3 Reasons to Try Acupuncture for Arthritis Discomfort

Pain and stiffness from arthritis can affect day to day activities, from typing to walking to getting out of bed. After all, arthritis is a joint disorder and should be treated as such.

There are two common diagnoses: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Osteoarthritis: Breaks down joint cartilage, causing the bones to rub together, a decrease in range of motion, and the feeling of pain and stiffness.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An attack on the immune system which causes bone erosion, swelling, tenderness, pain, and stiffness.

A natural alternative to prescription medications, acupuncture for arthritis can relieve symptoms and improve joint function. Let’s take a look at three reasons you should give acupuncture a try!

1. Acupuncture is a tried and true method.

For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine has used acupuncture practices to improve health conditions. They believed that a person’s “qi”—their life force—may become out of balance. To restore balance, they used needles to reach a person’s pressure points. It’s clear: acupuncture has been used long before our time and will continue to be prevalent.

2. Acupuncture proves to bring pain relief.

In more modern times, extensive testing has been conducted to prove the authenticity of acupuncture. One study found that acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic pain, and many other studies have shown similar findings. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health has found that acupuncture is most commonly used for lower back pain, neck pain, knee pain, and osteoarthritis.

3. Acupuncture can ease the limitations of arthritis.

Since there is no cure for arthritis, many people look for alternative treatment options, such as acupuncture. As needles are inserted in the body, pressure points are relieved and cause a decrease in pain and inflammation. Several sessions for a few weeks are needed to feel long-term relief. Getting back to day-to-day activities is vital, and acupuncture can help get you there.

Other Benefits of Acupuncture Treatments

While acupuncture for arthritis is common, this practice can be used for many other ailments. Some other treatments are headaches and migraines, muscle pains, infertility, sprains and strains, and many more. Acupuncture is highly recommended for women dealing with infertility. Many doctors often advise women to start acupuncture three months before in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).

The first step to starting acupuncture treatments is consulting with a trusted acupuncturist. AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine’s professional staff offers a free consultation to discuss methodology and professional therapy services. Contact our office today to learn how acupuncture can help you!