Acupuncture for Autoimmune Conditions: Restoring Balance to the Immune System
At Eastway Wellness LLC (Boston Acupuncture, Norwood Acupuncture), we specialize in helping patients with autoimmune disorders find relief from inflammation, fatigue, and chronic pain. Autoimmune diseases—like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Hashimoto’s, and Crohn’s—occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body. While there is no cure, acupuncture offers a safe, natural way to modulate immune responses, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Combining ancient wisdom with modern research, our licensed acupuncturists work alongside your healthcare team to address the root causes of imbalance and support your journey to wellness.
How Acupuncture Helps Autoimmune Disorders
Acupuncture regulates the immune system by:
1. Reducing Inflammation
- Lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6) linked to conditions like psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Balancing Immune Responses
- Calms overactive immunity while strengthening defenses against secondary infections.
3. Relieving Pain & Stiffness
- Targets joint pain, muscle tension, and neuropathic discomfort common in autoimmune flare-ups.
4. Improving Energy & Resilience
- Addresses fatigue by supporting adrenal health and mitochondrial function.
5. Regulating Gut-Brain Axis
- Benefits autoimmune conditions tied to gut health (e.g., Crohn’s, celiac) via the vagus nerve and digestive meridians.
Studies in journals like Autoimmunity Reviews and Frontiers in Immunology suggest acupuncture may help rebalance Th1/Th2 immune activity and reduce autoimmune flare severity.
Common Conditions We Address
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Lupus (SLE)
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Psoriasis and eczema
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
What to Expect in Your Sessions
Our autoimmune-focused treatments are gentle, personalized, and designed to work alongside your medical plan:
- Comprehensive Assessment: We review your health history, lab results, and current symptoms to tailor a protocol.
- Targeted Point Selection: Focus on meridians linked to immune regulation (e.g., Spleen, Liver, Kidney) and inflammation reduction.
- Integrative Techniques: May include electroacupuncture, moxibustion, or cupping to enhance results.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Diet, stress management, and herbal support to complement treatments.