Understanding Stargardt’s Disease and Its Treatment
Stargardt’s Disease is a form of early-onset macular degeneration that primarily affects young people. This inherited condition shares many similarities with Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), but typically appears much earlier in life. Recent studies have shown promising results using MicroAcupuncture as a treatment option, particularly because Stargardt’s usually doesn’t involve the complication of new blood vessel growth in the retina.
As the most common type of juvenile macular degeneration, Stargardt’s Disease significantly impacts young lives. Most patients receive their diagnosis before age twenty, and by fifty, many face legal blindness with vision deteriorating to 20/200 or worse. The condition first appears as blurry or distorted vision, making it difficult to see in low light or recognize familiar faces. As the disease progresses, patients may eventually lose their ability to distinguish colors.
Doctors diagnose Stargardt’s Disease by identifying characteristic yellow spots called drusen, which form when the outer layer of the retina begins to deteriorate. While the condition typically emerges during the first two decades of life, its progression can be unpredictable, varying even among family members who share the same genetic predisposition. The disease affects roughly one in 10,000 Americans and accounts for 7% of all retinal dystrophies.
The genetic nature of Stargardt’s Disease stems from mutations in genes that help process vitamin A in the eye. Both parents must carry these genetic mutations for a child to develop the condition, though the parents themselves may not have any symptoms. Scientists have discovered that approximately 5% of people carry genes that could lead to inherited retinal diseases like Stargardt’s. Once vision begins to decline below 20/40, the deterioration often accelerates rapidly, making early detection and treatment crucial for maintaining vision as long as possible.
We offer a customized approach to treating vision loss associated with Stargardt’s Disease by using several specific mechanisms: acupuncture, electrical stimulation, Chinese herbs, and functional medicine.
MicroAcupuncture 48: A Novel Approach to Vision Treatment
MicroAcupuncture 48 represents an innovative approach to treating various vision conditions through a precisely targeted acupuncture system. Unlike traditional acupuncture methods, this specialized technique focuses exclusively on specific points in the hands and feet, making it both unique and non-invasive for patients with eye conditions. The treatment protocol involves multiple daily sessions, which creates a cumulative therapeutic effect that may enhance its overall impact on vision improvement.
The physiological basis for MicroAcupuncture’s effectiveness lies in its ability to stimulate blood flow to the retinal tissue. Research has shown that increased circulation to the retina can support cellular regeneration and potentially improve visual function. Since retinal cells naturally regenerate approximately every 48 hours, patients may notice changes in their vision within the first few days of treatment. This rapid cellular turnover rate provides a unique opportunity for therapeutic intervention through enhanced blood flow and cellular activation.
A standard treatment course typically begins with comprehensive baseline testing, including visual acuity measurements and visual field scanning. These initial assessments are crucial for documenting the patient’s starting point and monitoring progress throughout the treatment period. A typical course consists of 8-16 treatments, with multiple sessions per day for optimal results. Progress is carefully monitored through regular reassessments after every 9-12 treatments to quantify any improvements in vision.
Recent studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can influence ocular blood flow and potentially benefit various eye conditions. According to research published in 2020, acupuncture treatment showed significant improvements in retinal blood flow and visual function in patients with eye disorders. While MicroAcupuncture 48 is not a cure, it offers a promising complementary approach for managing vision conditions through its ability to potentially slow disease progression, improve visual acuity, and support overall ocular health through natural healing mechanisms.
The treatment protocol is customized based on several key factors, including the extent of vision loss, the rate of progression, and the severity of the condition. Initial treatment phases are typically more intensive, with maintenance sessions scheduled less frequently once optimal results are achieved. This graduated approach allows for both immediate intervention and long-term management of vision conditions.
Treatment begins on Monday Morning and ends Thursday afternoon. Call the office to see when we have availability.
Call 720-513-1233 to schedule a Free phone call with Robert Underwood to see how he can help.
