Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the most common digestive disorders in the United States. Approximately 25 to 45 million people, 7-14% of the population, suffer from the symptoms of IBS. There are over 200,000 cases seen per year. 

If you are looking for a way to help ease your symptoms, acupuncture could be the solution for you. 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common and chronic digestive disorder where the body goes through disturbances with how the digestive system operates in the large intestine. The gut develops increased sensitivity, which leads to abnormal contractions of the intestinal muscles, which in result leads to either a sped up or slowed down movement of food. This changed motility impacts absorption and digestion. This is what causes irregular bowel movements. 

What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Common symptoms that are associated with IBS include:

• Gas & bloating
• Abdominal cramping and/or pain
• Nausea
• Constipation, diarrhea, mixed bowel movements (alternates between both constipation and diarrhea)
• Stool that contains mucus
• Discomfort after eating
• Fatigue
• Bad taste in mouth
• A heightened need to use the bathroom/difficulty controlling bowel movements
• Sensation of an unfinished bowel movement

What worsens/causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

• Hormonal changes (women can experience worse symptoms when menstruating)
• Emotional stress & anxiety (the brain and gut connection can result in flare ups)
• Diet (fried/fatty foods, dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, gluten, and carbonated drinks)
• Medications
• Gut bacteria
• Physical inactivity (slows down digestion and creates bloating)

The modern day approach to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome focuses on the mild relief of symptoms by dietary changes and lifestyle changes. Managing stress, triggers, regular daily exercise, more fiber intake, and keeping a food diary can be beneficial.

How can Acupuncture help?

Acupuncture can be very beneficial when it comes to treating patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Many patients find long lasting relief in their symptoms after being treated. Acupuncture helps with:

• Regulating the digestive function
• Stabilizes nervous system & reduces stress 
• Pain relief
• Improve sleep quality
• Enhances blood circulation
• Regulates gut flora
• Aids in stabilization of bowel movements
• Boosts serotonin levels
• Improves overall well-being

Finding Hope and Relief from IBS Symptoms

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be exhausting, especially when unpredictable digestive symptoms begin interfering with everyday life.

One patient shared:

“Living with IBS made everyday activities stressful. I constantly worried about stomach cramps, bloating, and needing to find a bathroom. It felt like my digestive issues were controlling my life. After exploring different ways to manage my symptoms, I decided to try acupuncture as part of my care routine. Over time, I began noticing improvements in my digestive comfort and felt less overwhelmed by my symptoms. Being able to enjoy meals and go about my day with more confidence made such a difference.”

While everyone’s experience with IBS is different, acupuncture may offer additional support for managing stress and certain digestive symptoms. At Westbury Acupuncture, our goal is to help patients feel more comfortable and supported as they work toward improving their digestive health.

If you are searching for relief from your Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms and are seeking long lasting relief, you have come to the right place. Acupuncture helps address the root cause. At Westbury Acupuncture, we understand just how uncomfortable your symptoms can truly be and how tiring it can be. We aim to help you feel better and find relief. If you are over having unpredictable flare ups, call and book a free consultation today with us!