Acupuncture Treatment Duration for Chronic Gastritis

Chronic gastritis can be effectively managed through various acupuncture techniques, including traditional needle acupuncture, moxibustion, and thread embedding therapy. For standard needle acupuncture and moxibustion, a typical treatment plan involves around 10 sessions per cycle. However, for more severe conditions such as chronic atrophic gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastroparesis, which are often long-standing and resistant to treatment, thread embedding therapy may be recommended.

Thread embedding therapy usually consists of 1 to 3 sessions per course. In cases where the condition has progressed to precancerous stages like atrophic gastritis with dysplasia, up to five sessions spaced about 20 days apart may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

The overall treatment duration largely depends on the type and severity of the gastric condition. Traditional acupuncture sessions typically begin with daily treatments for the first five days, followed by sessions every other day based on the patient's tolerance level. This flexibility allows for a personalized approach that accommodates individual health needs.

For mild to moderate chronic gastritis or ulcers, three thread embedding sessions spaced 20 days apart are generally sufficient. However, in advanced cases involving precancerous changes, completing five sessions is crucial for long-term improvement and symptom relief.

It's important to note that combining acupuncture with lifestyle modifications—such as dietary changes, stress reduction, and avoiding irritants like alcohol and spicy foods—can significantly enhance treatment outcomes. A customized treatment plan developed with a licensed acupuncturist ensures the best possible results.