Arthritis is a painful and often times debilitating condition that’s characterized by inflammation within one or more joints. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 2 people will develop osteoarthritis of the knee by the age of 85. It’s important to note, however, that there are several different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis being just one. Other common types include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, septic arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Pain is the primary complaint of arthritis sufferers, and acupuncture is a very effective form of pain control. It relieves pain in three ways. First, it causes the body to produce chemicals called endorphins, which inhibit the perception of pain. Endorphins are produced naturally by the patient’s own body, hence, there are no side effects. Second, acupuncture works through the nervous system by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Third, it deactivates trigger points. Trigger points are tender and extremely reactive areas that develop in the muscles and fascial sheaths of the body. They are often responsible for chronic pain and are frequently found around arthritic joints.
Acupuncture is most successful at relieving pain, but it can also have a positive effect on other symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid arthritis it is characterized by inflammation (swelling, redness and pain) in and around joints. The degree of inflammation fluctuates, possibly following changes in the stress levels of the body. Acupuncture stimulates the adrenals to produce natural steroids, which have an anti-inflammatory effect. Since they are produced by the body, they do not cause side effects. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission, but pain often persists once the inflammation has subsided. Acupuncture is very effective at relieving this pain by inactivating trigger points around the joints.
Another form of arthritis is Osteoarthritis (OA). It involves the gradual wearing a way of cartilage in joints along with the deposition of calcium, which limits mobility of the joint. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis among adults and affects joints in the hands, lower back and neck, causing great discomfort and reduced mobility for millions. A large meta-analysis consisting of 12 trials and 1,763 patients with osteoarthritis has revealed acupuncture to be an effective way of treating arthritis pain, rivaling conventional medicine. Not only was acupuncture found to be an effective way of treating osteoarthritis but is also a safe and natural way to treat the ailment.
Acupuncture also has a very relaxing effect on the mind and body. Since much illness is the result of stress, this relaxation helps to reduce and relieve your arthritis pain. If you suffer from arthritis, acupuncture can greatly improve your quality of life by reducing your pain.
Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. Are you ready for pain relief? Call today (253-252-7195) to schedule your appointment or send us email and start living a pain free life.
Source:
CDC Arthritis-Related Statistics
Acupuncture Calms Arthritis Pain
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