Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effect of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture and moxibustion as a suitable technique in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and to seek a protocol for treating irritable bowel syndrome that is suitable for community application to facilitate the community use of suitable techniques of traditional Chinese medicine. Methods A single-blind randomized control method was used. The patients were randomly allocated to acupuncture-moxibustion and medication groups. The acupuncture-moxibustion group received warm needling at bilateral points Tianshu (ST 25) and acupuncture at bilateral points Shangjuxu (ST 37) and the medication group took bifid triple viable capsules. Pre-/post-treatment symptom scores were counted for an evaluation of the therapeutic effects in the two groups of patients. Results The total efficacy rate was 87.2% in the acupuncture-moxibustion group and 76.5% in the medication group. Ridit analysis showed that the therapeutic effect was better in the acupuncture-moxibustion group than in the medication group (P0.05). Conclusion Acupuncture and moxibustion is more effective than medication in treating IBS. Acupuncture and moxibustion is a safe and effective way to treat IBS.