Acupuncture For Arthritis

How Acupuncture Can Help Alleviate Arthritis: A Natural Path to Pain Relief

 

Arthritis is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. While conventional treatments like medication and physical therapy are commonly prescribed, many individuals are turning to acupuncture as a complementary therapy to manage arthritis symptoms. This ancient Chinese practice, rooted in balancing the body’s energy, offers a holistic approach to pain relief and improved quality of life for those suffering from arthritis.

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​​​Benefits of Acupuncture for Arthritis

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• Pain Relief: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce pain by promoting the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that inhibit pain signals in the brain. Studies have demonstrated that regular acupuncture sessions can lead to significant pain reduction in individuals with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

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• Improved Joint Mobility: By reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles around the joints, acupuncture can enhance flexibility and increase the range of motion. This is particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who experience stiffness and difficulty moving.

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• Reduced Inflammation: Acupuncture may help regulate the body’s inflammatory response, which is crucial for managing arthritis. It can decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are chemicals that contribute to inflammation in the joints.

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• Enhanced Well-being: Beyond physical benefits, acupuncture promotes overall well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. Chronic pain from arthritis can lead to mental health challenges, and acupuncture’s calming effects can help improve mood and quality of life.

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• Complementary to Conventional Treatments: Acupuncture can be safely used alongside conventional arthritis treatments, such as medication and physical therapy. It can enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by addressing the root causes of pain and discomfort.

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What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

 

1. Please eat a moderate amount of food 1 to 1.5 hours before your appointment. Acupuncture moves a lot of energy in your body so eating something prior to your appointment will insure your body has energy to move. If you can’t have a meal, a nutritious snack is OK. A bag of chips and a can of soda do not count as a nutritious snack.

2. Arrive 5- 10 minutes early so you can fill out your Patient Condition Assessment and use the rest room prior to your treatment.

3. If you require a refill of your herbs, please notify the front desk at this time.

4. Take everything with you to the appropriate treatment room.

5. You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and adjust your clothing as necessary. We ask that you wear loose clothing so there is easy access to your legs up to mid-thigh, arms including shoulders, abdomen and back. If you prefer, you can change clothes in the treatment room or change into a gown provided by Best Acupuncture. If you are uncertain, ask the acupuncture assistant how clothing should be moved, ie: moving pant legs above the knee, etc. You may be instructed to lie on your stomach for a face down treatment; the acupuncture assistant will assist you with a gown and provide you with instruction.

6. Whenever possible, arrange your schedule so you do not have to rush to, or away from your appointment.

7. If you must leave right away or earlier than the allotted time, please tell us at the beginning of your appointment.

8. Please do NOT brush or scrape the coating from your tongue on that day of your treatment. Tongue analysis is one of the unique aspects of Chinese medical diagnosis, and seeing the tongue in its natural state will greatly assist the acupuncturist in establishing a treatment strategy.

9. Cell phones should be turned off to ensure maximum relaxation for yourself and others once you have entered the treatment room.

 

To Make Your Treatment Most Effective, please remember the following:

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1. Do not submerge in water (shower, bath, hot tub, etc) for at least 8 hours after.

2. No rigorous activities or exercise for at least 8 hours after.

3. Drink plenty of water to help flush the toxins released during you treatment. There are eight basic ways the body can eliminate toxins: through the skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, digestive system, urination, and the reproductive organs.

4. Reserve your energy and try to rest as much as possible This energy is for you; try not to give it away.

5. Please make us aware if you start or stop any of the following activities: exercise, diet, supplements and medications throughout your treatments with us.

6. Pay close attention to your body’s response over the next 24-48 hours. Your feedback is vital in identifying your body’s rate of response. Pay close attention to the frequency, intensity and duration of your top three primary complaints.

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