Acupressure for Glaucoma

Question
QUESTION: Coninyah,



I've been diagnosed with early glaucoma;  Along with the medication, I am planning to use Acupressure to lower IOP.

In my studying the issue, I've noticed that methods of treatment are different.



1. Some recommend constant pressing on a point (press and hold), others recommend pressing and releasing, pressing and releasing, etc.



2. In terms of time for a single treatment, some recommend minutes, others recommend, for example, 10 sec treatment, then 10 sec brake, than 10 sec treatment, etc., several times.



3. In terms of number of treatments per day, some - don't limit it, stating the more the better, others - say 3-4 treatment a day is safe.



I would appreciate your advice on what points are best for decreasing IOP and what method of treatment is best.



Thank you



ANSWER: Hello BP,



Thank you for your question and thank you for choosing to take control of your health. To answer your question, there really is no right answer. All the recommendations that you have come across in your studies are valid. Acupuncturists are trained to tailor the treatments to the individual as it is imperative to consider the totality of an individual's constitution. Having said that, I would ask that you consider trying each of the techniques you have come across using the points recommended. Try a few sessions prior to switching techniques to see how you respond. If no response, switch techniques or even the length of time the technique is applied.



Another recommendation, I would suggest is to monitor your blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase IOP as well. Lastly, I would encourage you to visit a licensed acupuncturist as there are several cranial lines that can be stimulated to support the reduction of IOP. For example there is line called the vision line which is expressly indicated for disorders related to the eyes. The region is literally a line that is located in the occipital region of the head and has been shown to provide very effective results.



I do hope this information has been of use. Should you have additional questions, please free to let me know. I do wish you well.



Regards,

Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M.

Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------



QUESTION: Coninyah,



Thank you very much for a comprehensive answer.

I have been desperately looking, in many sources, more detailes on what you called the "vision line", and couldn't find any.

Could you please be so kind as to give me the names/numbers of several acu-points on the occipital region of the head.

Again, this is specifically for lowering IOP.



Appreciate your time.



Thanks again.  


Answer
Hello BP,



The vision line is located on the occipital region of the scalp. The beginning of the line starts about .5 inches bilateral to the occipital protuberance. It extends 2-3 inches anteriorly (upwardly) from that region. You may notice a tenderness in the region when palpated. See the following link for additional guidance in locating this line (http://www.itmonline.org/image/scalp5.jpg). I hope this helps. Please let me know if I may be of further assistance.



Regards,

Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M.

Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices