In addition, patients should keep in mind that the effectiveness, long-term side effects, and risks of some alternative or holistic treatments have never been studied. In all cases, if you are considering an unusual treatment, seek out the advice of a professional medical authority. Occasionally a mild electric current is passed through the needles to enhance the effect. Although the practice may seem strange and Westerners remain largely skeptical of it, over the last decade numerous scientific studies have validated it an an effective method of healing, pain reduction, anesthesia and nerve regeneration. For IC patients, the aim of acupuncture is usually to reduce pain and urinary frequency while increasing a sense of well-being and relaxation.
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture except that pressure from fingers is used in place of needles.
Dr. Jane Yiu, a practicing acupuncturist in New York City suggests that IC patients should have at least 10 acupuncture sessions before giving up. Dr. David Chen, a California acupuncturist and member of the State Medical Board for acupuncture, notes that in his experience, frequency is the IC symptom that responds best to acupuncture. Many acupuncturists also use herbs for pain relief and healing in conjunction with the acupuncture. Chinese herbs are also sometimes used alone. Dr. Ching Yao Shi, a licensed acupuncturist in Philadelphia who also holds an MD degree, has formulated an herbal tea especially for IC patients.