Autoimmune Disorders

If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, or Crohn’s disease, your body can experience uncomfortable symptoms, affecting your quality of life. At NYC Acupuncture + Wellness in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, New York, traditional medicine expert Ting Wu, DACM, L.Ac, combines the time-honored techniques of China, Japan, and Korea with Western medicine, providing patients with effective personalized solutions. Schedule an appointment today by calling or booking online.

What are autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells, tissues, and organs. 

Usually, your immune system functions to protect your body from harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. However, in autoimmune disorders, the immune system can't distinguish between healthy cells and foreign invaders, leading it to attack healthy tissues. 

Depending on the specific autoimmune condition, this can result in inflammation, tissue damage, and various symptoms.

Can autoimmune disorders be cured?

Autoimmune disorders can’t typically be cured completely. However, treatment options aim to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and suppress the abnormal immune response. 

In some cases, remission can be achieved where symptoms disappear or are significantly reduced for extended periods, but the underlying autoimmune process may persist.

What are the most common autoimmune disorders?

Common autoimmune disorders include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Type 1 diabetes
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)

These disorders can affect various organs and systems in the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications.

How are autoimmune disorders treated?

At NYC Acupuncture + Wellness, Dr. Wu combines traditional medical techniques from China, Japan, and Korea with Western medicine, offering a holistic approach to treating autoimmune disorders. 

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) often utilizes acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary therapy, and tai chi/qigong exercises to rebalance your body's energy and strengthen your immune system. 

Japanese traditional medicine incorporates herbal medicine and lifestyle adjustments to address underlying imbalances contributing to autoimmune conditions.

Korean traditional medicine similarly involves herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and therapeutic exercises like Korean physical therapy (KPT).

When integrating these traditional practices with Western medicine, Dr. Wu can offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Western medicine provides options like anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, and biological therapies to manage symptoms and prevent disease progression.

By combining these approaches, you may experience improved symptom management, better quality of life, and potentially reduced reliance on conventional medications that can have adverse side effects.

If you have an autoimmune disorder, NYC Acupuncture + Wellness offers excellent care. Call or book an appointment online today.