Did you know that acupuncture can be very effective in the treatment of numerous types of eye disorders?
To date over 10,000 recorded diseases of the eye exist, and in general, Acupuncture and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), has over an 80% success rate in treating eye and vision disorders.
In China, written accounts of Ophthalmology and the treatment of eye disorders goes back as far as 581 A.D., where records documented in “The Classic of mountains and Seas” written before the Qin Dynasty, show, that of the more than 100 recorded medicinals for all illnesses, 7 of them could treat and prevent blindness.
Obviously, Chinese Medicine has developed considerably since then, and Ophthalmology is now a highly specialised area with new techniques and proven and documented results for all types of eye diseases.
Acupuncture is currently used with very good results in several disorders regarding eyes and vision, including but not restricted to, AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration), Dry eyes, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Optical nerve dystrophy, Optical Neuritis, Temporal Arteritis, Stargardts Syndrome, Blepharitis, Conjunctival disorders, Cataracts, Glaucoma and many many more diseases causing vision deterioration or loss. .
So how does it work?
Research has shown that Acupuncture increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and vital nutrients to the eye which speeds healing. Additionally, the hormonal system can be directly stimulated by Acupuncture, which can aid the repair of the bodys cells. This is especially important in AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, and other conditions in which the cells have been affected by poor circulation, causing damage. In cases where there may be bleeding into the eye because of damaged blood vessels, or an increase of weaker more fragile blood vessels, such as is the case in Wet AMD, or Diabetic Retinopathy, these vessels can be strengthened and bleeding stopped. It is a very safe and natural treatment, with no side effects, unlike the treatment offered by conventional medicine.
I do not diagnose however. and I always encourage clients who are seeking this treatment, to visit a doctor for diagnostics before coming to me and receive treatment with acupuncture.
How exactly are eye disorders being treated with acupuncture?
For eye disorders that are chronic it will demand intensive treatment, especially at the beginning. Approximately 10 days are required for adequate treatment. Within this time frame the person undergoes 2 treatments per day. Each treatment lasts approx. half an hour and then there is an hour break (maximum 2 hours) before the next treatment which is also half an hour. After 5 days of this intensive treatment, the progress is assessed and if the person is willing, we proceed with the next treatment consisting of the same intensity for another 5 days. Most people will notice some change after the 3rd or 4th day (sometimes sooner), but this is always dependent on the person, general state of health, diet, lifestyle and other factors etc.
In advance of every treatment a full and thorough assessment is made of the persons overall state of health and well being, and individual consideration is made to determine the clients needs and special circumstances all of which will be unique to him / her. In this way, we work together for the best predicted outcome.
Eye exercises, dietary changes, supplements and Chinese Herbal treatments will also be advised to improve overall eye health. Acupuncture and TCM always looks at the person as a whole, and an eye disorder is usually a symptom of a disharmony which may have been unaddressed for a long time. It is this cause which is addressed with Acupuncture and herbs.
However, it is important to note, I do not diagnose your eye disorder. I leave that to your Opthalmologist, and Eye specialist. My speciality is treating your failing vision in a safe and non invasive way using ancient techniques from the Chinese Masters Dr. Tan and Master Tung, and modern acupuncture techniques called AcuNova, founded in the year 2000 in Denmark. No needles are ever inserted into the eye. Only the hands and feet, and around the eyebrow are ever used, sometimes other places in the body, but NEVER into the eye itself. Chinese herbs have been used for thousands of years to cure all illnesses, and I use herbs according to what is required by the condition being treated.
These combined treatments provide excellent results in most cases.
Mairead Fahy
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Clinic, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
Phone 0539483155 or 0876452409