Acupuncture for IBS

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What is IBS?
(Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the function of the digestive system. It is classified as a functional gastrointestinal condition. Simply put, it means that it impacts how the gut works rather than causing damage directly. IBS is a chronic condition that varies in severity and can change over time. It affects the large intestine and comes with irregular bowel habits.

While IBS does not lead to serious complications or increase the risk of other diseases as is, it can significantly impact daily life. Since IBS is different for everyone, treatments are often personalized based on individual needs.

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Various Types of IBS

There are a few Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) types based on bowel habits. Understanding your specific type helps in choosing the right treatment. Here are four main types of IBS:

IBS-C (IBS with Constipation)

This type includes infrequent and difficult bowel movements. Stools are often hard and dry, making them challenging to pass. People with IBS-C may also have bloating and discomfort because of slowed digestion.

IBS-D (IBS with Diarrhea)

This includes frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can lead to an urgent need to use the bathroom, which can bring quite a lot of discomfort to your daily life. Cramping and abdominal discomfort are also common.

IBS-M (IBS with Mixed Bowel Habits)

Also called IBS-Mixed, this type includes alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea. The unpredictability of bowel habits makes management more challenging, requiring a balanced diet and efficient treatment.

IBS-U (Unclassified IBS)

This category is for cases that don’t fit into the other types. Bowel habits are irregular but do not align with IBS-C, IBS-D, or IBS-M. Diagnosis and treatment focus on individual symptoms.

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What Causes IBS?
Understanding the Underlying Factors

First key factor is gut-brain interaction, where miscommunication between the digestive system and nervous system leads to irregular bowel movements and heightened sensitivity. Gut motility issues can also play a role, causing food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines.
Other possible causes include changes in gut bacteria, which affect digestion, and increased gut sensitivity, leading to discomfort even with normal digestive processes. Stress and diet are also known to influence IBS, as emotional triggers and certain foods can worsen symptoms.

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Identifying Common IBS Triggers

IBS triggers vary greatly, but some known factors can worsen symptoms. Certain foods are frequent triggers, like dairy, fatty or fried foods, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and high-FODMAP foods like onions and beans. Some people react to gluten or spicy foods as well.

Stress and anxiety can also worsen symptoms, as the gut and nervous system are closely connected. Emotional stress may lead to digestive discomfort and irregular bowel habits. Hormonal changes, especially in women, can affect IBS symptoms.

Other triggers include irregular eating habits, lack of sleep, and certain medications that affect digestion.

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Recognizing Common IBS Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) presents with a range of digestive symptoms that can vary in severity and frequency. The most common symptom is abdominal pain or cramping, bowel movement often eases this pain. Many people experience bloating, which can cause discomfort and a feeling of fullness.
IBS also affects bowel habits, leading to constipation (IBS-C), diarrhea (IBS-D), or a mix of both (IBS-M). Gas and excessive flatulence are also common. Some individuals notice mucus in the stool. It is not usually associated with serious conditions but is common in IBS. Symptoms are usually not constant, they tend to come and go.

Still have questions about whether acupuncture for IBS is right for you?

Schedule a consultation here to find out!

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Can Acupuncture Help Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Acupuncture for Irritable Bowel Syndrome is an alternative treatment that can help manage symptoms by balancing the digestive system. This traditional Chinese medicine treatment works by stimulating specific acupuncture points for IBS to address gut function issues and reduce discomfort. Many people choose acupuncture for IBS to address common issues like bloating, irregular bowel movements, and abdominal pain.

Since IBS is often linked to stress, acupuncture for IBS and acupuncture for anxiety can be beneficial, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce gut sensitivity. Acupuncture improves gut motility, eases inflammation, and provides relaxation. While results vary, many people find acupuncture for IBS to be a highly valuable addition to symptoms management.

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Effective Acupuncture Points for IBS

Acupuncture focuses on specific points that help regulate digestion, reduce pain, and calm the nervous system. Some of the most commonly used acupuncture points for IBS are:

ST36 (Zusanli). Located below the knee, this point supports digestion, reduces bloating, and strengthens the stomach.
LI4 (Hegu). Located on the hand, it helps ease abdominal pain and regulates bowel function.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao). Near the inner ankle, this point balances and reduces stress-related IBS symptoms.
CV12 (Zhongwan). Located on the abdomen, it helps with bloating and indigestion.
LV3 (Taichong). On the foot, this point is useful for acupuncture for IBS and anxiety, helping ease stress-related symptoms.

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Acupuncture for IBS Treatment at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL

At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we offer a professional and compassionate approach to acupuncture for IBS, focusing on both digestive and your overall health. Our integrative health services mix traditional acupuncture with complementary therapies to help manage symptoms effectively.
We use specific techniques like electroacupuncture, which further improves traditional stimulation for better gut regulation, and auricular acupuncture, which focuses on ear points to support digestion and reduce stress.

To support treatment even better, we may add herbal medicine, offering natural supplements for IBS to balance the digestive system.
By addressing both physical and emotional health factors, we create fully personalized treatment plans to help ease bloating, discomfort, and irregular bowel habits. Schedule an appointment today to see how acupuncture can support your IBS management.

About results

Reviews About Acupuncture IBS

Jose A Burgos

1 week ago

Genie

2 months ago

This was my third visit with Dr. Mimosa, and it has been such a reset for me. I am very thankful to be working with her. Her knowledge and care truly make a difference, and I always leave feeling more reset and noticeably better than when I walked in.

I carry a lot of tension in my neck and shoulders, especially after returning to work, and I feel it build up quickly. After each visit, the difference is noticeable. The tension improves significantly, and I leave feeling lighter and overall better.

What really stands out is how much she listens. From the first visit, she took the time to understand my lifestyle and stress, and I never felt rushed. That level of care makes a huge difference.

Going through a recent health complication put things into perspective for me. I realized I was moving through life too fast and putting myself last. Now I’m being more intentional about my health and managing my stress, especially with how demanding life can be. These appointments have been a key part of that.

I have also been using other services like pelvic floor therapy, acupuncture (soon to be appt), and massage, and everyone has been incredibly kind and welcoming.

I am really grateful I found Copper Wellness.

Christopher Jacob

2 months ago

My wife and I had been searching for a chiropractic office that felt modern, intentional, and aligned with the kind of lifestyle we’re building, not just for ourselves, but together. After doing some research, we came across Copper Wellness, and it turned out to be exactly what we were looking for.

We wanted something in the city, close to home, and in an area where we could turn our appointments into something more, like grabbing coffee or enjoying a date night after. This location checked all of those boxes.

From the moment you walk in, the energy is different. The space is beautiful, full of plants, warm earth tones, wood elements, and subtle aromatherapy. It feels calming, elevated, and intentional. Even the small touches, like complimentary water, make a difference. It genuinely reflects the kind of environment we value in our own home.

The staff is diverse, welcoming, and you can tell they truly enjoy what they do. That energy carries throughout the entire experience.

Dr. Mimosa is incredible. She is knowledgeable, experienced, and most importantly, she really listens. Every visit feels personalized, and she takes the time to understand exactly what we need. That level of care is rare and deeply appreciated.

I also want to give a genuine shoutout to Dr. Mimosa, the practitioners at Copper Wellness, and the entire staff. Everyone plays a part in making this place feel as special as it does.

Booking is seamless, whether online, by phone, or through their waitlist system. Everything feels efficient and thoughtfully designed.

We’re both genuinely happy we found this place. It exceeded our expectations in every way. Thank you for choosing Chicago and creating such a special space. We’re looking forward to many more visits and hope you remain part of the neighborhood for years to come.

Oh yeah and one more thing! Happy 1st day of Spring!!!

Christopher & Genesis
🌺🐈✨️📿👋🏼❤️

Esteban Espinoza

3 months ago

I started going to Copper Wellness around the beginning of 2023. I was having so much issues with my body physically, emotionally, and mentally. I had problems such as a stress ulcer in my stomach, constant anxiety, and restlessness. When I met Dr.Stephanie for my first consultation I let her know what was going on in all aspects of my health and she had a 6 week program to help me get back on track. This 6 week program included getting sessions from Dr. Adam my chiropractor. During this whole 6 week program I saw a tremendous improvement on my health to a point that I wasn’t having any pain in my stomach no more and that my body/mind were so relaxed. This included the recommended supplements I was referred to take outside of the office as well. I cried because I didn’t think I could get better since I went to doctors/ hospital visits and that all they said it was stress. I thought I had no hope of getting better but Copper Wellness put me on the right track. Even after the 6 week program I kept on going for constant maintenance for my physical/mental health. Every time I left a session with Dr. Stephanie I felt like a new person. She always heard me out and I felt like I wasn’t just another client. I felt like I was heard and that I had someone to be on my corner to help me out. Throughout my time there since 2024-2025 I have been helped with the best doctors there and knew I can always count on them to get better if I was hurting. Practices such as acupuncture, cupping, and chiropractor work always helped me in different parts of my health issues. Such as, back pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, anxiety issues & stress.Dr. Mimosa , Dr. Anais Dr. Adam & especially Dr. Stephanie. I appreciate you all so much and I am forever grateful for y’all on getting me back to a good healthy foundation.

Lawrence Nwajei

6 months ago

I cannot recommend Dr. Madden enough. Every visit leaves me feeling lighter, calmer, and more in tune with my body. She listens closely, remembers the details that matter, and truly cares about my wellness journey. I have seen real improvements since starting treatment. The space is always clean, relaxing, and welcoming. If you are considering acupuncture, look no further. She is the best and I am so grateful to have found her.

Shalini C

6 months ago

This is THE spot for wellness care. I've been seeing Adam, Stephanie and Bencia for neck, back and joint care for several years now. Each of them start by asking what's going on with my body and life stresses, then focus on an action plan for each session. They also offer tips on how to maintain those benefits between visits.

Alyssa Byron

7 months ago

I am so grateful for Copper Wellness. Dr. Mohr is the kind of clinician you want (and need) when it comes to restoring your health. As someone who has been navigating the sometimes difficult and painful path of autoimmune dysfunction, it makes all the difference to have not just a knowledgeable, but a deeply empathetic and caring clinician guide you along the way. My sessions are never rushed, always informative, and the space exudes a healing energy.

Franklin Eruo

8 months ago

Dr. Madden is absolutely exceptional. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the calm, healing energy of the space. She takes the time to really listen, understand your concerns, and tailor each session to your needs.

Whether you’re new to acupuncture or have been going for years, Dr. Madden’s expertise and gentle technique make all the difference. She explains everything clearly and creates an environment that feels safe and restorative. I can’t recommend her highly enough. she’s truly the best in her field here in Chicago.

Marianna Campbell

12 months ago

I have been going to Copper Wellness for nearly 4 years and cannot say enough good things about the clinic and all of their providers. Dr. Madden is a truly exceptional acupuncturist. I worked with her almost weekly during my first pregnancy and postpartum, and now for my second pregnancy, and she has been such a blessing with hormone health, stress and anxiety management, digestion, and sleep. She has the most amazing presence and all of her guidance has always been spot on. I also saw Dr Mohr during my first pregnancy to help with pregnancy aches and pains and pelvic positioning - he is also wonderful, so knowledgeable and kind and helped relieve a lot of my physical symptoms during that time. I’ve gone to Benicia for massage too and she is one of the best! (and I’ve seen a lot of massage therapists in my life)

I am moving from Chicago soon and truly going to miss this amazing clinic.

Response from the owner 12 months ago

Dear Marianna,Thank you so much for your kind words and for being with us all these years. We're honored to have supported you through both pregnancies. Dr. Madden, Dr. Mohr, and Benicia will be touched by your feedback. Wishing you all the best in your move — you'll always be part of the Copper Wellness family!

Jack Rieke

1 year ago

Dr. Mohr helped me tremendously with lower back pain and SI joint pain years ago and I still use the exercises he provided me to sustain feeling better. He used multiple techniques and movement based therapies to improve my ability to bend and lie down without pain.