Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent condition characterized by abdominal discomfort linked to changes in bowel movements, and its diagnosis currently follows the updated Rome IV criteria.
Recent research indicates that the symptoms of IBS often stem from heightened sensitivity of nerves within the gastrointestinal tract's lining. These nerves are distinct from those found in the brain and spinal cord. For some individuals, the development of IBS might involve how these gut nerves communicate with the brain or how the brain processes this information.
In Western nations, IBS appears to affect women twice as frequently as men. The condition is widespread, impacting up to 7% of the NZ population. Most IBS sufferers experience initial symptoms before turning 40, with many recalling the onset of symptoms during childhood or early adulthood. There seems to be a genetic component, as many IBS patients have relatives with similar symptoms. Less commonly, IBS symptoms can arise after a severe intestinal infection, referred to as post-infectious IBS.
It's essential to differentiate between IBS and the similarly named inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Patients have raised concerns regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of current treatments for irritable bowel syndrome.
In a randomized controlled study, 233 UK patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome were enrolled with an average duration of 13 years and a minimum IBS Symptom Severity Score (SSS) of 100. Nine proficient acupuncturists, registered with the British Acupuncture Council and possessing at least three years of post-qualification experience, administered acupuncture. Their approach was rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles. Acupuncture was provided over a maximum of 10 sessions, adapted from a previously tested protocol, which included explanations and lifestyle advice based on acupuncture theory and clinical judgment. While specific acupuncture points were personalized for each patient and could vary over time, the core function of the acupuncture was standardized based on the theoretical frameworks employed, maintaining intervention consistency.
Throughout the study, all patients continued to receive care from their general practitioners and obtained usual care based on individual needs. Usual care, encompassing both NHS and non-NHS treatments, was documented for both groups at three, six, nine, and twelve months.
Clinical Results
For individuals dealing with chronic irritable bowel syndrome, our study revealed that acupuncture, as an adjunct in primary care, is linked to a modest yet statistically significant reduction in symptoms after three months. This was evident in 49% of patients within the acupuncture group and 31% in the usual care group, experiencing an improvement of over 50 points in their IBS SSS score. The number needed to treat was six. This positive effect was sustained mainly for up to twelve months. The acceptance of acupuncture among this patient group was notable, as evidenced by their willingness to continue attending acupuncture sessions after initiating treatment. On average, patients completed 9 out of the available 10 weekly acupuncture sessions.
This study featured the longest duration, up to twelve months of outcome data collection post-randomization, at the time of publication. In contrast, most other studies were conducted within hospital settings, with smaller sample sizes, more narrowly defined populations, and shorter follow-up periods.
Conclusion
In a meticulously conducted pragmatic randomized controlled trial, researchers assessed the effectiveness of acupuncture as an adjunct treatment for irritable bowel syndrome within primary care. Acupuncture demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes after three months, with a number needed to treat of six. Evidence of a sustained benefit over the longer term was also observed. In primary care settings, acupuncture should be regarded as a viable treatment option alongside other evidence-based therapies.
Reflection:
This study presents a compelling case. Our clinic offers advanced alternative treatments to improve your health and well-being.
Take care of yourself.
Violaine
References:
MacPherson H, Tilbrook H, Bland JM, Bloor K, Brabyn S, Cox H, Kang'ombe AR, Man MS, Stuardi T, Torgerson D, Watt I, Whorwell P. Acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome: primary care based pragmatic randomised controlled trial. BMC Gastroenterol. 2012 Oct 24;12:150. doi: 10.1186/1471-230X-12-150. PMID: 23095376; PMCID: PMC3556159.
Schneider A, Enck P, Streitberger K, Weiland C, Bagheri S, Witte S, Friederich HC, Herzog W, Zipfel S. Acupuncture treatment in irritable bowel syndrome. Gut. 2006 May;55(5):649-54. doi 10.1136/gut.2005.074518. Epub 2005 Sep 8. PMID: 16150852; PMCID: PMC1856122.
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