Acupuncture for Premenstrual Syndrome ( PMS) Relief
Both acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been successfully used for many years to treat the uncomfortable symptoms that are connected to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as abdominal cramps, bloating, headaches, back pain and fatigue. It generally takes at least three menstrual periods or more in a row to regulate the cycle but many women begin to notice an improvement after only a month of treatment.
Approximately two to five percent of women suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) whereby their symptoms are so intense that they interfere with the person’s day-to-day activities. These are the people who could benefit from holistic methods of healing.
Having regular acupuncture treatments is beneficial for balancing a woman’s hormonal function and can also be useful for the autonomic nervous system. Acupuncture can also help to manage PMS on a long term basis.
During a treatment, gentle heat is applied to the designated acupuncture points on the lower abdomen and the lumbar sacrum area. This is done by way of a moxibution stick. The application of the heat tends to bring rapid relief of a soothing nature to the patient.
When it comes to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver and spleen play an integral role in the functioning of the menstrual system.
The Liver Energy (often referred to as Liver Qi) can sometimes become stagnated. This can lead to painful periods that are very irregular. Liver Qi Stagnation is a common cause of imbalance in the reproductive system that is believed by TCM practitioners to be related to resentment, repressed anger and /or frustration. In some women, stagnation of Liver Qi is connected to a prolonged use of drugs (which can include birth control pills).
One of the most common Chinese medicine practices is acupressure. Acupressure is very beneficial for improving imbalances in the reproductive system and relieving stagnation in the body. Using acupressure helps to open up the areas where energy has become blocked.
To find relief from PMS, find the acupressure point which is located on what is known as the liver meridian. This point can be found on the lateral side of the big toe, approximately 1/6” from the corner of the nail. Be prepared for the area to be very sensitive to the touch.
While it is recommended that you visit a qualified practitioner for treatments you can also work on the acupressure point yourself at home. Apply gentle pressure to the appropriate area of the foot for a period of up to five minutes. Hold the point until the discomfort begins to lessen. This will help to release the lactic acid in the muscles where the energy is blocked and will allow the energy to begin to flow again as nature intended. Do this a couple of times throughout the day for optimum results.
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