By Roland Steele, LAc
Like many of my fellow practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as other fans of acupuncture, I heard about the Xing Nao Kai Qiao (English translation: “arousing the brain and opening the orifices”) acupuncture protocol by way of the documentary 9000 Needles. The movie tells the story of Devin Dearth, an award-winning bodybuilder, devoted father of three and successful businessman who suffered a stroke, leaving him paralyzed on his right side.
Roland Steele, LAc
The film follows Devin on his journey from his initial treatment with Western medicine — which, although successful, the family had to stop because their insurance would no longer cover it — to his treatment in Tianjin, China, with the Xing Nao Kai Qiao or XNKQ protocol. The XNKQ acupuncture treatment has found great success in treating stroke victims, particularly when combined with the best of Western medicine. The treatments in China helped Devin regain movement in his right side and helped him move without having to use a wheelchair.
Straight from the Source
Having seen the movie and observed first-hand the results of the treatment, I became intrigued with the protocol. So, when I found out my alma mater, Emperor’s College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, was offering a two-day seminar taught by the founder of the Xing Nao Kai Qiao protocol, Professor Shi Xue Min, I signed up immediately. Not only would it be a great opportunity to learn the specialized treatment, it would allow me to get it straight from the source, without having to travel to China.
Dr. Shi Xue Min demonstating his XNKQ stroke acupuncture protocol. Photo by Seiko Maramba.
The seminar was held in a large auditorium at Loyola Marymount University. I was pleased to see many of my colleagues, my teachers and other respected, well-seasoned practitioners. Obviously, I was not the only one eager to learn more about this fascinating treatment.
Receiving Valuable Information
Once Dr. Shi took the stage, it was evident from the moment he started talking that we would be receiving some valuable information. During his lecture, Dr. Shi talked about the history of the protocol as well as the extensive research he and his fellow doctors of traditional Oriental medicine have performed on stroke therapies. He also discussed the points required for the treatment as well as the all-important techniques for needle manipulation once the points are punctured. We were also fortunate enough to see two actual stroke survivors being treated, one of whom showed immediate improvement in the movement of his hand during the treatment. Later, Dr. Shi graciously answered questions from the attentive audience.
Two Herbal Formulas
The second day began with a question-and-answer period, followed by instructional videos and further instruction on the proper techniques for needle manipulation. We were even treated to two herbal formulas, one for internal ingestion and one for topical application — the latter of which can be seen in 9000 Needles. The formulas were a particularly special treat as the ingredients were never before publicly announced in the United States.
Dr. Shi Xue Min with Emperor's College staff, faculty, and students after the seminar. Photo by Seiko Maramba.
Although Dr. Shi is returning to China after his tour of the United States, one of his most dedicated students, Atsuki Maeda, will be treating stroke patients at Emperor’s College Acupuncture Clinic. Maeda is also teaching the acupuncture stroke protocol to doctoral fellows in Emperor’s College doctoral program. Given time, there is no doubt in my mind that this wonderfully effective stroke rehabilitation therapy will be available in clinics across the country.
Roland Steele, LAc, is an Emperor’s College alumnus. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2009. Steele is a licensed acupuncturist and certified massage technician and treats patients in his practice in Los Angeles, California. He also works with Los Angeles Mobile Acupuncture, a house-call based practice which brings acupuncture services to patients’ homes, offices, or anywhere in the greater Los Angeles area.
www.steeleacupuncture.com and www.lamobileacupuncture.com
Featured Image by Seiko Maramba.