Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of people worldwide. This disease can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue, making it difficult for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Crohn’s Disease?
Acupuncture has been shown to have several potential benefits for Crohn’s disease patients.
First off, acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the gut. Inflammation is one of the key factors in the development of Crohn’s disease, and acupuncture has been found to be effective in reducing inflammation markers in the blood.
Secondly, acupuncture can help manage pain associated with Crohn’s disease. Many patients experience chronic abdominal pain, and acupuncture has been shown to reduce pain levels and improve the quality of life in Crohn’s patients.
In addition, acupuncture can help manage other symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, such as nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. By improving digestion and reducing inflammation, acupuncture can help patients feel better overall and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
How to Get Started
The first step in acupuncture treatment for Crohn’s disease is to consult with a licensed acupuncturist. They will perform an initial assessment and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and medical history.
During the acupuncture treatment, thin needles will be inserted into specific points on your body. You may feel a slight prick or pressure, but the treatment is generally painless. The needles will be left in place for about 30 minutes, during which time you may feel a sensation of warmth or tingling.
Acupuncture treatment for Crohn’s disease is typically done once or twice a week, depending on the severity of your symptoms. It may take several weeks or months of treatment to see a significant improvement, but many people report feeling relief after just a few sessions.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Crohn’s Disease Patients?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe for most patients, including those with Crohn’s disease. The needles used in acupuncture are sterile and disposable, and the risk of infection is minimal. However, it is important for patients to discuss their condition with their acupuncturist and their healthcare provider before beginning acupuncture treatment.
Patients who are currently experiencing a flare-up of their Crohn’s disease may need to wait until their symptoms have subsided before beginning acupuncture.
Additionally, patients should ensure that they are receiving acupuncture treatment from a licensed and experienced practitioner. Acupuncture is a complex practice that requires specialized training, and patients should only receive treatment from a qualified practitioner.
Should You Try Acupuncture for Crohn’s Disease?
Acupuncture has been shown to help reduce inflammation, manage pain, and improve overall well-being in Crohn’s disease patients. However, as with any complementary therapy, it is important for patients to discuss their condition with their healthcare provider and to ensure that they are receiving treatment from a licensed and experienced practitioner.
However, an integrative approach that blends acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, functional medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine can offer a comprehensive and holistic treatment strategy for Crohn’s patients.
The benefits of each approach;
- Acupuncture: Patients often report reduced pain, decreased frequency of bowel movements, and an overall improved sense of well-being post-treatment.
- Naturopathic Medicine and Functional Medicine: By addressing root causes and triggers and using natural remedies, patients may see a reduction in symptoms and longer periods of remission.
- Chinese Medicine: Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to reduce inflammation, heal the gut lining, and restore balance in the body.
By blending these treatments, patients receive a multi-faceted approach that addresses not only the symptoms but also the root causes of Crohn’s disease.
2Dots Integrative Medicine can Help!
Dr. Lin Dan Zhu is a California-licensed naturopathic doctor, functional medicine practitioner, acupuncturist, and Chinese herbalist, helping patients in San Mateo and San Francisco, CA.
If you are interested in exploring acupuncture as a complementary therapy for Crohn’s disease, give us a call. With the right treatment plan, acupuncture can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
