In this blog I will discuss the primary anatomical regions of dysfunction that contribute to painful periods.
Acupuncture and Period Pain
Period pain may range in severity from mild to intense. Sometimes it may be accompanied by digestive issues, or nausea and vomiting depending on the pain levels. In my experience as an acupuncturist who has been practicing for 15 years, there are 4 primary regions that will demonstrate pathology and when treated will lessen to a significant degree or eliminate period pain altogether.
In our Flatiron, NY clinic, period pain hasn’t been as common of a complaint as when I practiced in Seattle. One of the reasons is that the population in the city is generally healthy, we spend a decent amount of time outside walking and or exercising.
In Seattle, the weather is very damp and cold. Dampness in Chinese Medicine is sticky and difficult to get rid of. Dampness congests the channels and contributes to more pain in general, but especially during women’s menstruation.
Key Area 1
The fist key area is the sacral fascia. The region is important to treat because there is a circulatory pattern that passes from the bladder back through the sacrum. When we examine this area, we see that the channel MUST pass through the uterus. Since periods are the process of the uterus shedding the endometrium, cramping may occur as a result.
Often times, acupuncture point region UB 28-UB 34 is treated to help with both infertility and menstrual pain. Treating these acu point regions may be adequate, but if it doesn’t release, there may be a fascia restriction that is hindering circulation to the uterus.
Key Area 2
The second key area is located on the front of the body. It is located near acupuncture point region st-30 and is called Qi Intersection. This refers to a multitude of channels that converge in this area. Since this area is filled with channel circulation, it MUST remain open for healthy functioning of a woman’s cycle and for healthy function of the organs as well. Nei Jing Acupuncture is very specific about needling techniques and how these techniques influence circulation in specific tissue planes. Both Key area 1 and Key area 2 should be treated with a sinew technique for the best results.
Key Area 3
This region is located along the inner shin. In this area there are three major acupuncture points that influence a woman’s cycle. These points are spleen 6, liver-5, and spleen 8. Spleen 8 is the most common point used for painful periods, but careful palpation of the area will reveal if it will be useful or not. Generally if the area is painful when pressed, treating the tender point with acupuncture will help.
Key Area 4
This is a very common point among acupuncturists. It is located between the first and second metatarsal on the foot. It is named Tai Chong or liver-3. Liver-3 is the source point of the liver, so it helps the liver function optimally. Liver 3 is also treated when the period is heavy and may have clots.
Treating these areas will be useful in treating painful periods in general, but carefully palpating the regions for abnormality will yield the best results. Palpation of the points and channels will determine the appropriate technique to be used and will enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture.
Contact us today to schedule an acupuncture appointment in Flatiron.
