Acupuncture for Degenerative Eye Conditions

A research-informed overview for healthcare professionals

Degenerative eye conditions place significant metabolic and structural stress on retinal tissue. Many patients experience progressive functional loss despite receiving appropriate ophthalmic care. In this context, a proportion of patients seek complementary support that may help stabilise visual function or improve visual comfort.

Acupuncture has an emerging evidence base related to microcirculation, autonomic regulation and neurovascular support. While it is not a replacement for ophthalmology, it may offer supportive benefits for selected patients.

This article outlines the rationale, mechanisms and clinical structure used at On the Pulse Clinic.

Clinical scope

This approach may be considered alongside standard medical care for:

• dry and wet macular degeneration
• diabetic retinopathy at a stable stage
• glaucoma
• retinitis pigmentosa
• visual loss following surgery or trauma
• slow unexplained decline where standard care has reached its limit

No needles are placed in or near the eyeball. Points are located on the hands, feet, body and eyebrow region.

Training background

I originally trained in general practice nursing before specialising in acupuncture. My postgraduate training in eye acupuncture includes teaching from Julian Scott, Andy Rosenfarb, John Boel Senior and John Boel Junior. I also have lived experience of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, giving me perspective on functional impact and patient concerns.

Treatment methods used in this field vary across teachers. I do not use methods involving periocular needling. My clinical approach integrates the Boel method and autonomic regulation strategies consistent with evidence on microcirculatory support.

Evidence base and mechanisms

Although research on acupuncture specifically for retinal disease is still developing, several areas of evidence are relevant to clinical decision making.

1. Microcirculation and ocular blood flow

Cheng (2011) demonstrated measurable improvements in ocular blood flow parameters following acupuncture at points traditionally used for visual pathways. These changes were observed through objective haemodynamic testing.

Improved microcirculation may influence tissue resilience in conditions where retinal perfusion or metabolic load is impaired.

Reference:
Cheng KJ. Mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia. Acupuncture in Medicine. 2011;29(4):318.
(Contains a detailed discussion of microcirculatory modulation and autonomic effects relevant to ocular physiology.)

2. Neurovascular regulation and inflammatory signalling

The Vickers et al. (2018) individual patient data meta analysis for chronic pain demonstrated that acupuncture produces physiological, dose responsive effects that are distinguishable from sham. Although this study did not examine retinal disease, it confirms that acupuncture has measurable neuromodulatory and vascular effects rather than placebo only.

These mechanisms overlap with pathways involved in retinal stress, visual fatigue and autonomic dysregulation.

Reference:
Vickers AJ et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain: Update of an individual patient data meta analysis. The Journal of Pain. 2018;19(5):455–474.

3. Autonomic nervous system effects

There is consistent evidence that acupuncture reduces sympathetic dominance and supports parasympathetic regulation. Autonomic load is relevant to ocular disease where chronic stress, microvascular strain and inflammatory signalling contribute to progression.

A calm physiology supports more efficient microvascular and neurovascular function.

4. Microbiome and surface stability

Emerging literature suggests acupuncture may influence local immune function and barrier tissue behaviour. While this is an emerging field, autonomic and vascular regulation appear to play a role in maintaining ocular surface stability.

Clinical outcomes

International Boel clinics report an average improvement rate of approximately 82 percent. Improvement is defined as measurable or functionally relevant change in:

• visual acuity
• reading acuity
• colour contrast
• subjective clarity
• intraocular pressure (in some glaucoma cases)

My own clinical experience mirrors this pattern. A proportion of patients stabilise during periods of prior decline. Others experience measurable improvement. A minority do not respond.

Results depend on disease stage, age, systemic health, metabolic factors and the chronicity of retinal stress.

Treatment structure

A clear clinical structure supports consistency and outcome tracking.

• Two week intensive phase (twenty treatments)
• Transition to monthly maintenance
• One week intensive if future decline occurs
• Full continuation of ophthalmology and optometry care

There is no interference with injections, laser treatment, or surgical follow up.

Patients are asked to bring recent scans, optometrist reports and acuity tests where possible.

Collaboration with healthcare providers

I am happy to communicate with GPs, optometrists and ophthalmologists regarding any mutual patients. Treatment decisions are made with full respect for ongoing medical management. I do not alter or advise on medications.

Suitability

This treatment may be appropriate for patients who have:

• a confirmed diagnosis
• stable or slowly progressing disease
• a decline in visual comfort or function
• post surgical complications
• a desire for a supportive adjunct to their current care

It is not suitable for acute ophthalmic emergencies.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is not a cure for retinal degeneration, but it may provide a meaningful supportive role for selected patients. The combination of microcirculatory changes, autonomic regulation and neurovascular support aligns with underlying physiological challenges in degenerative eye conditions. With appropriate patient selection and integration alongside ophthalmology, this approach may help preserve visual function and quality of life.

For referrals or clinical discussion:

Sinead Dee
On the Pulse Clinic
South County Dublins
Phone 086 811 9534
Email sineadd@onthepulse.clinic

Helping you move beyond symptom management to better health.