Catgut embedding, a special type of acupuncture technique
markedly relived the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to a
report recently published in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences.
Catgut is a type of cord that is made from the natural
fibres in the wall of goat or sheep intestines. Catgut is embedded on the
acupoints for 7-10 days. It exerts continuous stimulation on the acupoint and
enhances and prolongs its therapeutic effect. It is believed that catgut
embedding acupuncture can improve body immune function, promote metabolism and
is used to treat many conditions including body weight loss.
Researchers in Isfahan, Iran carried out a double blinded randomized
clinical study to assess the effect of catgut embedding acupuncture on the
patients with IBS. Sixty patients with IBS were recruited for the study and randomly
divided into 3 groups. Real acupuncture group, catgut embedded on acupoints UB17, UB23, UB25. DU3,
SP9, SP15, ST25, ST36, Ren12, and 4 and Kid15. Sham group, catgut embedded on
sham acupoints GB26, SP8, 1 inch ST25, UB22, and Ren5. Medication control group.
IBS symptoms such as pain, abdominal bloating, diarrhoea and constipation were
assessed prior to and after the treatment.
Following 2-week treatment, patients in real catgut
embedded acupuncture group reported a significant improvement in all symptoms
compared with sham acupuncture and medication group. In addition, patients in
real acupuncture group showed an average 2 kg weight loss.
The study provided
evidence that catgut embedded acupuncture is effective in treating patients
with IBS.
Reference:
Rafiei R et al., A
new acupuncture method for management of irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized
double blind clinical trial. J Res Med Sci. Oct 2014; 19(10): 913–917. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25538771
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