Shōnishin und KiSS-Syndrom – Neue Wege in der Akupunkturbehandlung asymmetrischer Babys

Abstract

BackgroundA dysfunction of the upper cervical vertebrae (blockage of suboccipital joints) is ususally considered the cause of asymmetric babies. „KiSS-Syndrom” is an acronym for the German term „Kopfgelenk induzierte Symmetrie-Störung”, meaning head joints induced symmetric disorder or kinetic imbalances due to suboccipital strain. For more then twenty years the author has treated the asymmetry with manual therapies, such as chirotherapy for newborns, craniosacral therapy and other osteopathic methods. 20–25 percent of treated babies show the strain again after two to four weeks. For the last ten years the results were improved by adding Shōnishin, a Japanese style of acupuncture particularly for children. It was frequently observed that Shōnishin could cure the strain even without manual interventions. ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to test whether the dispersal of blockage by Shōnishin alone can be reproduced. In case of reproducibility it would be interesting to know, in how many cases Shōnishin can reduce the strain and vegetative attendant symptoms. This observation trial should demonstrate if Shōnishin is as effective as it is enjoyable for the baby and can hence be an inexpensive method of treatment for parents. MethodsForty babies, between six and twelve weeks old, with suboccipital strain, were recruited for this observational study. Shōnishin in a standardised way was the only treatment for these babies with KiSS-Syndrom.The primary outcome should show the change of movements in the region of the suboccipital joints (in angular degrees). The secondary outcomes affected sensomotoric and vegetative alterations and acceptance on the part of the parents. ResultsAfter three treatments in weekly intervals, 57,5 % of the treated babies showed no more strain, and about 75 % of the previously asymmetric babies showed no asymmetry any more. In general there was an improvement in vegetative side symptoms. ConclusionThis prospective observation study supports the conclusion that Shōnishin is an effective method for treating infants with kinetic disorders due to suboccipital strain. A standardised approach in treating children with KiSS-Syndrom has proved to be as good as other therapeutic interventions.