The journal of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture with acupuncture research articles, reviews, abstracts and case studies.      
             
     

Medical Acupuncture
A Journal For Physicians By Physicians

Volume 13 / Number 1
"Aurum Nostrum Non Est Aurum Vulgi"

     
     
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Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture, YNSA

By Toshikatsu Yamamoto, MD, PhD and Helene Yamamoto, SRN
Axel Springer Japan Publishing Inc; 1998

Reviewed By David P. Sniezek, MD

As a physiatrist interested in pain management who has attended numerous conferences on acupuncture and pain management, I eagerly anticipated this book. While I felt I had a good working knowledge of most of the treatment models and principles of acupuncture, I was fascinated to learn of yet another method, scalp acupuncture. Once the transition is made the first time into another system of acupuncture such as auricular therapy or reflexology, then the conceptual basis for this method of treatment becomes very easy, almost natural. From the preface of this book, it was apparent that this was a serious, scholarly work with the intention of showing that scalp acupuncture has a role in mainstream acupuncture practice.

To fully appreciate Dr Yamamoto's ambitious undertaking, it is necessary not only to read deeply and carefully, but to have a working familiarity with Traditional Chinese Medicine and anatomy. The book's preface provides some historical background about scalp acupuncture and Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture (YNSA), which, according to Dr Yamamoto, is distinct from the earlier forms of scalp acupuncture treatment.

The book progresses logically from discussion of specific points to later delving into the presentation of patients treated with YNSA. I particularly liked the photographic presentation of each point with a description of its location, and explanation for its use with a list of indications. The precise illustrations will enable the practitioner to correctly locate and treat the appropriate points. The section on case presentations is particularly useful and easy to follow. Finally, there is an attempt to list some scientific studies; however, the studies only serve to show that more research is necessary.

Overall, I found this text to be of excellent quality, providing good, clear, basic information in a pleasant and easy-to-follow format. Altogether, this is an important, authoritative book that will prove to be a much-consulted reference for anyone interested in another useful acupuncture paradigm.

REVIEWER INFORMATION
Dr David P. Sniezek is in solo private practice specializing in Medical Acupuncture, Pain Management, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Washington, DC.

David P. Sniezek, DC, MD, LAc
2021 K Street, NW #710
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: 202-296-3555 Fax: 202-296-0214 Email: sniezek@aol.com

 

     
     

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