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Chinese medicine degrees, education and careers
November 17, 2022
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What is Chinese medicine? Degrees and education
What is Chinese medicine?
Chinese medicine is also known as oriental or eastern medicine. It refers to a wide range of alternative medical techniques and research. These are some of the most common forms:
While western medical science focuses primarily on distinct systems within the body and how they function, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on the body more holistically–seeking to find imbalances and dissonance that could lead to disease. TCM's main idea is that a healthy body will make you feel good.
A medical doctor may diagnose an illness the same way that a mechanic diagnoses an issue with a car. They look at the system's inputs and outputs and then rule out possible problems based on how it is expected to operate. A practitioner of Chinese medicine, on the other hand, might employ the concepts of yin and yang to identify potential imbalances and correct them using any of the methods listed above.
What is Yin, Yang, and Qi?
Qi isQi, which translates to “air” and “breath”. It is the circular force of life found in Chinese medicinal philosophy. Qi is often regarded as the binding force that unites all things in the universe by many eastern philosophies. When deciding where to place needles, acupuncturists often use Qi pathways or energy points.
Yin & Yang: In Chinese philosophy, Yin & Yang are opposites, but complementary forces whose aspects, interactions, and effects account for all phenomena in the universe. Yin is responsible for everything dark, feminine, passive, and while yang is responsible for all things bright, masculine, and active. TCM practitioners believe that dissonance between these forces can cause blockages in Qi flow, which can lead to illness.
Studying Chinese medicine and getting a degree: What you will study, program length, specialization
Your career prospects in the field of Chinese medicine can be affected by what level and type of education you choose.
Some programs are focused on particular techniques like acupuncture and herbal medicine while others concentrate more on the philosophy of TCM…
Some programs are focused on particular techniques like acupuncture and herbal medicine while others concentrate more on the philosophy of TCM, while introducing students the full range of TCM treatment options. Some schools also focus on the use of TCM in conjunction with other schools of thought, such as chiropractic medicine and western medicine.
You should consider your career goals and the education level you want to pursue. There are many associate, bachelor's, and master's degree options. You can also find trade-specific certificates for traditional traditions like Tai Chi and acupuncture.
What you will study and how long it takes
For students pursuing a Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Chinese Medicine, they can expect to complete their studies in between two and four years. Students will be able to learn the foundational knowledge of the following areas, in addition to general education courses in English and math.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is our specialization
After you have earned your bachelor's, you can pursue advanced study through a master's or post-graduate certificate. These courses usually last between one and two years and focus more on a specific aspect of TCM than on the whole field.
There are many possible specializations.
Acupuncture – According to the Mayo Clinic acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at strategic points to treat stress and pain. Acupuncturists believe that acupuncture can correct imbalances in your body's natural Qi pathways, and improve overall health. Although there are not many scientific studies to support the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment, scientists have suggested that acupuncture points can be stimulated by nerve endings, connective tissues, and muscles. This could increase your body's natural painkillers.
To practice acupuncture, students must enroll in a TCM or regulated acupuncture program. Master's programs in Acupuncture require at least 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university. Doctorate programs in acupuncture are also available. They typically require 90 credit hours from an accredited university.
Chinese herbal medicine: Chinese herbal medicine uses herbs in order to improve overall health. The goal of herbal medicine, like other TCM practices, is to correct any imbalances in the body. According to The Cleveland Clinic, the way this is done is very individual. TCM, for example, suggests peppermint and cinnamon may have antiviral properties. However, the effectiveness of these herbs will vary depending on the patient and their source.
Diet therapy and nutrition: Diet therapy sees food as a healing source. This specialized practice can offer dietary treatment for diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and allergies as well as other treatments that increase resistance to illness. Certain therapies include adding more nutrients to a patient's diet while others require that certain foods be eliminated to aid in healing.
Accreditation is crucial
Accreditation simply means that a school has met certain standards for quality in its education. Accreditation gives students some assurance that they will get a quality education that prepares them for a career in a particular field. Students can also use federal student aid to help pay for college and transfer credits from other accredited schools.
Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, (ACAHM), and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, (NCCAOM) are the two agencies responsible for accrediting TCM programs and schools.
Chinese medicine salary
Salaries for other Chinese medicine practices can be very different. Higher earnings in this field are dependent on your ability to market yourself and your private clientele. Or, you may choose to work in an established alternative medicine facility.
Someone who is interested in Chinese medicine may find it beneficial to choose a focus field.
If I were to offer advice to someone wanting to work in Chinese medicine, I would suggest that they choose a specificization and stay with it. Too broad an approach can lead to overwhelm. Marlon Bishop, a Tai Chi practitioner who is now a student of herbology, said that it's more important to focus on a single specialty than being able to study and be good at it.
TCM evaluations and criticisms
Research by the National Institute of Health (NIH), regarding potential dangers traditional Chinese medicine poses, was published by the NIH. NIH has listed some critiques, including:
It is important to review the accreditations and evaluations offered by recognized and accredited organizations when considering a career as a Chinese physician. You can learn more about the effectiveness and safety of TCM by studying the reviews of Chinese medicine, herbology and Tai Chi.
“If someone doesn't know the criticisms of eastern practices they don't know how to deal with them.” Bishop stated that a good practitioner of any form of art or medicine should be able to recognize the strengths and weaknesses.
Professional insight from:
Marlon Bishop
Tai Chi and Student of Herbology
Natural Healers first published the post-Chinese medicine degrees, careers, and education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic medical care the same as alternative medicines?
Holistic Health Care is different from Alternative Medicine in that it treats the whole person and not the symptoms.
Holistic Health Care examines all aspects a person's health including the mental, emotional, spiritual and occupational factors as well as family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address these problems. It doesn't address these issues.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine does not pose a danger as many people think. However there are risks associated with this treatment. The most common side effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, and insomnia. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Talk to your doctor before you begin any new treatment plan.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn't considered standard by mainstream medical practitioners but which has been shown to have benefits for some conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
While both forms of medicine are commonly used, many conventional doctors do not recommend them due to insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite its popularity, many are still confused about what “alternative” and “complementary medicine is.
Why would people with cancer choose to use other methods?
Patients with cancer face many difficulties when trying to manage their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, weight loss, and fatigue.
Additionally, most traditional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Therefore, cancer patients seek other therapies, such as complementary medicine. Nearly half of cancer patients use alternative medicines at some point during treatment, according to studies.
Patients with cancer may choose to receive complementary medicine rather than chemotherapy. They believe that it is easier to manage side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
You can also use the following reasons:
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.
Some believe natural remedies can lower the chance of developing cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What are some of the benefits of complementary or alternative medicine?
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an umbrella term for medical practices used by people who believe they are not getting adequate help from allopathic medicine. These therapies include herbs, mind-body treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren't part of conventional medicine's standard system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. For example, some forms of acupuncture are performed with needles, while others involve acupressure or moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. They can improve your well-being, reduce fatigue, and may even help you feel more energetic. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM treatments may be just as enjoyable.
There is no singular definition of what constitutes “CAM”, but most definitions include at the very least one of these:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind and body interact and influence each other
- An individual's belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Discuss these concerns with your doctor before you decide to use any CAM.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a form of holistic medicine, focuses on the entire person and not on a single part. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine aims to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
Statistics
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise of complementary and other medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
How To
What is it that holistic doctors do that traditional doctors don't?
A holistic doctor offers a wider range services than a traditional one, including nutritionists, massage therapists, naturopaths and homeopaths.
A holistic doctor works with patients holistically – they look at the whole person, their lifestyle, and environment and address the root cause of any health issues rather than just treating symptoms. This approach helps them identify underlying causes and work towards long-term wellness and preventative measures. Holistic doctors may use alternative medicine, including essential oils and herbs. They also provide nutritional support and dietary advice to promote healthy living.
In addition, holistic doctors offer therapies like acupuncture, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, craniosacral therapy, and many others.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Paula Nechak
Title: Chinese medicine careers, degrees and education
Sourced From: www.naturalhealers.com/blog/chinese-medicine/
Published Date: Wed, 16 Nov 2022 16:03:48 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic medical care the same as alternative medicines?
Holistic Health Care is different from Alternative Medicine in that it treats the whole person and not the symptoms.
Holistic Health Care examines all aspects a person's health including the mental, emotional, spiritual and occupational factors as well as family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address these problems. It doesn't address these issues.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine does not pose a danger as many people think. However there are risks associated with this treatment. The most common side effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, and insomnia. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Talk to your doctor before you begin any new treatment plan.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn't considered standard by mainstream medical practitioners but which has been shown to have benefits for some conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
While both forms of medicine are commonly used, many conventional doctors do not recommend them due to insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite its popularity, many are still confused about what “alternative” and “complementary medicine is.
Why would people with cancer choose to use other methods?
Patients with cancer face many difficulties when trying to manage their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, weight loss, and fatigue.
Additionally, most traditional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Therefore, cancer patients seek other therapies, such as complementary medicine. Nearly half of cancer patients use alternative medicines at some point during treatment, according to studies.
Patients with cancer may choose to receive complementary medicine rather than chemotherapy. They believe that it is easier to manage side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
You can also use the following reasons:
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.
Some believe natural remedies can lower the chance of developing cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What are some of the benefits of complementary or alternative medicine?
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an umbrella term for medical practices used by people who believe they are not getting adequate help from allopathic medicine. These therapies include herbs, mind-body treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren't part of conventional medicine's standard system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. For example, some forms of acupuncture are performed with needles, while others involve acupressure or moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. They can improve your well-being, reduce fatigue, and may even help you feel more energetic. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM treatments may be just as enjoyable.
There is no singular definition of what constitutes “CAM”, but most definitions include at the very least one of these:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind and body interact and influence each other
- An individual's belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Discuss these concerns with your doctor before you decide to use any CAM.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a form of holistic medicine, focuses on the entire person and not on a single part. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine aims to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
Statistics
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise of complementary and other medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
How To
What is it that holistic doctors do that traditional doctors don't?
A holistic doctor offers a wider range services than a traditional one, including nutritionists, massage therapists, naturopaths and homeopaths.
A holistic doctor works with patients holistically – they look at the whole person, their lifestyle, and environment and address the root cause of any health issues rather than just treating symptoms. This approach helps them identify underlying causes and work towards long-term wellness and preventative measures. Holistic doctors may use alternative medicine, including essential oils and herbs. They also provide nutritional support and dietary advice to promote healthy living.
In addition, holistic doctors offer therapies like acupuncture, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, craniosacral therapy, and many others.
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