Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that uses thin needles placed along energy lines in the body to treat illness and alleviate pain. It’s been gaining popularity recently as a natural way to treat a variety of conditions, including migraines, arthritis, asthma, and even insomnia. Recently, it’s also been found to be effective at treating eye disorders such as astigmatism, myopia, and even dry eye syndrome. In this blog, we cover every crucial aspect of this promising treatment for eye-related disorders.
How Does Acupuncture Help With Eye Disorders?
A review of clinical trials found that acupuncture improved visual acuity and reduced eye pain in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. A number of mechanisms have been proposed to explain how acupuncture might work for eye disorders.
One theory is that acupuncture stimulates the release of neurochemical substances, such as endorphins and serotonin, which can help to relieve pain and improve mood. Another theory is that acupuncture promotes blood circulation and increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the eye, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. If you are considering acupuncture for the treatment of an eye disorder, it is important to consult with an experienced and licensed practitioner.
What Types of Eye Disorders Can Be Treated With Acupuncture?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognizes acupuncture as a potential treatment for a number of eye disorders, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. While there is still more research to be done in order to determine the efficacy of acupuncture for these conditions, some studies have shown promising results. For example, one study found that acupuncture improved symptoms in patients with macular degeneration, while another study found that acupuncture may help to slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Are There Any Side Effects?
If performed by a trained professional with the proper equipment (i.e., sterilized needles), acupuncture presents little risk. Mild discomfort and maybe some bleeding or bruising at the injection sites are the most commonly reported adverse effects. The danger of infection is currently very low due to the widespread use of single-use disposable needles.
How Can I Find a Qualified Acupuncturist to Treat Eye Disorders?
Here are a few tested tips to help you find a qualified acupuncturist:
- Look for an acupuncturist who is licensed in your state and has experience treating eye disorders.
- When meeting with an acupuncturist, be sure to ask about their training, experience, and success treating eye disorders.
- Inquire about the types of acupuncture needles the practitioner uses and whether they are sterile and disposable.
- Find out if the acupuncturist has malpractice insurance in case of any complications.
- Ask your primary care doctor or ophthalmologist for a referral to a qualified acupuncturist.
- Check with your local acupuncture society or professional association for a list of qualified practitioners.
- Be sure to ask about the cost of treatment and whether the practitioner accepts your insurance plan.
- Make sure you feel comfortable with the practitioner and that they take the time to answer all of your questions.
- Ask friends, family, or others you know who have received acupuncture for a referral.
- Trust your instincts and choose the practitioner you feel will best meet your needs.
Final Words
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective at treating eye disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and dry eye syndrome.
It works by stimulating certain points on the body that then send signals to the brain that affect how it perceives what the eyes see. This helps to bring the image into focus, so you can see clearly again without having to wear glasses or contact lenses!
If you’re interested in trying acupuncture for your vision problems, please contact Natural Life Acupuncture and Wellness for more information about scheduling an appointment. We’ve been in the business for years and have the right experience to ensure superb results! Get in touch with us today to learn more.