Alleviate Arthritis Pain with Acupuncture

Arthritis pain and inflammation cannot be avoided as the body ages. Most people over the age of 50 show some signs of arthritis, as joints naturally degenerate over time. However, this complex disorder can affect people of all ages.

Two of the most common forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, have very different causes, risk factors, and effects on the body. But their commonality is persistent joint pain.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can help people with arthritis and related auto-immune diseases. Through a major clinical trial, scientists found that ancient Chinese needle treatment can reduce pain and improve mobility by 40 percent compared to those who did not have acupuncture treatments. All of the patients participating in the study had never had acupuncture, and suffered from pain in their knee in the month before treatment. By the eighth week, patients receiving acupuncture treatments showed a significant increase in function, and after 14 weeks, they experienced a considerable decrease in pain.

Oriental medical theory states that arthritis arises when the cyclical flow of Qi (pronounced chee) in the meridians becomes blocked. The outcome is pain, soreness, numbness and stiffness.

A German study of 3,500 people with osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee, patients receiving 15 sessions of acupuncture along with their combined usual medical care, had less pain and stiffness, improved joint function, and better quality of life than patients who had only routine care.

In addition to acupuncture, I utilize various Chinese herbs and nutritional supplements to help treat the inflammation and pain caused by arthritis.

Full article posted on Acufinder