Do you struggle with rheumatoid arthritis and are looking for natural ways to relieve your symptoms? Acupuncture is one of the most well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment methods with wide-ranging benefits for various health issues and conditions.
Research studies have found that acupuncture can help reduce RA pain, improve joint mobility and enhance your quality of life. Read on to learn more about how this ancient TCM practice can provide an effective, drug-free arthritis relief.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Symptoms
- Swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints, especially the hands, wrists and knees
- Fatigue and low energy
- Loss of appetite
- Mild fever
How Acupuncture Can Help with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Acupuncture is one of the core treatment methods in Chinese medicine. According to TCM, the body has a network of pathways called meridians through which essential elements such as Qi flows, powering the body and organs.
The smooth flow of Qi is believed to be essential for good health. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians. By inserting needles at various acupoints, acupuncture can correct blockages and balances the flow of Qi along the target meridians, helping to correct various health imbalances.
Acupuncture is believed to work for RA by restoring the flow of Qi and blood circulation. Research studies have shown that acupuncture can help in reducing inflammatory markers, pain, swollen joints count, tender joints count and improved range of motion 1.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Acupuncture helps block pain signals and triggers the release of natural anti-inflammatory compounds in the body.After just a few treatments, many patients experience significant reductions in joint pain, swelling and stiffness. The effects usually last for several months.
Improved Range of Motion
By decreasing inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, acupuncture can make it easier to move your joints through their full range of motion. This, in turn, helps combat muscle atrophy and maintains flexibility and strength. Studies show acupuncture, combined with exercises, is more effective at improving mobility than exercise alone.
Possible Slowing of Joint Damage
Some research shows acupuncture may help slow the progression of joint damage from RA. While more studies are needed, acupuncture’s ability to decrease inflammation in the joints may help prevent further cartilage and bone erosion over time.
How Many Acupuncture Sessions are Needed?
For best results, acupuncture is usually recommended in a course of 6 to 12 weekly or biweekly treatments. After this, maintenance treatment every month or so may help provide ongoing relief and management of symptoms.Besides acupuncture, a TCM physician may also recommend herbal medication or make dietary recommendations depending on the patient’s condition.
Conclusion
While acupuncture may not cure rheumatoid arthritis, it can provide significant symptom relief and improve the quality of life of an RA patient, making it an effective complement to conventional medical treatments.
If yourself or a loved one would like to explore acupuncture or other TCM treatments, we can help. Book an appointment with a PULSE TCM physician today for a consultation and treatment customised to your needs.