Acupuncture Benefits Abdominal Pain
Acupuncture has been found to be an effective treatment for gastrointestinal pain, including abdominal pain and improves post operative adhesions and scar tissue.
A study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that acupuncture was effective in reducing abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Another study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that acupuncture was effective in reducing abdominal pain in patients with functional dyspepsia.
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. It has also been found to help regulate the nervous system, which can help to reduce pain and improve digestion. Overall, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for those suffering from gastrointestinal pain, including abdominal pain.
Research has also shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for gastrointestinal pain, including abdominal pain related to indigestion, IBS/IBD, scar tissue, and a spastic colon.
One study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Another study showed that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with chronic pancreatitis.
Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and by regulating the nervous system and reducing inflammation, pain can be alleviated.
The Journal of the International Neuromodulation Society published a study in 2011 for the use of acupuncture in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders.
They found that acupuncture modulates the somatic afferent nerves, regulating three biochemical responses:
1. pro-kinetic (motility, movement of the gut)
2. antiemetic (nausea and vomiting symptom)
3. anti-nociceptive effects (inhibition of the sensation of pain)
In this study all of three these biochemical markers were positively affected as a result of acupuncture. Improved movement of the intestines, which translate to better bowel movement and detox function. Also included are reduced nausea and pain in the digestive tract.
Other studies have emerged with images of the brain before and after acupuncture treatment. These brain scans have shown increased connectivity between various regions of the brain from using acupuncture at specific locations on the body. One of these points is ST36 Zusanli, distal to the knee. When needled this point, it produces a regulatory effect on the digestive system by engaging with the parasympathetic nervous function; rest, digest and repair.
Overall, acupuncture can be a beneficial treatment option for individuals experiencing gastrointestinal pain, abdominal pain, post operative scar tissue, abdominal bloating, IBS/IBD, gastritis, dyspepsia and more.
Treatment can vary according to symptoms and dietary habits so it is important to discuss a treatment plan with your acupuncturist for best care and results.
Interested in trying acupuncture for gastrointestinal and abdominal pain? Schedule an appointment today!
Resources:
1.Takahashi T. (2011). Mechanism of acupuncture on neuromodulation in the gut--a review. Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society, 14(1), 8–12. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1403.2010.00295.x
2. Berger AA, Liu Y, Jin K, Kaneb A, Welschmeyer A, Cornett EM, Kaye AD, Imani F, Khademi SH, Varrassi G, Viswanath O, Urits I. Efficacy of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Chronic Abdominal Pain. Anesth Pain Med. 2021 Mar 17;11(2):e113027. doi: 10.5812/aapm.113027. PMID: 34336622; PMCID: PMC8314076.
3. Yang NN, Tan CX, Lin LL, Su XT, Li YJ, Qi LY, Wang Y, Yang JW, Liu CZ. Potential Mechanisms of Acupuncture for Functional Dyspepsia Based on Pathophysiology. Front Neurosci. 2022 Jan 25;15:781215. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2021.781215. PMID: 35145373; PMCID: PMC8822151.
