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CAN ACUPUNCTURE HELP MY CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE?

Medical cross section of the kidneys

By Dr John Barnett

Chronic Kidney Disease affects 15% of all Americans making it the 9th leading cause of death. Almost 50% of people with CKD, and not on dialysis, don’t know that they have CKD. Unfortunately, almost all cases of kidney disease are progressive, meaning that they get worse over time even with the very best allopathic medical care.

While there are several causes, the two most common conditions that contribute to kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition to these, other conditions that cause kidney disease include recurrent kidney infections, polycystic kidney disease, vesicoureteral reflux (urine backs up into the kidneys), inflammation
of the kidney’s filtering units (glomerulonephritis), kidney stones, enlarged prostate, or other conditions that may obstruct the urinary tract over a prolonged period.

Proper kidney function is vital to overall health. You probably know that the kidneys are responsible for removing excess fluid and waste products from the body, but they have other important functions as well. The kidneys produce hormones that stimulate the production of red blood cells and help regulate blood pressure. These organs also produce vitamin D for strong bones, control the metabolism of calcium, and eliminate drugs from your body. As you can see, the kidneys perform many vital functions that impact the body’s health and life longevity.

The symptoms of kidney disease depend on what stage the disease is in. For those in the early stage are often no symptoms at all. As the disease worsens, you may experience symptoms that include itchy skin, insomnia, increased need to urinate, swelling of feet, ankles, and hands, poor appetite, nausea, fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Why You Should Consider Orlando Acupuncture For Kidney Disease

In order for the kidneys to function properly, there must be adequate blood flow. Acupuncture increases blood flow to the kidneys and all other organs, cells, and tissues in the body, providing essential nutrients. Understandably, many patients experience stress, depression, and other emotional symptoms when diagnosed with kidney disease. Acupuncture relieves stress, releases the body’s natural “feel good” hormones (endorphins), and improves sleep. This traditional Chinese treatment also reduces fatigue, relieves pain, controls blood pressure, and improves kidney function.

Over the past 20 years we have developed specific protocols to improve kidney function for many of our patients using herbal therapy, lifestyle modification, and acupuncture. All of our patients receive customized therapy, and we work together with their nephrologist to monitor their condition.

This is a disease that invariably gets worse over time. Don’t wait, because as the disease progresses the treatment required becomes more intensive, the chances of success decline, and severe cases require ongoing care. If you want to learn more about what Orlando acupuncture can do for your health fill out the consultation form or call us at 407-673-6700.