Chasing the Dragon’s Tail: The Theory & Practice of Acupuncture in the Work of Yoshio Manaka

Description

MANAKA Yoshio, with ITAYA Kazuko & BIRCH Stephen

ISBN: 9780912111322

Paradigm Publications 1995 1st Edition

255 x 175mm, biography, bibliography, appendices, index 458pp

This text sets forth the mature versions of the author’s clinical vision, creations and accomplishments whilst charting a course for future explorations. Dr Manaka’s major clinical and theoretical accomplishments are introduced by describing how the ‘X-signal system’ is the foundation of human topology, function, and response. In essence, the X-signal system defines qi, yin-yang, and the five phases as clinical events, rather than as abstract theories.

Manaka references some of the most advanced scientific thinking of our era – information theory, holographic models and new paradigms – but his explanations are replete with practical tests readers can use to explore his explanations or research their own ideas. Dr Manaka was recognised in both Japan and China as one of the foremost practitioners of his generation and Chasing the Dragon’s Tail describes his most important techniques, including ion pumping and other root treatments, his distinctive usage of fire needles, channel techniques, sotai, moxibustion, and the integration of modern Chinese and Japanese clinical developments. The text concludes with case histories and appendices providing supporting technical details.

‘As a middle-aged doctor in post-war Japan, Yoshio Manaka began an intellectual adventure that would lead to his becoming not only one of Japan’s Dai Sensei, or great teachers, but also one of the most respected clinicians in all Asia… he invented the ‘ion-pumping’ treatment for burns. It was…the start of one of the most contributory careers in Oriental medical history.’