Irregular menstrual cycles are common and can affect many women at different times in their lives. As well as making periods unpredictable, they can also have a direct impact on fertility. Fortunately, there are natural solutions to help the body regain its hormonal balance and support a more regular cycle.

What is an irregular menstrual cycle?

A cycle is considered irregular when its length varies greatly from one month to the next, when it is too short (less than 21 days) or too long (more than 35 days), or when ovulation is absent or unpredictable. This can show up as:

• unpredictable periods
• very long or very short cycles
• no periods for several months
• difficulty identifying ovulation

These irregularities are often a sign that the hormonal system is disrupted.

Irregular cycles and fertility: what is the link?

For a pregnancy to occur, ovulation needs to be regular and of good quality. When ovulation is irregular or absent, it becomes more difficult to:

• identify the fertile days
• plan a conception
• ensure optimal hormone production (oestrogen, progesterone)

An irregular cycle does not mean infertility, but it can slow down or complicate plans for a pregnancy.

Common causes of irregular cycles

Stress

Chronic stress acts directly on the hormonal axis and can block or delay ovulation.

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)

This is one of the most common causes of irregular cycles. It often leads to infrequent or absent ovulation.

Thyroid disorders

Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can disrupt the menstrual cycle and affect fertility.

Hormonal imbalances

Excess oestrogen, progesterone deficiency or insulin resistance can disturb the regularity of the cycle.

Lifestyle

Lack of sleep, an unbalanced diet, overtraining or large changes in weight also play a key role.

How can you rebalance your cycle naturally?

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a natural approach whose action on hormonal regulation has been the subject of studies with encouraging but still limited results. It may help to:

• support ovulation
• improve cycle regularity
• reduce stress and cortisol levels
• encourage better blood circulation to the reproductive organs

It is often part of natural fertility programmes or used alongside medical follow-up.

Nutrition

A suitable diet helps stabilise blood sugar and support hormone production. It is recommended to favour:

• good-quality protein
• healthy fats (omega-3)
• fibre
• fewer fast-release sugars

Some micronutrients such as zinc, magnesium and B vitamins are essential to the balance of the cycle.

Lifestyle adjustments

Simple changes can have a significant impact:

• improving sleep quality
• reducing chronic stress
• adapting physical activity to the cycle
• respecting the body’s natural rhythms

These adjustments help gradually bring the cycle back into rhythm.

Regaining a more regular cycle to support fertility

Irregular cycles are a signal sent by the body. By taking an overall approach (acupuncture, nutrition and lifestyle), it is possible to create more favourable conditions for regular ovulation and fertility.

As every woman is unique, personalised support makes it possible to identify the causes of the imbalances and act in depth.

Looking for natural support?

If you would like to rebalance your cycle and support your fertility naturally, personalised support through acupuncture and well-being can help you regain a more harmonious cycle.

📍 Practices in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet
📅 Consultations by appointment

👉 Contact me to find out more about support adapted to your cycle.

A tendinitis is a common reason for consultation, among athletes as well as active or sedentary people. Persistent pain, loss of mobility, discomfort at work or during sport… once it sets in, it can become very disabling.

In our acupuncture practices in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet, we regularly support patients suffering from acute or chronic tendinitis, with a holistic, natural and personalised approach.

Supporting tendinitis with acupuncture: why consult in Aix-en-Provence or Cadenet?

Acupuncture is the subject of extensive research in the management of musculoskeletal pain, including tendinitis.

It may help to:

• relieve pain
• reduce inflammation
• improve local blood circulation
• speed up the recovery of the tendon
• prevent recurrences

👉 It may be of interest to patients looking for a complement to medical follow-up.

Acute tendinitis: prompt care with acupuncture

Acute tendinitis usually appears after excessive effort, a repetitive movement or an overly intense return to sport.
It shows up as recent pain, often sharp, sometimes accompanied by swelling.

Acupuncture and acute tendinitis in Aix-en-Provence / Cadenet

In this case, acupuncture may be particularly worth considering, alongside medical follow-up.

Aims of treatment:

• calm the inflammation
• relieve pain quickly
• encourage the tendon to heal

👉 Some people notice an improvement from the first sessions.

Chronic tendinitis: helping to relieve pain

Tendinitis is described as chronic when the pain has persisted for more than 3 months.
At this stage, the tendon is often weakened, less well supplied with blood and subject to postural compensations.

Acupuncture for chronic tendinitis in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet

Acupuncture may help to:

• restart the microcirculation
• make the tissues more supple
• reduce persistent pain
• act on the underlying terrain (stress, fatigue, recovery)

👉 Treatment is gradual and requires several sessions, and some people notice a lasting improvement when it is followed properly.

Location of the tendinitis: a key factor in treatment

Tendinitis in the body of the tendon (middle section)

When the pain is located in the middle of the tendon, treatment is generally quicker.

Common examples treated at the practice:

• shoulder tendinitis (rotator cuff)
• Achilles tendinitis (central portion)
• patellar tendinitis
• wrist tendinitis

👉 Acupuncture may help to relieve pain and support tissue repair.

Insertional tendinitis (close to the bone): a more complex form

Tendinitis located where the tendon inserts into the bone, also called enthesopathy, takes longer to treat.

Common examples:

• epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
• plantar fasciitis
• insertional Achilles tendinitis
• lower patellar tendinitis

👉 These forms require:

• more gradual care
• regular acupuncture follow-up
• a holistic approach to the body

Acupuncture may nevertheless help to reduce pain, improve mobility and support the regeneration of the tendon.

How does an acupuncture session for tendinitis work?

In our acupuncture practices in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet, all care is personalised.

The session includes:

• a precise assessment of the pain and how long it has been present
• a postural and functional analysis
• treatment with local and distal acupuncture
• tailored advice (rest, recovery, stretching)

👉 The aim is to treat the tendinitis and also its cause.

How many acupuncture sessions are needed?

• Acute tendinitis:  1 to 4 sessions
• Chronic tendinitis:  5 to 10 sessions
• Insertional tendinitis: gradual follow-up depending on progress

Results depend on how long the problem has been present, its location and the patient’s involvement.

Why see an acupuncturist in Aix-en-Provence or Cadenet for tendinitis?

✔️ A natural approach
✔️ Help with pain relief
✔️ Personalised treatment
✔️ Holistic care of the body
✔️ Help in preventing recurrences

👉 Acupuncture may be of interest to patients suffering from recurrent tendinitis, as a complement to conventional treatment.

Acupuncture for tendinitis in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet: conclusion

Whether the tendinitis is acute or chronic, in the body of the tendon or close to the bone, acupuncture may be a worthwhile natural approach to help relieve pain and improve recovery.

At our practices for acupuncture in Aix-en-Provence and Cadenet, we offer care tailored to each patient, with a holistic approach that respects the body.

👉 The earlier the consultation, the better the results may be.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the feet play a fundamental role in the energetic balance of the body. Much more than a simple matter of comfort, keeping your feet warm is essential to preserve vital energy (Qi) and to support circulation, hormonal balance and general well-being.

This article explains why the feet are so important in TCM, what effects the cold has on the body, and how to adopt simple habits to protect your health day to day.

The feet in Chinese medicine: a key energy zone

In TCM, the feet are the starting and end point of several essential meridians, notably those of the Kidneys, Liver and Spleen. These organs are directly involved in:

• vital energy (Qi)
• blood circulation
• digestion
• fertility and the menstrual cycle
• overall vitality

The Kidney meridian, in particular, begins on the sole of the foot (point Kidney 1, Yong Quan). The Kidneys are considered the root of Yang, that is, of the body’s warmth and energy.

Cold: a pathogenic factor in TCM

In Chinese medicine, cold is an external pathogenic factor. When it enters the body (notably through the feet), it can:

• slow down blood circulation
• block the circulation of energy
• cause pain
• weaken Kidney Yang

Chronically cold feet can therefore contribute to:

• persistent fatigue
• heavy legs
• cramps
• digestive problems
• menstrual pain
• irregular cycles
• fertility difficulties

Cold tends to “pull energy downwards”, creating stagnation in the pelvis and the lower limbs.

Cold feet and hormonal health

In TCM, hormonal health is closely linked to Kidney energy. Kidney Yang weakened by cold may show up as:

• painful or heavy periods
• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• feeling cold during the cycle
• reduced libido
• fatigue in the luteal phase

Keeping your feet warm helps to support blood circulation to the pelvis, improve the energy supply to the reproductive organs and encourage a more harmonious cycle.

The impact of cold feet on digestion and energy

The Spleen, a key organ of digestion in TCM, is sensitive to cold. When the feet are cold:

• digestion becomes slower
• bloating may appear
• overall energy decreases
• a feeling of heaviness may set in

Warming the feet helps to support the Spleen, improve the absorption of nutrients and regain more stable energy day to day.

Why keeping your feet warm relieves pain

Cold contracts. In TCM, this means that it blocks the free flow of Qi and Blood, which encourages pain.

Keeping your feet nice and warm helps to:

• relax the tissues
• improve circulation
• reduce menstrual pain
• ease tension in the lower back and legs

This is why women prone to period pain or pelvic pain often feel real relief when they protect their feet from the cold.

How to keep your feet warm naturally

Here is some simple advice inspired by Chinese medicine:

🧦 Wear warm socks

Choose natural materials such as wool or cotton, especially in the evening and in winter.

🥿 Avoid walking barefoot

Even at home, a cold floor makes it easier for cold to enter through the feet.

♨️ Take foot baths

Hot foot baths are widely used in TCM. You can add:

• fresh ginger
• mugwort
• or simply very hot water

10 to 15 minutes is enough to get the circulation going again.

👖 Cover your ankles

The ankles are a sensitive area where cold enters easily.

Acupuncture and cold feet

Acupuncture may be helpful for:

• warming Kidney Yang
• improving circulation
• reducing pain linked to cold
• supporting hormonal balance

Specific points can be used to warm the body deeply, especially in people with chronically cold feet.

Conclusion

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, keeping your feet warm is a genuine act of preventive health care. This simple habit helps to protect vital energy, support circulation, improve digestion and encourage hormonal balance.

Whether to reduce fatigue, relieve menstrual pain or support your overall well-being, thinking of your feet is an essential reflex.

👉 For personalised support, acupuncture can help you restore energetic balance and ease the feeling of cold feet.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) affects nearly 20 to 30% of adults in Western countries. Heartburn, acid reflux, chronic cough, a feeling of a lump in the throat… these symptoms can become very disabling in daily life.

While medication (PPIs, antacids) often brings temporary relief, it does not always treat the cause of the problem and can lead to side effects in the long term.
👉 Acupuncture is now emerging as a complementary natural approach that may help relieve GORD, alongside medical care.

What is gastro-oesophageal reflux?

GORD is an abnormal backflow of acidic stomach contents into the oesophagus, linked to:

• a weak (hypotonic) lower oesophageal sphincter
• slowed gastric emptying
• excess acidity
• chronic stress
• associated functional digestive disorders (bloating, constipation, IBS)

Common symptoms of GORD

• Burning behind the breastbone
• Acid reflux
• Regurgitation
• Non-cardiac chest pain
• Chronic cough, hoarseness
• Disturbed sleep
• A feeling of heavy digestion

Why does stress make acid reflux worse?

The digestive system is closely linked to the nervous system.
Chronic stress leads to:

• gastric hyperacidity
• diaphragm tension
• disruption of the vagus nerve
• slower digestion

👉 Acupuncture aims to act on these autonomic mechanisms.

How does acupuncture act on gastro-oesophageal reflux?

1. Regulating stomach acidity

Acupuncture may help to reduce hyperacidity by acting on the neuro-hormonal regulation of the stomach.

2. Improving digestive motility

It encourages:

• better gastric emptying
• less food stagnation
• less bloating

3. Relaxing the diaphragm

The diaphragm plays a key role in GORD.
Acupuncture helps to reduce diaphragm tension, which is often increased by stress and posture.

4. Action on stress and the nervous system

• Lower cortisol
• Activation of the parasympathetic system
• Better sleep

👉 Less stress = less reflux.

The Chinese medicine approach: GORD explained differently

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, reflux is often linked to:

• rebellious Stomach Qi
• Liver stagnation (emotional stress)
• Spleen weakness (slow digestion)
• an accumulation of Heat or Damp

Acupuncture aims to rebalance these disorders, and not simply to mask the symptoms.

What does science say about acupuncture and GORD?

📊 Studies and scientific data

• A meta-analysis published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that acupuncture may improve GORD symptoms compared with standard treatments alone.
• Some studies suggest a reduction in the frequency and intensity of heartburn.
• Some studies suggest that acupuncture combined with PPIs may be more helpful than PPIs alone, with fewer relapses.

👉 The results are particularly interesting in patients with functional or drug-resistant GORD.

How many acupuncture sessions are needed?

As a guide:

• 3 to 5 sessions to assess a first improvement
• 6 to 10 sessions to consolidate the effects observed

The frequency is adapted according to:

• how long the reflux has been present
• the intensity of the symptoms
• the level of stress
• lifestyle

Can acupuncture replace medication?

👉 No, it is used alongside medical care and it can:

• support a gradual reduction in PPIs decided with your doctor
• improve quality of life
• prevent relapses
• act on the underlying causes of reflux

Any change to treatment must be made in agreement with your doctor.

Additional tips to make acupuncture more effective

• Avoid late meals
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Cut down on coffee, alcohol, fatty and spicy foods
• Raise the head of the bed
• Manage stress (breathing, cardiac coherence)
• Adapt your diet to your digestive constitution

Acupuncture and gastro-oesophageal reflux: who is this approach for?

Acupuncture may be offered, alongside medical care, if you suffer from:

• chronic reflux
• stress-related reflux
• functional GORD
• reflux that does not respond to conventional treatment
• side effects from medication

In summary

✔️ Acupuncture is a natural, complementary approach that may help relieve gastro-oesophageal reflux
✔️ It acts on acidity, digestion, stress and the nervous system
✔️ It offers holistic care for GORD

👉 If you suffer from acid reflux, acupuncture can be a relevant complement to medical care.

Book an appointment on Doctolib in Aix-en-Provence or Cadenet

❄️ Traditional Chinese Medicine Tips for Living Well Through Winter

(Current season edition: Winter)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter is the season of Withdrawal, Rest and Regeneration. Associated with the Water element, it has a particular influence on the Kidneys and vital energy (Jing). It is an ideal time to strengthen your deep energy, support your immunity and prepare the body for spring.

Here are the best TCM tips for getting through winter in good shape.

🌙 1. Slow down and respect the rhythm of the season

According to TCM, winter invites rest.
➡️ Go to bed earlier, avoid energy-draining activities, cut back on overly intense training.
➡️ Favour:

• stretching
• breathing
• gentle walking
• gentle yoga
• qi gong

💡 TCM idea: listening to your body helps to preserve Yin, the foundation of Kidney energy.

🧣 2. Protect the Kidney area and the “cold wind”

Cold is the number one enemy of the Kidneys.
➡️ Keep the lower back nice and warm (lumbar wrap, hot water bottle, blankets).
➡️ Avoid sitting on cold surfaces.

💡 In TCM, cold blocks Qi and can weaken immunity or cause fatigue, lower back pain, sensitivity to cold and stagnation.

🍲 3. Eat warm, cooked and nourishing food

Winter is the season of comforting meals.
Prioritise:

✔️ Foods that tonify the Kidneys

• Black beans
• Black sesame
• Walnuts
• Miso
• Seaweed
• Mushrooms
• Leeks
• Broths

✔️ Long, warm cooking

• stews
• soups
• pot-au-feu
• congee

✔️ Mild spices (in moderation)

• ginger
• cinnamon
• fennel
• cardamom

Avoid:
❌ raw vegetables
❌ cold foods
❌ too much sugar
❌ iced drinks

💡 The digestive system (Spleen/Stomach) works better when it is kept warm.

💧 4. Hydrate… but warm

In winter, you can be thirsty without realising it.
Favour:

• hot herbal teas
• hot water with lemon in the morning
• ginger or cinnamon infusions

💡 Hydrate without cooling: a key TCM principle in winter.

🛀 5. Support Kidney energy (Yin & Yang)

A few worthwhile rituals:

✔️ A hot foot bath in the evening

• Epsom salts
• fresh ginger (optional)

✔️ Self-massage of the lower back

Warm the Ming Men area (between the kidneys).

✔️ Deep breathing

Helps to calm the mind and tonify energy.

🧘 6. Emotions: cultivate calm

In TCM, winter is linked to fear and to stress at a deep level.
Tips:

• meditation
• writing
• mindful breathing
• limiting external demands

💡 A calm mind nourishes Yin and restores vital energy.

🌿 7. Useful herbs in winter (according to TCM)

🎋 Ginger – warms and aids digestion
🎋 Cinnamon (rou gui) – tonifies yang
🎋 Liquorice – harmonises Qi
🎋 Fenugreek or fennel – warms and soothes internal cold

(Always adapt to your condition, and avoid without advice in the case of pregnancy, medical conditions or treatments.)

🧡 8. Acupuncture: the ideal winter treatment

Acupuncture may help to:

• strengthen immunity
• revive Kidney energy
• reduce fatigue
• improve circulation
• regulate sleep
• prevent seasonal complaints (colds, aches, low energy)

💡 Winter sessions prepare the energetic ground for spring.

❄️ Conclusion

Winter is a precious season in TCM: it is the perfect time to recharge, restore and protect your vital energy. The more you respect this introspective rhythm, the more you will arrive in spring in good shape, feeling light and full of energy.

Introduction

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, often linked to an infection, an allergy or a chronic problem. It causes troublesome symptoms: blocked nose, facial pain, headaches, fatigue. While conventional treatments (medicines, nasal rinses) can bring relief, more and more patients are looking for natural and complementary options.
Acupuncture, which comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, offers an approach that may help reduce inflammation and improve breathing.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis can be:

• Acute: often after a cold or a viral infection.
• Chronic: when symptoms last more than 12 weeks.

The most common signs are: blocked nose, runny nose, pressure in the cheeks and forehead, fatigue, loss of smell.

Acupuncture: a natural approach to sinusitis

In Chinese medicine, sinusitis is often linked to stagnation of energy (Qi) and to a build-up of damp and heat in the respiratory tract.
The acupuncturist stimulates precise points on the face, the nose and the body to:

• Clear the sinuses and improve breathing.
• Reduce inflammation and pain.
• Strengthen the immune system to limit recurrences.
• Improve the circulation of energy and blood in the ENT area.

What scientific studies say

• A systematic review (2018, Complementary Therapies in Medicine) observed that acupuncture combined with conventional treatments may significantly improve the symptoms of chronic sinusitis compared with medicines alone.
• Some studies suggest that patients treated with acupuncture for chronic sinusitis reported an improvement in breathing and a reduction in pain.
• Some patients report a feeling of release in the nose and forehead after the session.

Benefits of acupuncture for sinusitis

✔️ A natural approach, whose side effects are uncommon and usually mild when performed by a trained practitioner.
✔️ Some people notice an improvement in breathing and facial pain from the first sessions.
✔️ May help limit relapses.
✔️ Complementary to conventional medical treatments.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a natural approach that may help relieve sinusitis, whether acute or chronic. By working on both the symptoms and the underlying constitution (immunity, circulation of energy), it offers a valuable complement to traditional treatments.
If you suffer from chronic or recurrent sinusitis, acupuncture can be a gentle and worthwhile option to improve your breathing comfort.

Acupuncture and autumn: a season of transition

Autumn is a turning point in the year. The days get shorter, temperatures drop, and our body has to adapt to these changes. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season corresponds to an organ and an energy.
👉 Autumn is associated with the Lung and the Large Intestine, symbols of breathing, immunity and “letting go”.

Acupuncture is therefore particularly suitable at this time of year to strengthen vital energy and prepare the body for winter.

The benefits of acupuncture in autumn

1. Strengthening immunity

In autumn, the first colds, bronchitis and seasonal viruses appear. Acupuncture:

• stimulates the energy of the Lung, which plays a key role in immune defences;
• may help reduce the frequency and intensity of respiratory infections;
• prepares the body to face the winter.

2. Preventing seasonal fatigue

The change from bright summer to darker autumn can cause fatigue and a drop in energy.
Acupuncture may help to:

• rebalance Qi (vital energy),
• improve the quality of sleep,
• prevent chronic fatigue.

3. Balancing emotions

In TCM, the Lung is linked to the emotion of sadness. In autumn, it is common to feel melancholy or low in mood.
Acupuncture acts as natural emotional support: it soothes, recentres and encourages clarity of mind.

4. Relieving respiratory and skin problems

Lung energy also influences the skin and breathing. Autumn is a season in which the following often appear:

• dry skin, eczema, itching,
• coughs, asthma or respiratory allergies.
  Using specific points, acupuncture may help rebalance these disorders and improve respiratory and skin comfort.

5. Encouraging “letting go”

The Large Intestine, the organ associated with autumn, is linked to elimination, both physical and emotional.
Acupuncture supports this process by helping to:

• regulate bowel movements,
• eliminate toxins,
• release certain mental or emotional tensions.

When should you see an acupuncturist in autumn?

It is advisable to plan sessions:

• as prevention, to strengthen immunity before winter;
• as support, if you suffer from fatigue, repeated colds, respiratory or skin problems;
• as emotional support, if you feel sadness, stress or seasonal anxiety.

Conclusion

Having acupuncture in autumn means preparing your body and mind for winter, strengthening your immune system and finding a better emotional balance.
It is an ideal season to take care of yourself, prevent imbalances and cultivate your vital energy. 🍁

FAQ: acupuncture and autumn

1. How many acupuncture sessions should I plan in autumn?
In general, 2 to 3 sessions are enough as prevention, but more regular follow-up may be advised depending on your needs.

2. Can acupuncture replace conventional medicine?
No. Acupuncture is a complementary approach that can prevent and relieve, but it does not replace conventional medical follow-up.

3. Does acupuncture in autumn also help with sleep?
Yes, it may encourage deeper, more restorative sleep, which is often disrupted during seasonal changes.

Conclusion

Having acupuncture in autumn means preparing your body and mind for winter, strengthening your immune system and regaining a better emotional balance. 🍁

If you would like to enjoy the benefits of acupuncture in autumn, I welcome you at my practices:

• Acupuncture and osteopathy practice in Cadenet (84, Vaucluse)
• Acupuncture and osteopathy practice in Aix-en-Provence (13, Bouches-du-Rhône)

👉 Book an appointment now for a personalised session and strengthen your natural defences before winter.

Introduction

Shingles is a painful viral disease caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It mainly affects adults and people in poor health. Symptoms include skin rashes, intense burning and sometimes persistent pain known as post-herpetic neuralgia.
More and more patients are turning to acupuncture, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine, alongside medical treatment, to reduce pain, speed up healing and limit complications.

In this article, find out how acupuncture can help with shingles, backed by scientific data.

What is shingles?

• An infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which lies dormant in the nerve ganglia.
• Reactivation is encouraged by: lowered immunity, stress, fatigue, age.
• Symptoms:
  • Tingling, burning or pain before the rash appears.
  • Clusters of blisters on a specific area of the body.
  • Nerve pain that sometimes persists (post-herpetic neuralgia).

Acupuncture and shingles: how does it work?

Acupuncture may act on several mechanisms:

• Pain relief: release of endorphins and modulation of the central nervous system.
• Reduced inflammation: improved local circulation and stimulation of the immune defences.
• Nerve recovery: prevention or reduction of chronic neuralgia.

👉 Acupuncture is the subject of extensive research for the relief of neuropathic pain.

Scientific studies on acupuncture and shingles

• A literature review published in 2019 observed that acupuncture, combined with conventional care, might reduce the pain and duration of symptoms of shingles.
• A clinical study (Li et al., 2018) observed that patients treated with acupuncture had less post-herpetic neuralgia than those who received medication alone.

Benefits of acupuncture for shingles

✔️ May help to reduce pain.
✔️ Can support skin healing.
✔️ May help to limit lasting nerve damage.
✔️ A natural approach; side effects are uncommon and usually mild when performed by a trained practitioner.
✔️ A complement to conventional medical treatments.

Conclusion

Shingles can be a very painful and disabling disease. Acupuncture can be a natural and complementary approach to help relieve pain, support healing and limit complications.
If you have shingles, consulting a qualified therapist may help you improve your comfort and quality of life.

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be acute (sudden onset after an overly large meal, alcohol, stress…) or chronic (linked to an infection with Helicobacter pylori, to certain medicines, or to a digestive imbalance).

Common symptoms:

• Stomach pain or burning
• Nausea, bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Slow digestion and discomfort

These symptoms can greatly affect quality of life.

How does acupuncture act on gastritis?

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), gastritis is often linked to an imbalance of the Stomach and the Spleen, sometimes with stagnation of the Liver. Acupuncture may act on several levels:

• Digestive regulation: stimulates gastric motility and promotes better digestion.
• Reduced inflammation: improves the circulation of energy and blood, soothing the stomach lining.
• Pain relief: relieves burning and the feeling of heaviness.
• Anti-stress effect: reduces the part played by stress and anxiety in making gastritis worse.

What scientific studies say

• A meta-analysis published in 2020 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine observed that acupuncture, combined with standard medical treatment, may significantly improve the symptoms of chronic gastritis.
• Other studies suggest a role in reducing pain, nausea and gastric inflammation.

Acupuncture and gastritis: a personalised treatment

Every patient is unique: acupuncture takes into account the underlying causes (stress, diet, energy imbalance). After a full assessment, a personalised protocol is put in place, often with 1 session a week to begin with.

Conclusion

Gastritis can be very troublesome in daily life. Acupuncture offers a natural solution, alongside medical follow-up. It may help to reduce pain, improve digestion and prevent relapses.

Acupuncture and autumn: the season of the Lung and Large Intestine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn begins… in August! This is not a mistake: each energy season begins before the official change on the calendar. Autumn corresponds to the Metal element and is associated with the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, which play an essential role in our energy and our immune defences.

Why does autumn weaken the Lung and Large Intestine?

At this time of year, the body prepares to face the cooler weather and the fall in daylight. According to TCM, the Lung controls breathing, the spreading of energy (Qi) and immunity. The Large Intestine, for its part, supports the elimination of waste and helps to maintain a healthy terrain.

An imbalance in these meridians can show up as:

• Frequent colds, coughs, sinusitis
• Dry skin, eczema, itching
• Persistent fatigue
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Low mood, melancholy

Acupuncture as prevention in autumn

Acupuncture stimulates specific points that may help to:

• Strengthen immunity  and protect against respiratory infections
• Improve breathing  and lung capacity
• Regulate bowel movements
• Prepare the mind  for the cold season, by easing sadness or anxiety

Seasonal advice in TCM

Alongside acupuncture, here are a few habits to adopt:

• Breathe deeply  every morning to nourish the Lung
• Eat warm, cooked food  (avoid too much raw food)
• Favour white, seasonal foods: pears, turnips, radishes, mushrooms
• Avoid getting too cold, especially on the neck and back
• Go to bed a little earlier to support your vital energy

💡 Conclusion: by starting your acupuncture sessions in August, you help your body prepare for autumn, by supporting your defences and your mood.

To book an appointment, go directly to doctolib