Relieving Adenomyosis Pain: The Role of Acupuncture in Pain Management

Adenomyosis, characterized by localized diffuse lesions in the glandular muscles of the endometrium, is often linked to hormonal imbalances and excessive hormone secretion. One of its hallmark symptoms is progressive abdominal pain.

Within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture is a clinical therapeutic approach involving intricate techniques such as needling and moxa-moxibustion. Needling targets acupoints to stimulate the body, while moxibustion employs the burning warmth of mugwort to achieve the same. Known for its minimal invasiveness, effectiveness, safety, and convenience, acupuncture demonstrates positive clinical outcomes across various ailments, particularly chronic pain.

But how does acupuncture mitigate the pain stemming from adenomyosis?

TCM posits that adenomyosis is closely intertwined with factors like meridian blockages, a cold uterus, liver and kidney weakness, spleen and blood deficiency, and dampness, heat, and humidity.

Typically, acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal remedies are synergistically employed for therapeutic effects. The specific methods for employing acupuncture to alleviate adenomyosis-related pain are as follows:

1. Moxibustion on Specific Acupoints: Employing moxibustion on acupoints like Qihai, Guanyuan, Daimai, Zhongji, Sanjiao, and Zusanli can provide relief for mild segmental dysmenorrhea and menstrual discomfort. However, it's important to acknowledge that adenomyosis might necessitate surgical intervention alongside acupuncture treatment, particularly in advanced stages.

2. Targeting Shenque Acupoint: Acupuncture on Shenque acupoint can aid in dissolving local blood clots, thereby easing dysmenorrhea symptoms. Warm acupuncture, suitable for individuals with qi and blood deficiency, can also stimulate Zhongwan, Xiawan, and Huilai acupoints. It's vital to note that only qualified professionals should perform acupuncture procedures to avoid potential complications.

3. Direct Acupuncture on Baliao Acupoint: Direct acupuncture on the primary acupoint, Baliao, aids in dispersing blood stasis and subsequently alleviating pain symptoms.

While acupuncture offers a tangible relief mechanism for adenomyosis, it should be regarded as a complementary rather than curative approach. Acknowledging its invasive nature, the significance of proper administration cannot be understated; improper execution could lead to complications like pneumothorax, needle retention, needle breakage, or skin infections due to moxibustion. Opting for accredited medical institutions can minimize these risks.

Furthermore, alternative TCM treatments are also available, including traditional Chinese medicine hot compresses and oral therapies.

TCM Hot Compress: By boiling specific herbs, which are selected based on their disease-treating properties, and applying the resulting liquid-soaked towel to the abdomen, the body's meridians and collaterals can be stimulated. This aids in alleviating cold, reducing swelling, and mitigating pain.

Oral TCM Medicine: Fuyan Pill, a holistic prescription formulated by Dr. Li Xiaoping, addresses adenomyosis through promoting blood circulation, resolving stasis, detoxifying, nourishing the spleen, and eliminating dysmenorrhea symptoms.

Surgical options, categorized as radical or conservative, are also available. Radical surgery entails uterus removal, suitable for those no longer planning to conceive. Conversely, conservative surgery involves removing adenomyoma and addressing endometrial and myometrial issues, making it a viable choice for individuals aspiring to have children.

Adenomyosis patients should consider the following:

1. Maintaining a Positive Mindset: Embracing positivity aids immune function and hastens recovery, particularly essential for cases involving chocolate cysts or endometriosis.

2. Menstrual Self-Care: During menstruation, avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse to prevent exacerbating dysmenorrhea. Opt for gentle exercises like jogging and yoga, and prioritize emotional stability.

3. Preventing Abdominal Cold: The uterus is sensitive to cold; keeping the abdomen warm prevents menstrual blood stasis, thereby reducing dysmenorrhea symptoms.

4. Dietary Choices: Avoid cold or spicy foods during menstruation, including items like longan meat and royal jelly. Steer clear of coffee to prevent estrogen fluctuations.

In conclusion, acupuncture offers a supplementary strategy for managing adenomyosis-associated pain. However, it's crucial to approach it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and prioritize safety in its application.