Acupuncture for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Inclusion criteria: Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome based on Rome II criteria, including at least 12 weeks of abdominal discomfort or pain in the last 12 months with at least 2 of the following features: Relief with defecation Onset associated with a change in stool frequency Onset associated with a change in form/appearance of stool Exclusion criteria: History of severe or intractable IBS, defined as continuous, unremitting and several abdominal pain greater than 12 hours/day Previous acupuncture treatment Concurrent diagnosis of any bowel disturbance that would interfere with the assessment or safety of the study History of laxative abuse Previous abdominal surgery (uncomplicated appendectomy, hysterectomy or cholecystectomy at least 6 months prior to entry acceptable) History of metabolic or inflammatory disease that may affect bowel motility, eg.g., inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes mellitus, sarcoidosis Other significant illness as determined by Investigator History of drug or alcohol abuse w/in 2 years; Insufficient knowledge of English to complete self-assessments to participate in study