Pain Relief from Arthritis through Acupuncture

Arthritis affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in affected joints. While there is no cure for arthritis, various treatments can work toward managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

How can acupuncture potentially treat arthritis?

• Pain relief: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals, which can help reduce arthritis pain.
• Reduced inflammation: Acupuncture may modulate the immune response and decrease inflammation in the joints, which are central processes in arthritis.
• Improved joint function: By promoting better circulation and reducing muscle tension, acupuncture can help improve joint flexibility and mobility in individuals with arthritis.
• Stress reduction: Acupuncture sessions often promote relaxation and stress relief, which can help reduce muscle tension and alleviate arthritis symptoms exacerbated by stress.

So, what does the research say about acupuncture for arthritis?

Numerous studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture in managing arthritis symptoms, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints.

One meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain found that acupuncture was significantly more effective than sham acupuncture (a placebo-like procedure) and standard care in reducing pain and improving physical function in individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee. Similarly, a review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews concluded that acupuncture may provide relief for people with osteoarthritis of the knee when compared to sham acupuncture or no treatment.

In addition to osteoarthritis, acupuncture has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. A study published in the journal PLOS One found that acupuncture combined with conventional treatment led to greater improvements in pain, stiffness, and joint function compared to conventional treatment alone in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Here’s a short list of other health tips to manage arthritis:

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can strain joints, particularly in the knees, hips, and feet. Losing weight can help reduce pain and improve mobility for individuals with arthritis.
2. Stay active: Regular exercise is essential for maintaining joint flexibility, muscle strength, and overall mobility. Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking can be beneficial for people with arthritis.
3. Protect your joints: Avoid activities that put excessive stress on your joints, such as lifting heavy objects or repetitive movements. Use assistive devices like splints or braces to support weak joints and reduce pain during daily activities.
4. Apply heat: Heat packs or warm baths can help relax stiff muscles and ease joint pain.
5. Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts may have anti-inflammatory effects.
6. Manage stress: Stress can worsen arthritis symptoms by increasing pain and inflammation. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
7. Get enough sleep: Quality sleep is essential for managing pain and promoting healing. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
8. Consider dietary supplements: Some supplements, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric, may help reduce arthritis symptoms for some people. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.
9. Stay informed: Educate yourself about arthritis, its symptoms, and treatment options. Stay connected with healthcare providers, support groups, or online communities to share experiences and learn from others.
10. Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your activities accordingly. Pace yourself, take breaks when needed, and don’t push through pain. Learning to balance activity and rest is key to managing arthritis effectively.

Incorporating acupuncture and these health tips into your daily routine can help you better manage arthritis symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Call us at 972-669-1346 to schedule a consultation and see if acupuncture is right for you.

References:

1. Berman, B. M., Lao, L., Langenberg, P., Lee, W. L., Gilpin, A. M., & Hochberg, M. C. (2004). Effectiveness of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy in osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 141(12), 901-910.
2. Manheimer, E., Cheng, K., Linde, K., Lao, L., Yoo, J., Wieland, S., … & Berman, B. M. (2010). Acupuncture for osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD001977.
3. Lu, C., Su, Y., & Chen, Y. (2019). Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A network meta-analysis. PLOS One, 14(6), e0217831.