Arthritis is a general term used to describe a number of conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues. Symptoms of arthritis can include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected joints. While there are more than 100 types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
According to the CDC, an estimated 53.2 million US adults suffer from arthritis. In the U.S., it’s the leading cause of work disability among adults. The exact causes of arthritis are not known. However, certain risk factors can make a person more likely to develop arthritis, such as age, joint injuries, and chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
There is currently no cure for arthritis. However, there are many ways to treat and manage the symptoms of arthritis. While medications are effective at treating the pain caused by arthritis, they provide only temporary relief. Non-drug therapies have proven to be very effective when it comes to managing the symptoms of arthritis. One of these is acupuncture.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the application of thin, hair-like needles just below the patient’s skin at specific points along the body. These needles stimulate the nerves, tissues, and muscles at the insertion points. Acupuncture is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine. It’s been used for thousands of years to treat and manage a wide range of chronic disorders, including arthritis.
During an acupuncture procedure, the needles are generally left in place for 10 to 20 minutes. How long it takes to see results varies from patient to patient. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others require a few sessions for notable improvement. Six to eight sessions are typically required for most patients.
How Does Acupuncture Manage the Symptoms of Arthritis?
So, how does this relieve the pain and other symptoms of arthritis? The needles send signals to the brain, triggering a release of neurotransmitters called endorphins and enkephalins. These neurotransmitters help reduce the sensation of pain. The needles also induce the production of cortisol, hormones that help control inflammation.
In addition, the needles stimulate blood flow and oxygen to the affected muscles and joints as well as the body’s natural immune responses.
Besides osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, acupuncture can effectively treat related joint pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, and gout.
Schedule Your Appointment at QualityAcu Today!
If you think acupuncture might help you manage the symptoms of your arthritis, it’s important to find a trained and experienced practitioner. Greg G. Maruki, L.Ac, MAOM, is a licensed acupuncturist serving patients throughout the Orange County, CA area. His Orange, CA acupuncture clinic, QualityAcu, provides a wide range of traditional Chinese medicine and alternative medicine pain management therapies.
You can schedule an appointment at QualityAcu by using our online form or calling us at 714-532-2827. Our hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM. QualityAcu is located at 2832 E. Chapman Ave.,. We accept most PPO insurance and Greg always welcomes new patients.
