Acupuncture is a comprehensive form of traditional medicine that originated in China nearly 2,000 years ago. With over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions, acupuncture for arthritis varies according to the root cause of disease. However, the basic principles still apply regardless of the form of arthritis that you are suffering from.
All living things contain Qi, or energy, that courses throughout the body via channels known as meridians. When Qi becomes blocked at any point, an imbalance occurs. These imbalances result in disease and ailments. The meridians form a network of energy pathways and each one is related to a particular organ or system.
Due to the interconnectedness of energy and organs, an imbalance along the kidney meridian, for example, could cause illness along the liver meridian. This energetic structure encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. When Qi is stagnant, blocked, weak, or even excessive, it results in physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual suffering. Restoring balance leads to wellness.
The chief complaint among individuals with arthritis is pain. Acupuncture for arthritis has been found to be a potent pain reliever and also alleviates stiffness and tenderness.
Arthritis is defined as inflammation that affects one or more joints. However, traditional Chinese medicine is holistic and doesn’t merely focus on the joint. It does treat the symptoms, but goes deeper to treat the underlying cause. By inserting hair thin, virtually painless needles into specific acupuncture points, the individual as a whole will regain balance. While arthritis in the knee may involve needles in the knee area, every person’s manifestation of the disease differs.
A customized treatment plan is employed in acupuncture for arthritis sessions. Arthritis could be due to liver/kidney deficiency, blood stagnation, or even a damp pattern, all of which inhibit the flow to the joints and create calcification and discomfort.
Needles will be used to stimulate the corresponding acupuncture points to reverse the pattern and restore health, relieve symptoms, and possibly prevent the progression of the disease.
Acupuncture for arthritis is becoming increasingly popular even among Western physicians. It is a way to see results without the side effects of common arthritis medications. It stimulates the body’s natural healing response for lasting change and improved quality of life.