Arthritis is a common condition involving inflammation and pain in one or more joints. Chinese Medicine is incredibly effective in treating arthritis and numerous medical studies have shown that acupuncture greatly reduces any inflammation, pain and stiffness often associated with the condition. In fact, the Osteoarthritis Research Society International recommends acupuncture as a treatment option for osteoarthritis.
In Chinese Medicine, arthritis is called ‘Pain Obstruction Syndrome’. It is caused by the invasion of pathogenic factors – Wind, Cold and Damp – into the body when the body’s energy and blood is deficient. This is why arthritis is more common in the elderly or those who have suffered a previous illness, although arthritis also occurs after prolonged exposure to certain ‘environmental conditions’, such as a strenuous job or sporting activities.
Typical symptoms of arthritis include:
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Inflammation
- Stiffness
- Restricted movements
There are several different types of arthritis, such as:
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and the most common type of arthritis in the UK, affecting both the larger and smaller joints of the body, including hands, wrists, feet, back, hips and knees.
In Chinese Medicine, osteoarthritis is commonly due to the invasion of Cold. To treat this, we use Moxibustion – a warming and soothing accompaniment to an acupuncture treatment – which relieves the symptoms.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is when the body’s own immune system attacks the body tissues leading to pain and swelling. This often occurs in the joints, such as your fingers, wrists, knees and elbows. The disease works symmetrically, appearing on both sides of the body.
As well as acupuncture, Moxibustion can also help relieve the pain and symptoms.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints, causing swelling, inflammation and pain. It is treated in the same way as arthritis.
How Can Acupuncture Help?
The World Health Organisation credits acupuncture as an effective treatment for all forms of arthritis.
Here are the key ways acupuncture treats arthritis:
- By releasing endorphins; the body’s natural pain killers
- By releasing neurohumoral factors
- By inhibiting pain
- By regulating the metabolism
- By reducing inflammation
- By increasing local circulation and reducing swelling
- By regulating the immune system
- By regulating cortisol levels
- With dietary recommendations