Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune disease is a state where the immune system is at once hypofunctional and hyperfunctional.  Causes are unknown but may involve such things as genetic susceptibility, leaky gut which allows irritating proteins into the blood stream, toxins, or a variety of the above.

Western treatment of autoimmune disease is generally with drugs which suppress the immune system. While this will treat the problem of the body attacking itself, it also creates the problem of the body not attacking foreign pathogens. Your immune system is kept in a perpetually weakened state which limits your ability to stay healthy.

Treatment of these problems with acupuncture tends to focus on regulating the immune system function and usually also includes work on the hormonal balance. Because many autoimmune disorders are difficult to treat and require a great deal of care to adequately manage them long term there are many life style changes that are needed. Changes in diet and activity are essential and I generally like to teach my clients specific exercices as well as self massage and moxa therapy which can be done either by yourself, or with help from family. These are designed to supplement the office visits and help you stay healthy so that you can avoid having to come to the clinic and save money.

Treatments are available for a variety of autoimmune conditions including:

1. Psoriasis

2. Lupus

3. Endometriosis

4. Chrohn’s Disease

5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

6. Diabetes (Type 1)

7. Anemia

8. Rheumatoid Arthritis

9. Hashimoto’s Disease (Thyroid)