16 - Sunday, January 17, 1999 - North Shore News north shore news ALTERNATIVES Acupuncture part of the cure By Ricardo B. Serrano Contributing Columnist AS an acupuncture detox specialist, I know there are many ways to to treat alco- hol and drug addic- tions. History has shown that acupunc- ture is a much-needed adjunctive therapy to the existing coun- selling and self-help groups that we have now in the Lower Mainland. The following informa- tion also explains why acupuncture would be one health service option as an available resource that could be integrated with the already established existing alcohol and drug program or counselling centres. Let me quote a Chinese proverb: “The method used by one person maybe faulty, the methods used by two people wil! be beter.” Almost 400 deiexifica- tion program in the U.S. and Europe have been mod- eled after the one at Lincoln Hospital, New York City where psychiatrist Dr. Michael Smith and his staff treat 250 addicts a day with auricular acupuncture. The theory behind that ractice holds that the entire ody can be affected by stimulating points on the ear. FOR THE BRIDE TO BE... Dr. Smith has observed that withdrawal symrcoms and cravings abate within minutes of the treatment. Equally important, says Smith, is reduction in panic and hostility commoniy scen in drug: treatment sectings — changes that make addicts more amenable to counselling. “We're not claiming that acupuncture is a magic bullet,” he points out. “We're claiming it’s valuable in combination with coun- selling.” In 1985, the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) was founded by clinicians who wanted to extend the example of Lincoln Hospital experience into other treat- ment settings. NADA sets standards of certification for acupuncture detox specialists that are widely accepted in the field of chemical dependency. Iam one of the first NADA certified acupunctur- ists here in B.C. where acupuncture is a legalized health profession. in the U.S.A., chemical dependency professionais in both the private sector and the criminal justice system Look for our feature on January 24. “We’re not claiming that acupuncture is a magic bullet. We’re claiming it’s valuable with counselling.” have taken a keen interest in the work done at Lincom Hospital and other NADA affiliated programs. The introduction of an acupuneture component to w CNISCINE program pro- vides a cost-efficient method tor providing non-residential treatment to large numbers of drug-dependent people, while increasing the eftee- tiveness of existing ser- vices, Regardless of the setting, and substance abused, acupuncture treatment aids in patient detoxification. It does so by supporting the main organs of elimination in the body, speeding the body’s ability to rid itself of toxins. Treatment iniproves mental clarity and ability to focus. Ir also provides the patient with a sense of calm- ness and serenity. This creates a greater receptivity to the coun- selling process and decreased instances of clients “acting out.” One of the non-criminal- justice speakers at the 199) NADA. Conference was Robert Olander, Commissioner of Chemical Health for Hennepine County, Minnesota, He suggested that there have been three “bench: marks” in the history of alcohol and drug treatment in the United States, three things that have revolution: ized the way we do alcohol and drug therapy: first was the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935; second was the development of pharmaceuticals in the late 1950s and carly ‘60s, and the third is acupunc- ture. As shown in the epidemic of drug addiction-related problems such as increased cases of HIV infections, increased criminal offences and increased number of mental health dual diagnosis clients, traditional chemical dependency treatment, unassisted, is a bleak iand- scape, Irs proven effectiveness depends most upon clients remaining in treatment for a tong time, and yet treatment drop-out is too often the norm, Some long-term follow- up studies have found that even lengthy treatment stays ultimately produce low suc- cess rates. Help is needed, and acupuncture has much to offer. — Ricardo B. Serrano is an Acupuncture Detox Specialist. He.can be reached at . a 7RYLORMOTIVE COLLISION SPECIALISTS | B.C.A.A. - A.R.A. APPROVED CENTRE ALL MAKE COLLISION REPAIRS “LIFETIME GUARANTEE” | Alternative transportation arranged STALKING » Estimates x YELLOW PAGES 7 299-9000 Consultation (714185... 985-7455 Marketsquare herbs and vitamins carries an extensive line of herbal remedies and nutritional supplements and is pleased to present the Green Alive superfood for sale through COUPON OFFER? | _ 1 285g bottle for $34.95 or | | 6 285g bottles for $28.95 each | Applicable for GREEN ALIVE Superfood @ the Bay. | L “One coupon per purchase. Expires April 30, 1999, To purchase this outstandig Canadian product call or visit MARHETSQUARE HERBS & VITAMINS t : *QSay Real advice, “Say as | A | High potency, natural; | ‘} vitamins and suppiemants: manufactured by skilled specialists Park Royal Niall The Bay 725 Park Royal North W. 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