Let's talk about a somewhat taboo subject, one we're generally a little afraid to discuss: hemorrhoids. If you're reading this article, you're looking for solutions. And you're not alone! It's an extremely common condition affecting millions of people, regardless of age and gender. But with the right approaches, this condition is far from inescapable!

The mechanisms involved

To simplify: hemorrhoids are veins that have worked too hard. We all have hemorrhoidal cushions – that's normal, it's anatomical. The problem? When they're under too much pressure, they become inflamed and swell.

The usual culprits: pushing too hard during bowel movements, sitting for too long, lack of fiber in the diet, pregnancy, lifting heavy loads. In short, it's mechanical, and most importantly: it's reversible in most cases.

Conventional medicine distinguishes between internal (in the rectum, often painless) and external (under the skin, more painful) hemorrhoids. Treatments range from lifestyle changes to surgical interventions for severe cases. Effective, but it often treats the symptom without addressing the root cause of the imbalance. This is where TCM brings real added value.

The 4 pillars for daily life

Before discussing the techniques used in Chinese medicine to treat this condition, it's good habits that contribute 80% to achieving lasting results:

  • Fiber + water: Aim for 25-30g of fiber per day (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and drink enough. This makes stools easy to pass, without straining.
  • 3 minutes max on the toilet: Don't sit too long. It's become our "smartphone moment," but that's exactly what creates pressure. Go when you feel the urge, but never strain.
  • Move regularly: A sedentary life = stagnant blood. Walk 20 minutes a day, get up every hour if you work seated.
  • Sitz baths: Lukewarm water, 15 minutes, 2-3 times a day when it's painful. Simple and incredibly effective.

TCM's vision and solutions

TCM views hemorrhoids differently. Not just "swollen veins," but an energetic imbalance: stagnation of Qi and blood, often caused by damp heat in the intestines (spicy food, alcohol, stress) or a weakness of the Spleen which can no longer "hold" the tissues. On an emotional level, TCM also links hemorrhoids to chronic stress and mental tension that blocks energetic circulation.

This perspective explains why two people with the same hemorrhoids react differently: their imbalances are different.

What is the body expressing?

A thought-provoking idea... Hemorrhoids often affect people who, when faced with fears or material insecurities, tend — unconsciously — to "hold on." This prolonged psychological contraction would manifest physically as excessive tension in the anal area, promoting circulatory stasis. A simple inner release, a way of feeling secure about the future, could then be part of the path to healing. Something to ponder...

Acupuncture: the fundamental treatment

If you suffer from recurrent or painful hemorrhoids, acupuncture is one of the most effective treatments!

Treated in clinic, specific points such as Kongzui — Lung 6 have shown remarkable results. Acupuncture acts on several levels: it reduces local inflammation, improves blood circulation in the anal area, strengthens tissue tone, and most importantly, treats the energetic imbalance at its root. Unlike a symptomatic treatment, we seek to understand why your body developed this problem now.

A typical protocol includes 2 sessions per week for 3-4 weeks, then gradually spacing them out. Many patients feel relief from the first sessions, but the true regeneration work takes some time.

Acupressure and self-massage

Between sessions, you can extend the effect of the treatment with acupressure. Firm pressure with the thumb, 1 minute per point, morning and evening:

  • Spleen 6 — Spleen 6: inside of the leg, 4 fingers above the ankle
  • Stomach 36 — Stomach 36: below the knee, outer side - improves digestion
  • Bladder 57 — Bladder 57: center of the calf - excellent for circulation and pain

Diet

Avoid: spicy foods (create heat), fried and fatty foods (create dampness), alcohol, fatty meats…

Prefer: grapes, pears, radishes, spinach, black beans, and soups. These foods "cool" the digestive system.

The approach that works

The best results? A combined approach. Keep the basics (fiber, hydration), come to the clinic for fundamental acupuncture treatment, practice acupressure at home, adjust your diet…

Mild to moderate cases generally respond very well within 2-4 weeks.

For severe cases with significant prolapse or heavy bleeding, medical consultation is necessary. Acupuncture then supports accelerating post-intervention healing and preventing recurrence.