The AAAOM Meets With Physical Therapist Association
Editorial Staff
| DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE
Dry needling is back on the radar for acupuncturists but this time there's a twist—the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) and the American Physical Therapist Association (APTA) came together for a meeting, prompted by Dr. Carlos Chapa, president of the AAAOM and Dr. Jan Dommerholt, a physical therapist.
The two doctors initially met in Quinto, Ecuador during a dry needling seminar. After several conversations they concluded it would be beneficial for acupuncturists and physical therapists to meet, with the purpose of creating a dialogue between the two organizations, and subsequently, the professions.
As a result Dr. Chapa, president of the AAAOM met with APTA's vice president, Matt Hyland, executive vice president, Katy Neas, and Dr. Dommerholt. The group discussed concerns about acupuncture and dry needling - including standards, definitions, defined scope of practice, reimbursement and practice acts. The AAAOM assures that this meeting is the first of more to come, and even indicated that other acupuncture organizations will be meeting with APTA.
Dr. Chapa also urges all acupuncturists to join their state associations, and to consider joining the AAAOM as well. Stay tuned for more information on this subject.
Another approach to regulate the Yang Ming / Tai Yin circuit is to use an extraordinary vessel (EOV) approach. EOV treatments can be essential in a long-haul post-viral state, as they can help restore integrity to the body’s energetic system on the deepest level. Various combinations can be helpful; however, combining Chong Mai with Ren Mai is a good place to start, as it can help to regulate the gut (Chong Mai) and the lungs (Ren Mai).
| Digital Exclusive
Joseph Audette, MD, MA;
Sam Audette, LAc, Dipl. OM
The NCCAOM is excited to announce the completion of its 2023-2024 Job Analysis (JA) Executive Summary report. The JA is a pivotal initiative aimed at defining the core knowledge, skills, and abilities required for competent practice in the acupuncture and herbal medicine profession. The data collected from this survey is essential for updating the NCCAOM exam content outlines at the entry-to-practice level, ensuring the certification exams are relevant, fair, and legally defensible.
As we move into the Year of the Snake, let’s embrace the snake’s deep-thinking nature and ask ourselves four important questions, all of which relate to a single journey: advocating for our medicine by educating others about its value. Now is the time for all acupuncturists to come together to strengthen the profession, share knowledge, advocate for advancement – and help more patients access you as a vital element of their whole-health care.
