It can be used as a complementary therapy for a variety of chronic conditions, including ulcerative colitis (UC).
People with UC, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affecting the large intestine, may find acupuncture beneficial in managing symptoms, including pain and gastrointestinal (GI, the stomach and intestines) symptoms.
This article will discuss the basics of acupuncture, how the treatment may be beneficial for people with UC and other GI-related issues, and its known side effects.
More About Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine. There are 2,000 acupuncture points in the body that are connected by pathways called meridians.
The pathways connecting the acupuncture points make energy known as Qi that contributes to the overall health of your body. A disruption to the flow of Qi can cause disease.
When acupuncture needles are inserted into certain areas of the body, it can improve the flow of Qi throughout your body and improve your health.
Acupuncture involves using needles about as thin as a strand of hair to penetrate your body’s tissues. The needles are inserted into the skin by a practitioner.
Research has indicated acupuncture is an effective complementary therapy for a variety of conditions. Acupuncture may also involve using other techniques to certain areas of the body. These include:
Acupressure Friction Suction (cupping) Heat (moxibustion) Electromagnetic energy
Benefits of Acupuncture for Ulcerative Colitis and Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Acupuncture can be used for the relief of a number of conditions.
It’s believed to be helpful in the treatment of conditions like UC. Studies suggest acupuncture can reduce inflammation and disease activity in people living with an IBD, such as UC and Crohn’s disease, which can affect the entire GI tract.
Acupuncture is also beneficial for people with IBD. It can help with:
Imbalance of the gut microbiome Function of the intestinal barrier Gut motor dysfunction Pain Depression Anxiety
Studies suggest the use of acupuncture with heat, known as moxibustion, can improve a number of GI symptoms, including:
Diarrhea Constipation Abdominal pain Gas Bloating Nausea
Acupuncture is also known to be effective in the treatment of digestive issues like:
Hemorrhoids Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Gastritis Hepatitis
How Acupuncture Reduces Pain and Inflammation
Acupuncture can be used to relieve pain stemming from a variety of conditions.
It’s said that acupuncture works by releasing endorphins into the body. Endorphins help reduce pain.
Applying pressure to acupoints throughout the body triggers the central nervous system. This is believed to cause the release of chemicals into the brain, muscles, and spinal cord that stimulate healing mechanisms within the body.
Studies have also found acupuncture can trigger the production of cortisol in the body. This is a hormone that helps control inflammation.
In the treatment of IBD, studies have found the use of acupuncture along with moxibustion reduced inflammation in people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
How Acupuncture Affects Stress and Mood
When you’re living with a chronic condition like UC, it’s normal to experience feelings of depression and/or anxiety. As well as being a useful tool in the treatment of physical symptoms, acupuncture may also be used to address symptoms related to stress and mood.
Acupuncture can benefit emotional health issues like:
Nervousness Depression Anxiety Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) Neurosis (mental health condition characterized by chronic distress and anxiety)
Possible Side Effects
Overall, acupuncture is considered a safe practice. However, it does carry some risks.
The most common side effects experienced by those who have tried acupuncture are:
Minor bleedingPainBruising
In rare cases, fainting may occur. This can be due to needle shock. This is more common in those who:
Are nervousAre new to acupunctureHave a history of fainting
A small number of people trying acupuncture may find their GI symptoms become worse before they become better. Typically, this is part of the healing process, however, you should contact your practitioner if symptoms become severe or last for more than two days.
Are nervous around needlesAre extremely fatiguedHave low blood sugar
Needle shock can cause feelings of chilliness, feeling faint, and nausea.
Summary
A form of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been used in the treatment of pain for many years. It can be used as a complementary therapy for a variety of chronic conditions, including UC.
Acupuncture involves using needles about as thin as a strand of hair to penetrate tissue. The needles are inserted into the skin by a practitioner. Research suggests that acupuncture can reduce inflammation and disease activity in people living with an IBD like UC.
Acupuncture can also help you manage aspects of your emotional health and help improve symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Risks associated with acupuncture include minor bleeding, pain, and bruising.
If you’re considering acupuncture as a complementary therapy to your UC treatment, consult with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if it’s the right fit for you and how to get started.
A Word From Verywell
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years for the treatment of symptoms related to pain and inflammation. The practice may be used as a complementary therapy for a variety of chronic conditions, including UC.
Studies suggest acupuncture may help reduce inflammation and symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain, which could be beneficial for those living with IBD. If you’re considering acupuncture to help manage symptoms of UC, speak with your healthcare provider.
MedicationChanges to diet or nutritionSurgery
Research suggests the use of heat and acupuncture may help reduce inflammation in those with IBD.
In rarer cases, fainting may occur. Some people may find their symptoms worsen with acupuncture before improving. This may indicate that the healing process has begun.
However, if symptoms become severe or don’t resolve within two days, you should speak with your practitioner or primary healthcare provider.
Your practitioner will be able to advise how frequently you should have appointments.
Some people may not notice a benefit from acupuncture right away. Therefore, its recommended to try at least five sessions of acupuncture.
