For those dealing with psoriasis, creams, pills, and UV lamps are all too familiar. Even with conventional treatment methods, many still have difficulty finding relief from outbreaks. Read on for three unique ways some people are managing their symptoms.

Reiki

Reiki is a healing technique that originated in Japan. It involves gentle hand placement on different parts of the body. Alternatively, a practitioner may opt to hold their hands just over the skin, instead of making physical contact. Reiki is based on the idea that there is an optimal amount of energy that flows through the body. When energy levels dip down, sickness can result. The hand placement that takes place during a Reiki session is intended to restore balance to the recipient's natural energy.

Reiki is a very relaxing experience. Because psoriasis is heavily influenced by stress levels, there is a possibility that Reiki could help reduce psoriasis symptoms. The jury is still out in regards to if it helps more than other forms of meditation, but given the lack of side effects, it's worth considering.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another ancient practice, though this one can be traced back to China. The thought process behind acupuncture is similar to Reiki—the body has a natural energy, called qi. This qi flows on meridians that can be obstructed, causing health problems. Acupuncture restores the flow of qi through the insertion of thin needles into the skin. Needles are placed throughout the body.

Acupuncturists treat psoriasis with a technique called "surrounding the dragon." This involves placing needles around any active psoriasis patches in an effort to direct energy towards the area and stimulate healing.

Studies have indicated that acupuncture can lead to a reduction of flare-ups, and some patients have even reported complete remission from symptoms. However, each case is different, and you should discuss acupuncture with your dermatologist or doctor before trying it.

Doctor Fish

Garra rufa, also known as Doctor Fish, can be found mainly in Turkey. They spend most of their days feeding off plankton. So how can they help your psoriasis?

When faced with a lack of plankton, Doctor Fish will feed off other things. This includes human flesh, if any is available—psoriasis patches, in particular. In one study, participants bathed regularly in pools of Doctor Fish in addition to standard UV light treatment. The study lasted three weeks, and 72% of participants experienced a decrease in their symptoms.

If you're struggling to find relief from your psoriasis symptoms, you may want to consider trying Doctor Fish.

Find relief

Psoriasis can be difficult to get under control. If traditional treatment methods aren't working, you may want to work with a dermatologist, such as Thomas P. Senter, M.D., to explore alternative options.