Originally published April 10, 2018. Updated for clarity and current standards in 2026.
Acupuncture for Acid Reflux (GERD) in Edina, MN (Minneapolis–St. Paul)
When reflux keeps coming back, the nervous system is often part of the picture
Acid reflux and GERD can be more than an occasional inconvenience. For many people, symptoms flare during busy seasons of life—when stress is high, sleep is off, meals are rushed, and the body doesn’t fully “downshift.”
At Complete Oriental Medical Care in Edina, we often see reflux patterns that involve both digestive function and nervous system regulation—especially when symptoms are persistent or easily triggered.
Common acid reflux / GERD symptoms
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Burning in the chest or throat (heartburn)
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Sour taste, regurgitation, or “food coming back up”
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Burping, bloating, nausea, or throat irritation
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Symptoms worse at night or after certain foods
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Tightness in the upper abdomen or chest (non-cardiac)
Why GERD can persist (even with medications)
Many reflux cases involve the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the “valve” that helps keep stomach contents from moving upward. Research has discussed GERD mechanisms such as transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs).
Medications can be helpful for symptom control, but some people experience incomplete relief, side effects, or symptoms that return when they stop.
How acupuncture may help reflux patterns
Acupuncture is not a “quick antacid.” Clinically, the goal is to support the body’s regulation—especially in people whose reflux is tied to:
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Stress reactivity (“flare-ups when life is intense”)
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Tight diaphragm/upper abdominal tension
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Sleep disruption and late-night symptoms
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Digestive sluggishness, nausea, bloating, or appetite irregularity
A study discussed in the American Journal of Physiology—Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology reported that stimulation of the Neiguan (P6) acupuncture point was associated with a reduction in TLESR frequency compared with sham stimulation.
(Practically, this supports why many acupuncturists evaluate reflux through both digestive and autonomic-nervous-system lenses.)
What care looks like at Complete Oriental Medical Care
Your first visit includes time to understand your pattern—symptoms, triggers, stress load, sleep, and digestion history—followed by a tailored acupuncture treatment. If helpful, we may also discuss lifestyle and pacing strategies that reduce flare triggers.
If you are new to acupuncture, see our FAQ about what to expect.
When to seek medical care promptly
If you have chest pain, trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek urgent medical evaluation. Acupuncture can be supportive, but these signs require medical assessment.
Ready to discuss reflux relief options?
Acid reflux/GERD is a condition we treat often in our clinic. To schedule, call 952-831-8080 or use our Contact page to request an appointment.
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