“For individuals dealing with ulcerative colitis, can acupuncture treatment benefit those with UC and other GI-related issues?”
Table of Contents
Acupuncture has been used to treat symptoms related to pain and inflammation. Studies suggest it may help reduce inflammation and symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain, which could benefit individuals with inflammatory bowel disease. Individuals with ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease/IBD affecting the large intestine, may find acupuncture beneficial in managing symptoms, including pain and gastrointestinal symptoms. (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, 2019)
Acupuncture can be used for the relief of various conditions. Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce inflammation and disease activity in individuals with an IBD, like UC and Crohn’s disease. It can help with: (Gengqing Song et al., 2019)
Studies suggest the use of acupuncture with heat, known as moxibustion, can improve several GI symptoms including (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, 2019)
It is effective in the treatment of digestive issues that include: (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2024)
Chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis can cause feelings of depression and/or anxiety. Acupuncture may be used to address symptoms related to stress and mood and can benefit emotional health issues that include: (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2024)
Acupuncture is considered a safe practice. The most common side effects are: (GI Society. 2024)
For some, GI symptoms may worsen before they improve. It is recommended to try at least five sessions as this is part of the healing process. (Cleveland Clinic. 2023) However, individuals should contact their doctor if symptoms become severe or last more than two days. (GI Society. 2024) Individuals considering acupuncture to help manage symptoms of ulcerative colitis should speak with their healthcare provider to help determine the appropriate treatment and where to start.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. (2019). Acupuncture in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. IBDVisible Blog. www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/blog/acupuncture-inflammatory-bowel-disease
Wilkinson J, Faleiro R. (2007). Acupuncture in pain management. Continuing Education in Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain. 7(4), 135-138. doi.org/10.1093/bjaceaccp/mkm021
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Acupuncture (Health, Issue. www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture
Song, G., Fiocchi, C., & Achkar, J. P. (2019). Acupuncture in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammatory bowel diseases, 25(7), 1129–1139. doi.org/10.1093/ibd/izy371
Harvard Medical School. (2016). Relieving pain with acupuncture. Harvard Health Blog. www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/relieving-pain-with-acupuncture
Arthritis Foundation. (N.D.). Acupuncture for Arthritis. Health Wellness. www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/natural-therapies/acupuncture-for-arthritis
Harvard Medical School. (2023). Acupuncture: what is it? Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School Blog. www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/acupuncture-a-to-z#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20side%20effects,injury%20to%20an%20internal%20organ.
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Acupuncture. Health Library. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/4767-acupuncture
GI Society. (2024). Acupuncture and Digestion. badgut.org. badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/acupuncture-and-digestion/
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The information herein on "Exploring the Potential of Acupuncture for Ulcerative Colitis" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
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