Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain cells and causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases. The disease was first described by German psychiatrist and neurologist Alois Alzheimer in 1906 and was named after him. Alzheimer’s is a fatal disease with no known cure. 

The cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s. Other risk factors include family history of the disease, previous head injuries, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking.

Alzheimer’s disease affects people of all races and ethnicities. In the United States, Alzheimer’s is the fifth leading cause of death for adults aged 65 and older. Globally, Alzheimer’s affects about 47 million people and is the seventh leading cause of death. Alzheimer’s is predicted to affect 75 million people by 2030.

There are three stages of Alzheimer’s disease: preclinical, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. MCI is a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia. Dementia is a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease progresses through these stages at different rates for different people.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, that’s been around for thousands of years. Acupuncture is used to help promote healing, balance, and well-being. Acupuncture treatments involve the placement of tiny, hair-thin needles into specific points on the skin to help activate energy in the body, called qi (pronounced chee). According to TCM, qi is the lifeforce energy of the body, and helps to regulate and move things in the body to keep us well.

Acupuncture for Alzheimer’s Disease

Recent studies have shown that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. One study found that acupuncture improved cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s, while another found that it increased levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Acupuncture may also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.

Additionally, research has found that acupuncture can improve quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s by increasing verbal and motor skills, as well as improving mood and cognitive function.

One study completed at the University of Hong Kong found acupuncture significantly improved memory, attention, and motor and verbal skills.

If you or someone you know has Alzheimer’s disease, acupuncture may be worth considering as a treatment option. 

Acupuncture for Health and Wellness

At VIM Acupuncture, we treat the following conditions:

• Neurological Issues
• Stroke Rehab
• Stress / Anxiety Disorders
• Allergies
• Headaches & Migraines
• Concussions
• Vertigo
• Autoimmune Issues
• Acute & Chronic Pain
• ADD/ADHD
• Hormone Issues
• Tinnitus
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Depression & Mood Issues
• Insomnia & Sleep Issues
• Adrenal Disorders
• Autism
• Immune Health
• Digestion
• Mood & Focus Issues

Experience the benefits of acupuncture for yourself -> Book a Vero Beach Acupuncture Appointment now! We proudly serve Vero Beach, Sebastian, Florida Ridge, Indian River Shores, Fort Pierce, and the surrounding areas!