Research
Update: Acupuncture and Ophthalmologic
Health
A study
conducted by researchers at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and
published by the Journal of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine,
demonstrates how acupuncture can improve visual acuity, reduce light
sensitivity and decrease visual defects. The study tested the efficacy of a
four point acupuncture prescription in the treatment of loss of vision. The
researchers used three acupuncture points around the eye and one point in the
suboccipital region. All of the points are classically indicated in Traditional
Chinese Medicine for the treatment of eye problems. The test concluded
acupuncture is beneficial in the treatment of vision problems.
http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1625-acupuncture-improves-visual-acuity-and-reduces-defects
The eyes can
reflect a lot of things regarding a person’s overall health. Illnesses can be detected by the
ophthalmologist in the very early stages. And conditions like glaucoma,
neuritis and even vision loss can be indicators of systemic health problems.
TCM has always known about the connection between the eyes and a person’s
health. Many eye conditions respond well to acupuncture treatments and these
methods have been used for centuries to assist in keeping the eyes healthy.
TCM pays very
close attention to the relationship between the organs and the tissues. Imbalances within the body can sometimes
manifest as problems in the eyes. If a person is treated for eye problems, the
underlying imbalances that have caused these issues will also be treated by the
licensed acupuncturist.
The main
concept behind acupuncture is the nourishment and movement of blood and energy
throughout the body to create harmonic balance. Quite frequently, there are
imbalances in more than one organ system that lead to problems in the eyes. But
the organ system most closely associated with the eyes in TCM is the liver. In
TCM, the liver “opens to the eyes.” The liver provides the primary energy flow
that is responsible for the support of healthy vision. Within the eye, certain
meridians have primary influence over specific areas. For instance, the pupil
is influenced by the kidney meridian, the retina is influenced by the liver and
kidney meridians, and the sclera is influenced by the lung meridian. Reading
the eye is one of the tools acupuncturists utilize when diagnosing a patient.
Receiving
regular acupuncture treatments can be very beneficial in the prevention and
treatment of ophthalmologic conditions. But there are some things that can be
done at home too that may also help.
Acupressure massage can reduce tension in the eyes and contribute to
overall eye health. This can be done multiple times throughout the day to help
stimulate blood flow and positive energy into the area. There are also several frequently used
Chinese herbs that can help keep the eyes healthy, including goji berries and
chrysanthemum flowers. Both of these herbs can be steeped into green tea for a
nice eye rejuvenation tonic.
To find out
how acupuncture and TCM can help you with any vision issues you might have,
locate a licensed acupuncturist in your area and set up a consultation or
appointment.
Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM
New York Sports Acupuncture
888.375.5554
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