NYC Acupuncturist for Chronic Fatigue Webpage

Discussion of NYC Acupuncturist for Chronic Fatigue About the Use of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs as Treatments for Chronic Fatigue

West Village Acupuncture
4 Milligan Place
Suite 1F
New York, N.Y. 10011
6th Ave btwn 10th & 11th
917.968.2854

In other places on this website, we discuss chronic fatigue from a western ,and an oriental medicine perspective. We discuss the primary patterns and pattern combinations which explain the varied symptoms that occur in chronic fatigue patients.

Here we discuss how acupuncture and chinese herbs are used to treat the condition.

Assuming a primary disease pattern of Spleen qi deficiency, it will be essential to support the patients ability to transform and transport. These are the two primary functions of the spleen. These terms are best thought of as digestion and absorption of nutrients into the body.

The spleen is thought to be part of the central digestive system and it is viewed as being responsible for absorbing nutrients into the system (transformation) and moving nutrients and other substances (primarily fluids) throughout the body. When the spleen is functioning properly the body is able to recieve nutrients and distribute them throughout the system.

Effective Treatments for Chronic Fatigue

Acupuncture

In the spleen-liver disharmony pattern described elsewhere (click here to view), one treatment approach would likely be to soothe the liver, clear heat and tonify the spleen.

Depending on the particular circumstances, it may be necessary to address a damp accumulation condition, while in others treating the spleen directly may resolve such a condition. Points such as Spleen 6, Spleen 9, Ren 12, UB 20 Stomach 36 and 40 should be considered to boost the spleen and resolve damp.

To address symptoms of depression or joint pain resulting from liver involvement, points such as Liver 3 and Large Intestine 4 might be used to soothe the liver, Liv 5 and PC 6 may also be considered as additional calming points.

In all cases, the point selection will depend on the specific presentation of the specific patient. It may be necessary to build blood and thus Sea of Blood points or back shu points might be considered.

The beauty of this approach is that one treatment does not fit all. Acupuncture is uniquely suited for treatment of chronic fatigue because it recognizes the need to treat each patient differently depending on his or her particular presentation. It is tailor made for a syndrome such as chronic fatigue, which has so many variable presentations.

Herbal Formulations

Herbals formula's which are spleen tonics and contain moving herbs, together with herbs to soothe the liver and boost qi and blood should be a part of a patient's herbal regimen. Formula's such as Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang and Qui Pi Tang should be considered to help restore spleen function.

Other formulas such as Xiao Yao Wan or a modification known as Dan Zhi Xiao Yao Wan to soothe the liver and clear heat. Depending on the specific pattern combination, other herbal formulations may be warranted.

Patients should consult a certified herbalist before taking any herbs. As is the case with all medicinals, they are very helpful if used properly, but can be harmful if used inappropriately. If the patient has a heat condition and takes warming herbs that can worsen the condition. Always consult with a trained professional before using herbal or other supplements.

Prognosis

It is likely that treatment will take a fair amount of time and patients should be advised that the condition was a long time in the making and resolution will also take time. A patient can expect some symptom relief after a few visits, but return to full health will take dilegence on the part of all involved.

For questions about chronic fatigue and acupuncture or to make an appointment, contact us 917-968-2854.

West Village Acupuncture
4 Milligan Place
Suite 1F
New York, N.Y. 10011
6th Ave btwn 10th & 11th
917.968.2854