Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS ) is a condition characterised by recurrent bowel pain, increased bowel noises, wind, bloating and constipation or diarrhoea. It is important to exclude underlying bowel pathology (bowel inflammation, growths or infection) when symptoms are recent in onset or are progressive. Persistent bowel irritation, especially in the presence of constipation, can be associated with diverticular disease.

Medications may temporarily alleviate symptoms associated with IBS and there may be a place for them when symptoms are severe. However, most have potential side effects and medications generally have a limited place in the long term management of the condition. IBS is an incapacitating and distressing problem which responds poorly to conventional medical management.

IBS responds extremely well to acupuncture and dietary modification, and most, if not all symptoms can be eliminated using this combined approach.