Can Acupuncture help Meniere’s Disease?

Ménière's disease is a disease of the inner ear that is characterized by potentially severe and incapacitating episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The cause of Ménière's disease is unclear, but likely involves both genetic and environmental factors. A number of theories exist for why it occurs, including constrictions in blood vessels, viral infections, and autoimmune reactions. About 10% of cases run in families and unfortunately there is no cure.

Luckily there is a way to manage symptoms. In a study looking at 34 patients suffering from Meniere's disease, they noticed that various other medical means had given them unsatisfactory results. It was only after acupuncture treatments that their condition greatly improved. (Steinberger A, Pansini M. The treatment of Meniere's disease by acupuncture. Am J Chin Med.1983.)

My own mother had suffered with it over a decade ago and I used my expertise to help her feel better. Since then, I have treated many patients with Ménière's disease with surprising results.