POTS & Acupuncture

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, commonly known as POTS, is a form of dysautonomia that affects the autonomic nervous system. It is characterised by an excessive increase in heart rate when moving into an upright position.

People with POTS may experience dizziness, light-headedness, palpitations, fatigue, brain fog, exercise intolerance, headaches, digestive symptoms and sometimes fainting or near-fainting. Symptoms and severity can vary considerably between individuals.

Acupuncture for POTS

Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy to support people living with POTS and some of the symptoms associated with the condition.

Treatment is individualised and may focus on areas such as stress and nervous system regulation, sleep, digestive symptoms, headaches, pain and overall wellbeing.

Because POTS can affect tolerance to standing, exertion and changes in position, treatment can also be adapted to the individual’s needs on the day, including treating entirely while lying down where appropriate.

POTS Through a Chinese Medicine Lens

Chinese medicine considers the individual’s overall pattern rather than the diagnosis alone, but often POTS is associated with weak Yang floating up to the head.

Treatment may take into account dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, digestion, sleep, temperature regulation and other accompanying symptoms. Two people diagnosed with POTS may therefore receive very different treatments.

The aim is to provide individualised support for the person’s symptoms and overall wellbeing, alongside appropriate medical management of POTS.

If you are living with POTS and would like to explore whether acupuncture or Chinese medicine may be a useful addition to your care, please GET IN TOUCH.