In TCM, kidney is an energy field that stores prenatal energy that we get from our parents, and is the powerhouse reserve tank for energy in the body. It rules the bones, teeth and nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It transports fluids and eliminates waste via its partner organ, the bladder. It’s the source of bone and marrow. For these reasons it’s known as the “root of prenatal qi.” Obstruction of flow of energy through the kidney meridian can result in hormone imbalances, significant fatigue as this system is not available to provide backup energy to other organs. It can result in osteoporosis, dental problems, poor memory, sleep disturbances, and more
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In TCM, the energy field called stomach is known as the “sea of nourishment.” Stomach provides postnatal energy to the entire body by digesting food and fluids and is known as the “root of postnatal life.” Its partner organ is the spleen. Stomach digests foods and fluids into nanoparticles to pass them along to the small intestine for absorption. In addition, the stomach extracts the pure postnatal energy or qi and coordinates with spleen energy to transport this energy to the lung where it combines with air energy. Its tissue is muscle. Its element is earth. Stomach dysfunction results in immediate deficiency of energy in the other organs and leads to significant inflammation.
In TCM, the liver controls the flow of qi and blood circulation. It’s also responsible for the flow of emotions. Liver is responsible for detoxification, regulation of menses and reproduction, and much more. It controls connective tissue and tendons. Liver manifests in the nails and its sensory organ is the eyes. Its partner organ is the gallbladder. Obstruction of this meridian results in buildup of toxins, poor circulation of blood and qi, connective tissue disorders, anger and irritability and much more.
Women impacted by BII typically request removal of implants and generally report experiencing some relief of their symptoms. It’s critical to see a surgeon expert in explant surgery as the removal of the surrounding scar tissue as well as pathological evaluation for the presence of a rare lymphoma are a critical part of removing breast implants. We’re starting to see some women getting symptoms back several months after removal of implants (also known as explant procedure). Why?
The removal of breast implants helps remove quite a bit of the toxic load that was obstructing the flow of energy through the breast, but unfortunately, the significant scarring that results both from the procedures and the inflammatory response to the implants, leads to continued obstruction of energy flow. This causes buildup of toxins and inflammation as well as continued deficiencies even after implant removal.
We’re potentially exposed to over 200 known cancer-causing toxins daily and the continued obstruction of liver energy leads to buildup of these toxins. The breast implants themselves are not the only source of toxins these women face.
The obstruction of the stomach leads to continued nutrient deficits, poor digestion and absorption of foods. This leads to significant gastrointestinal malfunction and inflammation. It also leads to deficiency of lung qi because the stomach provides pure energy derived from food to the lungs.
The continued obstruction of kidney energy leads to significant loss of reserve energy, hormone imbalances and fluid dysregulation or inflammation.
This is a perfect storm for disease for susceptible women. Can we determine who may be more susceptible to BII based on TCM theory? Yes.
- Women with genetic predisposition to poor liver detoxification such as MTHFR mutations.
- Women with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders such as SIBO, colitis, IBS, or malabsorption.
- Women with adrenal fatigue (low DHEA or cortisol levels as determined by saliva testing).
- Women on multiple medications which may impact absorption or detoxification.
Are there solutions for women with BII based in TCM? Yes. A multidisciplinary approach based in TCM and functional medicine can assist women in recovering body function over time. A comprehensive evaluation of liver, gastrointestinal, and endocrine (hormone) function is the starting point. Determining which systems are impacted and using a systematic and consistent approach that corrects the abnormalities noted are critical steps in recovering function.
Restoring the flow of energy in the affected meridians using acupuncture, herbal therapy, and vibroacoustic therapy (sound therapy) is also of value. Homeopathy can also be of value to restore healthy tissue.
The emotional and spiritual elements of BII must also be addressed since the organs hold on to emotional stress which greatly impacts the spirit. Kidney holds the emotions of fear and shock. Stomach holds on to worry. Liver holds anger. A multidisciplinary approach consisting of psychotherapy and cognitive therapy to deal with the psychological trauma predating and resulting from breast implant surgery must be addressed for success. The 6 Healing Sounds of Taoism are also valuable to remove the scars of trauma housed in the organs and the memories stored in the brain. Because our thoughts determine our health, the thoughts associated with trauma must be transformed to positive energy through a comprehensive treatment program.
The road to recovery from BII can be paved using the ancient wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine combined with the cutting-edge technology of functional medicine. Although this condition is not yet recognized by the allopathic medical system, TCM and functional medicine as practiced at the Riobé Institute of Integrative Medicine, are fully equipped to demystify this condition and begin a much-needed path to healing and wellness.
CALL TO ACTION
If you have had breast implants or explants and are experiencing unexplained fatigue, rashes, joint and muscle aches or weakness, or have been diagnosed with breast implant associated lymphoma, call or email us today for more information on BII and how you can begin your path to wellness.
Dr. Riobé is also available for speaking engagements to help educate women in our community and beyond about this devastating condition.