We often talk about difficult and challenging cases, so I thought I would mention a case about a patient that responded 100% to acupuncture. It is a new year for learning and growing so I thought something really positive would be good to start things off.
Patient: Female, 26. Western diagnosis, Endometriosis. (5 yrs) Signs/symptoms: spotting, periods lasting 8-10 days, prominent dysmenorrhea, but still regular cycles. Lots of intense abdominal pains, as well as lower back periodically throughout month. Extreme pain with intercourse, and concurrent bleeding post coital, some mood swings and irritability but not extreme. Digestive and sleep issues as well. Laparoscopy 2 yrs ago, (2nd one in 5 yrs to excise endometrial growth and scar tissue). Healthy otherwise, regular exercie and in great physical condition.
I can't remember all the info cause its not in front of me at the moment, and can't recall the exact patterns I thought she had, but some are obvious as above. I treated her 3 times only, with only acupuncture over 2 weeks and then never saw her again as she cancelled the 4th appointment and that was it. So, naturally I was wondering what became of her and her health concerns thinking perhaps I had done something wrong and miscommunicated, etc.
6 months later.... this week she returned and said the reason she did not return sooner is because ALL her symptoms disappeared after the 3rd tx. I was definitely surprised. Her GP didn't believe her, and shrugged off the possibility of acupuncture having this effect. (insert comment here...) Anyway, even the painful intercourse which was one of her huge issues resolved.
She is just now beginning to have some symptoms return mildly and came in to "get cured again." So, just wanted to share this case to inspire and spread some positive qi. I always find it fascinating how some patients can respond so powerfully and so quickly to acupuncture alone. Please share your thoughts...
Kevin
