Stomach 9’s Chinese name, “Welcome to Being Human” is often considered to relate to the thyroid cartilage that grows there when a boy becomes an adult, but this point is also overlies two key anatomical structures: the carotid body and sinus, crucial monitors, constantly evaluating blood oxygenation, CO2 levels, pH and blood pressure as blood rises to the brain.  However, recent studies show these structures can also play a crucial role regulating metabolism, weight gain, cravings, anxiety, limbic brain activity and parasympathetic/sympathetic balance.

Damage to this critical juncture in the body can lead to all sorts of pathology, including metabolic syndrome, weight gain, cravings, shortness of breath, migraines, neck pain, blood pressure dysregulation, emotional disturbance and panic attacks. This master class will examine new carotid palpation evaluation and treatments as well as other points to help regulate systemic issues like weight gain, and local issues such as chronic neck pain. Following lecture, demonstrations will be made in real time with live volunteers where Kiiko Matsumoto will demonstrate how to integrate treatment of the carotid into a complete acupuncture treatment. Dr. Joseph Audette and other staff will facilitate the educational process with questions and live chat in Zoom.

Presenter: Kiiko Matsumoto, LAc. is a world-renowned acupuncturist and teacher, internationally known for her scholarly work in acupuncture. Senseii Matsumoto is recognized for her ability to integrate the work of the Japanese Masters into a coherent and clinically effective palpation-based style that synthesizes eastern and western views of the body. She is author of numerous books, and her Hara Diagnosis palpation-based acupuncture style is practiced across the globe.

Facilitator:  Joseph Audette, MD is Chief of the Department of Spine, Physiatry and Pain Management at Atrius Health and Harvard Vanguard and Assistant Professor Part Time, at Harvard Medical School. He is Course Director of AcuMed: Integrated Structural Acupuncture course for physicians at the University of New England, a renowned acupuncture researcher, and recognized world expert in the use of acupuncture point verification methods and use of acupuncture needle techniques for the treatment of acute and chronic pain.