Retinitis Pigmentosa Treatment
The Wellspring Protocol for treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is rooted in the holistic principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). After undergoing the protocol, patients have reported improved visual acuity, visual field expansion, and improved night vision.
The protocol was created in 1999 and has since been followed by 1200+ patients. It’s designed improve circulation, energy flow, and organ balance, which support the body’s natural healing processes.
- Treatment Approach
WVIP Treatment Protocol
The Wellspring Vision Improvement Protocol is a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment to support vision health.
Acupuncture
Specialized acupuncture points around the eyes and body to improve blood circulation and stimulate retinal cell
regeneration
Herbal Medicine
Custom-formulated Chinese
herbal prescriptions to nourish
the liver and kidneys, which
govern eye health in TCM theory
Eye Exercises
Guided eye movement exercises and self-care techniques to maintain and enhance treatment results at home
Supplementary Procedures
Additional in-clinic procedures may be incorporated alongside core acupuncture sessions to further support retinal health. These are selected based on each patient’s individual presentation and response to treatment.
Antioxidant Supplements
Targeted antioxidant supplementation helps protect retinal cells from oxidative stress. Our protocol includes research-supported supplements chosen to complement the herbal medicine component.
Diet
Dietary guidance aligned with TCM principles emphasizes foods that nourish liver and kidney meridian energy — the organ systems most closely linked to eye health in classical Chinese medicine.
Exercise
Moderate, consistent physical activity supports overall circulation and systemic vitality. Patients receive guidance tailored to their current vision and mobility level.
Eye Usage / Hygiene
Daily habits around screen time, lighting, and protective eyewear are reviewed. Consistency in eye hygiene practices is an important supporting element of the overall protocol’s effectiveness.
- Initial Assessment
How Patients Are Assessed
Dr. Yu meets with every patient to evaluate their symptoms, overall health, and identify other factors that may be affecting their vision.
Every patient begins with comprehensive eye testing to establish a baseline. From there, Dr. Yu tracks visual field and functional symptoms to measure progress against that foundation over time.
It should be noted that most patients see improvement that same day.
For instance, our patient Miguel’s vision improved significantly after just one day of treatment. On the morning of his first meeting with Dr. Yu, Miguel could barely read the first line of the eye chart, even though he was standing only three feet away. Yet, by the afternoon of that very same day, he could read up to line 19, improving by 10 lines. (See beside)
After 10 days of treatment （this is the typical treatment plan, 10 days (30 treatments)) , Miguel’s vision improved by 5 lines at 10 feet. On the first morning he could not read the chart, but by day ten he could read multiple lines clearly.
- Daily Commitment Matters
Consistency For Progress
Consistency is at the core of the protocol’s effectiveness. Any and all future benefits are tied directly to the patient’s cumulative daily actions. That’s why it’s crucial to drink the customized herbal tea, take the supplements as directed, and be consistent with exercise. Doing so helps address any deficiencies and restores balance to the body, allowing it to be primed for self-healing.
For context, Dr. Yu Weidong once treated a pair of siblings from Mexico. They were advised to practice eye exercises regularly after returning home. The sister followed the recommendation and practiced three to four times daily, while the brother only practiced occasionally.
The result? When they returned for follow-up treatment, the sister’s visual field expanded dramatically and was almost comparable to that of a normal person. Meanwhile, the brother’s improvement was only about 30–40%.
This case demonstrates how consistent rehabilitation exercises can significantly influence treatment outcomes.
Our Treatment Philosophy
The Philosophy Behind Our Protocol
We have one guiding principle when treating RP: support the vision you have and strengthen the systems that protect it. Our focus on functional vision is rooted in restoring balance to your body’s vital organs and energy systems, creating the perfect condition to stabilize and preserve your sight.
Above all, mindset matters. A long-term management approach is essential to the process. The body is a complex system, and meaningful results come from consistent, nuanced care that evolves over time. Dr. Yu firmly believes that reducing stress is also imperative to improving vision. Living mindfully and maintaining a positive attitude has helped his 1200+ patients create the best conditions for enhanced eye health.
Once the 3 months are completed, you are advised to undergo an eye exam and visual field test by your local eye specialist. Dr. Yu will review the results and refine treatment accordingly. Then, the cycle begins again, and you return to Vancouver for the next round of treatment.
01
Online Consultation
You will meet with a Wellspring team member to discuss the essential medical reports to bring with you for Dr. to review during your meeting. Our staff can provide assistance with your Visa application, referral support, and travel logistics.
02
Evaluation/Intake
You will meet Dr. Yu in Vancouver, BC. During this time, he will discuss your symptoms, your medical history, and your overall well-being. Based on your responses and his observations, Dr. Yu will then build a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
03
Initial Program
You will stay in Vancouver for approximately 6 to 10 days, during which time you will receive between 18 to 30 acupuncture treatments. You’ll drink Dr. Yu’s customized blend of health-supporting herbs and carefully selected nutritional supplements.
04
Follow Up/Maintenance
You will be provided with a 3-month supply of your bespoke herbal recipe to brew at home daily, as well as additional supplements.
- Results That Matter
Expectations + Outcomes
While outcomes vary from patient to patient, many who follow the protocol report meaningful improvements in their functional vision. Some can walk independently, write with ease, read books again, drive, and enjoy sunshine without wincing.
DISCLAIMER: The Wellspring Vision Improvement Protocol is a complementary modality based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is not a cure for Retinitis Pigmentosa. Individual results vary based on symptoms and unique medical histories. This protocol is intended to support functional vision and well-being and should not replace care from a licensed eye specialist.
- CASE STUDIES
Patient Case Studies
"Every day was an amazing moment because every day I felt a miracle happening every day."
— Esther
Esther’s vision began deteriorating as a teenager, eventually costing her her driver’s license and threatening her teaching career. After beginning the protocol, her peripheral vision expanded dramatically and her night vision improved significantly. She could see yellow again (important for teaching!). Her husband calls it “miraculous,” and Esther has hope again.
"Night glare day glare has improved substantially I don't even notice them anymore I see better at nighttime."
— SAM
Sam tried supplements and light therapy, but his vision continued to deteriorate. Running out of hope and options, Sam tried the intensive protocol. He reported significant improvements in peripheral vision, night vision, visual acuity, and reduced light sensitivity during both day and night. His confidence skyrocketed, and he has a more positive outlook.