Acupuncture for Constipation

Acupuncture for Constipation is a frequent alternative modality for those who suffer from poor bowel movements. According to the New England Journal of Medicine it is the most common ailment for which the American public seeks over the counter relief for. While age plays a important role in Western Medicine there are at least eight clinical patterns in Oriental Medicine which help define the individual pattern and provide a treatment plan. These can be broken down into two main groups consisting of either an excess or deficiency type which the acupuncturist can help identify.  When Acupuncture for Constipation is utilized the treatment does not focus solely on the functioning of the large intestine but also on the organ’s relationship to the stomach, spleen, kidney and lung organ.  These is often the case as one of the goals of Oriental Medicine is to bring balance back to the body and these other organs help serve as a symphony in helping the body maintain it’s function. An acupuncture treatment for constipation would normally consist of a number of needles inserted into the abdomen, the legs and arms and also the webs of the hands and between the great toe and the second digit. These specific points on the hands and feet are known as the four gates and help to move energy throughout the body.  The length of the treatment will vary with different individuals but generally the treatment time is about a hour for each session. Often an acupuncturist will ask questions concerning the patients diet and provide Chinese herbs to help with the condition as an adjunct to the needle therapy. Such herbal formulas as Rong Chang Wan And Ma Ren Zi PI Wan are safe to use and can be found in the Chinatown of any major city. These formulas generally nourish the blood, stop intestinal wind and lubricates the intestines.  In summary, Acupuncture for Constipation has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment and should be considered as an alternative to the prolonged use of laxatives.