Acupuncture becoming a popular treatment with dermatologists

• After treatment with an antiviral drug, there seemed to be no improvement.
• The shingles -- a virus that affects nerve distribution -- were not going away and, after three visits, the man developed a case of Bell's Palsy, a temporary nerve paralysis.
• "To add salt to the wound, this made the whole left side of his face droop.
• It looked like he had a stroke," says Sherman, an associated with Advanced Dermatology Center in Ormond Beach.
• "I had seen acupuncture help shingles, but I didn't know if it would help with Bell's Palsy.
• He adds he refers patients to acupuncturists quite often -- usually for pain that won't subside.
• Such nonprescription relief for stress-aggravated skin conditions is becoming more common.
• But how can meditation, tai-chi, biofeedback, hypnotherapy or counseling ease the symptoms of rosacea or hives?
• While the jury is still out on how many local dermatologists refer patients for such complementary treatment for skin ailments, it's happening with frequency in other areas.
• Palm Coast-based acupuncturist Scott Beat says he has received referrals from physicians for stress reduction cases.
• Palm Coast-based hypnotherapist Karyn Philips has treated patients with eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and sometimes even warts.
• While hypnotherapy is "off the beaten path and hard for people to conceive," Philips says, it is a simple process that can alleviate many problems.
• Healing touch is another option, says JoAnne Vogel, Ormond Beach-based certified healing touch practitioner.
• "There are healing touch classes at Halifax Medical Center for continuing education credit for nurses and massage therapists.
• And Hospice has two certified healing touch practitioners on staff, both RN's."
• The other area in addition to food is environmental factors."
• But, Sherman emphasizes, for stress-aggravated skin ailments, he is willing to think outside the box.