Acupuncture For Arthritis

As a disease, arthritis is relatively common and can affect people of all ages, sexes and races, with more than 100 different types now known about. It’s characterised by swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints, as well as reduced mobility and range of motion.

These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and they can come and go, often resulting in chronic pain and making it difficult to carry out normal everyday activities like walking or climbing the stairs. It’s also possible for permanent joint changes to manifest as a result of arthritis, such as knobbly finger joints.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are treatments out there that can slow its progression, including medication, surgery and lifestyle changes.

One particular treatment that can provide relief for symptoms is acupuncture, where very fine needles are inserted at specific points in the skin. 

The principles of the practice are based on traditional Chinese medicine, with the aim being to restore the body’s energy flow (or ‘qi’) through pathways known as meridians. It’s thought that illness and disease arise when this energy flow is disrupted, but acupuncture can help restore balance and bring the body back to health.

How can acupuncture help arthritis?

Going for regular acupuncture treatments can help with pain management and regulate immune system function, as well as tackling issues associated with arthritis like fatigue and nausea.

During your treatment session, your acupuncturist will insert very thin needles into certain parts of your body. How many needles they use and where they position them, as well as how deeply into the skin they go, will depend on your particular symptoms.

These needles can be left in for just a few minutes or up to an hour, as necessary. You may feel some tingling, but you shouldn’t feel any pain. If you are in discomfort, make sure you let your acupuncturist know.

Here at Acuwellness, I adopt an integrated approach to the practice, combining traditional Chinese medicine techniques with other styles like massage, meditation, moxibustion and cupping. If you’d like to find out more, get in touch with me today.