Acupuncture and Eye Health

By Young Yi, LAc, DOM

Your eyes are a reflection ofyour overall health. Illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease can berevealed in the eyes. Conditions such as glaucoma, optic neuritis or vision loss are often associated with systemic health problems. It is this interconnection between your eyes and your health that acupuncture and Orientalmedicine can tap into and utilizeto treat eye and vision problems.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body most often by inserting thin needles through the skin. It is one of the practices used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been proven to be effective in the treatment of conditions such as back and neck pain, osteoarthritis/knee pain, and headaches. However, researchers are only beginning to understand whether acupuncture can be helpful for various other healthconditions.

With a clearly recorded history of about 2,500 years, and some authorities claim acupuncture has been practiced in China for some 4,000 years. The origin of Chinese medicine is a fascinating story and acupuncture represents only one facet of their medical system.

How Eye Disorders Are Treated With Acupuncture

Orientalmedicine pays close attention to the relationship between tissues and organs. Sometimes an imbalance within the body can manifest as an eye problem, just as the health of the eyes is often a reflection of an imbalance or health problem elsewhere in the body.

When you are treatedfor an eye condition with acupuncture, any underlying imbalances that are contributing to your symptoms will be addressed. The eye problems will also be treated directly by promoting circulation of Qi (life force) and blood around the eyes.

Common eye problems treated with acupuncture include

Glaucoma

Cataracts

Chronic Dry Eyes

Macular Degeneration

Optic Neuritis

Optic Atrophy

In addition to acupuncture, there are several things you can do each day to maintaineye health and avoid problems. Drink eight to 10 glasses of water to keep your body and eyes hydrated. Stop smoking. Exercise to improve overall circulation. Make a conscious effort to stop periodically to rest and blink frequently especially when reading, working at a computer or watching television. Avoid rubbing your eyes. Always remember to always protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV light and glare with protective lenses.