Combining Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine has been proven to slow the progression of the main forms of macular degeneration which are the dry, wet and age-related forms.

Benefits can last from months to years with proper maintenance, however each case is different. Macular Degeneration is not curable, but it is easier to get a positive response in the early stages. Jenny’s goal is to slow deterioration and preserve your vision for as long as possible.

How Does the Acupuncture Treatment Work?

Acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset uses a combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine, supplements and lifestyle tips. Acupuncture is a truly powerful way to stimulate the body’s innate healing ability. In slowing Macular Degeneration, what we do is stimulate specific acupuncture points around the eyes. (We will NEVER put anything in your eye!)

These points help promote blood circulation, which will improve the health of all parts of the eyes including the macula, retina and blood vessels.

We also use other points on the arms and legs because they can help treat other organs in the body, which may be affecting your eye heath. Traditional Chinese Medicine views the body as being wholly connected, meaning that macular degeneration is often related to other health problems such as heart disease or diabetes.

Visual simulation of someone’s viewpoint with AMD

What makes acupuncture treatment so effective?

Acupuncture addresses the root cause

• Unlike western medicine, we look at the entire body, not just your eyes, to help determine and address the root cause as well as the symptoms. That’s why Traditional Chinese Medicine can be so powerful in treating macular degeneration. There is a lot we can do to try to preserve vision, and slow the degenerative process.

No drugs or surgery is required

• Our macular degeneration treatment is natural and simple. We help awaken your body’s healing system, and slow the degenerative process

Acupuncture can yield quick results

• You may see a result from this treatment in a matter of days or weeks, not months.over 85% of patients respond positively to this form of treatment, measured either by their own reports or their ophthalmologists tests. However, every person is unique and once we meet with you we will be able to give you our best estimate of your response.

Does everyone see see quick results?

• Most patients will see measurable improvement within the first 10 -20 treatments, which is usually done as intensive daily treatments (2 treatments per day for 5 -10 days).  The initial improvement is due to dormant cells awakening.  Sicker cells take longer to regenerate, so further improvement may continue slowly for many months after the initial treatment.  *More advanced Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) may require more frequent and long term treatment.

Benefits of acupuncture for Macular Degeneration can last from months to years, however each case is different. Remember, macular degeneration is not curable, but it is easier to get a positive response in the early stages. Our goal is to help you preserve your vision and slow deterioration for as long as possible.

Bottom line: Leaving Macular Degeneration untreated can ultimately lead to total blindness. Start the process of getting help today.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment for a multitude of anxiety disorders.

In many Western schools of thought, anxiety disorders are considered to be dysfunctions in a person’s brain chemistry. An acupuncturist does not view anxiety as a brain dysfunction, but rather as an imbalance in a person’s organ system.

The role of acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset is to investigate the underlying causes of the anxiety by carrying out a thorough diagnostic evaluation in order to determine which organ system has been affected and is out of balance.

The acupuncturist will then seek to restore the imbalance by inserting fine, sterile needles into the points correlating to those organs.

Additionally, acupuncture helps to reduce stress, ultimately encouraging and supporting a greater sense of well-being and balance.

For example, a clinical study conducted in China in 2010, has concluded that acupuncture is a “safe and effective” treatment for mood disorders including depression and severe anxiety, in some cases proving to increase the effectiveness of medication-based treatments.

Additionally a 2009 study, again in China, determined that acupuncture alone could help patients who suffer from anxiety but cannot be chemically treated due to intolerable side-effects of medications.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can effectively treat the following types of anxiety disorders:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Phobia
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Bottom line: Treating your anxiety disorder with acupuncture and Chinese herbs can help you bet your best and get your emotional well-being back into a balanced state.

Jenny is an incredible acupuncturist, but more importantly, she exemplifies everything an excellent practitioner should be. She is extremely knowledgeable, flexible, genuinely caring and compassionate, and offers the best holistic care I’ve experienced.

Jenny is resourceful, and is great about offering advice and recommendations on anything that might help her clients. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
– Miriam M., Redwood City

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective, safe and drug-free alternative treatment for stress relief.

Stress is a natural response of the body to the various demands we place upon it. In ancient times, our stress response, also known as our fight or flight response, provided us with energy to preserve life during difficult situations, such as an attack or threat by a wild animal.

Unfortunately, modern day stress is considerably higher, more frequent and more consistent than what our predecessors experienced.

Practitioners of acupuncture for stress relief in combination with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been treating people for thousands of years.

The ancient theories of TCM on how stress affects the organs are similar to those of Western medicine. However, TCM theory and treatment go far beyond treating symptoms and signs and address the root cause(s) of or the problem.

One way that stress affects the body is by causing a depletion or blockage of Qi (pronounced “chee”), especially that of the kidneys and adrenals.

Qi is the vital energy or power that animates and supports the functions of the body. It flows through specific pathways, called meridians (see diagram below), and provides nourishment for the entire body.

When Qi becomes “blocked” or the supply is inadequate, the body and organ systems become “stressed out” and our health is then compromised.

Using acupuncture for stress works to support and restore the integrity of the various organs affected and depleted by the stress response, along with evaluating the quality and quantity of Qi.

Your acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset may also suggest adjunct therapies to enhance treatment and speed healing. Proper eating habits, as well as exercise, stretching, movement and meditation practices, support and promote a balanced and healthy body, mind and spirit.

“I’ve been working with Jenny Bisset for a couple of months on my ongoing issue with insomnia, as well as stress and exhaustion. I’ve worked with other Acupuncturists before, and so I know when it works and when it doesn’t.

My insomnia is much better, and I look forward to my weekly sessions with Jenny to keep me in balance and better able to handle the stress of running a business.”
– Taru F., San Carlos

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture treatment for pregnancy can be used to induce labor. It can also help you meet the unique challenges of pregnancy, ensuring optimal health for you and your baby in a safe and natural way, without the use of harmful medications.

How using acupuncture during pregnancy works

Acupuncture has been used in China for thousands of years to regulate the female reproductive system. Acupuncture and TCM are based on the concept that Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy, flows through the body in channels called meridians. Practitioners of acupuncture and TCM work to balance the Qi in the body’s meridian and organ systems by manipulating corresponding points on the body.

For a healthy pregnancy, regular weekly and/or monthly treatments are recommended. However, your practitioner will tailor your treatment entirely to your needs and suggest treatment based on your unique symptoms and concerns.

Because some acupuncture points should not be used during pregnancy, it’s important to choose a practitioner experienced in prenatal acupuncture. It’s also important to discuss any treatments or herbal supplements with all of your prenatal health care providers.

Using acupuncture treatment can support your health during pregnancy by addressing three trimester symptoms:

• First trimester – Sets the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. It can alleviate morning sickness, vomiting, fatigue and headaches.
• Second trimester – Offers relief and balances the body from common complaints. It helps to alleviate heartburn, hemorrhoids, stress, sleep problems, edema, elevated blood pressure and weight gain.
• Third trimester – Prepares the body for labor and delivery. It helps to alleviate sciatica, hip, joint, pubic and back pain.

Relief for common concerns

Regular balancing treatments throughout your pregnancy can enhance your health as well as your baby’s health, potentially preventing complications and positively influencing the development of your baby.

Many mothers-to-be find themselves facing anxiety, fatigue, back pain, heartburn, nausea and other symptoms as a result of the many new demands being placed on their bodies. Using acupuncture during pregnancy has been found to effectively relieve many of these symptoms.

Morning sickness responds particularly well with acupuncture during pregnancy. Your acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset can even show you specific points that you can massage at home to help restore your appetite. Recent studies have also shown promising results in using acupuncture for depression during and after pregnancy.

Breech babies

Using acupuncture during pregnancy can also help with more serious issues. Specific acupuncture points and techniques are very useful for turning “breech babies” (those positioned feet first).

One study concluded that acupuncture is useful for babies that position themselves in a difficult presentation, and it is a relatively simple, effective and inexpensive method for breech birth presentation.

Treatment involves moxibustion, or applying heat from the burning of the herb mugwort to a point on the little toes. The treatment causes no adverse side effects.

Acupuncture to Induce Labor

If your due date has passed, acupuncture to induce labor. It is considered to be much more gentler than traditional Western labor-inducing treatments and medications. Acupuncture and acupressure can even be used to help control pain, calm the mind and reduce stress during delivery.

Acupuncture after child birth

It’s important to recover properly after childbirth. Acupuncture can help you heal and regain your strength and vitality, rebalance your energy, boost your body’s defenses and help address concerns such as pain, fatigue, and postpartum depression.

Acupuncture and TCM provide a safe, gentle way to nurture and care for your health, and that of your baby, throughout your pregnancy and beyond. If you are pregnant or considering having a baby, schedule an appointment with Jenny Bisset today

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

References:
1 Acupuncture Conversion of Fetal Breech Presentation. D. Habek, et. al. Fetal Diagn Ther 2003;18:418-421
Non-Stress Test Changes During Acupuncture Plus Moxibustion on BL67 Point in Breech Presentation. I. Neri, PhD., et al. Journal of the Society for Gynecologic Investigation, Vol. 9, No. 3, 158-162 (2002)
Acupuncture during IVF improves pregnancy chances.Link
Research Articles on Acupuncture and Pregnancy.Link

Acupuncture for PMS in combination with Chinese herbs offers a more holistic and non-invasive approach compared to approaches used in Western medicine.

In treating PMS, Western medicine recommends diet and lifestyle changes coupled with medications that manipulate the levels of progesterone and estrogen (i.e. birth control pills), tranquilizers and/or antidepressants (for nervousness, anxiety and depression) that affect mood and emotions.

Although prescription medications can sometimes bring immediate relief, they unfortunately do not address the underlying cause of PMS, and they can cause unwanted side effects that may mimic PMS symptoms.

Acupuncture for PMS: A Natural Approach

In treating PMS, Western medicine recommends diet and lifestyle changes coupled with medications that manipulate the levels of progesterone and estrogen (i.e. birth control pills), tranquilizers and/or antidepressants (for nervousness, anxiety and depression) that affect mood and emotions.

Although prescription medications can sometimes bring immediate relief, they unfortunately do not address the underlying cause of PMS, and they can cause unwanted side effects that may mimic PMS symptoms.

In 1997, the National Institute of Health (NIH)1 issued a consensus report that suggested acupuncture is effective in the treatment of menstrual cramps, and other symptoms associated with PMS.

Acupuncture can address PMS symptoms naturally, without medication, by restoring balance and harmony, both physically and emotionally.

In Chinese medicine, the root cause of PMS is usually an imbalance or blockage of Qi, (pronounced “chee”) or vital energy, and blood within specific organ and meridian systems (see diagram below). When Qi and blood become imbalanced or blocked, symptoms and signs associated with PMS will appear.

The role of an acupuncturist is to investigate the underlying causes leading to PMS symptoms. After a thorough diagnostic evaluation to determine what organ and meridian systems are out of balance, they treat PMS symptoms according to each individual patient’s imbalances and concerns.

By inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body, an acupuncturist is able to stimulate and activate the movement of Qi and blood. When Qi and blood begin to travel freely throughout the body, balance and normal function are restored and PMS symptoms are alleviated.

Acupuncture restores hormonal balance and provides deep relaxation to help reduce stress, ultimately encouraging and supporting greater health and well-being of both body and mind.

A practitioner may also recommend lifestyle changes such as eating a nourishing, organic, whole foods diet, getting regular aerobic exercise and adequate sleep, enjoying warm baths, supplementing the diet with vitamins and herbs, and practicing deep relaxation exercises such as meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga.

Whether you suffer from PMS symptoms on an occasional or a monthly basis, acupuncture and Chinese medicine can offer a safe, natural and effective approach to alleviating these symptoms.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine may hold the key to a healthier, balanced, PMS-free life.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine\

Resources:
1 National Institutes of Health (NIH) – National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, Program & Abstracts (Bethesda, MD, November 3-5, 1997). Office of Alternative Medicine and Office of Medical Applications of Research. Bethesda.

Acupuncture treatment for pain management is time-tested, safe, effective, natural and drug-free way to eliminate many types of pain.

Unlike other methods of handling pain, there are no side effects with acupuncture.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) acknowledge the benefits of acupuncture in treating and eliminating pain due to a wide range of causes. Studies have shown that treating acupuncture for pain not only decreases pain but that it also decreases overall inflammation.

Jenny’s most common area of acupuncture pain treatments:

• Back pain (including lower back pain)
• Neck pain
• Arthritis
• Carpal Tunnel
• Headaches

An Acupuncturists Approach to Pain

How does performing acupuncture for pain management work?

Acupuncturists recognize that there is a vital energy, called Qi (pronounced “chee”), circulating within the body. Qi flows through a series of pathways called meridians. Meridians are like rivers within your body.

The diagram below shows the meridians throughout the body. Wherever a river flows it brings with it water that provides nourishment and life to the land, plants and people around it. Likewise, meridians transport life-giving Qi that provides nourishment to every cell, tissue, muscle, organ and gland in the body.

It is important for Qi to flow freely throughout the body. Think of water flowing through a garden hose. A blocked hose will not provide an adequate supply of water to a plant. Eventually, the plant will be unable to thrive, grow and blossom.

Similarly, a blockage in the flow of Qi anywhere in the body will inhibit the amount of nourishment that reaches our cells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. Under normal circumstances, your body can easily return to good health and vitality.

If the disruption of Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if your body is in a weakened state, the flow of Qi becomes restricted and a variety of symptoms, including pain, may arise.

• • Poor diet
  • Physical trauma
  • Emotional trauma
  • Inherited weakness of Qi
  • Chemical, physical, and/or emotional stress

By inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points, an acupuncturist is able to treat pain by breaking up blockages that have hampered the smooth flow of Qi. Once this is done, Qi can travel freely throughout the body, promoting pain-free health, well-being and vitality.

Not only can acupuncture treat signs and symptoms of pain and discomfort, it can also get to the root of the problem. When the initial cause of the pain is corrected, your body can begin to heal on deeper levels. Your acupuncturist may also suggest adjunct therapies to enhance treatment and speed healing, such as: massage, stretching, yoga, herbal supplements and dietary changes

“I can not see a better solution to long-term
chronic pain. There is no question in my mind that acupuncture is safer than surgery or drugs.”
—Dr. Bruce Pomeranz, Neuroscientist, University of Toronto

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture for neck pain has been shown to be a highly effective and safe treatment..

The neck is one of the most flexible—and delicate—parts of the body. Throughout the day, many of us put stress on our neck without even realizing it. Unfortunately, this can result in a literal “pain in the neck,” causing stiffness, pain and limited movement in the neck and even the shoulders and arms.

If you suffer from neck pain, whether it is occasional or chronic, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may just provide the relief you need.

In recent years, acupuncture has become well-known as an effective treatment for various types of painful disorders. It’s a safe and natural approach approach to treating neck pain and whiplash.

Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Below are some of the more common diagnoses’ that your acupuncturist may discover and treat:

• Overuse
• Strain
• Muscle tension
• Invasion of cold, wind and/or damp
• Bi Syndrome

How Acupuncture for Neck Pain Works

Acupuncture and TCM take a holistic, or whole-body, approach to health. In TCM, Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness. It flows through pathways called meridians to nourish all of the body’s organs, muscles and cells.

The diagram (below) shows the meridians throughout the body. When there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Qi, physical symptoms such as pain may result, such in the neck area.

It is important for Qi to flow freely throughout the body. Think of water flowing through a garden hose. A blocked hose will not provide an adequate supply of water to a plant. Eventually, the plant will be unable to thrive, grow and blossom.

Similarly, a blockage in the flow of Qi anywhere in the neck area will inhibit the amount of nourishment that reaches our cells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. Under normal circumstances, your neck and body can easily return to good health and vitality.

If the disruption of Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if your body is in a weakened state, the flow of Qi becomes restricted and a variety of symptoms, including neck pain may arise and get worse.

By inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points at the neck area, an acupuncturist is able to break up blockages that have hampered the smooth flow of Qi. Once this is done, Qi can travel freely, promoting pain-free health, well-being and vitality.

Acupuncture Can Treat Chronic Neck Pain

A study published in British Medical Journal states that, “Acupuncture can be a safe form of treatment for patients with chronic neck pain if the objective is to obtain relief from pain related to movement and to improve cervical mobility. As neck pain may be a chronic condition, single forms of treatment may be inadequate, and acupuncture merits consideration.”¹

Other studies suggest that acupuncture can treat degenerative disorders of the neck and spine. According to a study published by U.S. National Institutes of Health in 2010, it was concluded that, “Traditional acupuncture can relieve pain intensity and improve the quality of daily life with a relative long-term clinical efficacy in patients with chronic neck pain.”²

Acupuncture is safe, natural and has no side effects—unlike many of the medications often used to treat pain.

Your acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset will take a detailed health history and perform a physical exam to find out where and why your body’s vital energies have become blocked and out of balance. She will work to not only relieve your pain, but to identify and treat the underlying causes.

During treatment, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific points along the meridian pathways in order to restore the balance and flow of Qi. Jenny may also perform acupressure or other types of therapy, based on your unique issues and symptoms.

Jenny may also recommend herbs, changes in diet, stretches and other exercises to work in conjunction with acupuncture treatment. These adjunct therapies help you regain your health and prevent future problems. By working together Jenny—and taking good care of yourself—you will be on your way to a healthier, pain-free future before you know it.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture treatment is a natural and safe way to relieve the symptoms associated with menopause.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine understand that symptoms and signs are merely indications of an imbalance deep within the body. This 5,000 year-old healing art focuses upon correcting underlying imbalances that have occurred over the years.

These imbalances, if left unchecked, will result in a variety of symptoms and signs normally associated with a Western diagnosis of menopause.

Acupuncture for Menopause and a Woman’s Natural Process

Menopause signifies “a change” within a woman’s life. This change occurs because a woman’s body chemistry is shifting. Chinese medicine recognizes this chemistry change as a natural process.

Estrogen is similar to what acupuncturists call Jing Qi. Jing Qi is like a gift that is given to all of us at the time of conception. It is the battery that provides us with the basic energy to power all our life functions. When Jing Qi is abundant, our ability to adapt to disease, illness and stress is optimal.

As we age, our supply of Jing Qi energy is slowly drained. Generally, Jing Qi naturally begins to decline between the ages of 35 to 60, although some people drain it faster than others.

When Jing Qi declines, the Organ Systems within our body become unbalanced. This leads to various symptoms and signs, such as graying hair, loss of libido, weakness of knees, urinary difficulty, poor memory, backache and fatigue.

Another factor that can contribute to menopause is an imbalance in Yin and Yang energies. One possible scenario is an imbalance caused by the slowing of the flow of Yin. Yin can be thought of as the cooling system of the body. When this cooling system declines, heat symptoms will naturally arise, leading to night sweats, restlessness, hot flashes, mood swings, heart palpitations and insomnia.

The decline of Yang energy can also lead to imbalance. Yang represents the warming and metabolizing functions of the body. When Yang is unbalanced, symptoms may include water retention, cold hands and feet, weight gain, edema, indigestion, hypertension, or raised cholesterol levels.

Left untreated, a decline and imbalance of Jing, Yin or Yang will lead to the symptoms and signs that are normally associated with a Western diagnosis of menopause.

How Jing Qi can be drained:

• Overworking
• Overexertion
• Over doing it
• Poort dietary habits
• Inherited weakness
• Burning the candle at both ends
• Sitting or standing for long periods
• Excessive activities (sexual, alcohol, drugs, late nights)

What can an acupuncturist do?

Acupuncturist Jenny Bisset will conduct a thorough evaluation and a complete health history. The symptoms, signs and other information that is gathered are pieces of the diagnostic health puzzle. Putting together this puzzle allows a practitioner to develop a unique treatment plan that will address each patient’s individual concerns.

When treating menopausal symptoms, an acupuncturist must first determine where the energy has changed, and what Organ Systems have become unbalanced. Once this is known, various natural therapies such as acupuncture, herbs, meditation, Qi Gong and diet can be used to correct the imbalances.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer a safe, natural, drug-free and effective way to address menopause. Treatment supports the healing energies of Jing, Yin and Yang, providing the body with the building blocks it needs in order to nourish, heal, and regain balance.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
(650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture has been proven to be an effective and safe alternative treatment for insomnia.

Insomnia can be very frustrating, but it’s more than an annoyance. When insomnia becomes ongoing, or chronic, your body is unable to get the rest and renewal it needs so that you can feel your best. In fact, a lack of quality sleep can cause problems such as difficulty concentrating, diminished energy, low mood, and trouble performing everyday tasks.

Since sleep strengthens the immune system, insomnia can leave you susceptible to many other health concerns. Fortunately, acupuncture in combination with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help. So, you don’t have to just “put up with” chronic insomnia.

How Acupuncture Can Help for Insomnia

According to the theories of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), conditions such as insomnia are a sign of an imbalance in Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness.

This imbalance can stem from a number of causes such as stress, anxiety, medications, depression, and chronic pain. To determine the underlying causes of your insomnia, your acupuncturist will take into account many factors, including your lifestyle and emotional and mental well-being. They will then work to restore the balance and flow of Qi by inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points along the body.

Acupuncturist Jenny Bisset may also suggest aromatherapy, yoga, meditation, or other additional therapies. You may find that you sleep better after your very first session, though you will most likely receive the most benefit from a series of acupuncture for insomnia treatments.

Jenny can get to the root of your sleep issues by taking into account all of the factors that may be contributing to your sleep disturbance. With this ancient form of health care, you can treat your symptoms, improve your overall health and well-being, and start looking forward to a great night’s sleep.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
Call (650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can offer a safe, effective, natural and drug-free way to address IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). This holistic healthcare system looks at the body differently than Western medicine.

According to Chinese medicine, the body is like a garden that must be cultivated and maintained in order to grow strong and remain healthy. Good health happens when all of the organs and meridian systems are balanced and working together.

Acupuncture for IBS Looks for Imbalance

According to Chinese medical theories, there are several possible causes for IBS. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can create a clear picture of the root imbalance(s) that lead to IBS symptoms:

Scenario 1

One of these is an imbalance of the spleen. The spleen is the organ in charge of digestion and assimilation of foods and liquids. One of the main functions of the spleen is to aid in the production of spleen Qi. Spleen Qi is the energy that provides power and nourishment for the entire body.

Another function of the spleen is to produce blood from the food it breaks down and to convert it into usable energy to power your body. If your spleen isn’t properly cared for, the body’s energy levels will not be supported and illness may occur.

The spleen is easily affected and weakened by poor eating habits and diet, antibiotics, excessive worry, or a weak constitution. When a weakened spleen cannot metabolize or process food efficiently, “dampness” appears in the body.

Dampness occurs when rotting, undigested food sits in the gut, causing a variety of symptoms. If dampness “rises” to your head, you may experience headaches, a “foggy” feeling and an inability to concentrate. Over time, dampness can lead to bloating, fullness and loose stools.

Scenario 2

Another possible scenario is an imbalance in the liver. According to Chinese medicine, the liver is associated with emotional health. Stress and anger directly influence the function of your liver. Alcohol, drugs and medications, or a poor diet further compromise its function.

When this happens, your liver energy overflows, in a figurative sense, and attacks the spleen. If your spleen is already weakened, it can be easily overcome. The result can be stress-induced IBS.

If your liver is compromised, you may experience alternating diarrhea and constipation, as well as bloating, gas, headaches, and dull pain. In this case, your liver may be the root of the problem, and your spleen the secondary problem.

Scenario 3

An imbalance in kidney Yang could also cause IBS symptoms. kidney Yang is energy that provides warmth for your body. This energy warms up your spleen to aid in the digestion and breakdown of food. If your kidney energies are compromised, you may experience early-morning diarrhea and possibly bladder incontinence, cold limbs, weak knees and a sore back.

Acupuncturist, Jenny Bisset, will determine what organ and meridian systems are contributing to your IBS. she may also suggest adjunct therapies such as herbs, dietary changes, breathing techniques and exercises in order to maximize your healing in conjunction with your acupuncture treatment for IBS.

Schedule an appointment with Jenny today
Call (650) 206-8116
Acupuncture in San Carlos, CA
Jenny Bisset, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine