Acupuncture and Achalasia

Acupuncture is a healing art that originated in Asia more than 3,000 years ago. It entails placing small needles in points along the body to elicit a specific healing reaction. According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture has been found to effectively treat a variety of health issues, including esophageal issues like achalasia. Treatment should be administered by a qualified, licensed acupuncturist. Consult your doctor before receiving acupuncture, particularly if you are taking any medication.

Achalasia

Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus — the tube that carries food to the stomach. In people suffering from achalasia, a muscular ring that wraps around the esophagus does not relax due to nerve damage. Symptoms can include chest pain, a back flow of food, coughing, difficulty swallowing, heartburn and weight loss. Achalasia is a rare disorder, according to PubMed Health, but is more common in older and middle-aged adults. Genetics might play a role for some people.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory

The function of a specific organ is described in relation to qi — pronounced chee — according to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine — the foundation upon which acupuncture is based. Qi is the subtle energy that flows through the body and is responsible for, amount other things, controlling the organs. The qi of the stomach, and its surrounding structures, should flow downwards, carrying food and drink to be further digested. When that flow is blocked, it is referred to as rebellious stomach qi. The goal of treatment is to restore the proper flow of qi by regulating the stomach qi and relaxing the muscles.

Acupuncture Points

The principles of TCM dictate that each patient be diagnosed individually to ascertain the underlying cause of a particular problem. Points would then be prescribed to meet that particular patient's needs. Despite the individual diagnosis, some basic acupuncture points are typically prescribed for all patients. Those points include points along the midline of the body, close to the affected area of the esophagus, and points on the abdomen, as well as points on the leg that correspond to the stomach. Other commonly used points include those on the spleen and liver channel. The spleen has a direct relation to the muscles, and the liver channel points assist in blood flow.

Studies

A study published in the 1986 "Digestive Surgery" journal reported that patients suffering from achalasia and who received acupuncture had a significant reduction in sphincter tone in the esophagus when compared to patients who received sham acupuncture. The reduction in sphincter tone allowed for a smoother flow of food through the esophagus. The researchers stated that the change was possibly due to either a relaxation of the vagus nerve or to the stimulation of hormones.

Consideration

Consult a licensed practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine to ensure proper treatment. A TCM practitioner might also offer other modalities of treatment in addition to acupuncture, including massage, cupping and herbal medicine. If you are under the care of a medical doctor or are taking medication for your condition, consult your doctor before attempting acupuncture or taking any herbs. Inform your acupuncturist about any medications or other treatments you are receiving.