Degenerative Eye Diseases
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD): Holistic Care for Vision Health
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 60. It affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision used in reading, recognizing faces, and seeing fine detail.
Two Main Types of ARMD
Dry Macular Degeneration:
The more common form, caused by the buildup of drusen—tiny yellow deposits that form due to poor circulation and waste accumulation in the macula. Over time, this can lead to cell damage and blurred central vision.
Wet Macular Degeneration:
Less common but more severe, involving abnormal blood vessel growth that leaks fluid or blood, damaging retinal tissue and leading to rapid vision loss.
Recognizing the Symptoms:
Blurred or fuzzy central vision
Difficulty recognizing faces
Dark or empty spots in your field of vision
Trouble reading or seeing in dim light
Why Early Detection Matters
Routine eye exams are crucial. The earlier ARMD is detected, the more effective your treatment options can be. Antioxidants and lifestyle changes can help slow progression, especially in the early stages.
How We Help at Integrative Pain Relief
At Integrative Pain Relief, we take a holistic, integrative approach to managing ARMD, combining Micro Acupuncture with Functional Medicine to promote eye health and slow degeneration.
What is Micro Acupuncture?
Micro Acupuncture is a highly specialized treatment that targets specific points around the eyes and body to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response—supporting retinal cell repair and function.
Micro Acupuncture Benefits:
Enhances blood flow to the retina
Supports waste clearance to reduce drusen buildup
Improves central vision and contrast sensitivity
Promotes overall eye and systemic health
Treatment Format: We offer intensive treatment weeks with 2–3 sessions per day for one week, a method that often delivers better outcomes than weekly sessions.
Additional Holistic Support for Eye Health
We support your eye health through a range of integrative therapies, including:
Functional Medicine Testing
Identify root causes contributing to degeneration, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient deficiencies.
Nutrition & Diet
A diet rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3s, and antioxidants supports retinal health.
Targeted Supplements
We may recommend specific nutrients like Vitamin C, E, Zinc, and Beta-Carotene to slow ARMD progression.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Protect your eyes by avoiding smoking, reducing screen time, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and managing chronic health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
A condition affecting the central retina (macula), causing progressive vision loss in older adults.
Blurred vision, difficulty recognizing faces, dark spots in the center of vision, and trouble seeing in low light.
Micro Acupuncture improves circulation in the eyes, reduces drusen buildup, and supports retinal health.
Yes—when performed by a trained specialist like Dr. Beth Schoon, it is a safe and effective approach.
We recommend intensive treatment blocks (2–3 sessions daily for one week) for optimal results.
Yes—diet, supplements, lifestyle changes, and functional testing all play a role in protecting your vision.
Located on Hilton Head Island, Integrative Pain Relief is committed to helping you preserve and protect your vision using natural, science-based therapies. Dr. Beth Schoon, L.Ac., Dipl.Ac., brings years of experience in acupuncture and functional medicine, offering personalized, high-quality care.