This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two different acupuncture techniques for treating a specific type of chronic constipation, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as "Yang deficiency type" chronic functional constipation.
Chronic functional constipation is a common condition characterized by difficult or infrequent bowel movements. The "Yang deficiency" pattern is believed to be caused by a lack of functional energy (Qi) and warmth in the body, leading to sluggish bowel motility.
This study will enroll 60 eligible participants who will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
Experimental Group: Participants will receive "warm needling" therapy. This involves inserting acupuncture needles at specific points (Tianshu and Guanyuan) and then burning a small moxa stick on the needle handle to generate heat.
Control Group: Participants will receive electroacupuncture at the same acupoints. This involves attaching the needles to a device that delivers a mild electric current.
Both groups will receive treatment every other day, three times a week, for a total of four weeks. We will assess their constipation symptoms, anxiety and depression levels, and quality of life using standardized questionnaires immediately after the 4-week treatment and again 6 months later. The goal is to see which method provides better relief, both in the short term and long term.