This blog is to share the latest research and development of acupuncture and raise the awareness of alternative treatments for your conditions, and is for information only.

Monday 8 September 2014

Acupuncture is effective in relieving constipation

Constipation is a common problem that affects people of all ages. Although constipation is not a life-threatening condition it could significant impact people’s daily life when it is not treated. Unhealthy life style, chronic medication and other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, Parkinson’s and many others can cause constipation. Changes in life style and medications such as laxatives are effective in treating constipation. For many people who prefer to alternatives acupuncture is a popular choice for constipation treatment.

Recently researchers in China conducted a randomized clinical study to assess the efficacy of different acupoint prescriptions on constipation. One hundred and four patients with functional constipation were divided into group 1 (n=19) treated with electroacupuncture at acupoints bilateral Tianshu (ST 25) and Dachangshu (BL 25). Patients in group 2 (n=34) were treated at bilateral Quchi (LI 11) and Shangjuxu (ST 37). Acupoint prescription in group 3 (n=26) was Tianshu (ST 25), Dachangshu (BL 25), Quchi (LI 11) and Shangjuxu (ST 37). Patients in group 4 (n=25) were given mosapride citrate tablets, 5mg/each, 3 times daily for 4 weeks. Electroacupuncture treatment was given 5 times a week for the first two weeks, then 3 times a week in the following two weeks. The weekly defecation frequency and life quality scores were evaluated before, at the end of treatment and a 4-week follow-up.

The results showed that 3 acupuncture-treated and drug-treated groups all significantly improved weekly defecation frequency. However, only patients in group 2 reported that defecation difficulty and life quality scores were markedly improved compared with other groups.

The study suggests that acupuncture stimulation at Quchi (LI 11) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) has super therapeutic effect on constipation.

Reference:
Wu JN et al., [Comparison of efficacy on functional constipation treated with electroacupuncture of different acupoint prescriptions: a randomized controlled pilot trial]. Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2014 Jun;34(6):521-8.   http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25112080

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