Content on this website is intended for general information only. For answers to your specific questions or to schedule treatment, we invite you to contact us at 301-588-5858.

Acupuncture and Natural Medicine for Cardiovascular Health

We offer a type of holistic care which does not rely on pharmaceuticals and may be used alongside pharmaceutical treatments for certain heart conditions. Many heart conditions are worsened by stress. Our practice provides acupuncture and personalized coaching in meditation so that patients can experience a significant reduction in emotional stress. Research studies have shown that acupuncture can be beneficial for certain cardiovascular conditions including hypertension, atrial fibrillation1, and angina2.

In treating patients with these conditions, our goal is not to replace the specialized care which is required from a cardiologist. Patients should take medications as directed and continue with all follow-up appointments recommended by a cardiologist.

Exercise is often a key aspect of health promotion and reduction of cardiovascular risk. We can help patients to achieve improvements in exercise tolerance with recommendations for exercise that are appropriate to an individual's health status. In the case of ischemic heart disease, we use the concept of metabolic equivalent tasks (MET), originally developed by W.L. Haskell in his book, Rehabilitation of the Coronary Patient.

Because cardiovascular conditions increase in prevalence with increasing age, many patients with these conditions may also suffer from other conditions as well. Our treatments can help the body's systems to function more efficiently so that the body's remaining physiologic reserve energy can help the patient enjoy better health for a longer period of time. This aspect of our care is also important in our treatment of patients having liver and kidney concerns, as well as other concerns affecting multiple organs or systems.

For patients who are overweight, Dr. Windsor offers compassionate and respectful care for weight reduction. For patients who are trying to reduce their use of alcohol, or who are trying to quit smoking, we offer support for making lifestyle changes as well as support for addiction recovery.

Conditions Affecting the Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system includes the heart as well as the arteries and veins which move blood through the body. Cardiovascular conditions affect millions of adults in the United States, and the effects of these conditions can range from minor to severe. There are many types and causes of cardiovascular disease, including:

• Angina Pectoralis
• Aortic Regurgitation
• Atherosclerosis
• Arrythmia
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Diabetes
• Disorders of Metabolic Pathways
• Endocarditis
• Hypertension
• Inherited Genetic Conditions
• Ischemic Heart Disease
• Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Myocarditis
• Pericarditis
• Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (Amyloidosis)
• Sarcoidosis
• Stress Cardiomyopathy
• Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy
• Tricuspid Regurgitation
• Tumors including Myxoma, Rhabdomyoma, and Sarcoma
• Valve Disease

Pharmaceutical Treatments are Often Necessary
But May Have Side-Effects

Pharmaceutical treatments are often necessary but can have side-effects in addition to their desired actions. Amiodarone is commonly prescribed for heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation. While this drug is highly effective for treatment of certain heart problems, it can sometimes have side-effects affecting other organs including the lungs and thyroid gland (an Endocrine gland). Endocrine disorders can sometimes cause worsening of pre-existing heart problems. In some cases this can create challenges to treatment using pharmaceutical methods alone.
"I believe a holistic approach should consider your health now as well as many years into the future. Due to the prevalence of heart disease, cardiovascular health is one of the most important factors. Depending on the specific situation, acupuncture treatment for cardiovascular concerns may benefit from a coordinated approach between the acupuncturist and the cardiologist. "

Dr. Eric Windsor, D.Ac.



You May be Interested In:

Contact Our Office
Conditions A-Z (list and web links)
Pain Relief
About Acupuncture
Before Your Visit
Testimonials
Information for Physicians
Directions
About Dr. Eric Windsor
Biochemical Research on Acupuncture
How We Work with Lab Tests and Imaging


About Maryland Holistics

Maryland Holistics LLC is the private practice of Dr. Eric Windsor, D.Ac., L.Ac. Our serene, professional office is located in Ellicott City, MD. Maryland Holistics has provided care to thousands of satisfied customers since opening in 2009. Dr. Windsor is a preferred provider in the CareFirst, Blue Cross Blue Shield, GEHA, and United Healthcare networks.

3525 Ellicott Mills Dr., Ste E
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone: 301-588-5858
Fax: 443-308-5690