Kudos to Penn Live for the two Acupuncture articles this past weekend! I was particularly happy to see reference to the NADA protocol used to treat PTSD for natural disaster victims and military personnel.
During my time living in Boulder, Colorado, I had the opportunity to assist at a Red Cross shelter during one of the recent wildfires. The NADA (National Acupuncture Detox Association) protocol was performed on victims who had lost their homes or were temporarily displaced. They were sleeping on cots in a gym, using donated blankets and pillows. Some had the chance to gather a few belongings, while some were lucky to get themselves out. Needless to say, it was a stressful time. It was so humbling to be able to provide them with some relief while they sat in our tent with a few needles in each ear. Their bodies relaxed, their minds were calmed, and they could have a few minutes of peace.
NADA is a versatile protocol consisting of five points in each ear. According to their website, this protocol is used to treat “behavioral health, including addictions, mental health, and disaster & emotional trauma”. Personally, I have used it to treat patients for addiction, PTSD, sexual abuse, and depression. NADA claims “among the benefits reported by clients and clinicians are improved program retention, a more optimistic and cooperative attitude toward the process of recovery, as well as reductions in cravings, anxiety, sleep disturbance and need for pharmaceuticals”. I have seen these improvements in my patients as well. These points release neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins to help balance mood, aid in sleep, increase energy, and stop pain.
The beauty of this treatment is that it is a protocol that treats a variety of symptoms. Unlike other treatments for trauma, patients are not required to verbalize their trauma and their triggers. This protocol can stand alone as a treatment. If a patient becomes more comfortable and wishes to share more specific symptoms, they can be addressed then.
For more information, check out NADA’s website at http://www.acudetox.com/ or email Carolyn@rac.bright-brothers.com
Mention the articles in Penn Live or the Patriot News and receive 20% off your first treatment. Offer valid through April. If you didn’t catch the articles on Penn Live:
http://www.pennlive.com/bodyandmind/index.ssf/2013/04/acupuncture_gaining_acceptance.html
http://www.pennlive.com/bodyandmind/index.ssf/2013/04/acupuncture_101_what_it_is_wha.html