Kappo
Kappo (活法, kappō, "resuscitation techniques") are healing techniques that often involve stimulation of specific acupuncture points. Kappo is commonly used in martial arts such as Danzan Ryu and Judo. Kappo contains two kanji: katsu (活 “resuscitation, life”) and ho (法 “method”).
More specifically, kappo refers to resuscitation techniques used to revive someone who has been choked to the point of unconsciousness, to lessen the pain of a strike to the groin, to help unlock a seized thoracic diaphragm, to stop a bleeding nose, and other common training injuries. These techniques, as practiced by the martial arts of Judo and Danzan Ryu, can involve striking specific points on the body, manual manipulation of the carotid triangle to open closed arteries, or manually opening and closing the lungs to allow air to flow in and out. The manual manipulation of breathing, which has some similarities with rescue breathing and CPR, is called katsu.
A tradition in some Judo schools involves teaching kappo to all new shodan (black belts). This instruction is followed by a session where each of the shodan choke someone, are choked themselves, and resuscitate someone using kappo.
Judo Therapy
[edit]Judo Therapy (柔道整復, Judo Seifuku, Sekkotsu) is a traditional Japanese healing art that evolved from the principles of kappo (活法), the resuscitation techniques used in martial arts. While sappo (殺法) refers to techniques intended to harm or subdue an opponent, kappo encompasses methods to revive or heal, emphasizing the dual nature of martial arts in both combat and healing.
Judo Therapy specializes in the non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains. Practitioners, known as Judo therapists or sekkotsu (接骨) practitioners, utilize manual manipulation techniques to realign bones and joints, promote natural healing, and alleviate pain. This practice reflects the holistic approach of martial arts, where understanding how to cause injury is complemented by the knowledge of how to heal it.
The development of Judo Therapy is closely linked to the history of Judo. The founder of Judo, [[Jigoro Kano]], integrated traditional Japanese martial arts techniques, including kappo, into Judo's curriculum. This integration highlighted the importance of balancing martial prowess with healing skills, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the human body in both martial and medical contexts.
In Japan, Judo Therapy is a recognized medical profession. To become a licensed Judo therapist, individuals must complete a specialized educational program, typically lasting three years, at an accredited institution. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, and practical training in therapeutic techniques. Graduates must then pass a national examination administered by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare to obtain licensure.
Judo Therapy clinics, often referred to as sekkotsu-in (接骨院), are common in Japan. These clinics provide treatments not only for acute injuries but also for chronic conditions such as shoulder stiffness and lower back pain. The practice embodies the principles of Judo, emphasizing maximum efficiency with minimal effort, and mutual welfare and benefit.
While Judo Therapy remains predominantly practiced in Japan, its principles have garnered interest internationally. However, formal education and licensing are primarily available only in Japan, presenting challenges for non-Japanese individuals seeking to become practitioners.
For more detailed information, refer to the main article: Judo therapy.
Homophone
[edit]Japanese language contains many homophones; Kappō written as 割烹 means “cooking” especially relating to Japanese cuisine.
References
[edit]- Harrison, E.J. The Fighting Arts of Japan. Woodstock, New York: Overlook Press. 1955. ISBN 0-87951-154-0
- Riki Kumazawa J.T. (2025), Kumazawa Method of Judo Therapy The Basics, Kanagawa: Myorinji publishing
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