Exploring Acupuncture There does appear to be some evidence that acupuncture could help to alleviate the symptoms of both Raynaud’s and Scleroderma. Not all of this is anecdotal; with acupuncture described as a reasonable treatment option for Raynaud’s by one study. Other published research also seems to suggest that it has been shown to have therapeutic benefits for some participants living with Scleroderma as well as Raynaud’s. Acupuncture is an alternative treatment that comes from ancient, Chinese medicine. It is all about stimulating and balancing the flow of energy around the body to promote healing and wellbeing. During treatment, an acupuncturist will insert fine needles into the skin upon specific points of the body. Traditional Chinese acupuncture is a complementary therapy, meaning that it is not intended to replace prescribed medications, but can be used alongside these to complement their effects. There There are many alternative therapies available that may be helpful for are different people, and as ever, it is important to consult your doctor different types before trying anything new. of acupuncture. Western acupuncture Understanding acupuncture is often used following Traditional Chinese acupuncture is based upon the premise that Qi a medical diagnosis, (pronounced chee), an energy or life force, flows around the body, with the aim of along pathways called meridians. Meridians are linked directly to stimulating sensory the internal organs and systems of the body, and also connect the nerves to produce a acupuncture points where needles are placed during treatment. therapeutic effect, Traditional acupuncture is believed to improve wellbeing by such as pain stimulating and restoring this flow of Qi within the body. When the relief. body is healthy, Qi flows smoothly; however when this is interrupted or the Qi cannot flow properly, ill-health may result.
Acupuncture for Scleroderma “For pain relief, the needles can be placed directly to target and treat the actual site of pain” Lorna Withers, accupunturist In traditional Chinese medicine, it is Wei Qi that lies at the heart of the immune system. This is our protective, or immune Qi, that is said to circulate below the skin surface. When we are in good health, this helps to fend off disease. If Wei Qi is low, this process is affected, making us more susceptible to illness. Prevention is a key aspect of Chinese medicine, and it is believed that maintaining this balance promotes wellbeing. Acupuncture is widely used to treat rheumatic diseases with some reported success, although there is currently little published data in relation to Scleroderma. Although no large-scale trials have been carried out, some smaller studies have documented the possible therapeutic benefits of acupuncture for people with systemic sclerosis, including in relation to digital ulcers, respiratory function, fatigue and skin thickening. For the treatment of autoimmune conditions where the immune system is overactive, needles can be placed with the aim of triggering or enhancing the body’s natural ability to self-heal. Although this is a holistic therapy believed to restore balance within the body, acupuncture can also take a targeted approach, based upon the premise that the process of self-healing can be guided with precision directly to where it is needed, according to the points where the needles are placed. For example, A study from 2014 treated Scleroderma patients with gastro-intestinal involvement by using a TENS machine on specific acupuncture points, with favourable results.
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