Reflux & Acupuncture

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents travel back into the oesophagus, often causing heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest or throat, regurgitation, belching or an acidic taste in the mouth.

When reflux occurs regularly, it may be diagnosed as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD/GERD). Symptoms can be influenced by factors such as diet, meal timing, stress, certain medications and other digestive conditions.

Acupuncture for Reflux

Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy to support people experiencing reflux and associated digestive symptoms.

Treatment is individualised and may focus on symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, bloating, nausea and digestive discomfort, as well as stress and nervous system regulation when these appear to influence symptoms.

Where appropriate, acupuncture may also be combined with Chinese herbal medicine, dietary advice and lifestyle changes as part of a broader approach to digestive health.

Reflux Through a Chinese Medicine Lens

Chinese medicine recognises that reflux can arise from different underlying patterns, so treatment is not based on the symptom of heartburn alone.

Factors such as when reflux occurs, foods that trigger it, appetite, bloating, nausea, bowel movements, stress and other accompanying symptoms are considered when developing an individual treatment plan.

The aim is to address both the reflux symptoms and the underlying Chinese medicine pattern contributing to the individual’s presentation.

Persistent, worsening or unexplained reflux should be appropriately medically assessed.

If you are experiencing reflux or ongoing digestive discomfort and would like to explore whether acupuncture or Chinese medicine may be helpful, please GET IN TOUCH.