Brain-Gut dysfunction
Brain-Gut dysfunction
Causative Factors :
As per Classical Chinese Medicine, our dietary habits (consuming too much sugar, spicy, raw or large quantities of food) as well as our emotional state (long term stress, grief, emotional suppression or even fear) affect the flow of Qi responsible for peristalsis and nutrient absorption; causing diseases. Oftentimes, this may turn out to be the root cause for a lot of pain syndromes and menstrual irregularities. Hence, correcting our digestion and taking steps to not be stuck with a negative emotion for too long is imperative.
Methodology :
- Chronic digestive issues can be effectively treated through acupuncture treatment as it regulates both the endocrine and the autonomic nervous system hyperactivity that often accompanies such conditions.
- Current evidence indicates the potential for acupuncture to treat GI disorders through regulating intestinal motility, reducing visceral sensitivity, antagonizing intestinal inflammation, and modulating neuroendocrine mechanisms involved in the gut-brain axis.
- Needling, electroacupuncture and moxibustion work excellently in improving the appetite, reduce bloating and regularize the bowel movements.
- In addition, appropriate nutritional counselling complements the treatment in achieving a healthy gut.
- A well-placed needle sets off a cascade of events:
- Through the neurohumoral pathway; producing a signal that travels along the spinal cord to the brain, triggering a release of neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphins, serotonin and enkephalins. (Pomeranz, 1987, Zijlstra 2003, Zhao 2008, Cheng 2009).
- Reduction of inflammation by promoting release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors thereby reducing pain. (Kim 2008, Kavoussi 2007, Zijlstra 2003).
- Through enhancing local microcirculation, by increasing the diameter and blood flow velocity of peripheral arterioles. It can repair muscle injuries and strengthen weak muscles or relax tense ones. (Komori 2009).
- Due to the concentrated placement of acupoints around the joints, it can influence the stimulation of nerve growth factor and bone growth factors; thereby facilitating tissue regeneration. (Gh, He, Ruan Jw, Zeng Ys, X. Zhou, Y. Ding, and Zhou Gh, 2015)
As per Classical Chinese Medicine, regular Acupuncture sessions in the long run promote production and circulation of Qi, blood and body fluids as well as aid the transformation process by eliminating toxins through sweat, urine and faeces. This, in turn optimises immunity, improves appetite, energy levels and sleep, regularises bowel movements and helps manage stress better.
The safety profile of acupuncture is excellent, with very few adverse events when performed by a trained practitioner.
As no two patients are alike, the duration of the treatment vastly depends on the patient’s age, health habits and the severity of the condition.