Acupuncture for IBS and other digestive conditions

What causes IBS and how does acupuncture help?

IBS is the most common bowel disorder, estimated to affect 15% of the general population. There are various factors leading people to develop this condition including; genetic predisposition, adverse childhood events, psychological factors and changes to the sensory nerves of the bowel. Under or over activity of the intestinal muscles can cause:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Cramping and excess wind
• Bouts of diarrhoea and/or constipation

Acupuncture is known to effect nervous system regulation, thereby helping to reduce the impact of stress on the gut. This can reduce muscle contraction in the gut walls, leading to a reduction in bloating and pain.

Acupuncture for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis:

These chronic inflammatory diseases of the intestines tend to have flare up and remissions. Acupuncture can be used at any stage and is safe to use alongside western medical treatment.

What happens at my first session?

At our first consultation, we talk though your specific issues, how long they’ve been going on and when they first started (often for many years on and off). We will take a detailed case history including other aspects of general health and well-being. We will make a note of any medication you are taking, and ask about your diet.

Once your acupuncturist has established your particular constitutional patterns, they will tell you how they think acupuncture might help you, and give you advice about diet based on Chinese dietary advice.

Chinese dietary advice does not suggest complex exclusion diets, but helps to identify a way of eating and drinking that suits your particular body type or constitution. This helps to achieve long lasting healthy weight loss.

---