forces within the body, exemplified by the concept of yin-yang balance. This notion of harmony resonates with current neurological principles, particularly the functioning of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). The convergence of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), modern neuroscience, and Polyvagal Theory presents a compelling framework to address complex neurological conditions such as spasticity, stroke, and PTSD. This integration requires a deeper understanding of the fight-or-flight response—a fundamental aspect of human physiology that has significant implications for health and disease management. By exploring the physiological underpinnings of PVT, neuroscience and correlating them with TCM principles, we can develop more effective therapeutic strategies that address both symptoms and underlying cause of these conditions.

The Intersection of TCM with Polyvagal Theory: Introducing Sympathetic Dominance

 In both adults and children, retained reflexes mobilize the body's resources into the large skeletal motor muscles to prepare for flight, specifically the leg yang channels. Once retained or chronic, strong patterns of spasticity are observed directly in the fascia and often do not resolve with appropriate treatment. Additionally, adult survivors of childhood trauma exhibit long-term issues of malabsorption, middle jiao (gut) deficiencies, and autoimmunity due to long-term inhibition of the enteric nervous system and involution of the thymus.

Bridging Polyvagal Theory and TCM: Understanding the Fight-Flight-Freeze Response

In TCM, we can view mobilization of the fight-flight response through the lens of the Yang sinew channels, which activate the body's defensive (Wei Qi) and muscular responses, highlighting a direct correlation to the sympathetic activation described in PVT. This perspective allows us to see the cascade of physiological and energetic responses—from Qi stagnation and Blood stasis to the impairment of the enteric system—as a comprehensive response system that aligns with the neurobiological pathways outlined by Porges. By understanding these parallels, the cascade of reactions set off by the fight or flight response becomes evident, providing a clear pathway for addressing these responses holistically and restoring balance to the body and mind.

The Bibliography

In lieu of a references page for each blog post, I have an included the references for the entire subject, to be expanded as content increases. For ease, I reference the last name of the author in the blog paragraph for more important works.  Polyvagal Acupuncture (TM) and all materials are trademarked intellectual property. Please do not use without a reference.

Plexuses Related to the Autonomic Nervous System:

 

1. Cervical Plexus (C1-C4):

   • Governs: Neck, diaphragm, head movement.
   • Subdivisions:
     • Phrenic Nerve: Governs diaphragm, helping with respiration.
   • Influences: Lungs, breathing.

2. Brachial Plexus (C5-T1):

   • Governs: Shoulders, arms, hands.
   • Influences: Indirectly impacts cardiovascular function via the autonomic inputs, helping regulate upper limb movement and circulation.

3. Thoracic Autonomic Plexus (T1-T5):

   • Pulmonary Plexus: Regulates lung function, bronchial constriction/dilation.
   • Cardiac Plexus: Regulates heart rate, rhythm, contraction strength.
   • Esophageal Plexus: Helps in swallowing and connects to the esophagus.

4. Celiac Plexus (Solar Plexus) (T5-T9):

   • Hepatic Plexus: Governs liver function.
   • Gastric Plexus: Regulates stomach function and digestion.

5. Superior Mesenteric Plexus (T9-T12):

   • Governs: Small intestines and digestive function.

6. Inferior Mesenteric Plexus (L1-L3):

   • Governs: Large intestines, helping regulate colon and rectal functions.

7. Aortic Plexus (T12-L2):

   • Governs: Abdominal organs, particularly along the aorta.

8. Superior Hypogastric Plexus (L1-L2):

   • Governs: Bladder, kidneys, reproductive organs.

9. Inferior Hypogastric Plexus (S1-S4):

   • Governs: Bowel movements, bladder function, sexual activity.

10. Renal Plexus (T10-L1):

    • Governs: Kidneys and adrenal glands, playing a role in fluid balance and stress response.

11. Pelvic Plexus (S1-S4):

    • Governs: Reproductive organs, bowel function, bladder control.

Plexuses in the Head and Neck:

1. Ciliary Ganglion:

   • Governs: Eye accommodation, pupil response.
   • TCM: Associated with GB (Gallbladder) Channel.

2. Superior Cervical Ganglion:

   • Governs: Head, eyes, and brain function.
   • TCM: Tied to Liver and Gallbladder Channels.

3. Pharyngeal Plexus:

   • Governs: Throat, associated with swallowing and voice.
   • TCM: Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) and other associated channels.

Other Major Autonomic Plexuses in the Body:

• Lumbar Plexus (T12-L4): Governs lower back, thighs, legs.
• Sacral Plexus (L4-S4): Governs pelvic organs, genitals, and lower limbs.
• Coccygeal Plexus (S4-S5): Governs skin around the coccyx, contributing to bowel function.