Retinitis Pigmentosa Treatments NYC by Marc Bystock L.Ac.

A genetic degenerative disorder of the eyes, Retinitis Pigmentosa, may cause visual impairment that could result in loss of sight. Retinitis Pigmentosa varies in the way that it affects individuals. In some patients, the disease is expressed in early childhood, while others are affected later in their lives. In general, most people who discover symptoms later in life often have more severe outcomes. Although this is not absolute for everyone.

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) may affect over five million people worldwide.

As the name implies, Retinitis Pigmentosa is responsible for a group of disorders affecting the retina's photoreceptors. The retina is the structure that lies at the back of the eye, complete with rods and cones. The retina senses light then relays the electrical energy via the optical nerve to the brain for interpretation. Rods are located at the outer ring of the retina and are the receptors responsible for peripheral vision. Cones can be found in the retina center and are the receptors responsible for central vision and color vision. These are referred to respectively as rod and cone dystrophies.

Initially, most RP patients will experience night blindness, then some peripheral vision loss causing tunnel vision. Eventually, at the late stage, central vision loss may occur. 

                               

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Retinitis Pigmentosa. Western medicine primarily focuses on the management of the disease. Protocols involve supplementation using vitamin A, vitamin E, and other nutrients to slow down the decline once the disorder has manifested.

If the liver, stomach, spleen, and kidneys possess weakness, vital nourishing blood will not reach the eyes. It is only by optimizing the condition of the liver and other key organs that we can provide oxygen and other nutrients to flow to the eyes. Therefore, the eyes reflect the condition of the liver and other associated organs.

I select the best methods from the Microacupuncture, Acunova, and Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture systems that will benefit you the most. Treatments may include but are not limited to electro-acupuncture, cold laser therapy, pulsed electromagnetic therapy, food-based programs, herbs, whole food nutrition, exercises, and energy-biofeedback.

Acupuncture needles may be inserted on the hands, the feet, and around the eyebrows (Never in the eyes). Acupuncture will increase blood perfusion to the eyes, increasing the flow of critical nutrients to the tissues and cells while decreasing oxidative stress (think rusting) and inflammation.