A lot of patients coming in for acupuncture treatment ask if acupuncture is any good for resolving blood conditions such as anemia. They are often pleasantly surprised to hear that Chinese herbal therapy and acupuncture have actually been used for dozens of centuries to treat anemia symptoms such as pale complexion, weakness and tiredness. The truth is, anemia is the most common condition of the blood seen by western trained physicians and when it is severe enough, it can cause shortness of breath and palpitations.
The latest clinical studies have revealed that acupuncture can actually elevate the levels of serum ferratin and decrease the Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC). The TIBC is a test to rate the ability of the body to bind iron.
The ones who have conducted the study used the zu san li (meaning three leg mile) acupuncture point. This point is known to help strengthen the body that the person could walk three miles more after a full day of walking. The zu san li point, according to traditional Chinese medicine, can boost the function of the spleen.
According to TCM, the abdomen takes in the food while the spleen processes the food. The correct acupuncture points stimulated can better nutrient and therefore, iron absorption. The zu san li point can likewise help in the treatment of shortness of breath, palpitations and tiredness, all symptoms related to anemia.
Obviously, the anemic patent’s diet needs to be modified as well but acupuncture can be the sparkplug that can enhance the digestion process and the absorption of the food the patient eats.
Acupuncture is not merely the insertion of needles into the leg or on any part of the body. Certain anatomical sites and delicate pressure areas are determined by a licensed acupuncturist before he/she inserts a needle into a patient’s body. The needles used for acupuncture therapy have a varied range of thicknesses and lengths and the ones used will be based on what kind of effect the acupuncturist wants to attain.
After the needle has been inserted, the acupuncturist utilizes a number of stimulation procedures wherein a needle may be lifted up or moved and twisted in certain directions to bring about stimulation. The aforementioned study entailed certain needling thrust and lift methods to bring about an effect that would improve the strength of the body.
Patients usually complain that iron supplements make them constipated. Moreover, the cause of the anemia needs to be treated in order for the patient to gain long-term balance and good health.
DeJongh Acupuncture Clinic
2929 SW 3rd Ave #610
Miami, FL 33129
(305) 677-3214
https://www.miamiacupunctureclinic.com/