Erectile Dysfunction and Acupuncture
Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is the inability to attain or maintain an erection of the penis adequate for the sexual satisfaction of both partners. It can be devastating to the self-esteem of a man and of his partner. As many as 20 million American men are afflicted on a continuing basis, and transient episodes are common for most adult men. Treatment usually consists of the use of drugs such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. Those who are interested in an alternative to taking drugs will find acupuncture and Chinese medicine helpful. Men who have been treated with acupuncture have reported more sensation and the ability to maintain erections for longer periods of time.

Acupuncture involves the concept of energy and blood flow in the body. The energy and blood flows in channels called meridians. These channels course the entire body and supply energy and blood to all areas, including the penis. If a meridian is blocked, then there will be stagnation and dysfunction, impotence being one such condition. Getting a series of acupuncture treatments can help unblock the meridians and increase blood flow to the problematic areas. Many people are concerned about the placement of needles, but they are not placed in the penis. They are placed in the extremities to help activate blood flow.

Impotence usually has a physical cause such as disease, injury, or drug side effects. Any disorder that impairs blood flow in the penis has the potential to cause impotence. Damage to arteries, smooth muscles, and fibrous tissues, often as a result of disease, is the most common cause. Diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, and vascular disease account for about 70 percent of cases of impotence. Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help in the prevention of this condition. For more information on how acupuncture and herbs can help with blood pressure, please refer to our article on hypertension.

There have been several studies in China and other countries showing that impotence can be effectively treated with acupuncture, with up to two-thirds of clinical trial participants receiving relief. Herbs are often given to augment the acupuncture treatment.

Call 713-660-6620 for an appointment today to determine a treatment plan for you.

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