MicroAcupuncture for Diabetic Retinopathy 

MicroAcupuncture is the best alternative treatment option available for diabetic retinopathy. We perform this procedure at the Arkansas Acupuncture Center. It 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, and acupuncture treatment for retinitis pigmentosa, with variations depending on the degree of vision loss the patient has at the onset of treatment. Most patients will begin with one to two weeks of treatment. Subsequent treatments occur once or twice a year. MicroAcupuncture never involves putting needles into the eyes; they are placed in the hands and feet.

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.