Avenue Acupuncture FAQs

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes where high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye (the retina). The vessels can become blocked, leak, or grow abnormally, and left untreated the condition can cause blindness. It is currently the leading cause of blindness in Canadians under 50.

Non-proliferative (early stage) is when existing vessels swell and leak but no new vessels have formed yet. Proliferative (advanced stage) is when new, fragile blood vessels grow along the retina and leak blood and fluid, which can cause blurry vision to progress quickly to severe vision loss.

Symptoms can include dark spots anywhere in your visual field, blurry or distorted vision, seeing double, or large floaters that move around. Diabetic retinopathy may not cause vision loss right away, which is why regular eye exams are important for anyone living with diabetes.

Acupuncture treatment aims to regulate blood flow and improve circulation to the retina. Better circulation helps weakened vessels, macular edema, and fat deposits work themselves out, which helps improve eye function and decrease further damage. Treatment involves needles placed in the hands, feet, and around the eyebrow. No needles go into the eye.