Dry mouth can be a difficult condition to endure.
I became aware of this issue several years ago, after a colleague trained with Richard Niemtzow, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H..
Dr. Niemtzow, after years of work in radiation oncology, developed an acupuncture protocol for dry mouth due to radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies.
My colleague excitedly told me about Dr. Niemtzow’s demonstration in the class. The patient had experienced dry mouth for several years after radiotherapy treatment for oral cancer. During the demonstration, the patient produced saliva for the first time in years. The patient was so moved that he broke down crying before leaving the class. Dr. Niemtzow generously publishes his acupuncture protocol for this procedure on his website, in an effort to help as many people as possible.
I had the opportunity to study with Dr. Niemtzow last year. I am impressed by Dr. Niemtzow’s generousity of spirit. He shares his hard-earned clinical research and experience to benefit people suffering from this condition.
What is the dry mouth acupuncture protocol?
Acupuncture treatment points are on the ears and hands. Treatment is given in a comfortable reclining chair.
The protocol consists of 2-3 sessions. The 1st two sessions must be scheduled on consecutive days, approximately 24 hours apart. If a 3rd session is needed, it should be scheduled within 3-5 days. The effect may last for months.
What about dry mouth due to Sjogren’s syndrome?
The protocol was developed for dry mouth as a side-effect from radiation therapy. The effects for dry mouth due to Sjogren’s are less studied.
- Abstract for acupuncture for pilocarpine-resistant xerostomia following radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies.
- http://www.cancernetwork.com/oncology-journal/management-xerostomia-related-radiotherapy-head-and-neck-cancer
How do I sign up?
Please contact Loomis Acupuncture by telephone or email. You may book your initial office visit online.