PTSD Care for Veterans
There are more veterans surviving battlefield injuries due to improvements in traumatic injury care and more veterans who have been through more tours of duty during these conflicts. Acupuncture offers veterans help in healing psychological and physical trauma so that they can transition back into a more peaceful and satisfying life.
The NUHS Whole Health Center – Lombard offers complimentary acupuncture care for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our clinic uses a special protocol which is effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD. Any veterans seeking relief from PTSD are encouraged to call for an appointment.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD can occur after any life-threatening, terrifying or traumatic event, and can include symptoms such as:
- Flashbacks-reliving the trauma over and over, including physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating.
- Bad dreams and frightening thoughts.
- Feeling emotionally numb or feeling strong guilt, depression, or worry.
- Losing interest in activities that were enjoyable in the past
- Being easily startled or feeling tense or “on edge.”
- Difficulty sleeping, and/or having angry outbursts.
Our Treatment Program
Certain acupuncture protocols have proved to be very effective in reducing the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in veterans.
Veterans visiting the NUHS clinic receive auricular acupuncture (points in the ear) using the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol. This system places small pellets or needles in the following points:
- Shen Men (Spirit Gate): calms the mind and eases pain
- Sympathetic Point: balances the autonomic nervous system and the “fight or flight” response
- Kidney Point: strengthens the body’s energy, immune system, and controls fear and anxiety
- Liver Point: controls anger and has a detox effect on alcohol and drug abuse
- Lung Point: controls grief and strengthens and detoxifies lungs
Our veterans, grateful for the help they have received, have created a special wall display of momentos from their service and individual tours of duty. The display gives hope and inspiration to new patients with PTSD and is a reminder that those who suffer from PTSD come from all branches of the service and all conflicts and wars in our nation's history.
Make an Appointment
For more information or if you are a veteran who would like to make an appointment for PTSD treatment, call 630-629-9664.