What are autoimmune diseases? Under normal conditions, an immune response cannot be triggered against cells in your body. In some cases, however, immune cells “go rogue” and attack the very cells they are supposed to protect. This can lead to a wide variety of autoimmune diseases spanning a broad category of over 100 disorders in which a person’s immune system attacks their own tissues.  Some examples include:  Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, MS, Lupus, Hashimoto’s, and fibromyalgia. 

The exact mechanisms and causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood. Bacteria, viruses, toxins, and certain drugs can trigger an autoimmune process in a person who is already predisposed to it through their genetics. It is assumed that the inflammation initiated by these toxic or infectious pathogens in the body causes a “sensitization” (autoimmune reaction) in the tissues involved.

Acupuncture is a complementary treatment for autoimmune diseases. It calms the body’s immune system and reverses its sensitivity to the “trigger.” Acupuncture can reverse or stabilize the progression of the autoimmune disease in most patients (in conjunction with Western medicines in some cases). Some Western pharmaceuticals designed to treat autoimmune conditions lower the immune system as a whole, which can lead individuals to be more susceptible to the common cold or flu or infections in general.  Acupuncture is used to help the body restore balance by treating the root of the disorder while specifically treating the symptoms that are unique to each individual.

Clinical research has shown that acupuncture for autoimmune diseases induces physical responses in nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and brain. These reactions can cause the body to release proteins, hormones, and chemicals in the brain that control several body functions and in turn affect blood pressure, body temperature, and the immune system through these actions.

In addition to acupuncture the treatment program for treating the autoimmune disease may include a combination of therapies, including exercise, moderate physical activity, herbal medicine, and nutritional support.

• Boost your immune system

• Relieve painful symptoms

• Reduce your stress levels

• Strengthen your overall health

Depending on your condition and the state of your immune function, I can coordinate a treatment plan that works for you.