MicroAcupuncture for Diabetic Retinopathy

Treatment(s) Used:
MicroAcupuncture

Microacupuncture is the best alternative treatment option available for diabetic retinopathy.  This procedure is performed at the Arkansas Acupuncture Center and helps restore vision by normalizing blood circulation to the eyes.  Damage to the blood vessels and retina resulting from the compromised blood circulation can heal. As with many retinal and optic nerve disorders, when the eyes are nourished with proper oxygen and nutrients, healing can occur.

Diabetic Neuropathy is one of the most common causes of blindness in American adults.   It results from the body’s inability to properly store and use sugar. An increase in blood sugar levels causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Blood vessels behind the eyes contract, restricting circulation. Lack of proper blood flow robs the eyes of sufficient nutrients and oxygen, so blood vessels become weak. Diabetic retinopathy behaves much like wet AMD. Neovascularization may be present with possible leaking, and there may be swelling in areas of the retina.

The treatment regimen is similar to microacupuncture treatment for AMD, glaucoma treatments, acupuncture treatment for retinitis pigmentosa, with variations depending on the degree of vision loss the patient has at the onset of treatment.

The course of treatment by microacupuncture is the same as for other retinal and optic nerve diseases.  Point location is like those for macular degeneration.  Most patients will receive one to two weeks of treatment at the onset of treatment.  Subsequent treatments occur once or twice a year.

Each patient receives microacupuncture treatments according to how much vision loss they have experienced.  In general, the more vision loss, the more treatments are needed.  Until the patient reaches a threshold, microacupuncture treatments continue with the goal of gaining vision.  At the point where the patient stabilizes or reaches a threshold, we continue treatments at a level where vision can be maintained.