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Painful menstrual cycles are something thousands of women endure monthly. Some experience mild discomfort in the form of cramps, others battle migraines, and many get nausea and dizziness.

For the most part, women resort to pain medication or contraceptive pills to help combat these painful periods. However, there are natural alternatives that don’t involve flooding the body with medication. Acupuncture is a powerful ancient Chinese practice that involves stimulating specific parts of the body using tiny needles.

Studies have found that using acupuncture as a treatment can help lessen the intensity of PMS and cramps, and combat the symptoms of:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Anxiety.

1)     Stimulating “Spleen 6” to Alleviate Menstrual Cramps

Placing acupuncture needles or applying pressure on the area known as Spleen 6 stimulates the release of hormones, allowing relief from cramping. This is an effective spot for  quick relief as well as long-term pain management.

At Spleen 6, the spleen, liver, and kidney channels cross over, making it a powerful spot to use in treatment. Fore this reason, it is also commonly used to treat digestion and menopause-related symptoms.

2)     Shen Men for Pain and Anxiety

The ear is a powerful area to stimulate certain nerves in your body. Applying acupuncture or acupressure on specific parts of the ear can:

• Ease pain
• Help eating disorders
• Treat allergies
• Reduce anxieties

In particular, the triangular-shaped spot known as Shen Men is one of the more powerful and commonly used spots by acupuncturists. Applying pressure or press needles to the spot can help alleviate pain from cramping. Treating this spot can also assist with anxiety—an issue many women endure during PMS and menopause.

3)     Neiguan (P-6) for alleviating Nausea/Vomiting

Nausea is common during PMS and the menstrual cycle. Applying pressure to the Neiguan point helps release nausea. Simply place three fingers across your wrist—as indicated in the image—to find the point.

Acupressure press needles which are offered at Elite Physio, gives a stronger effect. Simply pressing the tiny patch onto the pressure point during moments of discomfort can provide relief.

Did you know: Marine sailors wear wristbands with press needles to combat seasickness. These motion sickness bands stimulate the Neiguan point, allowing for better blood circulation and reduced nausea.

4)     He Gu (L14) for headaches

Headaches are one of the more common symptoms that women experience, whether it is right before or during their periods. They can range from an uncomfortable pressure to full-on migraines. Stimulating the He Gu spot can help reduce or completely alleviate the pain.

He Gu is also helps with:

• Reducing overall pain
• Toothaches
• Sinus pain
• Constipation
• Balancing blood pressure

How We Can Help You

At Elite Physio we have both physiotherapists and chiropractors that have completed the Contemporary Medical Acupuncture program at McMaster University, which bridges the gap between classical acupuncture therapy and more advanced medical practices. Send us an email at [email protected] or give us a call to find out more about how we can use acupuncture to help you.