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 for Hypertension
Hypertension is a common condition of the
cardiovascular system. Hypertension is a sign that your cardiovascular system is
working harder than usual to move blood through the arteries. Patients
with untreated hypertension are at greater risk for damage to the heart
or
kidneys, loss of vision, and stroke.
In many cases of hypertension, the condition can be cured or it can be
managed to reduce the effect on the patient's life. Many of our patients
with hypertension have experienced significant benefits from our
treatments. Sometimes this results in a cure.
Acupuncture
research at Harvard Medical School and many other institutions around
the world have determined that acupuncture has profound effects on the
body's physiology. These include a wide range of molecular and cellular
effects on the immune system, nervous system, endocrine system, and
growth-regulatory systems.
As an acupuncturist and holistic health practitioner, Dr. Windsor uses the latest
research to find solutions for patients with hypertension. During acupuncture for hypertension, between 2 and 8 hair-thin needles are
placed to a shallow depth in the legs and abdomen. This treatment helps
to normalize levels of hormones, including renin, so that the body can
more effectively heal itself from hypertension.
Most patients are relaxed throughout the treatment. Because the body's
healing systems are activated, it is not unusual for patients to fall
asleep or experience deep rest during the treatment.
During treatment for hypertension, it is sometimes necessary to address
another underlying reason for the condition. Therefore it is often
helpful when patients can bring information regarding any recent lab
tests. We will create an integrated treatment strategy for your unique
concerns and conditions. We welcome the opportunity to partner with you,
and with your other medical providers, in order to help you achieve a
cure.
"Long-term treatment for hypertension requires regular monitoring. While
medications can be an essential factor in preventing future heart
problems, there are also occasions when acupuncture can be helpful for
hypertension. At least in my experience, the effects of acupuncture on
hypertension appear to be consistent and similar among adults of
different ages.
In addition to helping with stress-related hypertension, acupuncture can
often help to reduce blood pressure in people whose blood pressure
remains highly elevated even though they are taking several medications
for hypertension. In some unusual cases, I have also helped to reduce
hypertension before surgery in people who could not take blood pressure
medications at the time."
Dr. Eric Windsor, D.Ac.