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By Bend Total Body Chiropractic General Health

How Acupuncture Helps Reduce Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of physical disability, with over 27 million Americans dealing with some form of this condition. Finding a non-invasive, drug-free solution becomes extremely important for managing this ongoing condition without adverse side effects. Acupuncture for arthritis may answer the problem that so many people face. Continue reading to learn how this holistic service can help you get your life back.

What is Acupuncture for Arthritis?

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years as an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is believed that your energy, or qi (pronounced ‘chee’), runs along certain pathways, known as meridians, throughout the body. By inserting hair-thin needles in specific points, your acupuncturist in Bend removes any blockages that may be causing pain or illness.

When using acupuncture for pain, the acupuncture points may sit near the affected area or in a corresponding part of the body. Treatment is generally not painful, and many patients report feeling relief as early as their first appointment.

The 2019 American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation guidelines even list acupuncture as a recommended treatment option for osteoarthritis (OA), making it a prominent option in your ongoing quest for comfort.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Arthritis

Evidence shows that acupuncture for arthritis can significantly ease the discomfort associated with both OA and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). According to a study by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, patients experienced a 40% decrease in pain and increased joint mobility after 3.5 months of treatment.

A review of 43 RA studies showed that 1 to 3 sessions for four weeks could improve symptoms and even decrease the physical markers of the condition.

It’s important to know that acupuncture will not cure or reverse your arthritis. However, it can make your pain and symptoms more manageable daily. You should work with your primary care physician to find an appropriate balance in care.

Thanks to the anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture for pain, you may experience these benefits:

  • Reduced inflammation in the joints
  • Decreased pain as the nerve fibers help block out pain signals
  • Better circulation and blood flow
  • Increased joint mobility
  • Relaxed muscles
  • Lower reliance on common prescriptions and opioids

You may also reap several other benefits that improve your quality of life, including:

  • Stress relief thanks to the stimulation of endorphins and oxytocin, your body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
  • Better sleep due to melatonin regulation.
  • Greater sense of well-being because of a release of serotonin

How Many Acupuncture Sessions Do I Need for Arthritis?

During your first session, the acupuncturists in Bend will complete a full assessment, including your medical history, current treatment plan, and a full record of your symptoms and lifestyle goals. They will then build an individualized treatment plan based on your needs. Studies have varied from 4 weeks to 14 weeks, with results present in all scenarios. For best results, you should follow the plan your acupuncturist gives you.

Generally, for mild to moderate cases, only a limited amount of work is needed to see results. If you have a more advanced case of arthritis (bone-on-bone), you may need ongoing acupuncture treatments for continued comfort.

At Total Body, we believe in a holistic approach to chiropractic care. So, we will offer additional recommendations to help prolong your results, like exercising regularly, wearing supportive shoes, and reducing the strain on your affected joints throughout the day with tweaks. You may also benefit from combining acupuncture with other services, like massage therapy and chiropractic adjustments. These therapies support the function of your entire body and may further bolster your results.

Are you ready to feel more comfortable throughout your day? Schedule an appointment to try acupuncture with Total Body Chiropractic, Massage & Acupuncture.