Have you been diagnosed with arthritis? Acupuncture can help!
Arthritis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the joints. The two most prevalent forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is frequently referred to as the ‘wear and tear’ arthritis. It arises gradually from the wearing down of the protective cartilage at a joint. Interestingly, 37% of Canadians over the age of 20 have osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder. It creates pain and inflammation at the affected joints. Essentially, your own immune system begins to attack the structures at your joints. This type of arthritis most commonly affects the hands and wrists.
So, how does acupuncture improve these conditions? Let’s take a closer look!
The Link: Acupuncture and Arthritis
Acupuncture developed over 2000 years ago. Only recently has it gained mainstream traction and acceptance. And for a good reason.
Generally, experts and scientists agree that acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins. Consequently, this decreases the pain associated with conditions like arthritis. And the studies support this.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, a 2004 study showed significant pain and function improvements after 26 weeks of acupuncture treatment. In a 2005 study, research showed improved pain and joint function after acupuncture treatment in those with knee osteoarthritis. A more recent 2008 study also showed significant improvements in pain levels, function, and quality of life with acupuncture treatment in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Overall, there is an abundant amount of scientific evidence supporting the use of acupuncture to improve and treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It helps manage major symptoms, improving these individuals’ lives and overall well-being.
The Benefits of Acupuncture for Arthritis Conditions
But what else is going on beneath the surface? How exactly does acupuncture lead to decreased pain in individuals diagnosed with arthritis?
1. Acupuncture improves joint stiffness and pain.
Overall, many individuals with arthritis note improved function and reduced pain after acupuncture treatments. The exact treatment amount may vary from individual to individual. But this comes down to the stimulation of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.
2. It decreases inflammation.
The decrease in inflammation at the joint leads to improved function and decreased joint stiffness. Research indicates that decreased inflammation at the affected joints may be due to the stimulation of the production of cortisol. Cortisol helps control inflammation, which contributes to decreased arthritis symptoms.
3. It reduces stress.
Surprisingly, acupuncture can be a very relaxing treatment method. In fact, many individuals with stress seek out acupuncture to help eliminate it. When a person is in pain, they may experience increased stress levels. This can lead to inflammation, which further aggravates arthritic conditions. By helping relieve stress, acupuncture again helps reduce the symptoms associated with arthritis.
4. It boosts the immune system.
Researchers have found that acupuncture can regulate the immune system. This is particularly important when considering that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. In this way, it also has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, reducing the pain that comes along with arthritis.
5. There are few or no side effects.
When performed safely, acupuncture treatment has very little side effects. At most, you may experience soreness at the site of insertion, slight nausea, fatigue, or light-headedness. However, these side effects are often rare and minor.
Try Acupuncture to Improve Your Arthritis Symptoms!
The only way to find out if it works for you is to try it out. Keep in mind that it usually takes more than a couple of sessions to feel any positive effects.
At your first appointment, you’ll want to make sure you eat and are properly hydrated before your session. The needles will be inserted and kept in for up to 30 minutes or more. Slight tingling in the area of insertion is normal. If you feel any discomfort or pain during your session, make sure to communicate this with your acupuncturist. After a couple of sessions, you may notice your pain levels improve!
Ready to book your first appointment? At Tranquilo Wellness, our team is experienced and dedicated to helping each and every patient get back to their normal. We put your safety first and aim to understand in order to help serve you better. Don’t let arthritis stand in your way.
Book your next appointment and discover a life where pain doesn’t get in your way.