Middle ear infection -- otitis media -- is one of the most common illnesses in children and babies, but can also occur in adults. The tubes of the middle ear become infected and clogged with mucus and fluid, which can cause pain and poor hearing. Signs of middle ear infection in children include tugging at the ears, crying more than usual, poor sleep, drainage from the ears, poor balance and difficulty hearing. Doctors generally prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics; however, children with chronic and recurring ear infections may require surgery. Acupuncture treatment may a provide safe, natural and effective relief for middle ear infections.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine developed in China more than 2,500 years ago and is used to help reduce pain, treat illness, balance the body and prevent disease. Acupuncture treatment involves inserting tiny needles at various acupuncture points throughout the body in order to stimulate your body's qi -- life force energy -- and signal your brain to release chemicals and hormones that reduce pain and improve health. Acupuncture therapy has grown in popularity in the United States since its introduction in the 1970s and today more than 1 million Americans use acupuncture as part of their healthcare regimen.
Research
Acupuncture treatment may provide safe and effective relief for ear infections. According to a study published in a 1982 issue of the Journal of Chinese Medicine, research was assessed in 86 cases of otitis media that were treated with acupuncture. The ages of patients with acute and chronic ear infections ranged from 3 months to 73 years old, with the majority of the patients being in the younger age range. After seven to 10 acupuncture treatments, 56 patients were cured, 23 patients experienced improvement and only 7 patients showed no effect. Furthermore, patients experienced no negative side effects with acupuncture treatment.
Treatment
When you see your acupuncturist for the first time, she may ask a number of questions about your current complaint, symptoms, health history, lifestyle and behavior. She will look at your tongue and feel your pulse in order to develop a Chinese medical diagnosis. You will lie comfortably as your acupuncturist inserts tiny needles at various points on your body, such as around your ears, on your arms, legs, hands and feet. You will relax with the acupuncture needles in for approximately 20 to 60 minutes, during which time you may fall asleep. You may require multiple acupuncture treatments before you experience full recovery of your middle ear infection.
Safety
Consult with your doctor prior to using acupuncture for your middle ear infection. Acupuncture is generally considered safe and rarely causes side effects; however, you may experience bruising, bleeding, discomfort at the site of the acupuncture or infection, especially if your acupuncturist is not well-trained. Ask your doctor, a friend, relative or your local health department for a reputable referral for a licensed acupuncturist in your area. If you are seeking acupuncture treatment for your child's ear infection, consider looking for an acupuncturist who specializes in pediatrics.
References
- MedlinePlus: Ear Infections
- Alternative Medicine Foundation, Inc.; Acupuncture: An Alternative and Complementary Medicine Resource Guide
- "The Journal of Chinese Medicine"; The Treatment of Otitis Media by Acupuncture; Dr. Zhou; 1982
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Acupuncture: An Introduction
