Treating IBS is notoriously hard. Western medicine offers some respite but most of the people I treat with the condition, still suffer the symptoms. This is often a chronic condition although symptoms can flare up and recede after a few days.
*There is some evidence in clinical trials to show that acupuncture, electro acupuncture and moxibustion do have an effect on reducing symptoms. This is reflected in my own clinical experiences although some IBS can be intractable.
The most common symptoms of IBS are:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Constipation — the stool comes out either lumpy or hard
- Diarrhea — the stool comes out loose or watery
- Alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea
- Bowel movements that feel uncontrollably urgent, difficult to pass, or incomplete
- Clear or white mucus with the stool
As is often the case, people have more than one pressing health concern that leads them to try acupuncture. Tim came to me with a couple of issues including limited shoulder range following a surgical procedure years before that also left significant scar tissue. He also wanted to relieve his IBS symptoms. He was somewhat nervous having never experienced acupuncture before but actually had no problems with it.
I used a combination of acupuncture, tuina massage and cupping for his shoulder plus guasha (skin scraping!) to break down the scar tissue.
Tim’s story
I wanted to try something different, acupuncture always interested me, but it seemed a little scary! I asked the Crouch End Appreciation Society Facebook page from suggestions in the local area, and they overwhelmingly recommended Rita.
Acupuncture, specifically for the IBS provided some good relief – a definite improvement, particularly if I keep up regular sessions.
On my arm which was an open fracture fix, my range of movement improved and Rita has managed to flatten the keloid scaring dramatically – a much reduced scar line.
Rita’s great, very friendly and approachable – very modern environment, did fear it would be a bit too ‘new age’ for me – but it’s totally the opposite.
Rita’s a great practitioner and an active member of the local community, you see her around and she’s always smiling and wishing you well – would definitely recommend.
*http://www.atcm.co.uk/acupuncture-treatment-for-irritable-bowel-syndrome