Digestive Disorders
Dr. Captain specializes in facilitating the return to normal digestion with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes acupuncture and functional Chinese medicine.
Acupuncture helps by:
Modulating the gut-brain axis: Acupuncture has been found to influence the communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. This bidirectional connection plays a role in digestive function and can be disrupted in various gastrointestinal conditions. By modulating the gut-brain axis, acupuncture may help regulate gut functions and alleviate symptoms.
Regulating gut motility: Acupuncture may help regulate the contractions of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting normal bowel movements and relieving symptoms of constipation or diarrhea.
Reducing inflammation: Inflammatory digestive system conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, can cause significant discomfort. Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation in the gut and improve symptoms.
Managing pain: Digestive disorders often involve abdominal pain or discomfort. Acupuncture may help reduce pain perception by releasing endorphins and activating pain-modulating pathways.
Enhancing relaxation and stress reduction: Stress and anxiety can worsen digestive symptoms. Acupuncture sessions can induce relaxation and reduce stress levels, which may positively impact digestive health.
Improving nutrient absorption: Acupuncture may support the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food by optimizing digestive functions.
Functional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive approach that includes dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and other therapeutic interventions to address digestive health.
At times it is necessary to perform stool testing. When it comes to gut testing, such as the GI Maps test by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, or other microbiome analysis tests, these are diagnostic tools used to assess the health and composition of the gut microbiome and identify specific imbalances or abnormalities.
This type of testing gives us a window into the makeup of the gut microbiome which refers to the collection of microorganisms (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi) that reside in the gastrointestinal tract and play a crucial role in digestion and overall health.
The test also reflects the functioning of the gut itself. It allows for adjustments in food and targeted nutritional supplements that enable a return to normal digestive capabilities.
Suppose you suffer from bloating, acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea, or food sensitivities or have been diagnosed with gastroparesis. In that case, we can help you manage and, in many cases, return your gut to normal functioning.
What are you waiting for? Call us today!