5 Ways Acupuncture Can Effectively Treat Constipation
While most people think of Acupuncture as a treatment primarily for pain, it can actually treat a whole range of symptoms and conditions. One that many find surprising is the treatment of constipation. Acupuncture can be a very effective tool for treating constipation and helping to maintain better digestion overall.
So how does it work? Acupuncture works to balance the body’s internal systems, including the organs involved in digestion. You may immediately think of the large intestine, but in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), there are at least 5 organs that could be in disharmony and play a role in constipation. These include the large intestine, spleen, liver, kidneys and even the lungs. Acupuncture helps restore the balance within these organs by promoting the smooth flow of Energy (Qi, pronounced Chee) throughout the body, which in turn enhances their function, supports better digestion and regulates bowel movements.
Here are some of the specific ways acupuncture helps treat constipation:
1. Improving Bowel Motility
One of the primary ways acupuncture helps with constipation is by stimulating the digestive system to improve bowel motility. Certain acupuncture points, such as those located on the abdomen or lower back, can stimulate the muscles of the intestines and encourage peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract). This is especially important for people with slow-transit constipation, where the intestines do not contract and push food along efficiently.
2. Balancing the Digestive System
In traditional Chinese medicine, constipation is often seen as a result of an imbalance in the body’s internal organs. It could be a disharmony in any of the 5 organs previously mentioned, but it often involves the large intestine and the spleen. In addition to regulating the flow of Qi through the body, acupuncture can help address other root causes of constipation as well. This might include clearing heat or blockages or strengthening the organs involved in digestion.
3. Reducing Stress and Tension
Stress and emotional strain are common contributors to constipation. When we’re stressed, the body enters a “fight or flight” state, which can interfere with normal digestion and lead to constipation. Acupuncture is well known for its ability to help reduce stress by promoting relaxation and balancing the nervous system. By restoring balance to the parasympathetic nervous system (which governs the “rest and digest” functions), acupuncture may encourage more regular and comfortable bowel movements.
4. Improving Blood Circulation
Acupuncture stimulates blood circulation, which can help nourish the digestive organs and improve their function. Proper blood flow to the intestines ensures they receive the nutrients and oxygen needed to work efficiently. Better circulation can also reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which may help alleviate constipation that arises from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Increased circulation may also reduce sensations of bloating and discomfort that often go along with constipation.
5. Promoting Qi Flow
In TCM, constipation is often linked to a blockage of Qi in the body. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, acupuncture helps to unblock the flow of Qi, restoring energy balance throughout the body. When Qi flows freely, digestion becomes more efficient, and constipation is less likely to occur.
What Can You Expect During an Acupuncture Treatment for Constipation?
If you decide to try acupuncture for constipation, you’ll want to seek out and meet with a licensed acupuncturist. During your first appointment, the practitioner will ask about your symptoms, diet, lifestyle, and overall health. Based on this assessment, the acupuncturist will develop a personalized treatment plan that includes acupuncture, diet and lifestyle modifications and in some cases Chinese herbal recommendations.
After the initial intake, you’ll have your first session of acupuncture. Acupuncture treatments typically involve the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on your body. Most people find acupuncture to be painless. Once the needles are in place, you get to relax for 25-30 minutes while the needles work to restore balance.
Many people notice improvements in their digestion and bowel movements after a few sessions and sometimes even after just one treatment. The exact number of treatments varies depending on the severity of the constipation and the individual’s response to acupuncture. Typically, a course of treatment involves weekly sessions for a few weeks, followed by maintenance sessions as needed.
Conclusion
Acupuncture is an effective, natural remedy for treating constipation. By addressing the root causes of digestive imbalances, improving circulation, and reducing stress, acupuncture can help restore normal bowel function and relieve the discomfort of constipation. If you’re looking for a safe and holistic approach to digestive health, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been searching for.
If you struggle with constipation and want relief, schedule an appointment today with Earthsong Acupuncture. Earthsong Acupuncture is located in Downtown San Rafael.
