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Do you suffer from chronic back pain or scoliosis?

2012-02-05T18:16:51Z

I wanted to share this story from one of my clients who has suffered from a curved spine and back pain all of her life. There is no reason to endure chronic pain and suffering. There is way to work with the natural healing mechanisms of the human body to achieve a positive transformation.

Master Wong has changed my life. My entire skeletal structure was so crooked and my posture horrible because it hurt to keep it proper. It hurt to sit...it hurt to stand. I have had back and shoulder pain daily since my early teens...and I am now in my mid-40s. That's a long time to be walking crooked, or feeling knots in way too many places, constantly.

I recently moved to Dallas, after living in a damp cold climate for several years. Two weeks after my move, I slipped on ice and landed straight on my tailbone. Ouch!!! A few weeks later, my entire left side, from my ear to under my shoulder blade, went numb. My head felt like it was under water. I was randomly and desparately searching for anyone to help me...I had no idea when feeling would return and after the third day, I was quite concerned. ...and that is how I found Master Wong. When I called him, he asked me to hold for a minute while he was finishing laughing with a client that was about to leave. I immediately knew I was going to see him. When I explained my situation, he said "no problem, I can fix you. Come in tomorrow."

That was six months ago. The first several sessions, you could hear OUCH!!!!! out of my mouth every two minutes or so. After about eight sessions, I, for the first time that I can ever recall, was able to stretch my crooked body in a way that simply amazed me. I finally felt blood and air supply to nerves and muscles that had been twisted for years. I can swing my hips like never before!

And, to top it all off, Tim is a really funny guy who really has the power of healing! I rarely call him Tim. To me, he is "Master" Wong!

Barbara F.

The Water Drinking Culture

2011-07-24T23:33:52Z

Drinking Water Culture—Updated

In August 2003, The Daily Mail newspaper published an article in their health section encouraging people to drink more water in order to stay healthy. The author claimed that if you didn’t drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, your health would suffer. I used to always read The Daily Mail when I was living in London but when I read that article, I thought to myself “how ridiculous”. In response, I wrote an article stating the reasons why drinking too much water is bad for you. I asked my PR agent at the time to find a magazine or newspaper to publish the story, but she told me that no one would be interested in it.

Now, eight years later, on July 24, 2011, the very same paper, The Daily Mail, wrote a piece stating that drinking too much water won’t actually do you much good and on the contrary is in fact bad for you. This article was written by a British medical doctor and published originally in the British Medical Journal. Why has it taken the British doctors to confirm after all this time that drinking too much water is bad for you? Do we really need a doctor or scientist to confirm the obvious? In my opinion we weren’t born today, we were born yesterday. Before bottled water was all over the marketplace, water wasn’t the daily drink of choice. Instead, we used to drink coffee, tea, soda, juice, or beer. Drinking water was often the last resort when other options weren’t available or we couldn’t afford an alternative. The entire drinking water culture is just another corporate conspiracy to market bottled water products and get us to spend excessive amounts of money on something that isn’t as necessary or beneficial as we are lead to believe.

Besides that, do we really understand where water comes from? Basically, water is recycled from what is already on the Earth. It collects in the atmosphere and comes back down as rain. Whatever moisture is on the Earth can originate from dead animals, bodily excretions, sputum, or moisture rising up from the ground. When all that moisture goes up, it must come down. Therefore, we have rainfall and water to drink. Besides this, water companies recycle our domestic water to make it available for drinking. This recycled water is not naturally pure but rather must be purified through industrial processes . Why then would we believe that recycled, industrialized water would have some sort of purifying or cleansing abilities?

When we are told by the so-called experts that we must drink more water to stay healthy, then some people with less common-sense will follow without question and obsess about it. It’s the same as being told to do more exercise in order to stay fit and keep the heart healthy, or to avoid certain foods after a certain time of day to control the metabolism and avoid putting on weight. People who are mad about exercise are so because after exercise you feel good, but mostly for psychological reasons … because you think are doing something good for your body. For some people, exercise has been fatal. Remember the stories of people dropping dead in the middle of jogging or running on their treadmill? For others, the unnecessary wears and tears on the joints, back or neck have lead to far worse problems than those they were trying to fix. More often, we tend to forget about the principle of moderation and the need to stay balanced in all that we do.

At the end of the day, we all have a body and must understand how it functions, what it needs, and how to keep it in good balance. Listen to what your body is telling you and you won’t go wrong. If you listen to what others have to say, don’t forget to use your common sense and add a pinch of salt then decide for yourself what makes the most sense for you. You don’t need anybody to tell you what’s best for you.

Following is the article I wrote and self-published in August 2003.

SHOULD YOU REALLY DRINK MORE WATER?

By “Bare Hands Doctor” Tim Wong August 2003

The new “water-drinking culture”. In the last ten to twenty years we have been told by health care professionals, GPs, therapists, chiropractors, masseurs, and those who practise complementary medicine- that we should drink more water or our health will suffer. Their mantra is “Drink more water” and the recommended amount is usually at least 8 glasses to 2 litres per day. Their solution for tiredness, back pain, headaches, insomnia etc. is to drink more water. Do we really need so much water to stay healthy? All of a sudden every body carries a bottle of water wherever they go but is it necessary?

What are the benefits of water? The body’s water makes up 75% of the total body weight, is the principal constituent of all body chemical substances, (blood, lymph, tissue fluid, salivary juice, gastric juice, bile, sweat, etc.) and all excretory fluids. The water we drink replaces the bodily fluids that we lose every day and is, of course, used to cool down our system when it is over-heated, in hot weather, for example when we perspire or after excessive exercise or when suffering from diarrhoea, fever or hot flushes or even after too much pungent food. Water has no nutritional nor any internal cleansing powers.

Too much water, what can it do? In France recently a lady was apparently so obsessed with drinking a lot of water that she actually over-loaded her system, saturated her lungs and drown, she died of water intoxication. Water intoxication results from the consumption of large quantities of water or in cases of kidney malfunction when urinary secretion is reduced. This is of course an extreme example, but excessive water intake can also cause headache, dizziness, vomiting, and convulsions, among other problems. Naturally the more we drink the more we have to urinate and urine contains salt and hormones. Salt is an energy source and a cleansing agent which has a tenderising effect, protecting the organs. Drinking too much water causes exhaustion of the kidneys and the bladder subsequently leading to the build-up of minerals (gall & kidney stones) Through frequent urination we lose more vital chemicals-it is the “river of no return” the urine becomes clearer but not because there are no more toxins in the body. In Traditional Chinese medicine, the urine of a healthy body should be slightly yellow. If it is clear, this indicates that the body is suffering from a cold or some kind of deficiency.

Bad advice. Many doctors and therapists considered that constipation is the result of not drinking enough water and advised drinking more water to ease constipation, but water goes through the kidneys to the bladder and not to the colon or bowel. Too much water in the stomach can only cause embarrassment. It releases oxygen from the water resulting in belching and other digestive problems such as a bloated stomach. The notion that drinking a prescribed amount of water per day will cure a myriad of problems is similar to the idea that stress is the cause of many common illnesses - water is merely a placebo.

I recently read in a news paper that we should take 5 pints of water a day, three of which should be obtained by drinking and the other two from the food we eat. This suggestion is disturbing because if we obtained two pints of water from our food, we would be grossly over-eating and overweight. More harmful advice from the same article suggested that we should drink before we feel thirsty. Instinctively if our body needs water, it will give out signals, such as thick saliva, dry lips and throat and a feeling of thirst. Too much water doesn’t taste sweet any more it only causes imbalance and disharmony.

Good Advice. Intake of water is determined principally by the sense of thirst. Excessive intake may lead to water intoxication. Therefore you should understand the working of your own body- if you’re not hungry, don’t eat-if you are not thirsty, don’t drink. Food and drink maintain health and balance, excess causes upset.

What Causes Frozen Shoulder?

2010-01-25T02:10:00Z

Western medicine still has little understanding of the cause of Frozen Shoulder. Because FS is an invisible syndrome, it cannot be uncovered through blood tests or revealed through x-rays or scans. The shoulder doesn’t appear to have any obvious damage and no particular incident caused the symptoms to appear, although it can be brought on by small accidents. In Chinese Medicine, Frozen Shoulder is believed to be caused by long-term exposure to drafts and dampness; it is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Women tend to suffer more from FS than men, more than likely because of the way women dress as compared to men (bare shoulders are exposed to the elements). Another cause is sleeping with the arm and shoulder outside of the covers, again exposing the shoulder to cold and draft, especially if you sleep near to a window or air conditioning vent. When we sleep, our blood circulation naturally slows down so the cold can penetrate much easier into the muscles, nerves, and bones. When we are young and our energies high, we don’t feel the damage so readily. But when we start to age and our energy starts to wane, especially after 50, the syndrome starts to manifest itself.

In Master Wong's next blog, he'll discss different types of shoulder pain and how to treat Frozen Shoulder.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

2010-01-25T02:06:00Z

Frozen Shoulder (FS) is syndrome occurring on one side of the shoulder, but never both shoulders at the same time. It is generally a middle-age syndrome. In Chinese Medicine, it is known as “50s shoulder” because it typically manifests in the 50s onward. Frozen shoulder is characterized by pain in the Deltoid muscles which spreads down to the Triceps Brachii. The pain tends to worsen as time goes by and the shoulder joint becomes stiff. The pain is described as being a constant dull ache or sharp pain in certain movements. In later stages of the syndrome, the shoulder starts to build up adhesions becoming increasingly stiff and more painful. The arm is difficult to raise beyond shoulder level. Putting on clothes, using a blow dryer, or combing one’s hair is difficult if not impossible. At this stage, the whole shoulder joint seems to be inflamed. If FS has become chronic, it can last for several years and result in atrophy of the Deltoid muscle with the affected shoulder appearing to be at a higher level than the other.

In Master Wong's next blog, he will discuss the causes of Frozen Shoulder.

Traditional Chinese Bodywork - Treatment Principles (Part One)

2009-08-09T03:32:00Z

Traditional Chinese Bodywork and Acupuncture treatment principles are based on the theory of the Twelve Meridians and Fourteen Channels. The theory of the Fourteen Channels, and their commonly-used acupoints, is considered the principle component of Meridian theory and the most practical and theoretical rudiment in massage therapy. This is because it acts as a fundamental guideline for all aspects of clinical application including: the diagnosis of diseases and differentiation of syndromes; the determination of treatment methods and prescriptions of the acupoints; and the selection of hand manipulations and their performing methods such as light, heavy, slow, rapid, clockwise or anti-clockwise. So to master massage, one must first learn the massage doctrine. Without the knowledge of the Fourteen Channels theory, the efficacy of treatments such as chiropractic or physiotherapy will be minimal and short-lived.

The Fourteen Meridian Channels include the twelve regular channels and two extra meridian channels.

The Twelve Channels are generally regarded as the principal part of the Channel System and refer respectively to the twelve internal organs. There are six Zang organs and six Fu organs. Zang organs belong to Yin and the Fu organs belong to Yang, and named after them. For example, the channel related to the heart is called the Heart Channel of Hand Shaoyin; the term “yin” is present in the name, thereby indicating that the heart is a Zang organ.

These twelve channels are linked with each other through their branches and collaterals which constitute six pairs of interior-exterior and corresponding relations between Zang organs and Fu organs. Of the twelve channel, the Yin channels pertain to the Zang organs and connect the Fu organs while the Yang channels pertain to the Fu organs and connect the Zang organs. Through communication with the channels of the hand and foot, the twelve channels join together and form an endless ring. In the ring, Chi and blood circulate round and round again to nourish the whole body in a continuous cycle.

The two extra meridian channels are the Ren channel and Du channel, also known as the Conception vessel and the Governing vessel, respectively.

The Ren channel is at the front of the body and belongs to the Yin, while the Du channel is at the back of the body and belongs to the Yang. These two channels, or vessels, are considered to be the most important among the channels and vessels as they constantly exchange Chi and balance each other. They are different from the twelve regular channels in that they have neither a direct nor an exterior-interior relationship with the Zang-Fu organs. Their main physiological function is to regulate Chi and blood within the twelve regular channels to ascertain if they are deficient or excessive.

The Du channel starts from inside the lower abdomen and comes from the perineum Hulyin point and curves backward. It runs along the mid-line of the waist, the back and the nape of the neck to the vertex of the face. It is called the “Sea of Yang Channels” as it meets all of the Yang channels and is able to regulate Chi in all of the Yang channels.

The Ren channel starts from inside the lower abdomen, comes out from the perineum Hulyin point, curves around the genitals, ascends along the midline of the abdomen and runs along from the chest to the mandible. It is called the “Sea of Yin Channels” because it meets all the Yin channels of the body and is also able to regulate Chi in the Yin channels.

In addition, these two channels play a major role in nourishing the mind and spirit and are also responsible for regulating the body fluids that nourish the abdomen, as well as regulating sexual energy and the genital system. It is said to take thirty days to complete the Chi circulation cycle; it takes twenty-one days from points Fengfu to Huiyin, and nine days from the Huiyin point to the throat.

For more information about the Fourteen Meridians or to obtain a copy on CD, please email your request to Master Wong. To learn more about Master Wong’s workshops, visit his website at www.barehandsdoctor.com.

What Is Tui-Na?

2009-07-25T02:24:00Z

Tui-Na, pronounced twee na, is an ancient form of systematic massage treatment which originated in China during the time of Wang Di, The Yellow Emperor (2674-2575 BC). It is one of the three clinical treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the other two being acupuncture moxibustion and herbal medicine, both of which are more commonly known and practiced in the West.

Tui-Na combines digital pressure, clinical massage and physical manipulation of the body and its energy points to eliminate pains and aches, promote the harmonious flow of energy, and encourage natural healing. Meaning push and grab, Tui-Na employs Chinese Taoist principles along with the Meridian and Channel Theories introduced by Wang Di to restore the body's balance and promote Chi (life force).

Direct contact with the skin is essential for the Tui-Na physician to detect what is underneath; to determine the condition of the body, its temperature, tenderness, and changes in color; to remove blockages or obstructions and to allow the free flow of blood and Chi; and to promote and transfer energy to the patient. No oils are used during treatment.

More akin to physical therapy than massage, Tui-Na is practiced widely in hospitals and medical centers throughout China. It is ranked equally with acupuncture and herbalism, and is often prescribed more frequently because it is less invasive and has known curative effects that neither acupuncture nor herbal medicine can achieve. With no known side-effects, it is also suitable for people of all ages.

In the last 20+ years, Western massage practitioners have begun incorporating the principles and methodologies of Tui-Na by using the acupoints and meridian systems. Reflexology and holistic massage are two prime examples of treatments based almost entirely on Tui-Na. In Japan, Tui-Na evolved into Shiatsu. Similarly, chiropractic medicine employs a number of the physical manipulations developed centuries ago by the Tui-Na doctors of China. However, some of the manipulations still employed by Western chiropractors today were abandoned by Chinese Tui-Na physicians as they viewed these manipulations as likely or able to cause harm.

Because of its long history and proven efficacy, Tui-Na migrated across many continents and flourished outside of China. And while some of its core principles are cloaked in Taoist mysticism and remain a mystery for the average laymen, the idea of natural, self-healing is one that many people seek.

Upcoming topics: How one treatment session with Master Wong can relieve even the most acute condition; TCM Organic Diagnostic Methods; 14 Channels & Meridian Pressure Point Theory; Five Elements Theory; Foods to Reinforce Chi; Patient Q&A; Case Studies; and much more ...

Should you really drink more water?

2009-07-14T02:36:00Z

The new “water-drinking culture” In the last ten to twenty years we have been told by health care professionals, GPs, therapists, chiropractors and those who practise complementary medicine- that we should drink more water or our health will suffer. Their mantra is “Drink more water” and the recommended amount is usually at least 8 glasses to 2 litres per day. Their solution for tiredness, back pain, headaches, insomnia etc. is to drink more water. Do we really need so much water to stay healthy? All of a sudden every body carries a bottle of water wherever they go but is it necessary?

What are the benefits of water?

The body’s water makes up 75% of the total body weight, is the principal constituent of all body chemical substances, (blood, lymph, tissue fluid, salivary juice, gastric juice, bile, sweat, etc.) and all excretory fluids. The water we drink replaces the bodily fluids that we lose every day and is, of course, used to cool down our system when it is over-heated, in hot weather, for example when we perspire or after excessive exercise or when suffering from diarrhoea, fever or hot flushes or even after too much pungent food. Water has no nutritional value, nor any internal cleansing powers.

Too much water, what can it do?

In France recently a lady was apparently so obsessed with drinking a lot of water that she actually over-loaded her system, saturated her lungs and drowned, she died of water intoxication. Water intoxication results from the consumption of large quantities of water or, in cases of kidney malfunction, when urinary secretion is reduced. This is, of course, an extreme example, but excessive water intake can also cause headaches, dizziness, vomiting, and convulsions, among other problems. Naturally the more we drink the more we have to urinate and urine contains salt and hormones. Salt is an energy source and a cleansing agent which has a tenderising effect, protecting the organs. Drinking too much water causes exhaustion of the kidneys and the bladder subsequently leading to the build-up of minerals (gall & kidney stones) Through frequent urination we lose more vital chemicals-it is the “river of no return” the urine becomes clearer but not because there are no more toxins in the body. In Traditional Chinese medicine, the urine of a healthy body should be slightly yellow. If it is clear, this indicates that the body is suffering from a cold or some kind of deficiency.

Bad advice

Many doctors and therapists consider that constipation is the result of not drinking enough water and advises drinking more water to ease constipation, but water goes through the kidneys to the bladder and not to the colon or bowel. Too much water in the stomach can only cause embarrassment. It releases oxygen from the water resulting in belching and other digestive problems such as a bloated stomach. The notion that drinking a prescribed amount of water per day will cure a myriad of problems is similar to the idea that stress is the cause of many common illnesses - water is merely a placebo.

I recently read in a news paper that we should take 5 pints of water a day, three of which should be obtained by drinking and the other two from the food we eat. This suggestion is disturbing because if we obtained two pints of water from our food, we would be grossly over-eating and overweight. More harmful advice from the same article suggested that we should drink before we feel thirsty. Instinctively if our body needs water, it will give out signals, such as thick saliva, dry lips and throat and a feeling of thirst. Too much water doesn’t taste sweet any more it only causes imbalance and disharmony.

Good Advice

Intake of water is determined principally by the sense of thirst. Excessive intake may lead to water intoxication. Therefore you should understand the working of your own body- if you’re not hungry, don’t eat-if you are not thirsty, don’t drink. Food and drink maintain health and balance, excess causes upset.

To learn more about my practice and teachings, visit my website at www.barehandsdoctor.com.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or instruction. The information provided here is insufficient to conduct any form of treatment, exercise, or to provide any advice. Master Wong accepts no responsibility or liability for the use of the techniques described or ideas discussed within this website or any outcomes or result. Always consult a doctor before undertaking any bodywork or exercise. The Bare Hands Doctor is a trade name. Master Wong is not a medical doctor.

Welcome

2009-07-11T21:32:25Z

Welcome to my blog. Please check back soon for new entries.