Acupuncture for Diabetic Gastroparesis
The damage to the vagus nerve which controls the movement of food is resulted in the stomach takes longer time to empty its contents. The symptoms are but not limited to heartburn, vomiting undigested food, weight loss, and nausea. Diabetes can damage the vagus nerve if blood glucose levels remain high over a period of time. Due to high blood glucose causes chemical changes in nerves and damages the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the nerves.
How does acupuncture work for Diabetic Gastroparesis?
Based on a study that was done on 80 cases, 35 cases received acupuncture treatment and the total effective rate in the treatment group reached 94.2% comparing with the control group without acupuncture treatment the effective rate was 40%.
Acupuncture reduces high blood sugar level by stimulating β-cell of pancreatic islet to release insulin and resisting the hormones which rise blood glucose. It also helps recover from damaged nerves that affect the stomach from emptying.
Course of treatment
There are 10-15 acupuncture sessions in one course of treatment. Treatment frequency depends on individual condition. Chinese herbs work synergistically with acupuncture.
For more information please contact Dr. Shan Kong at Acupuncture and Chinese Medical Center Ann Arbor, Michigan at (734) 276-3432.