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Shingles

Acupuncture for Shingles: Can It Help?

Shingles, also known as Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN), is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. The rash usually appears on one side of the body, but it can also appear on the face or neck. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in your body. It can reactivate years later and cause shingles.

There is no cure for shingles, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. Acupuncture is one treatment that has been shown to be effective in relieving the pain and discomfort of shingles.

 

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are called acupuncture points. When needles are inserted into these points, it is shown that they can help to eliminate pain. 

There is some evidence that acupuncture can be effective in treating shingles. A 2018 study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with shingles. The study also found that acupuncture was well-tolerated and did not have any serious side effects.

Another study, published in 2019, found that acupuncture combined with conventional shingles treatment was more effective than conventional treatment alone in reducing pain and improving function. The evidence suggests that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for shingles. 

 

If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture for shingles, please visit our website or contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and schedule a consultation with our doctor.

Acupuncture for Neuropathy: How Can It Help?

Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and other symptoms. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, injury, and certain medications.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that has been shown to be effective in relieving the symptoms of neuropathy. It works by stimulating specific points on the body with needles. This helps to improve blood flow and nerve function, which can reduce pain and improve overall well-being.

There are a number of studies that have shown the effectiveness of acupuncture for neuropathy. For example, a study published in the journal Pain found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with diabetic neuropathy.

Another study, published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine, found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving sleep quality in people with HIV-related neuropathy.

If you are suffering from neuropathy, acupuncture may be a safe and effective treatment option for you. Talk to your doctor about whether acupuncture is right for you.

How Can Acupuncture Help with Neuropathy?

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body with needles. These points are believed to be linked to the body’s energy system, or meridians. When the needles are inserted, they release chemicals that help to improve blood flow and nerve function. This can help to reduce pain, improve sleep quality, and reduce inflammation.

What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Neuropathy?

The benefits of acupuncture for neuropathy include:

  • Reduced pain
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Improved nerve function
  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved mood
  • Improved nerve function

How Many Acupuncture Sessions Are Needed for Neuropathy?

The number of acupuncture sessions needed for neuropathy will vary depending on the individual. However, most people see improvement after a short time. Each patient is examined for sensory loss at their initial consultation to determine how many treatments are needed for their success. 

Is Acupuncture Safe for Neuropathy?

Acupuncture is generally safe for people with neuropathy. 

How Can I Find a Qualified Acupuncture Provider for Neuropathy?

Acupuncturists in the state of Maryland attend an accredited graduate school program for 3-5 years before becoming eligible to attain licensure for acupuncture. Not all acupuncturists are trained in how to treat neuropathy, however. Neuropathy is a complex condition that requires extensive additional training, which Dr. Parks has mastered over the last 4 years, with over an 85% success rate in treating neuropathy. 

The Best Way to Find the Best Acupuncture Clinic for You

Whether you’re suffering from low back pain, or neuropathy, infertility or headaches, you’ll want to find the best acupuncture clinic that suits your needs the best.

The very best way is to call and speak with the receptionist of your clinic of interest and ask them if they have experience in or specialize in your primary condition you are seeking care for. While most acupuncturists have trained extensively for 3-5 years in graduate level study acupuncture programs, and receive a Master’s degree or a Doctorate (also known as a Acupuncture Physician), it’s still best to work with an acupuncturist or clinic that has experienced success in treating your condition.

 

Some questions you can ask when you phone a prospective acupuncture clinic:

Has the acupuncturist treated my type of condition before?

What is the success rate of treating my condition at this clinic?

How many years of experience does the acupuncturist have?

Do you offer any additional therapies beyond acupuncture to help address my condition?

What can I expect during my first visit? (Is it just a consultation, or will I receive treatment that day?)

 

Most of our patients are referred by word of mouth, from former patients who have also experienced success. Our acupuncturist Dr. Laura Parks does specialize in chronic, complex conditions and has been practicing for over 13 years. She received her acupuncture doctorate from Five Branches University, and acupuncture masters from Maryland University of Integrative Health (formerly Tai Sophia). Dr. Parks has been treating Fertility patients for over 13 years and specializing in neuropathy for over 4 years, with over a 85% success rate.

What’s Our Medical Director Been Up To?

Have you heard? Our Medical Director, Laura Parks, M.Ac., L.Ac. went back to school and will be graduating at the end of April 2023 with her Doctorate in Acupuncture. 13 years after graduating with her Masters degree in Acupuncture, we’ll be calling “Dr. Laura” to the clinic with all her new wisdom on how to help patients. 

Here’s what she had to say about her doctorate experience so far: “It’s been so great studying advanced, complex conditions like Lyme’s disease, advanced fertility and gynecological issues, pediatrics, and autoimmune conditions, weighing in with some of the most brilliant minds in the country. Last semester I got to celebrate getting straight A’s in all my classes while juggling family life and running a very busy clinic, all while completing medical internships, studying modern acupuncture research, and learning from live case studies. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to take my training to the next level and serve thousands of patients in the future with this centuries old medicine.” 

We can’t wait to see what the future holds upon completing her doctorate this April! 

If you’re interested in working with our Medical Director, Laura Parks, this spring, give us a call at 410-847-4766.

Get Relief Now from Shingles & Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

Did you know? Cloud 9 Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine specializes in treating Shingles & Post-Herpetic Neuralgia.

1 in 5 Americans will experience Shingles in their lifetime. A large number of those folks will go on to develop Post-Herpetic Neuralgia, which is prolonged, excruciating pain after the acute phase of Shingles.

Now There is Hope. With over a 85% success rate in reducing pain and discomfort permanently for shingles & post-herpetic neuralgia. we have the solution you’ve been looking for.

Begin by calling us today for a consultation to learn more about how we can help, at 410-847-4766.

 

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