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Acupuncture/hashimoto thyroiitis
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Question
Can accupunture help my thyroid become normal after being treated with synthroid for 6 months.
I am allergic to synthroid and have developed heart palpations and need to treat this with more
natural treatments. Any thoughts?
Hello Julie,
Acupuncture alone will not help this particular autoimmune disorder to your satisfaction. Along with herbs, nutrition and lifestyle changes it has a good chance of making improvements. Without knowing more about your particular symptoms and T4/T3/TSH levels it is hard to say what kind of prognosis you have with using natural medicine without "western" medicine such as synthroid or other replacement alternatives.
I would advise you talk with your doctor about how necessary thyroid replacement medication such as synthroid is for you, all of your treatment options, and how they plan to help you integrate natural alternatives as well. If your doctor is unwilling to help you work with an integrative approach, find one who does. Then I would seek out an acupuncturist who is also an herbalist with experience in treating thyroid disorders and is willing to work with your medical doctor.
On a safety note, heart palpitations can be caused by the thyroiditis itself so make sure your doctor is aware you are experiencing them.
I wish you the best in health,
Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.
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Answers by Expert:
Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.
Expertise
Please ask me about acupuncture and oriental medicine, nutrition, dietary supplements, and herbs. I am always happy to answer questions about how any of these areas relate to your health and well-being, specific conditions, or simply if you would like some information. I specialize in acupuncture for palliative care, acute injuries, chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, bone health, and western supplements.
Experience
I am a licensed acupuncturist in the state of California and hold a Master's degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. This degree includes training for acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, exercise and bodywork. I have work for a decade in the natural products industry both at the retail and manufacturing levels. I have worked using acupuncture in private clinics, community clinic settings and in inpatient care facilities; including hospice and supportive housing residences. I currently practice in San Francisco in a private clinic, making house calls for home bound patients, and working on grant funded community acupuncture projects.
Education/Credentials
Master's in Traditional Oriental Medicine, Certified Massage Therapist and Health Educator, Reiki Practitioner.
Past/Present Clients
Everyone from the stressed out worker, to the detoxing substance user, to the dying, to the new mother. Acupuncture can help them all.
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