Acupuncture for Hemorrhoids: A Holistic and Natural Approach to Relief
Finding Relief from Hemorrhoids with Traditional Chinese Medicine
Anyone who has ever experienced hemorrhoids will tell you what a ‘pain in the butt’ it can be. Surgery is only an option in the most extreme cases. So, for all other situations people rely on over-the-counter and prescription medications to provide relief. Unfortunately, the relief tends to last a short period because Western medicine focuses primarily on treating symptoms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine, which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs, maintains a holistic perspective aimed towards resolving what is causing the hemorrhoids while also providing relief and improving a person’s quality of life.
At Above & Beyond Acupuncture we treat a variety of physical and emotional ailments that can lead to hemorrhoids. We use different treatment methods to promote and increase the healing response of the body, which in turn helps heal the hemorrhoids. It takes a multifaceted approach to alleviate this ailment naturally without the use of Western medication(s). Being that this is a common condition many people suffer with we wanted to explain what hemorrhoids are, list some symptoms, discuss possible causes and explain how acupuncture can provide substantial and long-lasting relief.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Before we discuss treatment options, it’s essential to understand what hemorrhoids are.
According to Healthline, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. There are two main main types:
- Internal Hemorrhoids – Located inside the rectum and are usually painless but may cause bleeding.
- External Hemorrhoids – Form outside the anus, often leading to pain, swelling, and discomfort.
External hemorrhoids are more common and tend to be the most challenging to resolve.
Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The Mayo Clinic lists the following as common symptoms of hemorrhoids:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood in the toilet or on toilet paper)
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around the anus
- Lumps near the anus that may be sensitive or painful
- Fecal leakage
The severity, frequency and consistency of these symptoms can vary from person to person, as there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. It is important to seek treatment from a medical professional if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
There are a variety of potential causes of hemorrhoids. While it is true that some people have a genetic predisposition to this condition, there are other issues that can be a factor.
These causes may include, but are not limited to:
- Rushing to complete bowel movements
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Not consuming enough fiber
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Colon Cancer
Can Acupuncture Treat Hemorrhoids?
How Acupuncture Helps with Hemorrhoids
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs, has been used by millions of people over thousands of years to treat a wide range of ailments including hemorrhoids. TCM provides patients with a natural and holistic approach towards resolving illness. Thus, patients using this medicine are more likely to avoid the dependency on medication and/or surgery.
Acupuncture has been shown to provide significant and long-lasting relief to people suffering with this condition. When a licensed acupuncturist treats people with hemorrhoids, he or she collects important and relevant information about the patient’s health history and presenting symptoms. The practitioner will use this data and combine it with other information such as tongue and pulse diagnosis.
Once this is accomplished, the practitioner will prescribe a TCM diagnosis and treatment plan that can include:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese herbs
- Nutritional guidance
- Other modalities that benefit and expedite the healing process.
Traditional Chinese Medicine View of Hemorrhoids
In Traditional Chinse Medicine, hemorrhoids can be caused by five primary disharmonies:
- Damp Heat – Excess heat and moisture in the body leading to swelling and irritation
- Spleen Qi Deficiency – Weak digestion causing poor blood circulation in the lower body
- Spleen Qi Sinking – A weakened spleen leading to blood vessel weakness and hemorrhoid formation
- Blood Stasis – Poor circulation causing stagnation and swollen veins
- Intestinal Dryness & Wind – Dehydration and improper digestion leading to constipation
A licensed acupuncturist will employ differential diagnosis to ascertain which disharmony is present and then work towards resolving it.
Get Natural Relief from Hemorrhoids Today!
If you, or someone you know, is living with hemorrhoids now is the time to start working with a licensed acupuncturist. There’s no need to suffer any longer; try acupuncture today!
Above & Beyond Acupuncture serves the Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and Glendale areas.
Schedule an appointment online or call us today to start your journey to relief.
