Arthritis is a term that encompasses various inflammatory joint conditions, commonly characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness. Here’s how and where arthritis often arises and how acupuncture can help treat it.
Common Types and Locations of Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Location: Typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, as well as hands.
- Causes: Wear and tear of cartilage due to aging, injuries, or repetitive stress.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Location: Often affects joints symmetrically, commonly in the hands, wrists, and feet.
- Causes: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints.
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Location: Can affect joints in various patterns, often alongside psoriasis, typically in the fingers and spine.
- Causes: Associated with psoriasis; immune system involvement.
- Gout
- Location: Commonly affects the big toe but can impact other joints such as the ankle and knee.
- Causes: Deposits of uric acid crystals in joints due to diet, genetics, or certain medications.
How Acupuncture Treats Arthritis #
- Pain Relief
- Reduction of Inflammation
- Improved Range of Motion
- Stimulation of Healing
- Balancing the Immune System
Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, providing natural pain relief and reducing the perception of pain in affected joints.
It can help decrease inflammation by increasing blood flow and encouraging the body’s healing mechanisms.
By relaxing tight muscles and relieving stiffness surrounding the joints, acupuncture can help improve mobility.
Acupuncture promotes better circulation, delivering nutrients to the affected area, which aids in healing and recovery.
In cases like rheumatoid arthritis, acupuncture may help regulate the immune response, potentially reducing autoimmune activity.
Treatment Approach #
- Point Selection: Acupuncture points may be selected based on the specific type of arthritis and the joints affected. Both local and distal points may be used.
- Combination with Other Therapies: Often recommended alongside physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes for comprehensive management.
How Often Should You Come for Treatments? #
- Initial Frequency:
- Maintenance:
- Individual Variation:
Many practitioners recommend starting with 1-2 sessions per week for the first few weeks to assess response and progress.
Once improvement is seen, frequency may decrease to every 2-4 weeks, depending on individual needs and the condition.
Treatment frequency can vary based on the severity of pain, chronicity, and individual response to acupuncture.
Conclusion #
If you are experiencing arthritis pain, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Contact us to see how Acupuncture can be a beneficial complementary therapy for managing arthritic pain and enhancing overall quality of life. Regular evaluation with your acupuncturist can help determine the best treatment schedule for your specific situation.
