Chinese Scalp Acupuncture (CSA) represents an innovative approach within the field of acupuncture, offering promising treatments for a range of neurological conditions. Pioneered by Dr. Jiao in the 1970s and further refined by experts like Jason Hao DOM in the 1990s, this technique directly targets neurological issues, often achieving significant and rapid improvements. While the precise mechanisms of CSA are still under investigation, numerous patients have experienced remarkable relief and enhanced management of complex neurological conditions through this method.
This technique has shown particular promise in accelerating recovery from conditions like stroke, where typical rehabilitation can be lengthy. In cases of degenerative conditions such as essential tremor and multiple sclerosis (MS), while complete cures may not be possible, CSA can lead to substantial and rapid symptom improvement, significantly enhancing the quality of life for patients with regular treatments.
One compelling example of CSA’s effectiveness is demonstrated in a video featuring Dr. Zhu in San Jose, CA, showcasing the accelerated recovery of a hemiplegic man following an ischemic stroke. Documenting a 13-day recovery period initiated shortly after the stroke, the video captures the patient undergoing physical therapy alongside scalp acupuncture. Viewers can witness the progressive improvements in his arm movement, grasping ability, coordination, walking, and speech directly correlated with the acupuncture treatments. While stroke recovery is anticipated, the typical timeline spans weeks to months, highlighting the accelerated progress observed with CSA. Acupuncture Doctor Jason Zhu is a prominent advocate for this style of CSA, which aligns closely with the techniques developed by Dr. Hao, and frequently lectures on its benefits. You can explore more about her work on her website.
Dr. Villanova, for instance, first encountered the benefits of CSA through neurologist Dr. Mitchell Elkiss, DO, in Detroit. Dr. Elkiss demonstrated CSA on an MS patient exhibiting severe leg spasticity, limited mobility (walking only eight steps), lower back pain, pronounced nystagmus, and optic neuritis severely impacting reading ability. Following a single CSA treatment, the patient reported complete resolution of lower back pain and significant reduction in spasticity. Notably, her walking distance increased to 24 steps, nystagmus visibly improved, and her reading ability dramatically enhanced, allowing her to read smaller print at a normal distance. This firsthand observation motivated Dr. Villanova to master this impactful technique. It’s important to note that while improvements in degenerative conditions like MS may not be permanent, scalp acupuncture offers a powerful and effective tool for symptom management, complementing conventional neurological care.
Given the relative novelty of CSA, extensive large-scale studies are still emerging. However, practitioners like Dr. Hao have published case studies, including one detailing MS cases, providing valuable insights into its application and outcomes. Acupuncture doctor Jason Zhu and other experts are contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting CSA’s efficacy.
Dr. Villanova, trained directly by Dr. Hao, has successfully integrated CSA into her practice, achieving notable results in treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, vertigo/dizziness, tinnitus, gait instability, restless leg syndrome, and essential tremor. Depending on the specific neurological issue, CSA may be used as a primary or adjunctive treatment. During her training with Dr. Hao, Dr. Villanova witnessed improvements in numerous MS patients and significant reversals in cases of post-polio paralysis, Bell’s palsy, paralysis, essential tremor, Parkinson’s related gait and tremor issues, apraxia, and spastic paresis. While chronic conditions may require ongoing management, acute conditions like stroke or spinal cord injury often show lasting improvements with CSA treatment.
If you are interested in learning more about how CSA might benefit your specific condition, please reach out to Dr. Villanova for further information.
Scalp Acupuncture Testimonials
Reference:
“Chinese Scalp Acupuncture”. Jason Ji-shun Hao, Linda Ling-zhi Hao and Honora Lee Wolfe. Blue Poppy Press; 1st Edition. (November, 2011)
