| [ Summary ] |
In treatment of diseases of the digestive system through Kampo medicine, it is important to identify the presence of subjective and objective symptoms, and perform physical examination, particularly palpation of the patient's abdominal region. Suggested methods of palpation of the abdominal region originated and developed independently during the Edo period in Japan, and often lead to selection of prescribed Kampo medicine. For instance, in case of clinical finding of Kyokyokuman (discomfort or sensation of filled with something from the epigastric to the right side of the chest wall and subcostal heavy feeling or pain), or Renkyu (excessive tonus) of the rectus abdominis muscle, Kampo medicine including Saiko or Shakuyaku should be considered as prescription, respectively. Evaluation of the patient's tachycardia through measuring pulsation of the abdominal aorta may reveal that the finding derives from psychiatric disorder. Various clinical findings in patients with organic and mental compound disorders can be comprehensively treated with Kampo medicine based on the philosophy of mind-body unity. Physical abdominal exam findings used in the combined method of western and Kampo medicine allow correct diagnosis and treatment. |