Acupuncture and Depression
Depression is almost taboo in our culture. It seems ok to say 'I have a flu' not
to admit depression.
I have been introduced to the benefits of the Chinese Medicine approach to
depression by my teachers of 'five element acupuncture'. One of
them practices within the NHS at North Manchester General Hospital.
Research suggests that acupuncture can decrease or eliminate the symptoms of
depression. It seems as powerful as classic antidepressants without the side
effects.
When acupuncture is used to treat depression, the main benefit is the absence of
side effects which comes along with chemical drugs.
Acupuncture is also safe to use with other medication as there is no need to
worry about compatibility with the medication used.
Case Studies
Persistant Cough
Fibromyalgia Female 48
Post Natal Depression Female 32
Cystitis Female 49
Thrush and fungal infection
Depression & Pregnancy Female 29
Pregnancy - morning sickness - Female 37
Depression - Female 43
Panic Attack - Female 39
Baby with fever
Testimonials on google
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Depression - Female 32
Case History
Mrs R. mother of 2 works in the NHS. She has had a history of post natal
depression after her first child. This depression has been successfully treated
using western medicine. However, a reflection on her own behaviour and feelings
at work prompted her to go and see her GP who gave a diagnostic of clinical depression.
Prescription given by the GP was
- Citalopram : antidepressant
Mrs R came for acupuncture 2 months after the begining of her treatment. She
reported tiredness, anhedonia and low libido.
I analysed her case using the framework of five elements acupuncture. She
presented a mix of fire and earth constitutional factor.
As a TCM acupuncturist, I could not overlook the liver Qi stagnation.
PrescriptionI used points to address the earth unbalance SP 6 and ST 36. These points are
known to tonify Qi and blood (make the patient feel full of energy). Li 4 and
Liv 3 were used to resolve the Liver Qi Stagnation, H7 and P6 were used to
address the fire unbalance.
Treatment Frequency
One treatment a week for 4 weeks.
Outcome
After the first treatment, the patient reported better libido, higher spirits
more energy and more pleasure in doing things. After four treatments, the
patient felt that she could continue with her medication alone.
I advised the patient to seek her GP advice before reducing or stopping her
medication.
Bibliography
Hicks A et al. (2004) Five element constitutional acupuncture, London: Elsevier
Churchill Livingstone
Schnyer R, Allen J (2001) Acupuncture in the treatment of depression, A
manual for practice and research, London: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone
Wang H. et al (2008) Is acupuncture beneficial in depression: A meta-analysis
of 8 randomized controlled trials? Journal of affective disorders June 2008
Where can I have my acupuncture treatment
I practice acupuncture in Altrincham. My practice is located 44 Ashfield Road, Hale, Altrincham Cheshire WA15 9QJ
Book an acupuncture treatment
Please click here to book an apointment or call Tim
07824 641 700
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