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Auricular medicine is a highly effective system for analyzing
areas of problems, and treating the entire body from the
external ear. It originated in China, but has been redeveloped
in Europe (primarily France and Germany) over the past 40
years. Prior to that, Egyptians used earrings to treat vision
and fertility problems. Through Mediterranean trading routes,
the Romans learned this technique and used it, for example,
cauterizing specific points on ears for treatment of sciatica.
In 1957, Paul
Nogier, M.D., a French neurologist noticed several of his
patients had scars on the same spot on their ears (Nogier,
1972). They each related their scars to a prior treatment
for sciatic pain by a local complimentary medicine practitioner.
Nogier confirmed that treatment of specific points on the
external ear alleviated specific problems in other parts
of the body. He proposed and proved a somatotopic relationship
exists between different anatomical areas of the body and
specific points on the ear. He then began mapping auricular
points based on an embryological model, and found somatic
correlation's with mesoderm, ectoderm and endodermal auricular
structures.
In the U.S.,
Oleson, Kroening and Bresler (1980) completed a conclusive
study to determine the validity of auricular points. They
achieved a 75.2% correlation between auricular diagnostic
measurements and problem areas. The key is to treat at the
exact point on the front and directly behind it on the back
of the ear associated with the regional area of pathology.
These areas are
called corresponding points. They will be sensitive to pressure,
sometimes long after the pathology is considered healed.
The points Shen-men (literally, "heaven's gate"),
Adrenal, and Subcortex (thalamus) should also be treated
on the front of the ear for neuromusculoskeletal pain disorders.
Treatments are usually a combination of ear (auricular)
and foot reflexology.
Benefits/Contraindications
Same as Auricular
Therapy
Training/Licensing
Seminars and
classes for professionals offered to enhance practice.
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