Expert: Heather Vandeburg L.Ac M.S.O.M. dipl.Ac - 4/21/2010

Question
QUESTION: Per your prior advice fpr TCM practitioner for my SNL (2&1/2 wks ago-total hearing loss in one ear with tinnintus, I have consulted  NCCAOM & see certifications for in Oriental Medicine & Chinese Herbs-no local Dr. has both-is one preferable for me to see for treatment?  Also, wondering,what herbs are involved,& how oftendo you suggest accupuncture take place initially?

ANSWER: Hi Dale, the most important thing is that they are board certified in acupuncture. In my state is not nesssary to be board certified to practice herbs. So a lot of us aren't.   If they have a masters degree in Oriental Medicine they should be trained in herbs. Everyone is different, I would say that acupuncture a few times a week for a few weeks should be needed. The herbs depends on your pattern. You'll need to see someone to figure that out.
Good Luck
Heather Vandeburg LAc MSOM diplAc

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Heather- follow-up question--could you clarify what is meant by the herbs depends on my "pattern"?
Thank-you for your prompt answer to my initial question-I plan to look for a practitioner right away.  Thank-you.   Dale.

Answer
Traditional Chinese Medicine's diagnostic system is based on pattern diagnosis.  Examples of patterns for you are: liver yang rising, liver wind, kidney yin, or yang deficiency, any one of these could be your pattern to treat with herbs.  You need someone to diagnose you. Each pattern will need a different herbal formula.  And you could have more than one pattern at a time.

Hope this helps.
Heather Vandeburg LAc MSOM diplAc