Right-side stomach pain can be a troubling and uncomfortable condition, affecting many individuals with varying causes such as digestive issues, inflammation, or even more serious concerns like gallstones or appendicitis. For those seeking relief, acupuncture, a time-tested therapy in Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM), offers a holistic approach to managing and alleviating abdominal discomfort. In Tokyo, where the pace of life is fast, stress, poor diet, and environmental factors can exacerbate such pain, making effective treatment essential. This article explores how acupuncture can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from right-side stomach pain and the benefits of choosing a holistic approach to your well-being in Tokyo.
Right Side Stomach Pain
Right side stomach pain (or abdominal pain) may be caused by gas, an intestinal condition, appendicitis or gallstones. Mild abdominal pain is typically not serious if tit does not present with other symptoms.
Depending on the underlying cause, pain on the right side of the abdomen can often be treated with analgesics, anti-inflammatories and diet changes. More serious conditions, like appendicitis or gallstones, require medical attention. Therefore, it is important to seek an assessment if you are unsure what is causing the pain or if the pain is intolerable.
Any time pain arises, you should take note of when it starts and monitor for any other symptoms, like whether it radiates to other areas, or whether it worsens or becomes better with anything. This information can be helpful for a doctor to confirm a diagnosis for your pain and to initiate appropriate interventions.
What causes right stomach pain?
The most common causes of pain on the right side of the abdomen include:
1. Excess gas
Right-sided abdominal pain can simply be a result of distention of the intestine caused by gas. This problem can arise in people of all ages, from babies to the elderly. Normally, this type of pain is strong and feels like a cramp, and it usually appears after a meal. This symptom is also common in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as constipation and other irregularities affect normal bowel function.
Excessive gas can also be caused by certain foods, which take longer to digest and end-up fermenting for prolonged periods in the gut. See what foods can cause gas and bloating.
Bloating, loss of appetite, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, increased burping or flatulence, and feeling full. Gas-related pain can be constant and it can worsen for short moments. Read more about symptoms of gas pain.
2. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
People with IBS usually experience abdominal pain or cramping that can be constant or transient. The discomfort is usually relieved following a bowel movement.
In addition to abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gas can also occur. The exact cause of IBS is not known, but it is commonly seen in people with anxiety, depression or mental disorders.
3. Gallstones
Pain in the right abdominal area can also indicate a gallbladder stone. It usually starts as a cramp in the upper right abdomen or in the stomach area, and it can last for minutes to hours. Many times, this pain can radiate to the left side or around to the back. It can be very uncomfortable and feel like indigestion. See our article on gallstones to understand what can cause them.
In some cases, gallbladder stones can also cause a loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Gallbladder stones that back-up and cause inflammation in the gallbladder can also result in fever, chills, and yellow skin or eyes.
4. Appendicitis
Appendicitis can cause a right-sided abdominal pain that starts out as a cramp around the bellybutton or in the stomach area. After about 6 hours, the inflammation worsens and the pain becomes stronger. It becomes more pronounced in the lower abdomen, usually close to the groin. Learn more about how to identify appendicitis pain.
There may also be a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever over 40ºC (or 104ºF), increased pain with palpation of the lower right abdomen, and abdominal tightness. Complete our online appendicitis symptoms quiz to determine if you are at risk for appendicitis.
5. Acute hepatitis
Abdominal pain on the right side of the body, particularly in the upper abdomen, is a common symptom of hepatitis. Hepatitis is a swelling in the liver that can be caused for numerous reasons such as bacterial or viral infections, alcoholism, medication use, auto-immune disorders or degenerative disease. Read more about what can cause acute hepatitis.
Hepatitis can also bring about nausea, vomiting, a loss of appetite, headaches, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes or light-colored stools. See which symptoms are specific to hepatitis A.
6. Pancreatitis
Pain associated with pancreatitis is usually found in the upper abdomen and radiates to the back and to the left shoulder. It can occur shortly after consuming alcohol or after a meal.
This pain can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, low blood pressure, a palpable mass in the affected area and yellow skin.
7. Menstrual pain
Some women may experience ovulation pain, which typically occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle. The pain is not very intense, but it can last for days. Because ovulation occurs on alternating ovaries (ie. one month on the left side, the next month on the right side), women usually have a sense of what side is ovulating due to the discomfort felt. Additional pain can be felt if the women also has a history of endometriosis or ovarian cysts, or if the woman is experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.
This type of pain is expected, and although it can become intense at times, it is not usually serious.
Abdominal pain related to a menstrual cycle can often feel like a twisting, sharp or cramping pain. In a 28-day cycle, it typically occurs 14 days before a period.
8. Kidney stones
The presence of stones in the kidneys or bladder can obstruct the flow of urine and cause moderate to intense pain. Usually the pain is felt on the affected side, and it can radiate to the back or to the genitals.
The pain can often start off as mild. It is commonly seen between the ages of 30 and 60 years old, and has an equal occurrence in both men and women.
In addition to pain, kidney stones can also bring about nausea, vomiting, chills, pain with urination, bleeding with urination, and even fever if an infection is present. Read more about kidney stone symptoms and assess your risk using our online quiz.
9. Inguinal hernia
An inguinal hernia is a type of hernia that appears in the abdomen or groin. It is caused by a defect or weakness in the abdominal wall, which allows intestinal tissue to protrude through the abdomen. It is more common in children under 5 years of age and older men.
An inguinal hernia can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen if the muscle weakness is located in the right abdomen. It can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or burning that worsens with exertion.
10. Kidney infection
A kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, refers to a urinary tract infection that reaches the kidneys. It is usually caused by bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (or E. Coli), as well as Candida fungi or viruses. Chronic infections can also be promoted by lesions along the urinary tract or kidney stones.
Kidney infections can present with right side abdominal pain if the right kidney is affected, with pain usually radiating from the back. Other symptoms include fever, abdominal cramping, pain or burning with urinating and nausea or vomiting.
When to go to the hospital
Warning signs of right side abdominal pain that indicate an urgent need to go to the hospital include:
- Any pain that is sudden, very strong, localized to a specific spot, or worsening over time
- Fever or any difficulty breathing
- High blood pressure, tachycardia, cold sweats or general malaise
- Vomiting and diarrhea that does not resolve
In these cases, in addition to assessing all signs and symptoms, the doctor may order diagnostic testing like ultrasound or CT-scans.
Acupuncture for Stomach Pain Relief in Tokyo
Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM) has a long and rich history of treating various types of stomach pain. From ancient times to the present day, Oriental medicine practitioners have documented countless cases of abdominal pain and its successful treatment in various medical texts, including the renowned Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine). For example, in the Suwen Six Elements Principles and Regularities chapter, it is noted that “When wood stagnates, people will have stomach pain,” highlighting how imbalances in the body’s energy flow can lead to stomach discomfort.
Understanding Stomach Pain in TOM
In TOM, the stomach is primarily associated with the upper abdomen, and pain may radiate to the back. It can also present with various accompanying symptoms, such as chest discomfort, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, loud stomach noises, belching, regurgitation of acid or clear fluids, changes in stool consistency, and, in more severe cases, vomiting or blood in the stool.
Clinically, stomach pain is classified into two broad categories: deficiency and excess conditions. The specific nature of the pain—whether it is sharp, persistent, or intermittent—can help determine the underlying cause.
- Excess Conditions: These occur when the stomach is invaded by cold, the diet harms the stomach, the Liver meridian’s energy disrupts the stomach, or there is blood stasis. These excess conditions are often marked by sudden, sharp pain and pressure. Fortunately, they are usually easier to treat with acupuncture and other therapies.
- Deficiency Conditions: These are often due to a lack of Yin in the stomach or weakness in the Spleen-Stomach Yang. In these cases, the pain tends to be slower, more intermittent, and the patient may feel temporary relief when pressure is applied. However, these cases are more challenging to treat, as the underlying deficiency must be addressed through more complex and prolonged treatment.
- Deficiency with Excess Pattern: In chronic conditions, Vital energy stagnation and blood stasis due to long-term deficiency may result in a combination of both deficiency and excess. Treatment in these cases often requires a more nuanced approach, addressing both the stagnation of energy and the need to nourish the deficient areas.
Acupuncture as an Effective Treatment for Stomach Pain
Acupuncture is a key modality in TOM for treating abdominal pain, including stomach pain. Depending on the cause, acupuncture can be used to relieve stagnation of energy, stimulate digestion, or strengthen deficient areas. The primary approach of acupuncture is to restore the natural flow of vital energy in the body, which can alleviate pain and promote healing.
For example:
- Cold Stomach: When stomach pain is caused by cold, acupuncture points associated with warming and activating Yang energy are used to restore balance.
- Indigestion or Stagnation of Energy: In cases where indigestion or stagnant Vital energy is the cause, acupuncture can be used to promote the smooth flow of energy and improve digestive function.
- Blood Stasis: If there is blood stasis in the stomach, acupuncture points can help invigorate blood circulation and resolve the blockage, easing the pain.
Dietary Therapy: A Complementary Approach
Along with acupuncture, dietary therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of stomach pain. The stomach is like a “warehouse” for food and water, and any irregularities in eating, such as consuming too much spicy or greasy food, or eating food at inappropriate temperatures, can harm the stomach and exacerbate pain.
In TCM, it is believed that the stomach prefers moistness and dislikes dryness. Therefore, a diet that is overly dry or that includes too much alcohol, spicy food, or fatty food can generate heat and dryness, which in turn can lead to stomach ailments.
Dietary guidelines for managing stomach pain include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the stomach.
- Avoiding alcohol, spicy foods, and excessive cold or hot foods that can irritate the stomach lining.
- Consuming foods that are easy to digest, such as porridge, steamed vegetables, and soups.
The TPM saying “treat three parts, nourish seven parts” emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment (acupuncture, herbs, etc.) with dietary management. The right food choices can complement acupuncture and enhance healing.
Commonly used acupuncture points for stomach pain
Stomach Channel: ST36 (Zusanli)
- Location: ST36 is located on the front of the leg, about four finger widths below the knee cap, on the lateral side of the tibia bone.
- Effectiveness: ST36 is one of the most commonly used acupuncture points and is renowned for its ability to treat digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, nausea, and abdominal pain. It strengthens the digestive system, boosts immunity, and helps alleviate fatigue. It is also grounding both emotionally and physically, helping with stress, anxiety, and feelings of weakness. This point is particularly effective for general health maintenance and boosting energy levels.
Spleen Channel: SP6 (Sanyinjiao)
- Location: SP6 is located on the inner side of the lower leg, about 4 finger widths above the ankle bone, on the posterior side of the tibia.
- Effectiveness: SP6 is a powerful point for treating a variety of gynecological issues, such as irregular menstruation, infertility, and symptoms related to menopause. It also supports digestion by regulating the spleen and stomach, helping with conditions like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Additionally, it can assist in managing stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances. SP6 is often used for its ability to harmonize the body’s Vital energy and blood, promoting overall health.
Liver Channel: LV3 (Taichong)
- Location: LV3 is located on the top of the foot, in the space between the first and second toes.
- Effectiveness: This point is particularly effective for treating headaches, especially those caused by stress or liver Vital energy stagnation. LV3 is also important for balancing emotional energy, making it beneficial for conditions related to stress, irritability, anger, and mood swings. Additionally, it regulates menstruation, reduces high blood pressure, and promotes the smooth flow of liver Vital energy, improving overall well-being. It is a critical point for emotional balance and physical health.
Governing Vessel: GV20 (Baihui)
- Location: GV20 is located on the top of the head, approximately at the midpoint between the ears.
- Effectiveness: GV20 is a key point for addressing mental and emotional health issues. It is used to treat dizziness, vertigo, and conditions like ear and nasal disorders. This point is also effective for relieving anxiety, stress, and insomnia. As a point on the Governing Vessel, GV20 is central in clearing blockages from the upper body, especially in conditions where there is a lack of mental clarity or energy.
Conception Vessel: CV12 (Zhongwan)
- Location: CV12 is located midway between the breastbone (sternum) and the navel, in the upper abdomen.
- Effectiveness: This point is particularly effective for treating digestive disorders, including bloating, nausea, and poor appetite. It helps harmonize the digestive organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and can alleviate discomfort from conditions like indigestion and acid reflux. It is also a vital point for tonifying Vital energy in the middle burner (stomach and spleen area), helping to balance the body’s internal energy.
Conception Vessel: CV6 (Qihai)
- Location: CV6 is located about 1.5 inches below the navel, in the lower abdomen.
- Effectiveness: This point is used to tonify Vital energy and strengthen the body’s energy, especially in cases of chronic fatigue or exhaustion. It is beneficial for weak spleen Vital energy, which can result in digestive problems and lack of energy. CV6 is also helpful for strengthening the energy of the lower abdomen and reproductive organs. It is often used for conditions like menstrual irregularities, infertility, and low energy levels.
Large Intestine Channel: LI4 (Hegu)
- Location: LI4 is located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger.
- Effectiveness: LI4 is one of the most commonly used acupuncture points for pain relief and immune system regulation. It is often used to relieve acute pain, especially in the face, such as toothaches, headaches, and sinus issues. LI4 also has a broader effect on regulating the body’s energy, particularly for clearing excess heat, relieving stress, and treating conditions like colds and flu. It is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system and relieve pain effectively.
Kidney Channel: KI3 (Taixi)
- Location: KI3 is located behind the inner ankle, in the depression between the ankle bone and Achilles tendon.
- Effectiveness: KI3 is a crucial point for treating conditions related to the kidney system, which is seen as the source of vitality in Oriental medicine. It is used to treat issues such as lower back pain, knee problems, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. KI3 is also effective for insomnia, sore throat, and asthma. It strengthens the body’s Yin and helps to replenish the kidney’s energy, improving overall vitality and health.
Conclusion
Incorporating acupuncture and dietary therapy into a treatment plan can be highly effective for those suffering from abdominal pain. Whether the cause is stress-induced, caused by cold food, or linked to chronic digestive issues, TOM offers a holistic approach that not only targets the symptoms but also addresses the underlying imbalances in the body.
By balancing vital energy, nourishing deficiencies, and relieving stagnation, acupuncture can provide significant relief for abdominal pain, especially when combined with proper dietary practices. If you are experiencing persistent or recurrent stomach pain, consulting with a qualified TOM practitioner can help identify the root cause and guide you towards an effective treatment plan.
Traditional Oriental Medicine offers a powerful approach to abdominal pain relief, one that is rooted in centuries of practice and has helped countless individuals achieve better digestive health and overall well-being.
For those in Tokyo struggling with abdominal pain, FuJi Wellness provides a peaceful and expert-driven environment to experience the healing benefits of acupuncture. Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to guiding you toward a pain-free life by addressing the root causes of your discomfort. If you’re looking for relief and want to experience the transformative power of acupuncture, visit FuJi Wellness today and start your journey to better health and well-being.
Fuji Wellness:
- Address: 132-0031 Matsushima 1-chome, 21-14, Tokyo, Japan
- Contact: Click here
- Email: sunnyphamsensei@gmail.com
