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Acupuncture and Natural Medicine for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), sometimes called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a debilitating condition characterized by profound and prolonged or relapsing physical and mental tiredness. It is sometimes accompanied by impaired concentration and memory; headaches; unsatisfying sleep; and pain or tenderness in the joints, muscles and lymph nodes.

CFS afflicts millions of people - women far more often than men. Its cause is unknown. Some researchers believe CFS might be triggered in some way by an abnormal reaction to a virus or infection, injury, surgery or other trauma, or by exposure to certain chemicals or metals.

Because of its complexity and the absence of attributable changes in body chemistry, CFS can be very difficult for physicians to diagnose. Many of the symptoms of CFS resemble those of fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and Lyme disease.

As a result, many people, including many medical professionals, regard CFS primarily as a psychological disorder, not a physical one. The unwarranted stigma that often comes with diagnosis compounds the discomfort, stress and anxiety that millions of CFS sufferers clearly experience.

Very recently, however, researchers at Columbia University found increased levels of immune molecules called cytokines in early onset CFS patients. According to their study, published in February 2015, the increased levels of cytokines, especially one called interferon gamma that has been linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (the cause of infectious mononucleosis), constitute unequivocal evidence that CFS is a biological immune disorder, not a psychological one. 1 This apparent breakthrough may lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment options.

For now, CFS symptoms are most often treated by prescription sleeping pills and antidepressants, which have side effects that can be very serious, especially with prolonged use.

How We Can Help

At Maryland Holistics, we offer acupuncture and natural care options that can reduce or eliminate many of the symptoms of CFS and help restore a sense of control and well being to your life. We begin by listening intently to the circumstances surrounding your illness and carefully examining the various symptoms you are experiencing.

We emphasize an inclusive approach to wellness that combines a variety of natural, non-pharmacological treatment therapies tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.

Acupuncture, for example, can reduce fatigue and many types of chronic pain, often reducing or eliminating the need for powerful pharmaceutical drugs that come with serious side effects, especially with prolonged use.

Acupuncture can also restore more restful sleep and reduce the stress, anxiety and depression so often experienced by CFS sufferers, and promote a deep sense of well being.

In addition to acupuncture, we offer expert advice on proper diet and nutrition, the right amount of exercise, work/life adjustments, as well as meditation and other stress reducing therapies. We believe these are critical factors in managing CFS as part of an overall medical treatment plan that can help you reach your personal goals.

1. Distinct plasma immune signatures in ME/CFS are present early in the course of illness; Science Advances, vol 1, published online. doi:10.1126/sciadv.1400121




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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