RE: Needle Lift - ***BEWARE***
February 01, 2009 | 09:42 PM

I would like to warn all those reading Mr. Shafer's article on acupuncture. Acupuncture, even when done by qualified people can have disastrous effects. I am permanently deaf in my left ear due to acupuncture I received four years ago on the mainland. This procedure was done by a seasoned acupuncturist, who had a wall full of degrees, and I believed I was in capable hands. After seeing a medical doctor about my sudden hearing loss a few days after my visit to the acupuncturist, I was told my inner ear had effectively died due to an infection...it was too late for any medical intervention, the tiny hair follicles and cochlea weren't responding to sound, and never will.
Being deaf in one ear is NOT fun! After the initial nausea and vertigo, I often experience a sharp pain in the ear, also I cannot equalize (forget diving!). In social situations it is embarrassing and awkward to have to lean in to listen and when people talk on my deaf side and I don't see them they think I am ignoring them!
Please use my experience as a precautionary advise, I know it helps a lot of people, but I also believe people have the right to know that there often adverse effects that aren't covered.
Mahalo


Bean