Acupuncture for Painful Bladder Syndrome

Chronic pain conditions are prevalent in our society, but effective treatments that truly address the underlying causes of those conditions are few and far between. Acupuncture is a little-known remedy for painful bladder syndrome and other chronic pain conditions that can severely limit a person’s functioning and quality of life.

What is painful bladder syndrome?

Painful bladder syndrome (PBS), also known as Interstitial Cystitis, is a chronic condition that, as the name implies, involves varying degrees of pain in the bladder and pelvic area. The condition is more common in women than men, with an estimated 700,000 people being impacted by it in the United States each year. In addition to pain, PBS affects patterns of urination, causing those who suffer from it to be able to hold only a small amount of urine in their bladder. This results in the need to urinate in small amounts more frequently, which can disrupt daily activities. Frequent urination at night time, too, can interrupt sleep and, ultimately, cause sleep deprivation. PBS can also have a negative effect on a person’s sex life due to pain in the pelvic region, making intercourse uncomfortable and, in some cases, unbearable.

How can acupuncture help with painful bladder syndrome? 

A growing body of research suggests that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for PBS. Like many chronic pain conditions, inflammation is at the root of PBS and, thus, is readily treated by acupuncture. While common treatments for this condition, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other pharmaceuticals, can alleviate PBS symptoms, they do not address the root cause and can have unintended side effects. Regular acupuncture treatment stimulates blood and energy flow throughout the body and can target areas that have become stifled. This reduces inflammation in the body overall and can also address specific areas that are inflamed, including the bladder and pelvis. When treated properly through acupuncture, PBS can be more effectively managed and can also result in the improvement of pain and inflammation in other parts of the body.

If you suffer from painful bladder syndrome or other chronic pain conditions, it’s worth exploring how acupuncture can help you find relief. At Deanna Carell Acupuncture, we are committed to meeting each of our patient's unique needs to help them live their best and healthiest lives. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how acupuncture can improve your quality of life by treating your painful bladder syndrome.