Research Progress on Acupuncture Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine Research DOI: 10.32629/jcmr.v7i2.5288

Shuai Zhang¹, Peilin Lyu²

1. Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, Shaanxi, China
2. Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712000, Shaanxi, China

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as one of the most prevalent and severe microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus, and it is a primary contributor to vision impairment and blindness among the working - age population globally. Although contemporary therapies such as intravitreal anti - VEGF injections and laser photocoagulation have proven effective, they are frequently constrained by high costs, repeated injections, and potential adverse effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), encompassing both herbal prescriptions and acupuncture, has been increasingly employed as complementary and alternative interventions for DR. In recent years, the combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine has exhibited promising synergistic effects in enhancing visual acuity, alleviating macular edema, and retarding disease progression. This paper conducts a review of the recent research advancements regarding the combined therapy of acupuncture and TCM for DR, encompassing the TCM etiology of DR, clinical evidence, potential mechanisms, and existing challenges, with the aim of offering a reference for future clinical and experimental investigations.

Keywords

diabetic retinopathy; acupuncture; traditional Chinese medicine; combined therapy; research progress

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