Friday, January 22, 2010
Acupuncture Treats Shingles
Acupuncture Treats Shingles
Every 2 out of 10 people will be afflicted with shingles. Shingles (a.k.a herpes zoster) is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. After a person gets chicken pox the virus will lay dormant in the body. For reasons that are unclear, the virus can “wake up”, and will express itself in the form of shingles, a viral infection affecting the nerve roots. It is characterized by itching, tingling, or nerve like pain in certain areas, followed by a rash a few days later. It is important to stay away from people who have not had chicken pox or the chicken pox vaccine, pregnant women, and newborns as it will illicit the virus.
A combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs are an effective way to treat shingles. People who are at risk include those that have had chicken pox, are over 50 (though I have seen it in much younger people as well), and those with a weakened immune system. Acupuncture is very effective in treating pain relief and all kinds of neuropathies. There are also great techniques for clearing out the heat component of the virus through the use of both herbs and acupuncture. Chinese medicine is successful by treating both the symptoms as well as the underlying imbalances. By targeting stress relief, increasing the immune system, and harmonizing the body, acupuncture can prevent shingles from occurring.
