Research undertaken in China suggests acupuncture helps IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) more effectively than standard drug treatment. A total of 531 patients aged 18 to 70 with IBS, were randomised to receive either acupuncture or drug treatment over a six week period at seven hospitals. Patients were the followed up for a further 12 weeks. Acupuncture was given three times a week, making 18 sessions in total.
During treatment, IBS symptom scores decreased by 124 in the acupuncture group and by 95 in the drug treatment group. These differences between the two groups persisted after a further 12 weeks of follow-up. The researchers conclude that acupuncture is a more effective intervention for IBS, and results in clinically meaningful benefits with long-lasting effects.
(Effect of Acupuncture in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, August 2020.)
Author: Robin Costello
I offer traditional Chinese acupuncture in Exeter, from a tranquil clinic a mile from the city centre, and next to the University of Exeter. I graduated originally from the London School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine’s 3 year full time Acupuncture Diploma (DipAc) course. I am on the practitioners register of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC), a regulatory and professional body with an entry standard of a full three year undergraduate degree level training.
I have worked in a hospital in south west China, deepening my knowledge and using acupuncture and Chinese massage (tuina) as the treatment of choice in its country of origin. I have taught Chinese medicine in colleges, the NHS and at university level. I also practise Qi Gong, and Chinese dietary therapy, that is the medicinal use of ordinary foods, chosen to help achieve particular therapeutic effects in different individuals.
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