Scleroderma - Basics

Scleroderma is a disease characterized by the abnormal growth of connective tissue, which support the body's organs. Derived from the Greek meaning "hard skin," there are two forms of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Localized scleroderma is limited to the connective tissue in the skin and underlying muscle, and causes sections of skin to become discolored and hard. Systemic scleroderma not only affects the skin but also blood vessels and major organs. This form of the disease can cause the onset of Raynaud's Disease (a condition in which the blood vessels in the body constrict in response to temperature change or stress); the appearance of small, red patches on the face and hands; a dysfunctional esophagus; the formation of calcium deposits in the connective tissues; impaired kidney function; and other symptoms.
Below you will find alternative and natural treatment options including those from a Chinese Medicine perspective for Scleroderma.

Scleroderma - Diagnostic Patterns

The Chinese Medicine treatment of scleroderma generally involves arriving at the appropriate TCM diagnosis or pattern. This pattern within the individual is what treatment is based on not the general condition (see treating the cause and not the symptoms).

The following patterns may represent the underlying contributing factors for the development of scleroderma:

Scleroderma - Tam Healing and Tongren Therapy Protocols

Tong Ren Therapy is the energy healing/medical qi gong aspect of the Tam Healing System. The areas of focus for scleroderma that we would use in Tong Ren techniques form the basis for our acupuncture treatments as well. Generally you would mix these primary points with points specific to the patients underlying TCM pattern and then our tuina (medical massage) would be largely focused on these points as well.

The following Tam healing and tong ren therapy protocols may be used with scleroderma:

• Tam Healing and Tong Ren Therapy for Scleroderma