Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Diverticulitis

(Orlando Alternative Health 2023)

What is diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the large intestine become inflamed or infected. This typically causes symptoms like lower abdominal pain, often concentrated on the lower left side, along with fever, nausea, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Symptoms

Key indicators of diverticulitis often include sudden, constant pain in the lower-left abdomen, accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Patients may also experience noticeable changes in bowel habits, including either constipation or diarrhea. Less common or more severe symptoms include significant fatigue, loss of appetite, and the presence of blood in the stool. While pain is most often localized to the lower left, it can occasionally be felt on the lower right side.

Cause

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon, known as diverticula (the condition of having these is called diverticulosis), become infected or inflamed. This usually happens when bacteria or stool become trapped inside the pouches. Risk factors associated with the development of diverticulosis and subsequent inflammation include aging, a low-fiber diet, obesity, smoking, lack of regular physical exercise, and the use of certain medications, such as NSAIDs. While the exact cause is not fully understood, these factors contribute significantly to the risk profile.

Treatment

The medical management of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis generally involves oral or intravenous antibiotics, pain control, hydration, and restricted oral intake. Most cases of diverticulitis are successfully managed in the outpatient setting with these measures.

Why acupuncture for the treatment of diverticulitis?

Acupuncture can be a valuable complementary treatment for diverticulitis by working to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain through endorphin release, regulate gut function (addressing both constipation and diarrhea), and lower overall stress. This multi-faceted approach aims to manage flare-ups and potentially reduce the risk of recurrence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, diverticulitis is often viewed as an obstruction in the flow of Qi (energy) and Blood within the intestines. Acupuncture treatment focuses on restoring this natural flow. By facilitating the free movement of Qi and Blood, we aim to reduce localized inflammation and promote the regulation of healthy gut function.

For effective long-term management, consistent acupuncture treatments should be integrated with necessary dietary adjustments. While adding 'good' high-fiber foods is beneficial, the first step should always be the elimination of inflammatory foods.

Key inflammatory foods to eliminate include processed meats, refined carbohydrates, high sugar items, fried foods, trans fats, unhealthy oils, and excess alcohol. For a sustainable high-fiber diet, focus on incorporating wholesome foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and beans, and nuts and seeds.

In my clinical experience clients often seek acupuncture treatment to reduce reliance on antibiotics and decrease the frequency and severity of future flare-ups.

About the Author

Youngmi Choi

Ripple Acupuncture | Charlestown | Newcastle

As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care. My special interests include women’s health & fertility, pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, and digestive balance. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.

If you have any questions about your diverticulitis condition, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884.

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Reference

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