1. Change Your Lifestyle Too
For centuries Chinese medicine has incorporated acupuncture in treatments. Acupuncture is used to treat heartburn, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and other conditions. Though viewed by some as a mysterious or alternate therapy, many have found heartburn or GERD relief by seeing an acupuncturist. Acupuncture along with lifestyle changes can relieve heartburn or GERD. Things such as diet, quitting smoking and meditating may be effective treatments when combined with acupuncture.
2. Get Relief on Your Wrist
Acupuncture is traditionally performed with tiny needles on certain points on the body. After the needles are inserted, they are moved to a certain depth, depending on the ailment. These needles can be stimulated with heat or electricity. They also may be moved slightly to stimulate the pathways. Modern research has hypothesized that acupuncture stimulates nerve endings, which sends signals to the brain to release certain chemicals. The chemicals that are stimulated may affect ailments. Depending on the nerve that is stimulated, there are different results. For heartburn or GERD, the point that acupuncturist use is on the wrist. Treatments are usually once or twice a week. Treatments are considered outpatient and may last for twelve weeks or more.
3. Combine Methods
Primary health care providers and acupuncturists believe in combining methods. Traditional Chinese medicine recommends acupuncture, stress relief and a combination of Chinese herbs. Western medicine may use acupuncture and proton inhibitors. It is becoming more common to combine western medicine with alternate treatments, such as acupuncture. Your primary health care provider can to refer you to a certified acupuncturist. Speak with them about your desire to receive this treatment for your heartburn or GERD.
