Catch 22s and knock on effects

I have come to the conclusion that if the cervical spine is comprimised in any way, that then has a misalining and twisting effect on the spine, which then has a knock on effect to the urinary system in the very early stages of Atlas being out, therefore there will be no external evidence but internally causes massive problems, the bladder meridian runs down the spine and leg. The bladder weakens which then has another knock on effect, the bladder expels waste that includes heat energy it is retained within the body and causes malfunction of internal thermometer, therefore heat as it used to me, causes the system to overheat to an unbearable status. It is crucial that the watse system in the body works efficiently to expel toxins etc. Because having a weak bladder causes one to drink far less, and the body needs moisture it the takes it from the bowel, thus causing constipation which is another knock on effect. The physical effect the psychological vice versa, causing further tension, not only caused by the misalignment, this also effect pressure point areas near kneck and shoulders, the pressure points in the lower back are also effected by the twisting of the spine and possibly the tilting of the pelvis. There are also pressure point in the right thingh which are also comprimised by the effect of the Atlas shortening the leg and also the bladder meridian. Also because the shoulder slopes down and the hip up this then causes further physica tension. Then include the possibility of the lymphatic system being effected, and its even more complicated. Some prescribed drug for various misdiagnosed symptoms may also cause pain, dizzines, vertigo, poor vision, cognitive problems with memory etc etc the list goes on. Its inevitable that someone diagnosed with an incorect non existant condition with such a dire outlook will also become depressed, the thought of ms is constant and therefore an inability to retain every day info is inhibited.

There is much more contributions to the whole mess like Hughes, Lupus and Lymes disease, these could all go undiagnosed because MS is at the forefront, causing confusion.

My final important and most relevant conclusion is the condition of MS today does NOT EXSIST

Could be placebo effect

There is no conclusive proof that LDN and DMDs  have a placebo effect only.

This is the theory they should have gone with, not the plaque one

B.J. Palmer, D.C., reported management of Multiple Sclerosis patients with upper cervical chiropractic care as early as 1934. (7-8) In his writings, Palmer listed improvement or correction of symptoms such as "spasticity, muscle cramps, muscle contracture, joint stiffness, fatigue, neuralgia, neuritis, loss of bladder control, paralysis, incoordination, trouble walking, numbness, pain, foot drop, inability to walk, and muscle weakness." His chiropractic care included paraspinal thermal scanning using a neurocalometer (NCM), a cervical radiographic series to analyze injury to the upper cervical spine, and a specific upper cervical adjustment performed by hand.
While few of Palmer's Research Clinic cases were published, Palmer described one case of Multiple Sclerosis in detail. (8) The patient, a 38-year-old male, went to the Palmer Research Clinic in Davenport, Iowa, in 1943, after a diagnosis of MS by the Mayo Clinic. At the time of admission into the Palmer Clinic, this subject was "…helpless; he could not feed nor take care of himself." His medical history included a head/neck trauma at age 16 in which "…he fell ten feet off a building, landing on his head." The fall rendered him unconscious for thirty minutes and he reported having a sore neck for several days. At the Palmer Clinic, upper cervical radiographs showed a misalignment of the atlas to the right. After upper cervical chiropractic care, the patient remarked, "I am happy to say that through chiropractic, I have been made almost well. Today, I have just a little numbness left in my hands. I have the full use of my hands, feet, and my whole body."
During the past several decades, research linking chiropractic and MS has been virtually nonexistent. A literature search produced only two single case reports. One patient was adjusted with an instrument, while the other was managed with thoracolumbar manual chiropractic adjusting procedures. (9-10) No other references for the chiropractic management of MS patients were found. To the author's knowledge, the MS cases discussed in this report are the first documented using specific upper cervical care (cervical radiographs, thermal imaging, and knee-chest adjustments) since Palmer's research seventy years ago.
The following five individuals suffered from Multiple Sclerosis for one to ten years, ranged from 33 to 55 years of age, and had symptoms varying from mild to severe. All patients showed lesions on MRI (MS plaques) and were diagnosed with MS by their neurologist. Some concurrently were undergoing treatment with medications. The following report discusses the upper cervical chiropractic intervention in detail and summarizes the five cases' results.

IUCCA UPPER CERVICAL CHIROPRACTIC INTERVENTION

At each subject's first upper cervical chiropractic office visit, her/his medical history was discussed. In Case 1, a nine-year history of the typical relapsing-remitting pattern of MS symptoms was established. In Cases 2 through 5, MS symptoms were constant and progressively worsening without remission
Paraspinal digital infrared imaging, which measures cutaneous infrared heat emission, was chosen as the diagnostic test for neurophysiology. Thermography has been proven valid as a neurophysiological diagnostic imaging procedure with over 6000 peer-reviewed and indexed papers in the past 20 years. In blind studies comparing thermographic results to that of CAT scans, MRI, EMG, myelography, and surgery, thermography was shown to have a high degree of sensitivity (99.2%), specificity (up to 98%), predictive value, and reliability. (11-13) Thermal imaging has been effective as a diagnostic tool for breast cancer, repetitive strain injuries, headaches, spinal problems, TMJ conditions, pain syndromes, arthritis, and vascular disorders, to name a few. (14-23)
At each patient's first upper cervical chiropractic office visit, a paraspinal thermal analysis was performed from the level of C7 to the occiput according to thermographic protocol. (24-26) Compared to established normal values for the cervical spine, each of the five subject's paraspinal scans contained thermal asymmetries higher than 0.5 ºC. According to cervical thermographic guidelines, thermal asymmetries of 0.5ºC or higher indicate abnormal autonomic regulation or neuropathophysiology. (27-30) Because upper cervical misalignments were suspected in all five patients, a precision upp
er cervical radiographic series, including Lateral, A-P, A-P Open Mouth, and Base Posterior views, was performed at each patient's initial chiropractic office visit. (31) These four views enabled examination of the upper cervical spine in three dimensions: sagittal, coronal, and transverse. To maintain postural integrity, each subject was placed in a positioning chair using head clamps. Analysis of the four views was directed towards the osseous structures (foramen magnum, occipital condyles, atlas, and axis) that are intimately associated with the neural axis. Laterality and rotation of atlas and axis were measured according to each vertebra's deviation from the neural axis. (31) All five patients showed upper cervical misalignments.
Because the two criteria determining subluxation (thermal asymmetry and vertebral misalignment) were met in each case, a treatment plan was discussed with each patient. After each subject consented, chiropractic care began with an adjustment to correct the atlas/axis misalignment. To administer the adjustment, the patient was placed on a knee-chest table with his/her head turned to the direction of misalignment (left for left misalignments and right for right misalignments). The knee-chest posture was chosen because of the accessibility of the anatomy to be corrected. In addition, this posture retained spinal curvatures, thus preventing compression of the spine. Using the posterior arch of atlas as the contact point, an adjusting force was introduced by hand. (32) The adjustment's force (force = mass X acceleration) was generated using body drop (mass) and a toggle thrust (acceleration).
Then, each patient was placed in a post-adjustment recuperation suite for fifteen minutes as per thermographic protocol. (24-26) The adjustment's success was determined by reviewing the post-adjustment thermal scan. The first post-adjustment scans of all five patients revealed thermal differences of 0.1 ºC to 0.2ºC, which were considered normal according to established cervical thermographic guidelines (compared to the pre-adjustment differential of 0.5 ºC or greater). Therefore, resolution of each patient's presenting thermal asymmetry was achieved.
All subsequent office visits for each patient began with a thermal scan. An adjustment was administered only when the patient's presenting thermal asymmetry returned. If an adjustment was given, a second scan was performed after a fifteen-minute recuperation period to determine whether restoration of normal thermal symmetry had occurred. On average, each subject's office visits occurred three times per week for the first two weeks of care, two times per week for the following two weeks, and once per week for the subsequent month. After spinal stability was achieved (thermal asymmetry was rarely present), visits were reduced to once per month.

CASE 1

History: This 54-year-old female was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at age 44 after a bout of optic neuritis, which prompted an MRI (MS plaques were visible). Over the next nine years, she experienced a minimum of one exacerbation per year lasting an average of one month. She recovered completely each time except for partial vision loss resulting from optic neuritis. The most recent flare-up occurred at age 53 when she experienced numbness that switched from side-to-side in her body. With this exacerbation, no remission occurred. Symptoms included tingling in her arms, hands, legs, and feet as well as a positive L'hermitte's Sign (pain, numbness, tingling down extremities upon cervical flexion). After these symptoms were present for three months, this subject's neurologist surmised her condition was worsening and recommended drug therapy. Due to her concerns over long-term drug use, this patient chose to undergo upper cervical chiropractic care first.
Exam: During her initial chiropractic examination, this subject showed reduced sensitivity bilaterally in her arms, hands, legs, and feet. L'hermitte's Sign was present during cervical flexion and right lateral flexion compression was positive. The subject reported experiencing these symptoms constantly for the three months prior to her chiropractic exam. Cervical ranges of motion were reduced during left lateral bending and left rotation. She reported visual loss from previous optic neuritis episodes. Computerized thermal imaging showed thermal asymmetries as high as 1.0 ºC. Analysis of cervical radiographs revealed left laterality and left anterior rotation of atlas.
Outcome: Immediately following this subject's first upper cervical adjustment, Lhermitte's Sign was no longer present. During the following week, normal sensation returned to her extremities. After two weeks of upper cervical care, cervical ranges of motion no longer produced pain and cervical compression tests were negative. At the end of week four, this patient reported improved vision in her left eye (which had been damaged by the episode of optic neuritis ten years earlier). After four weeks of upper cervical care, this subject's neurologist reexamined her and no longer recommended drug therapy. Two years after beginning upper cervical care, this subject remained symptom-free.
Summary: This patient experienced a minimum of one relapse per year for the ten years prior to upper cervical care. After upper cervical intervention, two years passed without reoccurrence of symptoms.

CASE 2

History: After this 33-year-old male noticed visual changes at age 30, he was examined by a neuro-opthalmologist and showed 20/30 vision in the right eye (according to the Snellen eye chart examination). After an MRI showed three brain lesions (MS plaques), he was diagnosed with MS. The year following his diagnosis, this subject showed minimal deterioration in his condition. However, during the subsequent two years, he experienced chronic progression of MS symptoms. In addition to vision loss, he suffered from loss of bladder control, constipation, loss of balance, sensory deficits in his extremities, and L'hermitte's sign. Three years after the MS diagnosis, he was reexamined by his neuro-opthalmologist who noted his optic nerves appeared pale and his vision had deteriorated to 20/400 in the right eye and 20/200 in the left eye. He was declared legally blind. A follow-up MRI showed ten lesions, one active. This subject began upper cervical care soon after the second MRI.
Exam: During this patient's initial examination, he reported wearing sunglasses at all times, even indoors, due to light sensitivity. L'hermitte's Sign was present. Sensitivity was reduced in his hands and feet. Heat aggravated his symptoms. He showed inability to balance on one foot bilaterally and to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line. As a result, he reported frequent falls on hiking trails. He reported difficulty with bladder control (he urinated six times per night) and constipation (averaging four to five days without a bowel movement). He also suffered with memory loss (he carried a tape recorder to remind himself of errands, etc.), insomnia, and fatigue. Most of his MS symptoms had progressively worsened during the second and third years following his diagnosis and had been constant for at least one year. Analysis of cervical radiographs revealed left laterality of atlas. Computerized thermal imaging showed thermal asymmetries as high as 0.8ºC.
Outcome: After the first upper cervical adjustment, L'hermitte's Sign was absent and balancing on his left leg improved (both symptoms had been present for one year or greater). One week later, he reported that due to less light sensitivity, he was able to leave his sunglasses off, even outdoors. Upon visual reexamination one month later, he tested 20/160 bilaterally. Six months later, balancing on both left and right legs improved, so he was able to resume hiking while carrying a heavy backpack. He also was able to take hot showers and sit in jacuzzis because heat no longer aggravated his symptoms. In addition, normal sensation returned to his extremities, bladder control improved (urination occurred once per night), and constipation improved (one bowel movement per day).
Summary: During the two years prior to chiropractic care, this patient experienced a progressive worsening of MS symptoms. Most symptoms had been present constantly for at least one year prior to the start of upper cervical care. After the intervention of chiropractic care, this subject reported immediate correction of some symptoms as well as gradual improvement of other symptoms over several months. One year after beginning care, this patient reported an overall correction and/or improvement in MS symptoms.

CASE 3

History: This 46-year-old female first experienced symptoms of MS at age 44, when she noticed memory and cognitive problems (inability to formulate thoughts or words), frequent urination and loss of bladder control (loss of muscular control to begin and end urination). She was diagnosed with MS after an MRI showed active brain lesions. Her symptoms remained constant without worsening until the addition of sensory deficits (painful tingling) in her arms and legs, two years after her diagnosis.
Exam: At her initial chiropractic examination, this subject reported feeling continuous, painful tingling and loss of sensation in both arms and legs during the previous month. She complained of a weakness in her legs that she described as "a rubbery feeling." She also had difficulty with cognition and bladder control for the previous two years. She complained of generalized stiffness and aching in her neck. Cervical extension was reduced and painful. Analysis of cervical radiographs revealed right laterality and right posterior rotation of atlas. Computerized thermal imaging showed 0.5ºC thermal asymmetries.
Outcome: Within the first week of upper cervical care, this subject reported improved bladder control (resumption of muscular control during urination) and a decrease in numbing, tingling, and pain in her left leg and right hand. One month later, her leg strength returned and numbness was noted only in her left hand. In addition, memory and cognitive ability returned to normal. After two months of care, bladder control, sensitivity, and strength in her extremities returned to normal. After four months of upper cervical care, this subject reported the absence of all MS symptoms. A follow-up MRI showed no new lesions as well as a reduction in intensity of the original lesions. During the subsequent six months, this patient was examined once per month with digital infrared imaging. An adjustment was necessary on three visits. At each of those three occasions, a minor reoccurrence of symptoms also existed, which was corrected following each adjustment. No other flare-ups occurred.
Summary: Most of this patient's MS symptoms (except one month of sensory deficits) had been present for two years prior to the start of upper cervical care. After the intervention of upper cervical chiropractic care, the patient's MS symptoms gradually improved over several months. After one year of care, this individual primarily remained asymptomatic.

CASE 4

History: This 55-year-old female was diagnosed with MS nine years ago at age 46 after an MRI confirmed active brain lesions. Her symptoms included painful paresthesia of her left arm, fatigue, mental confusion, insomnia, and lack of coordination of her right arm and leg. All symptoms progressively worsened over the nine-year period. Seven years after her diagnosis, a follow-up MRI confirmed the addition of new active lesions. Due to the fatigue, confusion, and pain, she had been on disability leave from work for several years.
Exam: During this patient's initial exam, she complained of extreme pain in her left arm, requiring multiple doses per day of pain medication (neurontin). She also took daily medication for sleeping (klonopin) and energy level (amantadine) due to her insomnia and fatigue. Her handwriting coordination (right-handed) was poor so she preferred using a computer. Cervical radiographs depicted a misalignment of her atlas to the right and posterior. Computerized thermal imaging revealed thermal asymmetries of 0.5ºC.
Outcome: During the first week of upper cervical care, this subject noticed an increase in energy level. One month later, she no longer noticed arm pain. Consequently, she consulted with her neurologist to reduce her pain medication. Her pain medication was reduced by two-thirds and she had no occurrences of arm pain. This patient also reported a continued increase in energy level and a renewed sense of mental clarity, so she considered looking for a part-time job. She felt "more alert and energized" and her "mind was clear." Four months after the start of upper cervical care her condition continued to improve without any relapses.
Summary: For the nine years prior to upper cervical care, this patient suffered from a chronic, progressive worsening of MS symptoms. Since the intervention of upper cervical care, this individual experienced improvements in MS symptoms and required less medication.

CASE 5

History: This 43-year-old female first experienced symptoms of MS seven years ago. The symptoms included numbness in her legs, hands, and face, and lasted for two weeks. No further symptoms occurred until six years later with the onset of L'hermitte's Sign. Soon after L'hermitte's Sign began, this patient noticed loss of grip strength and a spasmodic curling of her left hand. After an MRI, she was diagnosed with MS. Because Lhermitte's Sign was present every time she nodded her head causing her pain, she began daily pain medications (neurontin). After the symptoms were constantly present for six months, she began upper cervical care.
Exam: During her initial chiropractic exam, cervical flexion produced L'hermitte's Sign. Cervical extension and left rotation were reduced and painful. She reported constant tingling in her left arm, grip strength loss in her left hand, and weakness and pain in both forearms. She experienced aggravation of forearm pain while taking notes in class. As an avid martial arts participant, she expressed concern over her inability to perform push-ups in class due to exacerbation of L'hermitte's Sign. She also reported experiencing dizzy spells several times per day for many years. Cervical radiographs depicted right laterality of atlas. Computerized thermal imaging revealed thermal asymmetries of 0.5ºC.
Outcome: After the first upper cervical adjustment, this patient noted reduction in intensity of L'hermitte's Sign. By the end of two weeks of care, L'hermitte's Sign was noticeable only occasionally and no dizzy spells had occurred. After four weeks of care, this patient no longer reported experiencing any dizzy spells, arm pain, tingling, forearm weakness, or L'hermitte's Sign. Consequently, she reduced her pain medication dosage. In addition, she resumed taking notes in class and performing pushups in her martial arts class without pain or tingling.
Summary: This subject's symptoms were present constantly for six months prior to upper cervical care. With the intervention of chiropractic care, symptoms were reversed either immediately or over one month's time.

RESULTS

At their first upper cervical chiropractic office visits, computerized thermal scans showed thermal asymmetries and cervical radiographs showed upper cervical misalignments in all five subjects. Because these exam findings indicated upper cervical injuries, all five patients consented to upper cervical chiropractic care. The five subjects underwent upper cervical care for a minimum of four months and a maximum of two years at the time of this paper's submission for publication. Before the intervention of upper cervical chiropractic care, four out of the five patients (Cases 2 through 5) showed patterns of constant, progressive MS symptoms for a minimum of six months. After upper cervical care, MS symptoms were improved or corrected, including L'hermitte's Sign, paresthesias, pain, balance, muscle weakness, bladder control, bowel control, cognitive ability, vision loss, insomnia, dizziness, and fatigue. The only case that followed the typical MS relapse-remit pattern, Case 1, had a history of MS relapses once per year for nine years. After the intervention of upper cervical care, this subject had no further relapses and remained symptom-free for two years. Therefore, results of the five cases indicated that upper cervical chiropractic care prevented the progression of MS, stopped the MS relapse pattern, and improved and/or reversed symptoms of

DISCUSSION

An important parallel in the MS patients' medical histories was their recollection of head and/or neck trauma(s) prior to the onset of MS (also mentioned in the Palmer case described in the Introduction). All five patients remembered specific incidences of trauma preceding the onset of MS symptoms such as a fall on an icy sidewalk, an auto accident, and a ski accident. In addition, all five individuals showed evidence of upper cervical injury during exams (digital infrared imaging and cervical radiographs). The body of medical literature detailing a possible trauma-induced etiology for MS, or at least a contribution, is substantial. (33-35) In fact, medical research has established a connection between spinal trauma and numerous neurological conditions besides Multiple Sclerosis, including Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), epilepsy, migraine headaches, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), vertigo, and bipolar disorder, to name a few. (36-43)
While medical research has shown that trauma may lead to MS and the other neurological conditions mentioned above, no mechanism has been defined. It is the author's hypothesis that the missing link may be the injury to the upper cervical spine. While various theories have been proposed to explain the effects of chiropractic adjustments, a combination of several theories seems most likely to explain the profound changes seen in these MS patients due to upper cervical chiropractic care. After a spinal injury, central nervous system (CNS) facilitation can occur from an increase in afferent signals to the spinal cord and/or brain coming from articular mechanoreceptors. (44-48) The upper cervical spine is uniquely suited to this condition because it possesses inherently poor biomechanical stability along with the greatest concentration of spinal mechanoreceptors.
Hyperafferent activation (through CNS facilitation) of the sympathetic vasomotor center in the brainstem and/or the superior cervical ganglion may lead to changes in cerebral blood flow, including ischemia. (49-55) Because of the close association between the nervous and immune systems (the immune system recently has been reclassified as the neuroimmune system), upper cervical injuries affecting sympathetic function consequently may cause a cascade of non-favorable immune responses. (56-58) Among these are uncoordinated immune tissue responses (auto-immune responses) and the release of cortisol, which ultimately can result in decreased immune function.
It is likely that the five MS patients sustained injuries to their upper cervical spines (visualized on cervical radiographs) during spinal traumas they experienced. It is also likely that due to the injuries, through the mechanisms described previously, sympathetic malfunction occurred (measured by paraspinal digital infrared imaging), possibly causing decreases in cerebral blood flow. Consequently, because the nervous and immune systems are so closely intertwined, it is possible that CNS facilitation and cerebral ischemia could have stimulated an auto-immune response such as myelin destruction. According to the results of each of the five patients discussed in this report, it seems correction of the upper cervical injury not only stopped but also reversed the pathological processes involved in MS. However, few conclusions can be drawn from a small number of cases. Therefore, further research is recommended to study the link between trauma, the upper cervical spine, and neurological disease.

CONCLUSION

All five patients discussed in this report recalled experiencing head or neck trauma(s) prior to the onset of Multiple Sclerosis symptoms. In all five cases, evidence of upper cervical injury was found using paraspinal digital infrared imaging and upper cervical radiographs. After IUCCA upper cervical chiropractic care, all five cases reviewed revealed improvements in Multiple Sclerosis symptoms. In fact, correction of the five patients' upper cervical injuries appeared to stimulate a reversal in the progression of MS symptoms. To the author's knowledge, these are the first cases reported on this topic using thermal imaging and knee-chest adjustments since Palmer's research seventy years ago. Further investigation into upper cervical injury and resulting neuropathophysiology as a possible etiology or contributing factor to Multiple Sclerosis should be pursued.

The bodys ability to talk to us

The reason why I have cut myself off from the outside world  is  my decission. Because peoples opinions   attitudes regarding MS will be totally different from my own, as it is my oppinion it doesnt exist as it is described today, it has been outragiously embelished over the years, to such a remarkable degree its quite mind blowingly incredible.If the original concept of plaques/lesions appearing on the brain was wrong (back in 19th century) then every idea since is flawed.

I believe yes I did have some kind of stress overload that physically affected me, but it wasnt MS related, and it also caused lesions/plaques. It was my body warning me about my stress levels (dont underestimate the bodys communication /warning system)

Doctors, Nurses anyone in the medical proffession has been trained with a certain view, but this is in an incorrect way. Even the general public see it in a certain way.

There are answers, I just wasnt supposed to find them.

Acupuncture

Apparently Chinese Acupuncture is very different than the acupuncture practiced in this country for pain control. I am lucky because where I am going to see the lady regarding FCT they do alternative therapies and Chinese Acupuncture is one of them. Its a natural health clinic, music to my ears.

FCT (field control therapy)

I have now decided to see a lady who does FCT(field control therapy) in a couple of weeks time, I think this may help me.

Google, Laymans explaination FCT , its a pdf file, very interesting stuff indeed

The Chinese ways are so good

Everything that seems to benefit us, originates from the Chinese in some way, everything its a brilliant way of viewing the Mind Body and Spirit, and they hold it in such high regard and afford it the respect it so deserves, just brilliant truely brilliant

Now this maybe my kidney problem

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Conquering Candidiasis Naturally

by Stephen C. Byrnes, N.D., R.N.C.P.


THE NIGHTMARE OF CANDIDA OVERGROWTH

Candida albicans and candida tropicalis are the names given to common yeasts that live within our intestines and certain mucous membranes, the throat, for example. Everyone has candida within them: we are born with it. Candida usually lives at peace with our other intestinal fauna, the acidophilus and bifido bacteria, and it is these bacterial residents that keep candida under control, preventing a "population burst." Candida's function in the body is mainly to gobble up any putrefied food matter in our digestive system (mostly caused by improper digestion due to low stomach acid) before any potentially harmful bacteria can have a feast, multiply, and become threatening to our health. After we die, candida acts to decompose the body, feeding off our corpse, much like a fungal mold on a dead tree. Candida is usually kept in check by the gastrointestinal "good" bacteria and the immune system, but trouble can arise when certain conditions are present. It is in the presence of these conditions that candida can begin growing out of control in the intestines, branching out and colonizing the gut. In this process, candida can eat away at the intestinal walls, spread into the bloodstream, and infiltrate other tissues. The normally benign yeast has literally transformed itself into an aggressive, destructive, fungal pathogen that can cause a variety of seemingly unrelated health problems. This condition/disease is known as systemic candidiasis.

SYMPTOMS & CAUSES

Systemic candidiasis, as a separate disease, was not recognized or defined until the 1980's, mostly because its symptoms were so varied and duplicated those of other illnesses, leading doctors to conclude that the patient was suffering from, for example, sinusitis instead of yeast infiltration of the nasal passages. Additionally, since one of the main causes of systemic candidiasis are doctor prescribed antibiotics, which kill the intestinal bacteria that control candida, the medical profession was probably not too eager to admit the existence of this disease. Diagnoses of candidiasis were limited to its visible manifestations, e.g., a vaginal or oral yeast infection. Treatment was directed towards eradicating these conditions alone without addressing the reality of a more serious, but hidden, infection.
The symptoms of candidiasis, and their severity, vary from person to person but the main ones are: chronic fatigue, especially after eating, depression, craving for breads and sugars (yeast eats sugar), extreme mood swings, feelings of rage, especially after eating sugary foods, feeling "drunk" after eating a meal high in carbohydrates (candida's waste is alcohol), hypoglycemia, excessive mucous of the throat, nose, and lungs, chronic fungal infections of the skin (jock itch, athlete's foot) or vaginal/oral thrush, diarrhea, anal itching, short-term memory loss, feeling "spacy," and bloating or gassiness after eating.
In addition to these, lymphatic swelling, difficult PMS, night sweats, chest and joint pain, memory loss, incoordination, blurred vision, intense, random headaches, intermittent vertigo, insomnia, sneezing fits, and increased food allergies are also fairly common. A person tends to get extremely sensitive to damp, mildewy environments and, sometimes, to extreme humidity as well as perfumes, colognes, and smoke. Since candida can infiltrate the urinary tract, acute kidney infections, cystitis, and prostatitis are possible.
While these symptoms can indicate other illnesses, if certain factors are present in one's personal history the symptoms are likely to indicate candida overgrowth. These factors are:

1. Prolonged, or repeated, use of antibiotics, corticosteroid drugs, and/or birth control pills, at any time in the past,
2. a diet high in processed sugars which encourages candida growth, and
3. preexisting immunosuppression caused by drug or alcohol abuse, multiple blood transfusions, debilitating illness, organ transplants, or chemotherapy. All three are NOT required to bring on a case of candidiasis: excessive "sugar binging" can cause it just as surely as antibiotics can. Pregnancy also predisposes women to the condition since pregnancy alters the body's delicate hormonal and pH balance: candida thrives in an alkaline environment.

Contributing factors are

1. low stomach acidity leading to poorly digested food and
2. improper bowel movements leading to prolonged retention of fecal matter in the colon: these conditions promote yeast overgrowth.

A 20TH CENTURY DISEASE

Candidiasis is truly a modern disease, brought on by medical "innovations" like antibiotics and the Pill and a more "civilized" diet of refined, sugary foods and candy. In some naturopathic circles, the illness is derisively known as "Candy Disease."
In all seriousness, however, candidiasis is a serious condition for two main reasons:

1. It often goes undiagnosed, allowing the yeast to spread unhampered, and
2. the numerous symptoms it produces severely tax the immune system, forcing it to deal with, not only the yeast infection, but the other conditions the yeast causes. A truly vicious cycle can ensue: a person is weakened by a candida caused problem, say cystitis, and goes to a doctor who then prescribes antibiotics for it. The drugs kill off more of the intestinal bacteria which control candida, making the candida overgrowth worse, leading to more infections and more antibiotics, etc. At its most destructive, candida can exhaust the adrenal glands, leading to Addison's disease, can interfere with digestion so much that virtually no nutrients are absorbed from food, and can cause life threatening infestations of the vital organs and the brain.

TREATMENTS & RECOVERY

The standard allopathic treatment for candidiasis is the drug Nystatin, a mold which inhibits the growth of other molds like candida. Two other popular drugs are Nizoral and Fluconazole. While these drugs certainly kill candida, they do not work forever due to candida's ability to mutate into drug resistant strains, nor do they prevent candida from coming back.
Natural therapies are the most potent and effective weapons against this disease and recovery time lasts about 6 to 12 months (or longer depending on the length of time one has had the condition and the severity of symptoms). This might seem long, but once candida has colonized the body, it takes quite an effort to drive it out. Let's now take a look at the natural therapies most effective against this adaptable and extremely tenacious invader.

DIGESTION

The key to conquering candida is in cleaning up the digestive system, the ultimate source of the problem. In general, one must avoid constipation at all costs so high water (4-5 glasses a day) and adequate fiber intake is recommended. Drinking lots of water will also help flush the dead yeast cells out of your system as you progress with your treatment. If diarrhea is a problem, psyllium or yellow dock herb, both available in capsule form, will tighten the colon. These two herbs are also effective for constipation — they are bowel regulators. Yellow dock is also known as a blood builder, effective for anemia and low white blood cell counts. If you decide to take yellow dock, be sure to take it separately from any herb containing tannic acid to avoid stomach upset.
Supplementation with acidophilus and bifido bacteria is essential to recolonize the intestines. While these bacteria will not kill candida, they inhibit candida's growth and, generally, clean up the bowels, making it more difficult for candida to thrive. Look for a high potency supplement, either freeze dried or refrigerated, made without cow's milk. You will need to supplement heavily with these "probiotics" throughout your recovery and well after all your symptoms have gone. Chlorophyll-rich foods, like leafy green vegetables and alfalfa, also promote acidophilus growth and discourage yeast reproduction.
Proper food digestion is an absolute MUST as nothing makes candida happier than putrefied, poorly digested food. Unless you have an ulcer, consider taking a digestive enzyme supplement with hydrochloric acid (HCL) immediately before or after each meal. If you have an ulcer, look for digestive enzyme supplements without HCL. Plant enzyme supplements are excellent. Both pancreatin and plant enzymes can be taken between meals to hinder yeast growth. Using digestive enzymes will help your condition dramatically and also take some stress off your pancreas which might be weary from dealing with possible candida-caused hypoglycemia. (If you notice any stomach irritation when using HCL supplements, cut back on the dose at once to prevent possible ulcer formation.)
If enzyme supplements are not available, a cup of German chamomile tea just before or after eating will stimulate HCL production by the stomach. Chamomile will also ease any gassiness and/or bloating and contains potent anti-candida compounds. If you have a history of ragweed allergy do not use chamomile; fennel or cardamon are fine substitutes. Another herb to consider for digestion is wormwood. Wormwood, while extremely bitter, is probably the best digestive herb around, stimulating HCL and bile production. SIde benefits of wormwood are ridding you of any parasites, gas, nervousness, and weak stomach. Wormwood extract or tincture can be found at any health food store; take the recommended dose just before eating in a little water. CAUTION: Wormwood should not be used by pregnant women.
Since the liver can get overburdened with candida's toxins because it filters the blood, cleansing this organ is essential for your recovery. Daily supplementation with hepatic herbs like, dandelion root, golden seal, wormwood, barberry, Oregon grape root, or bayberry, is highly recommended. Again, the need for increased water intake is emphasized here to facilitate internal cleansing. CAUTION: Avoid goldenseal and barberry if you are pregnant.

DIETARY DO'S AND DONT'S

Since candida loves sugar, it must be avoided in all its forms (dextrose, sucrose, glucose, maltose, lactose, fructose). Say goodbye to all fruits, except the low sugar ones like strawberries, cherries, and papayas which can be eaten in strict moderation. Read the label of every food product you buy to be sure there is no added sugar (a near impossible task these days!).

As you'll see below, diet is crucial in preventing and combating yeast infections. Yeast Infection No More, a comprehensive how-to book on naturally curing yeast infections, shares more diet information as well as natural remedies. - Editors

Diet is your main weapon against candida, but also the most frustrating as you will have to give up a number of foods. Bid farewell to: wheat, rye, milk, cheese, alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, potatoes, honey, mushrooms, and vinegar: all these foods promote yeast growth or can aggravate already present yeast colonies. Keep your food well covered in the refrigerator to prevent mold formation. When eating out, be sure to ask how a dish is prepared and tell the server to hold any undesirable ingredients like soy sauce or mayonnaise.
In general, a low carbohydrate diet is preferred. Carbohydrates, even complex ones, eventually break down to glucose (sugar) in the digestive tract, and sugar feeds candida. Its also adviseable to avoid the starchier vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, and winter squashes. Different people, however, have different sensitivities. I've worked with patients who can handle wheat, despite a candida problem. You and your body are your best guide as to which foods to avoid. At rock bottom, however, all sugars MUST be avoided.
Due to the restrictions, you may be wondering at times, "What the hell am I supposed to eat?!" Books will be listed at the end of the article to help with food selections and recipes.
On the positive side, assuming you have no allergic reactions, you can enjoy all of the following: fish, poultry, meat, all vegetables, brown rice*, eggs, seeds, all nuts except cashews and peanuts, herb teas, beans* and lentils*, goat milk*, corn*, amaranth*, kamut*, quinoa*, buckwheat*, oats*, and spelt*. Check with a local health food store for sugar free breads made of kamut, millet, or spelt and consider eating corn tortillas to replace wheat bread. (*: moderate amounts only.) To ease their digestion, all nuts, seeds, and whole grains should be soaked for at least seven hours before cooking or drying. Soaking initiates the sprouting process and breaks up the enzyme inhibitors and phytates found in these foods.
Contrary to popular belief, foods containing yeast may be eaten if no allergic reactions are present. Brewer's yeast, for example, is a very nutritious and immune enhancing food and can be eaten for nutritional support during one's recovery.
As your symptoms disappear, you can cautiously add back the forbidden foods, one at a time and slowly. Do not eat any refined sugars for at least 6 months after your recovery. Having candidiasis once predisposes one to getting it again so be very careful after you are well. Indulging in too many foods too quickly can, as I can painfully attest to, cause a relapse.

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS

The following herbs should assist in recovery:
Garlic - a powerful antifungal and immune stimulant. Garlic will also help with constipation, gas, excess mucous, and blood cleansing; it is antiparasitic and hypotensive also. Some people are sensitive to garlic so increase your dosage slowly to discern any unpleasant side effects. If there are none, include it liberally in your diet, everyday. If you prefer to take garlic tablets, look for ones that are enteric coated to insure that the garlic is released deep inside the intestines where candida thrives.
Golden Seal, Barberry, Oregon Grape Root - the berberine in these herbs is lethal to candida. Berberine is also a powerful immune stimulant. Don't overuse golden seal as too much will irritate the liver: take for 2 weeks on, one week off. All of these herbs can also be used to assist digestion. Golden seal can be topically applied to ringworm, and made into a tea for athlete's foot. These three herbs are excellent for urinary tract problems, being diuretic, antibacterial, and antifungal. Like wormwood, golden seal and barberry should not be used by pregnant women.
Licorice root - Though not antifungal, licorice will soothe the inflamed intestines so common with candida, thus helping to prevent malabsorption of nutrients and food allergies. Licorice also tones the adrenal glands and helps regulate blood glucose, controlling sugar cravings. This herb is also excellent for excessive mucous, cough, and constipation.
Astragalus - This popular Chinese herb is excellent for stimulating the immune system, essential for recovering from candida or any other infective condition. Aloe Vera- a must if sufferring from fungal skin infections. The fresh gel is effective against ringworm, jock itch, and athlete's foot and will also help heal cracked, damaged skin. Use bottled gel if the fresh herb is not available.
Other useful herbs are clove, ginseng (all varieties), ginger, pau d'arco, and cinnamon. For proper doses, check the labels, but higher doses may be taken without fear of toxicity except as noted above.
Tea tree oil, from Australia and New Zealand, is very deadly to candida and may be used topically for athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It can also be used as a gargle or douche when mixed with water and can be safely taken internally (3-4 drops, 3 times a day, do not exceed this dose). Be absolutely certain the brand you buy does NOT say "For external use only" on its label.
Caprylic acid, a short chain fatty acid, is extremely effective against candida and is, fortunately, available over the counter at health food stores. Look for a slow release formula of about 300-500 mg. and arrange for a dose of 500 to 1000 mg. with each meal.
Colloidal silver, and the newer olive leaf extract, are excellent antifungal agents and lethal to candida. Though expensive, my clients have had excellent results with these products. Look for a silver supplement of at least 40 ppm with a micron size of no more than .001. Follow the instructions on the labels for the correct doasages.
Oxygen is an antifungal compound. Taking stabilized oxygen products, like flavored peroxide combinations found in health food stores, can also be employed in one's recovery.
The latest in candida treatment are enteric coated essential oils. Oregano, peppermint, and rosemary oils are all extremely powerful against candida and some supplement companies already have formulas using these oils on the market. Oregano oil is estimated at being 100 times more powerful than caprylic acid. Be prepared for some explosive diarrhea when using this product. As the yeast cells die, the body makes every effort to expel them.
Vitamin/mineral supplementation is a good idea to not only insure that adequate nutrients are ingested, but also to help the immune system fight the infection. The following are suggested daily guidelines. For individual needs, its best to see a health practitioner who is familiar with approaching candidiasis: Vitamin A (as retinol and beta carotene)- 75,000 iu; vitamin C- 3 to 5 gms.; selenium- 200 mcg.; zinc- 50 mg.; vitamin E- 400 iu; iron- 10 mg.; essential fatty acids- 4 gms; high potency multi vitamin/mineral- 1 a day.
One particularly useful nutrient is the free-form amino acid glutamine. Glutamine is very pivotal in maintaining proper muscle mass, brain function, intestinal integrity, and stable blood sugar levels. It is often prescribed to recovering alcoholics by natural therapists to control alcohol cravings. 1-3 grams before each meal is suggested. Glutamine is excellent for helping to heal leaky gut syndrome, a very common symptom of intestinal candidiasis. Also, since weight loss is usual with severe candida infestations, this amino acid helps protect against muscle loss. Glutamine is also very stimulating to the immune system. Do everything you can, then, to acquire it and be diligent about taking it.
There are homeopathic preparations of Candida albicans on the market. From personal and professional experience, you have to be very careful with these products as they can cause a severe Herxheimer Reaction, or temporary worsening of your symptoms due to the rapid die off of yeast cells in the body. The best way to use homeopathics is to start with a weaker preparation of about 12X potency, and gradually work your way up to more powerful doses — 30C and above. A slow build up avoids the unpleasant hassle of aggravated die off.
You will sometimes feel like a walking medicine chest from all of the supplements, herbs, probiotics, and antifungal products you'll be taking. Inconvenience aside, it is necessary as candida is a very tenacious organism. You must be persistent and unwavering in your efforts to recover or you will get nowhere; the total approach is necessary.

DIE OFF

When you take away candida's food, sugar, and attack the yeast with herbs and supplements, it will die, causing a condition known as die off. Die off will last from a few days to a few weeks and the severity of symptoms will vary from person to person. Usually present are nausea, headaches, gas, irritability, diarrhea, severe energy loss, sugar cravings, and blurred vision.
Exercise and water will reduce your symptoms by flushing the dead yeast cells more quickly from your system. Use your herbs smartly as many of those listed before can help, e.g., cinnamon or clove tea will help allay nausea and gas, as well as help disinfect your digestive tract.

YOUR GREATEST WEAPON

As a former candida sufferer, and a naturopath who has dealt with affected individuals, I can confidently tell you that your greatest weapons against it are your diet and your patience. Frustration is likely to run high during your recovery as candida is an incredibly tenacious organism. Stick it out, however, and know that you will eventually recover for the rewards are great.

SOURCES & RECOMMENDED READING

The Candida Directory and Cookbook by Helen Gustafson and Helen O'Shea. 1992; Celestial Arts Publishing.
The Yeast Connection by William Crook, M.D.. 1986; Vintage Books.
Candida Albicans: Could Yeast Be Your Problem? by Leon Chaitow, N.D. 1985; Thorsons, U.K.

About the Author

The late Stephen C. Byrnes was a Naturopathic Doctor and Clinical Nutritionist. He wrote frequently and was the author of Overcoming AIDS with Natural Medicine.

Gut reaction

After seeing Chiroprator today he mentioned FCT and I was swaying towards it as it makes sense. But aftersome thought I have decided that the Chinese attitude re mind body and spirit, learnt over a very long time, is the way I will follow through. Because meridians, chi just all make sense, and I believe many modern therapies stem from their beliefs in some way. So my gut is with Chiropractor and Acupuncture, so here goes

Just kidz, its not right

I am stunned at how many kidz under 24 are on the MSS website, this is madness, there is something cronically wrong here, to be so young and diagnosed with an illness which in my oppinion doesnt exist, is crazy some of these youngsters were diagnosed in their teens, I'm not saying that they prob didnt have a stress overload, that has caused plaques/lesions to appear on the brain, but has absolutely NOTHING to do with the condition called MS. This is all so wrong and I will prove it in my own time, but prove it I will. These are just kids that blinkered oldies with old ways of looking at this, have condemed them to a life of misery, its about time they woke up as this is verging on abusive, its not right

on drugs longer than needed

Someone was taking the drug Gaberpentin for pain, but because late putting her repeat prescription, had to ration the ones she had, so was a period of time she didnt take any., and to her complete surprise had no pain at all, so didnt need to take them. This she wouldnt have known, if hadnt had to stop and ration. Interesting stuff. do we just take drug sanyway even if the reason is gone, but we just dont know. And I am sure have looked up Gaberpentin and has some ms related side effects and quite a few at that

2day another learning curve

Today is going to be a good day. Going to ring Docs about possible urine infection and going to see John my Chiropractor, another day of learning eh!

Oh hug me

I have just realised that the tightness that I am trying to address in my right side, is known as the ms hug, what!!!!! so what I am now looking into is presumed to be another of those ms symptoms, how this thing has been allowed to grow over the years, with the only fact being lesions/plaques mean ms (popycock) in my oppinion the French guy in the 19th century got it wrong, and they've been running with the wrong ball ever since.

I cant wait to blow this whole nonsense out of the water, what a joy that will be.

Too much politics

I have noticed that the mss EL board has become a stage for people to talk of religion and politics, two things you should never discuss with friends. There seems to be much scaremongering of cuts that will effect the disabled and perhaps frightens others, as very topical at mo, and has become a bit of a David Cameron bashing club, this worries me, as it seems a bit one sided as others are either too scared or too smart to get involved. The board seems to be drifting off of its purpuse, and that is to help and give advice and be a little more upbeat, to lighten the load so to speak, all got a bit dark.

that could have been me

I have just read a post on mss site re husband with ppms and bedridden useles from the neck down. Hard to imagine I know but that so easily could have been me, if I hadnt adopted the attitudes and positive progression by considering feesable alternatives, and my determination of staying out of a flawed NHS system, with totally all this ms thing wrong. I have no doubt that if I allowed my mind to be manipulated into submission. I too would be living a life similar to being buried alive, a totally cruel and unforgiving existance. I owe it to everyone, to eventually make my successes after I walk of course, to make all my experiences accessible and free to everyone like me, and that I promise I will do. You see at the moment I have nothing to prove, only to myself. and that makes me very very strong.

a complication

I was telling my sister about my lower back pain at night and the hot back plus when I developed infection in knee, my side was hot and I have not really been right since. She mentioned the possibility of a UTI, but I said surely the antibiotics for my knee would have targeted that to, but apparently not different antibiotics for different probs. So tomorrow I will speak to my Dr, as possibility talk about complex, meridians, infections, kidneys etc etc talk about not straight forward, it aint all just simple, but I love a challenge, knock on effect, after knock on effect. But lets see what answers tomorrow brings, I have been cleansing my system these past weeks, and apparently the fow of chi should be clear and if an infection is stopping that happening it needs deeling with, after all this my chi will be flowing like a well tuned car.

Meridian is that key

I have read again about gall bladder/liver meridian and this definitely fits there are many points I can relate to, from the pain under my right arm at the top of my rib cage, the tightness in my right side between my ribs and hips, the twisting feeling in my genetal area, and my lower back pain it is all related, and it could possibly be responsible for my remaining off vision, plus some of the emotions involed are again relevant, I thought a while back I found the final piece in my puzzle, but this might be it. its really exciting stuff as this may be the cause of my last remaining pain, which I mainly have when laying down asleep. Cant wait to nail this one.

I said way back that the bladder is the key perhaps its the meridian, it messes and weakens our core stability, and that in the past rendered me useless, but not now, I am getting stronger .all the time

Going forwards

Again I am awake  after experiencing lower back pain, I spoke to my sister who is a nurse whether it would be my liver, and she seems to think it is more inclined to be my kidneys and I now think shes right. I have been for a wee but the quantity was nowhere near the ammount I have drunk, so I will go again before I go bac k to bed. Now when I think back I would usually wake up between 2 and 3 and before I had a poorly knee would come in here and sit on laptop for a while and then go back to bed and back to sleep. Now IU think there was something in that as this lower back pain only happens when I am lying down, now that I am sitting it has subsided (weird) anyway will talk about it with John my chiro and see what he thinks, my lower back also becomes quite hot, I have now a damp flanel on it. I may ask if there is a test to see if my kidneys are working right or not. Anyway yet another conundrum in this mess I have inherited, but still elliminating things so all is good, when I reflect how I was there is no comparison.

ms nurses

People are becoming disillusioned with their MS nurses in some way or another. I feel really sorry for these nurses, as they have been put in an impossible situation, they have been put in the front line so to speak, they are given no answers to give, and are confronted by some very frustrated patients, and it must be so hard for them, as this is not why they entered nursing, to constantly fob patients off, but they have no choice they have nothing to work with, its a truely awful situation and grossly unfair to put them in such a position. its really bad

I will get to the bottom of it all

I have been awake since 3am, I have discomfort in my lower back, and when I go to for a wee eases off, I need to keep drinking water as helps a lot. I now think the discomfort has something to do with my liver or kidneys, and the knock on effects it causes like flexing/spasm is related to the meridian (acupuncture speak) I also have a tightness in upper right back and neck area. As I have eliminated probs along the way, it  doesnt always come down to just one issue. Take for instance my lower back, some pain might be to do with my kidneys, meridian or its the point where my spine twists. my right side between hips and ribs is incredibly tight, I think that the liver or kidneys may have something to do with that. also I get sometimes an uncomfortable twisting down below, this I also think is down to the meridian, I have learnt how to position myself and relax (dont pannick) to help release area, also I have a deep tissue massager and that is helpful, especially in the groin and hip area. I am still learning things about how my body functions and what effects it. I now only eat fruit, carrots, and drink plenty of water and eat one good balanced meal daily. this helps as I was eating a lot of junk. I need to monitor what actually goes into my body and it doesnt complicate issues and its all easier to manage. I am still taking antibiotics so I might experience some kind of difference when I stop in two days. I am going to continue with seeing John my Chiro, and have now started seeing an Acupuncturist so with these two experts help I will get to the bottom of it all.

And then you will see what I do

View the human body with a misaligned Atlas, cross reference bladder merridian, then include pressure points, then lymphatic system and you will then be faced with many answers.

What sense this makes to me

Organs Of The Nature Meridian

Gallbladder: Wood-energy yang organ Known as the 'Honorable Minister', the gall bladder is in charge of the 'Central Clearing Department'. It secretes the pure and potent bile fluids required to digest and metabolize fats and oils, and its energy provides muscular strength and vitality. It works with the lymphatic system to clear toxic by-products of metabolism from the muscular system, thereby eliminating muscular aches and fatigue. In the Chinese system, the common tension headache is caused by obstruction in the gall-bladder meridian, which runs up over the shoulders and back of the neck to the top of the head and forehead. Hence such headaches are usually accompanied by neck and shoulder tension.

The gall bladder governs daring and decisiveness. In Chinese, the word for 'daring' is da dan ('big gall'). The English language also acknowledges this psychophysiological relationship with the phrase 'a lot of gall'. An old Chinese adage states: 'The gall bladder is daring, the heart is careful', which reflects the stimulating generative influence of Wood to Fire.

Gallbladder

• Paired Organ : Liver
• Color : yellow green
• Peak Hours : 11pm-1am
• Mental Qualities : resentment
• Physical Branches : eyes, tendons, tears, nails
• Functions : stores and excretes bile, one of the Six Extraordinary Organs

Gall Bladder: Psycho-Emotional Aspects

The Gall Bladder is responsible for making decisions and judgments, as well as providing courage and initiative. This organ is sometimes called the Court of Justice or The General's Advisor. Although the Kidneys control drive and vitality, the Gall Bladder provides the capacity to turn this drive and vitality into decisive action. The Gall Bladder has an influence on the quality and length of sleep. If the Gall Bladder is Deficient, the patient will often wake up suddenly, very early in the morning, and be unable to fall asleep again. Patient's who are timid, indecisive, and easily discouraged by slight adversity, are said to have a weak Gall Bladder; conversely, decisive and determined patients are said to have a strong Gall Bladder.

The Gallbladder Channel Pathway, Acupuncture Points, and Internal Trajectories

This channel begins just outside the outer corner of the eye, loops down and up to the forehead just within the hair line, and descends behind the ear to the corner of the skull. It then returns to the forehead above the center of the eye and contours the head to the bottom of the skull at GB-20. It continues down the neck behind the shoulder to connect with the governing vessel at GV-14, then crosses over the shoulder. The channel descends the side of the body along the rib margin to the waist and pelvic crest before going deeper to meet the bladder channel at the sacrum. At GB-30 it re-emerges and continues down the outside of the leg, in front of the ankle, ending on the outside of the 4th toe. Internal branches connect with the stomach channel (on the jaw) and the small intestine channel, and join the liver and gallbladder organs.

Internal Trajectories of the Gallbladder Meridian

Having come down from the head, a trajectory passes to ST-12.
[Thence] it passes to the inside of the chest and then down. It passes through the diaphragm, spirally wraps the liver and permeates the gallbladder. Then it circles round the inside lining of the ribs and the side of the body and comes down to ST-30
In this case, "the inside of the chest" is seen as the sides of the chest, around PC-1. In general, we should be aware that the inside of the chest has a wider meaning which depends on context. It can be inside the chest, CV-17, the sides of the chest, as well as some other less common referents. In coming down through the diaphragm it probably passes through the esophagus and then the stomach, before it passes to and spirally wraps the liver. After this, it permeates the gallbladder. In circling around on the inside of the lining of the ribs and the sides of the body it passes out to LV-13, and then to ST-30.

Liver: Wood-energy yin organ

The liver is called the 'General' or 'Chief of Staff' and is responsible for filtering, detoxifying, nourishing, replenishing, and storing blood. The liver stores large amounts of sugar in the form of glycogen, which it releases into the blood stream as glucose whenever the body requires extra infusions of metabolic energy. The liver receives all amino acids extracted from food by the small intestine and recombines them to synthesize the various forms of protein required for growth and repair of bodily tissues.
The liver controls the peripheral nervous system, which regulates muscular activity and tension. The inability to relax is often caused by liver dysfunction or imbalance in Wood energy. Liver energy also controls ligaments and tendons, which together with muscles regulate motor activity and determine physical coordination. Liver function is reflected externally in the condition of finger- and toenails and by the eyes and vision. Blurry vision is often a result of liver malfunction rather than an eye problem, and even Western medicine recognizes the symptomatic yellow eyes of liver jaundice.
Through its association with Wood energy, the liver governs growth and development, drive and desires, ambitions and creativity. Obstruction of liver energy can cause intense feelings of frustration, rage, and anger, and these emotions in turn further disrupt liver energy and suppress liver function, in a vicious self-destructive cycle.

Liver

• Paired Organ : Gallbladder
• Color : deep green
• Peak Hours : 1am-3am
• Physical Branches : eyes, tendons, tears, nails
• Functions : stores the blood, governs the free flow of qi

Liver: Psycho-Emotional Aspects

The Liver is responsible for planning and creativity, as well as instantaneous solutions or sudden insights; it is therefore considered The General in Charge of Strategy. The Liver houses the body's Hun and governs fright. Its positive psycho-emotional attributes are kindness, benevolence, compassion, and generosity; its negative attributes are anger, irritability, frustration, resentment, jealousy, rage, and depression. The Liver is also called the "root of resistance to fatigue." Whenever the Liver is not functioning properly (stagnate or excessively Hot due to suppressed emotions) the patient can experience fatigue as well as physical weakness.

The Liver Channel Pathway, Acupuncture Points, and Internal Trajectories

Beginning by the inside of the big toenail, the liver channel crosses the top of the foot, passes in front of the inside ankle and up the inner aspect of the leg through SP-6 close behind the edge of the bone. It continues past the knee along the inner thigh to the groin and pubic region, where it circulates the external genitals. It connects with the conception vessel in the lower abdomen and continues up around the stomach to enter both the liver and gallbladder. Connecting with two surface points on the ribs, the channel then dips into the ribcage, runs up through the throat, opening to the eye, and ends at the crown of the head where it connects with the governing vessel. A branch circles the mouth. From within the liver, another internal branch reaches the lungs, and this restarts the cycle of qi.

Internal Trajectories of the Liver Meridian

The liver meridian rises up the medial sides of the legs from the big toes.
[It then] comes into the yin organs [sexual organs] and circles around the yin organs. Then it passes through the small abdomen; then up to and surrounding the stomach; then it permeates the liver. and spirally wraps the gallbladder. It comes up and passes through the diaphragm, up the sides of the ribs, up behind the trachea, to behind the throat. Then it rises up the cheeks, comes into the eyes, passes up the forehead and meets the du mai at the top of the head. . . . A branch separates from the liver, passes up through the diaphragm and goes to the lungs.

In this case, "the inside of the chest" is seen as the sides of the chest, around PC-1. In general, we should be aware that the inside of the chest has a wider meaning which depends on context. It can be inside the chest, CV-17, the sides of the chest, as well as some other less common referents. In coming down through the diaphragm it probably passes through the esophagus and then the stomach, before it passes to and spirally wraps the liver. After this, it permeates the gallbladder. In circling around on the inside of the lining of the ribs and the sides of the body it passes out to LV-13, and then to ST-30.

After circling around the sexual organs it passes into the small abdomen, the kidney reflex area, and an area below the umbilicus described by or including CV-2, CV-3, CV-4. Then it passes up to and surrounds the stomach, permeates the liver, and spirally wraps the gallbladder. When it passes up and out to the sides, it surfaces at LV-13 and re-enters internally at LV-14.
The trajectory that passes up to and meets the du mai (governing vessel) joins at GV-20. The branch passes up to the lungs, then comes down to the middles warmer and "surrounds CV-12". Once at CV-12, the cycle of the twelve meridians is ready to start again, as the lung meridian has its origin at CV-12. This interpretation if the meridians beginning at CV-12 and ending at CV-12 so that they make a complete circuit is one that comes from the Shisi Jing Fa Hui.

The Ling Shu contains another very different idea about the pathways of the liver meridian which also brings it back full circle to the lung meridian. This interpretation is particularly interesting in that the trajectory includes the du mai and passes up the abdomen to enter the chest at ST-21.
The liver meridian passes up to the liver. [From the liver] it passes up through to the lungs, rises up to the throat, to the nasal pharynx, to the nose. A branch splits and rises to the top of the forehead, to the top of the head. It then goes down around the spine into the sacrum-coccyx; this is the du mai. [It passes inside and] spirally wraps the yin organs. It passes up to the lining of the abdomen, enters at ST-12, passes down into the lungs and comes out at tai yin [the lung meridian].
This trajectory is paralleled in complexity only by the kidney meridian, and seems to be even more inclusive, as the du mai is seen as its branch. It is seen to spirally wrap all the yin organs. It definitely provides an alternate route by which the qi passes from the liver to the lung meridian to complete the circuit. Whichever interpretation we accept, we can see that the internal connections of the meridians play an important role in the circulation of the qi through the twelve meridians, beginning at CV-12 and ending at CV-12, or beginning and ending at the lung meridian ready to circle again.
According to the Chinese, the liver 'stores the blood' and is associated with Wood energy, which is an upward moving force. This relates very much with Western physiology, as just about all the veins of the gastrointestinal tract flow into the liver via the Hepatic Portal vein. From there the blood flows 'upwards' through the liver into the Inferior Vena Cava. Here's a schematic of the Hepatic Portal system:

Excercise for strengthening Anahata Chakra - Heart

Cobra

Step by Step

1. Lie prone on the floor. Stretch your legs back, tops of the feet on the floor. Spread your hands on the floor under your shoulders. Hug the elbows back into your body.
2. Press the tops of the feet and thighs and the pubis firmly into the floor.
3. On an inhalation, begin to straighten the arms to lift the chest off the floor, going only to the height at which you can maintain a connection through your pubis to your legs. Press the tailbone toward the pubis and lift the pubis toward the navel. Narrow the hip points. Firm but don't harden the buttocks.
4. Firm the shoulder blades against the back, puffing the side ribs forward. Lift through the top of the sternum but avoid pushing the front ribs forward, which only hardens the lower back. Distribute the backbend evenly throughout the entire spine.
5. Hold the pose anywhere from 15 to 30 seconds, breathing easily. Release back to the floor with an exhalation.

Fish Pose

The fish pose is the natural successor of the shoulder stand and should be used as a counter pose to the stand. The pose implies a compression of the spine and neck to counter the stretch obtained while in the shoulder stand or Bridge and Plough poses.
There are several benefits of this pose. It helps expand the chest cavity, allowing the lungs to take in more air and to become more accustomed to deep breathing techniques. It also strengthens the neck muscles, makes the nerves more responsive and increases spinal flexibility.
To execute this pose lie on the floor with the back and legs straight and close together. The spine should be straight and parallel to the floor. The arms should be straight, position under the thighs. The palms should be together, stuck to the floor while the elbows are as close to one another as possible.
Press the elbows onto the floor and arch the back while inhaling deeply. Keep the weight of the body on the elbows and move the head back until it reaches the floor. Exhale while holding this pose. Relax the legs and allow the chest to expand while inhaling deeply. To come out of the pose slowly lift the head and then release the pressure from the elbows.

Bow Pose

The Bow Pose is executed by raising both halves of the body simultaneously, through a combination of other yoga poses. The hands and arms are used to pull the trunk and legs up together to form a curve. This movement tones the back muscles and contributes to increasing the elasticity of the spine and increasing vitality and improving posture. This Pose balances the weight of the body on the abdomen, reducing abdominal fat. It also provides a powerful massage for the internal organs.
In order to execute this pose lie down comfortably on the front of the body, keeping the head down. While inhaling bring the knees up and reach back to hold the ankles. While in this position exhale and then continue by inhaling while raising the head and chest and pulling the ankles up by lifting both the thighs and knees off the floor. While arching backwards continue to look up. Maintain the position and take three slow, deep breaths and then exhale and release the ankles.
To execute the Rocking Bow Pose, come into the Bow position and gradually rock forward and back. It is recommended to exhale while rocking forward and to inhale while rocking back. The head should remain in the static position while proceeding with the Rocking Bow Pose and should always be looking up. Repeat this rocking up to ten times and then completely relax the body.

Shoulder Stand

This pose is very popular with yoga practitioners and is considered one of the best yoga asanas. However, to properly execute this pose deep breathing must be used otherwise it will be little more than an acrobatic looking position. This pose was adopted by gymnasiums and sports training facilities and can be performed by both men and women with maximum efficiency.
The pose begins by lying on the back. The legs should be straight and close together, while the arms are parallel to the torso. Next raise the legs towards the ceiling, and point the toes upward. Allow the weight of the body to rest on the neck muscles and the deltoid muscles of the shoulders. Support the back and legs into the vertical position by allowing the hands to give the lower back the balance it needs. Breathe deeply while going into the pose.
The pose should be held with the legs and spine straight. Breathe slowly and deeply while concentrating on the thyroid gland which is located in the neck. The shoulder stand has profound effects on this gland and increases its tone. Hold this pose for a couple of minutes for the best effects.
To come out of the pose curve the back and knees simultaneously and lower them to the ground. Remove the hands and place them flat on the floor. When the back is flat on the floor straighten the knees and lower the legs gently.

woke up with a start

I for once got comfy on the setee and fell asleep for a hour, but as I woke felt lower back pain and kind of went into painful spasm for a few seconds, all centrered around  lower back area, I have a tightness in my right leg, particularly in the groin area and top of my hip, prob meridian related, I'll suss it eventually.

I have a deep tissue massager may try tha on these areas, what have Igot to lose.

connections

I am woken in the night with an intense lower back pain, I then go for a wee and the pain and the tight feeling down my body goes, and I can go back to bed. This feeling only happens when I am laying down and I believe that the build up of urine lays and irritates my kidneys. I tried getting up and not going to the loo to see if pain and discomfortwent when I sat up, but no it didnt I had to have a wee and it lessoned. I dont think that this is the only reason my lower back aches, it just worsons it. I think the other reason is its where my spine twist and my hips tilt its all connected in some way.

Its hard to watch

More or less every posting on the MSS website I can wholeheartedly relate to, it is hard to watch and fills me with sadness, but I know that this blog may make complete sense to some, but may distress and upset others, and the reason that would happen, is that they 100% believe what they are told and there symptoms will undoubtedly fit. But if their MRI and LP is clear they are left in he world that is Limboland, its these people that need investigating for an alternative reason, like a misaligned Atlas. I would love to be in charge, but sadly am not, so I have to rely on all the professional people who visit this site, to contemplate, investigate and pass on results.

20 plus countries have visited this blog, I am heartened by that and very grateful indeed, I hope to make a difference, to create alternative thought and a different outlook and then there will be progress and the future will look good for those who dread theirs. I had reached that point, as I've said before I didnt want to live, but didnt want to die either, but hey! now that is a distant memory, and its hard to think that I had that though, but I did, and it is really not a nice place to find oneself, but it was a desperate time, But hey! look at me now, I can blog

Nobody to ask her, how sad is that

 A post today on MSS site Everyday living is titled "What does it mean when a major disability goes away" after 10 years of not beig able to this lady can now climb the stairs. I am just dying to ask her, has anything significant happened just recently, to her neck could be a minor knock or something more serious, there is a reason why this lady has improved, and there is nobody to ask her, what an opportunity wasted, this is so important.

Unfortunately, if those in standing took the time to observe postings on this site they would learn a great deal, from real people in the thick of it.

little by little

Every day there is a little surprise, today its lifting the laptop off of the floor and putting it on the table, before it would be a struggle, you see this blog is my witness, I'm not making it up, its noin my head, it actually happened as do other little things, that only I would notice, it would go unoticed by anyone else, like say a Neurologist, not his fault, but unless you are me you would not see, but I do, and its good

So what would be insignificant to others ie. medics to me very very relevant. Thank goodness I'm on my oown on this one and stayed out of the system, for that I am very grateful, as many have drowned in it.