Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488 info@urbanacupuncturecenter.org

Using Acupuncture to Treat Digestive Issues

by | Mar 10, 2016 | Acupuncture

Treat Digestive Issues

Acupuncture helps direct the flow of digestive energy in the right direction, which is from the mouth downward through the complete digestive system to the anus. If any problem occurs during this directional movement due to nausea, constipation, gastric reflux or gastroparesis, it can be treated with acupuncture.

Acupuncture can re-direct the flow of digestive energy in its natural downward direction. It also helps with the absorption of nutrients and elimination of waste. The digestive energy helps to assimilate nutrients and supports the function of sorting the nutrients from waste. Board certified acupuncturist Steve Drugan provides treatments to patients in Columbus, OH and surrounding locations.

Acupuncture for IBS

Extensive research studies have been conducted to show that acupuncture has the ability to provide relief from the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One US study involving 230 IBS patients revealed 41 percent improvement on IBS Global Improvement Scale after a series of six acupuncture treatments. After the treatments, patients reported average daily reduction in abdominal discomfort. Bloating, intestinal gas, and stool consistency also showed a similar level of improvement.

Faecal Incontinence

An Italian research study involving 15 female patients with a median age of 60 years were given one acupuncture treatment per week over a 10-week period. Prior to the treatment and at periodic intervals after acupuncture sessions, anal continence was evaluated. Patients experienced significant improvement in anal continence by the end of 10 weeks. Patients with loose stools or irregular bowel habits also reported significant improvement.

Gastrointestinal Diseases

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and IBS are some of the common gastrointestinal diseases that can be treated with acupuncture. Four clinical trials conducted to test the efficacy of acupuncture in treating these conditions found that the quality of life (QoL) of the patients improved significantly after acupuncture. The healing capacity of acupuncture is enhanced at both physiological and psychological level for the patients. Acupuncturist Steve Drugan receives patients from Columbus, OH and nearby areas.

Ulcerative Colitis

In a randomized, controlled clinical trial involving 29 patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis, traditional acupuncture and moxibustion treatments were performed. Patients were treated for five weeks at the rate of two sessions per week, and followed up for 16 weeks. Colitis Activity Index reduced in all patients, and significant improvements in general well-being were noted.

Gastric Sphincter

Poor relaxation of the muscular lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) can result in heartburn and gastric reflux. Research studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce the rate of LES by as much as 40 percent. Electrical non-needle stimulation treatments can also be used to achieve improvements in gastric reflux and heartburn.

Bowel Obstruction

Obstruction of the small bowel (intestine) is a common condition. It may require hospitalization for several days, and surgical interventions may be necessary to treat the condition. Acupuncture can prove to be an effective alternative. The procedure involves stimulation of the small intestine directly by needling. It can lead to improved bowel motility and be an effective removal of an obstruction.

Contact Us For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488    |    Main St, Westerville (614) 426-4406 or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.

Using Acupuncture to Treat Autoimmune Diseases

by | Mar 1, 2016 | Acupuncture

Treat Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases refer to a group of disorders in which the body’s own immune system becomes the enemy and attacks, alters or destroys tissues. Some of the common chronic illnesses in this category include type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, pernicious anemia, Addison’s disease, multiple sclerosis, celiac disease, and myasthenia gravis.

According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), as much as 20 percent of the population is afflicted by autoimmune disorders. In modern medical science, adequate and effective treatments for these conditions are generally not available till now. Acupuncture can provide an effective alternative solution for many patients suffering from these diseases. Steve M. Drugan is a board certified acupuncturist providing treatment for these disorders to patients in Columbus, OH and surrounding communities.

How does it Work?

Many patients want to understand how acupuncture can help to treat autoimmune disorders, which do not have an effective answer in standard medical care. Western medicine believes that autoimmune disorders occur to some kind of imbalance within the body. Such imbalance may arise from a deficiency or excess of yin and yang that disrupts the flow of vital energy in the body.

Acupuncture treatments are specifically designed to help the body restore this balance. It focuses on treating the root of the disorder, while specifically addressing symptoms that will be unique to a patient. Acupuncture treatment will create physical responses in parts of the brain, nerve cells and the pituitary gland. The body will release hormones, proteins, and brain chemicals based on these responses, which control a variety of bodily functions.

Due to these actions, acupuncture can have an impact on the immune system. Additionally, the treatment program may include management of the autoimmune disorder through a combination of therapies. Depending on the disorder, these therapies may include moderate physical activity, herbal medications, stress relieving exercises, and nutritional support. Acupuncturist Steve Drugan receives patients from Columbus, OH and nearby areas for treatment of autoimmune disorders.

Whole Body Treatment Approach

Acupuncture will adopt a holistic or whole body treatment approach to address the autoimmune disease based on the idea of vital energy. This energy called Qi flows through meridians or pathways to nourish various body organs, provide protection against illness, and preserving general good health. When the flow of vital energy weakens or gets blocked, it can cause the disease.

During the treatment, the expert provider will insert fine, sterile needles at targeted points along the meridians so as to release any obstructions and allow the free flow of vital energy. The practitioner may combine this acupuncture therapy along with additional stress reduction, nutrition enhancement or exercise programs.

Some practitioners will also recommend tried and tested herbal supplements and remedies that are aimed at supporting health and boosting the body’s immune system. The patient should communicate with the provider about their progress and any concerns in order to optimize the treatment program. Acupuncture is widely accepted treatment approach that enables a patient to take control of their autoimmune condition.

For more information about how acupuncture and other treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488    |    Main St, Westerville (614) 426-4406 or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.