In Chinese medicine, fibroids are seen as stagnant uterine blood flow, which obstructs the menstruation and conception processes. Acupuncture and acupressure are believed to be capable of relieving the stagnation and restoring normal menstruation and conception.
Focusing on Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the use of thin sterile disposable needles that are inserted into acupuncture points in the body to cause an effect. These acupuncture points may stimulate the brain and the spinal cord to release chemicals that help the body to regulate itself and support overall well-being. In here, the whole person is being healed—body, mind, and spirit.
For uterine fibroids, this treatment will focus on realigning the delicate hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which controls hormonal balance, including progesterone and estrogen. Acupuncture can help in the reduction of vaginal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, abdominal bloating, cramps, and pelvic pain.
It also aids in correcting hormonal imbalance by stimulating nerve endings in the particular acupuncture points, which in turn shrink fibroids. Acupuncture targets the root cause of fibroid formation, thus helping the body heal itself. Some acupuncture points which are selected to cure uterine fibroids include Ren 5, Ren 7, Sp 6, St 7, and extra-Zigongxue.
A Look into Acupressure
Acupressure is the application of pressure on specific body areas with the use of fingers in order to restore well-being, heal, and prevent various diseases. In Japan, this is known as shiatsu. It is a belief that all diseases in the body are a result of blockages in energy.
Applying pressure on acupressure points for uterine fibroids can relieve symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and heavy bleeding. Acupressure can be done by a professional or even by one’s self.
More on Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese medicine, there are two types of mass: the Zheng and the Jia. Zheng are solid masses with fixed location and defined physical form, while Jia are masses that manifest and disperse without apparent pattern and distinct physical form. These distinctions determine the body points where the treatment would be done and the kind of herbs to use.
Chinese medical treatments can shrink and reduce fibroids up to the size of a goose egg (about 6.5cm) when done regularly, but the results will always vary from one person to another.
The stimulation provided by acupuncture has been found to induce the regression of pathologic multiplication of cells locally, and does not have any proven side effects. These treatments can also help regulate menstrual cycle, re-balance hormonal production, help produce better egg quality, and improve ovarian production and ovulation when used together.
Proper formulas can help generate uterine contractions, which will eliminate dissolved stasis. A formula such as Guizhi Fuling Wan (cinnamon and hoelen) can aid in reducing fibroid size and in alleviating side effects. Some herbs used for shrinking fibroid masses include Radix Arnebiae, Bur Reed Tuber, Euonymus Alatus, Pollen Typhae, Carapax Trionycis, and Zedoray Rhizome.
A Good Synergistic Effect
The incorporation of Chinese herbs supports overall healing since it works well with acupuncture in balancing energy, both internally and externally. Chinese herbs focus on revitalizing the flow of blood, helping break up the stasis of fibroids.
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