Known as interstitial cystitis (IC) or painful bladder syndrome, this condition is a combination of chronic reoccurring symptoms such as frequent urination with a sense of urgency, sometimes accompanied by burning and pain during urination. About 90 percent of the 1 million Americans diagnosed with IC are women. The most common risk factors include chronic urinary tract infections, and a history of gynecological surgeries. IC almost always involves one or more additional chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, lupus, or allergies. Recent findings show that stress, anxiety, and being overworked often aggravate the condition. Over time, IC can cause permanent damage to the bladder wall, resulting in scarring and ulcerations, which can require surgical intervention.

Like other "irritable" syndromes, painful bladder syndrome is directly linked to an overstressed or overactive immune system. Chinese medicine focuses on identifying lifestyle, diet, environmental, and emotional contributions to the condition. Our  approach is to address the emotional problems while offering acupuncture to relieve the spasms and herbal therapy to help support healthy bladder and urethra functions.