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TMJ disorders are complex and often multifactorial, requiring an integrative strategy to address the structural, neurological, and muscular components. By combining scalp acupuncture, facial motor points, and submuscular needling, practitioners can provide imediate symptom relief while addressing underlying imbalances.

The gut-brain axis (GBA) represents a critical bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems, a concept increasingly explored in contemporary biomedical research. Multiple recent studies have shown low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is efficacious in modulating the GBA and related mechanisms. Acupuncture and TCM herbal treatments have also…

Aram

Acupuncture, a key pillar of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been practiced for thousands of years to promote healing and restore balance within the body. However, with rapid technological advancements reshaping health care, acupuncture is entering a new era. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics is revolutionizing…

On Jan. 7, 2025, two fires began in Los Angeles that will change the landscape for the next decade to come. Many people were affected in the Greater Los Angeles area, and those who arrived at the Yo San University Community Clinic reported both new symptoms related to breathing difficulties…

Photobiomodulation has emerged as a promising modality for accelerating the healing process in various musculoskeletal injuries, including ankle sprains. Class 4 laser therapy is one form of photobiomodulation used in health care. This case study presents an assessment of class 4 laser therapy in the treatment of a grade II…

Dr. Jimmy Chang taught that a proper assessment of patients’ blood pressure and heart rate can prove to be a much more reliable diagnostic measure than the patients’ subjective complaints. Dr. Chang originally made the distinction of four different blood pressure and heart rate types. In 2018, based on a…

Carol

The body and breath (aka: chi ) have a symbiotic relationship. This has been understood for thousands of years. For example, a 700 AD Chinese Taoist Canon taught, “What the bodily form depends on [is] breath ( chi ) and what breath relies on is form.” They cannot exist independently.…

The perfect storm of a high-protein diet, digestive disturbances, and anxiety is a common presentation in my clinical practice. Often patients are unable to connect the dots, so to speak, and cannot see the connection between diet, digestion, and subjective symptoms. Let’s explore this commonly seen scenario and discuss a…

In prior issues, Neil discussed the Gallbladder Official as a whole (March 20 including points 17 and 24); points 37-41 (June 2013); points 1, 16, and 20 (May 2021); and points 2-3, 8-9, and 12-13 (April 2024). This article focuses on GB points 7, 10, 14-15, 18-19, 21, and 23.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) occur due to problems with the jaw, jaw joint, and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and jaw movement. Commonly referred to as TMJ disorders, these conditions can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, causing pain, dysfunction, and emotional distress.In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), treatment of…

The connection between the water element and the pelvis may seem easier to grasp than the other elements because in Western medicine, the pelvis houses both the kidneys and the bladder. The pelvis has a tangible correlation with water in filtration, collection and excretion. Let’s explore the spiritual nature of…

There are 17 new codes for telemedicine. There are separate codes for live audio-video communication between patient and provider, and a revised and new set for phone calls. These updated codes were introduced in the 2025 CPT update. Although the pandemic promulgated use of telemedicine, it remains viable and though…

Because traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) views the human body as an interconnected network of energy ( qi ) and seeks to restore balance and harmony, ensuring the smooth flow of qi and blood is crucial to nourish and regulate the reproductive system. TCM treatment aims to regulate menstruation, reduce anovulatory…

One of the longest nerves in the body is known as the vagus nerve (VN). The VN is the 10 th pair of cranial nerves that originates at the brain stem in the medulla oblongata. This nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a part of the…

U.S. Representatives Judy Chu (D-Calif.) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) have reintroduced the Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act ( now H.R. 1667) in the 119 th Congress. As with previous iterations of the legislation, H.R. 1667 would authorize the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to recognize qualified acupuncturists…

Richard C. Niemtzow, MD, PhD, MPH, a pioneering figure in medical acupuncture and a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, passed away on Feb.2, 2025, at the age of 82. His life was a testament to the power of innovation, compassion, and dedication to healing. Dr. Niemtzow’s most renowned contribution to…

During the past 20-plus years in which Dr. Jimmy Chang has been teaching, he has taught us that a proper assessment of patients’ blood pressure and heart rate can prove to be a much more reliable diagnostic measure than the patients’ subjective complaints. Dr. Chang has made the distinction of…