IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic condition which upsets the bowel (with either diarrhoea or constipation or both at different times) causing discomfort or pain. When severe it can be debilitating and can seriously interfere with one’s work and social life. It is thought that to one degree or another it affects 20% of the UK population. Symptoms are often worse with upsetting emotional events or stress at work. The first episode often occurs after a period of stress or gastrointestinal infection.
Conventional medicine relies mostly on dietary recommendations and anti-spasmodic medication for the pain. IBS is considered to be a ‘functional’ problem, ie the one that doesn’t need surgery or major drug treatment. The connection with emotional stress is recognised and that sometimes leads to the use of anti-depressants.
Chinese Medicine and specifically acupuncture are very effective at treating ‘functional’ digestive problems, where conventional medicine may struggle. Treatment is always tailored to you as an indiviual based on your digestion, bowel pattern, energy levels and other aspects of your health. The treatment is aimed at calming the bowels, clearing any residual infection if it is present and supporting your digestion to make it less vulnerable to stress. Nutritional Therapy is recommended together with acupuncture for a quicker and more effective result.
