Korean Hand Therapy Seminars

I enjoyed the seminars on Korean Hand Therapy (KHT) for two weekends in a row in February 2011: February 12-13 and 19-20.  The KHT reflexology map of the hand was discovered in 1971 by Dr. Tae-Woo Yoo, O.M.D., Ph.D. in Korea , and KHT Systems was founded by Dr. Dan Lobash, Ph.D., L.Ac.

The KHT system views the hand as a microsystem of the body, and treatment is similar to foot reflexology.  We learned how parts of the hand correspond to parts and functions of the whole body, including the corresponding hand and body acupuncture channels and points.  That is how we could use a metal probe to find painful points and areas on the hand.  The pain on the hand indicates that there is a problem in the corresonpding area or function of the body.

Another part of the diagnosis was comparing the diameters and quality of radial and carotid pulses, which was hard.  We would also palpate acupuncture points on the abdomen for pain.  From the pulses and abdmonial palpitation, we determine the body conditions and treatments.

We also learned to use treatment methods that are more convenient and painless, such as pellets instead of needles.  Hand needles are smaller than body needles, and we are recommended to use needle inserters to minimize pain for patients.  They even had a better type of smokeless moxa where you use moxa balm and a safety warmer so no fire is needed.

There is actually much more to KHT, which could not be covered in just four days.  Still, it was interesting and helpful, with enough information to use in practice.  More information can be found at the KHT Systems site.