A 73 year old man came to our office complaining of chronic constipation. He was only able to have a bowel movement every fifth day, and the problem had been going on for years. This constipation acupuncture case study discusses how acupuncture was able to help improve his bowel function.
The Problem
Over 40 million Americans struggle with constipation. It is one of the the most common gastrointestinal problems in the United States, as stated by the National Institute of Digestive Diseases. Chronic constipation is characterized by difficult, infrequent, or incomplete bowel movements.
Constipation Acupuncture Case Study
Our patient had all of these symptoms. He was using fiber, prune juice and medications just to do as well has he was. But it was not enough. Research led him to try acupuncture.
The goal of his treatment was to increase peristalsis of the large intestine and colon, and to reduce dryness in the intestine. Peristalsis is the natural movement of the intestine that allows food to move forward. Acupuncture points included ST36, ST25, LV3, LI4, CV12 and GV20. Electroacupuncture was used on the first two points, as they can make the treatment stronger.
After the first three treatments our patient was having a bowel movement every other day. After 7 treatments he was having daily bowel movements. They were easy to pass and not painful. He continued receiving maintenance treatments once a month for the next six months.
How Acupuncture Works For Constipation
This constipation acupuncture case study highlighted someone with slow peristalsis. Acupuncture has a direct positive effect on peristalsis. Getting the intestine to move the way it’s designed is essential in having good bowel movements.
Other factors causing constipation include have excess heat in the intestines, or too my dryness. These symptoms are addressed by clearing heat out of the body and promoting moisture. Acupuncture does this as well. Each constipation case will require it’s own specific focus.
There are excellent Chinese herbs that work in conjunction with acupuncture to heal chronic constipation. They are natural substances made from specific plants. Chinese herbs have almost no side effects and are much safer than Western pharmaceuticals.
Next Steps
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WATCH VIDEO ABOUT OUR CONSTIPATION TREATMENT.
LEARN ABOUT OTHER DIGESTIVE CONDITIONS WE TREAT.
If you have questions about this constipation acupuncture case study, feel free to call us. We’ll be happy to discuss your case.
What our Clients are Saying
I had a severe stomach flu six months ago with high fever for three days. Afterwards I had terrible constipation. I tried laxatives, but they only gave temporary relief. The pain was so bad that I started missing work. My wife’s sister had been to Raleigh Acupuncture for migraines and was very satisfied, and she suggested I call to see if they treat constipation. Not only were they able to treat me, they totally cleared up my condition in just two weeks. I am 100% better!
I’ve lived with chronic constipation my whole life. I averaged once every five days or so, and that was normal. As a result, I always felt bottled up. My brother convinced me to try acupuncture, as it helped him with his constipation. The doctor gave me pills which he said were all natural and had been around for thousands of years. He also did acupuncture. After about half a dozen treatments I was going to the bathroom every other day. It’s been a year since my treatments ended and I’m still regular. I feel great.
