“A tiny silver needle, when applied to the right acupoint, can bring notable relief to patients, we have seen this firsthand,” said Mamane Daou, general director of the General Referral Hospital of Niamey.
Speaking at a recent training program hosted by his hospital, he described the event as a valuable opportunity for medical staff and the public to gain close insight into this ancient practice.
Nearly 50 healthcare professionals from Niger, including key medical staff from the hospital, interns from Abdou Moumouni University’s Faculty of Health Sciences and local Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) enthusiasts, participated in the training course on TCM techniques organized by China’s 24th medical aid team.
The course began with a lecture titled “The Wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine: History, Theory and Global Perspectives” by Chinese doctor Wang Qingwu, who outlined the development of TCM and its core theoretical framework, expounded on commonly used acupuncture points and demonstrated live acupuncture and moxibustion techniques.
Two participants who suffered from frequent headaches and hand numbness volunteered for treatment and experienced immediate relief, impressing their fellow trainees.
“Traditional Chinese Medicine is simple, safe and affordable, and it has already benefited many Nigerien patients,” said Daou.
Niger attaches great importance to developing its own traditional medicine, he said, expressing hope for continued collaboration with China to strengthen the presence and future of TCM in the country.
Following the lecture, Chinese doctor Qin Lizhen presented modern applications of traditional cupping therapy, explaining indications and contraindications in detail. Doctor Xie Caihong introduced the “Four General Acupoint Song,” guiding trainees in developing practical skills through precise acupoint location and case analysis.
The training also included practice of Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese fitness routine. Participants learned the complete set of movements through video and onsite instruction, gaining a firsthand experience of TCM’s holistic philosophy of harmonizing body and mind.
Zheng Zhida, the leader of the Chinese medical team, said the TCM Diagnosis and Treatment Center, which was set up at the hospital in 2023, has already provided treatment for thousands of patients, particularly in stroke recovery and trauma rehabilitation.
“This training is not only about transferring medical skills but also about cultural exchange,” Zheng said. “We will continue to promote the TCM’s localization to better serve the Nigerien population.”
Throughout the training, participants showed strong enthusiasm and expressed hope to continue learning and gaining clinical experience at the TCM center.
“This was my first direct experience with acupuncture,” said Hamadou Abdoulaye, an intern from Abdou Moumouni University. “I now see its potential to assist with chronic pain and rehabilitation.” Enditem
Source: Xinhua
Share Us
