Acupuncture for digestive problems

Acupuncture can help with a wide range of digestive issues, from everyday complaints to more serious conditions.

Robert has worked with patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and acid reflux. He also treats common problems like diarrhea and constipation.

For conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, acupuncture is a complement to care from your doctor or gastroenterologist, not a replacement for it.

The Chinese medicine view

In traditional Chinese medicine, most digestive imbalances relate to a disharmony between the Liver and the Spleen. By harmonizing the Liver and Spleen Qi, Robert aims to ease both chronic and acute digestive problems.

Stress can also affect digestion. For more on that, see stress and relaxation.

What to expect

Many patients see real improvement over a series of five to ten acupuncture sessions, often together with a course of Chinese herbal medicine.

Robert practices Toyohari, a Japanese style of acupuncture that uses careful pulse reading, very fine needles and gentle contact. He sees one patient at a time.