Pelvic Pain Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Treatment

Pelvic pain is quite common in women, though it can occur in men, as well. According to the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT), 10% of Canadians live with urinary incontinence, and 25–50% of all women will experience some kind of pelvic floor support issue. The lower portion of your abdomen is where pelvic pain is felt. The pain can be sudden and severe or last for six months or longer. Pain may indicate the presence of undiagnosed conditions that can represent abnormal psychoneuromuscular function.

A unique TCM approach to improve pelvic health

From a Chinese medical point of view, the pelvic region has many important organs: the kidneys, intestines, reproductive organs, and a very dense network of nerves, blood, and fluid (lymph) vessels reside there. Any imbalance or blockage of the circulation in this area can lead to dysfunctions of the systems, resulting in issues with fertility, urination, digestion, etc.

Chinese medicine uses abdominal palpation (Fukushin) to detect blockages or dysfunctions in the pelvic area and tongue observation to check congestion and fluid retention in the body that may be related to pelvic discomfort. TCM practitioners utilize acupuncture, moxibustion, manual therapy, and herbal medicine to address any imbalance or weakness in order to improve pelvic floor health and organ function.

Different from mainstream or Western pelvic floor therapy, which mainly focuses on muscles and soft tissues through manual manipulation, Chinese medicine’s approach is non-invasive, discomfort-free, and comes from a deeper level in terms of physiology, as such looking at blood circulation, water metabolism, and inflammation management.

Remedying these conditions can have a significant impact, not only on the physical aspect, but also on one’s emotional, social, and mental health.

The good news is that people with pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic pain, urinary, digestive, and reproductive dysfunction, can benefit from natural therapies such as acupuncture, moxa therapy, and Chinese herbal medicine, all of which are effective and affordable compared to conventional medical treatment. In fact, some research shows that alternative medicine such as acupuncture can be a versatile tool for a variety of pelvic floor disorders, including chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, postpartum syndrome, prolapse, hernia, endometriosis, and many other pelvic floor dysfunctions.

How does Chinese medicine Treat Pelvic Floor dysfunction?

Other than muscle weakness, many factors contribute to pelvic health: hormonal changes, aging, injury/surgery, childbirth, chronic inflammation, water retention, and poor blood circulation. Each person has a unique history and may present with different patterns. In order to properly and effectively address the problems, therapists are required to pay very detailed attention to each individual during the assessment and treatment process.

For example, there are several psychological and physiological components related to urinary incontinence. Age, medical history, lifestyle, and genetic predispositions can all be factors. Chinese medicine has different herbal formulas and acupuncture points to address the actual underlying issues each person has. The herbal formula Wu Ling San is used to treat incontinence with weakened muscles in the bladder; however, for patients who suffer from incontinence due to dysregulated nervous function, Chinese herbalists will use another formula, Si Ni San, to harmonize the Autonomic Nervous System.

Chinese medicine also has formulas such as Yi Wang Tang to strengthen the muscles and ligaments. Moxibustion is also very effective in treating prolapse, especially in conjunction with Chinese herbal medicine.

Kampo Health Chinese medicine clinic applies a holistic and personalized treatment to help people with pelvic health issues. We assess and examine our patients with TCM methods and apply the best treatment plan to fit their unique situation.

Kampo Heath is dedicated to improving women’s health, whether through hormonal balance and better immune function or other aspects of health so our patients can continue living happy, healthy, and fulfilled lives.

We provide authentic Chinese medicine and acupuncture in Toronto, Canada, and are here to address your pelvic health concerns. Whether you suffer from chronic pain, inflammation, prolapse, digestive problems, or fertility issues, connect with us today to learn more.