As we age, our joints break down and develop arthritis. The most common form, osteoarthritis, is found in nearly 80 percent of all seniors age 65 and older. Joint pain and inflammation is caused by the simultaneous erosion of joint cartilage, and new bone growth inside the joint. Major joints including fingers, knees, hips and the spinal column are the most affected, with pain intensifying with movement and improving with rest.

Arthritis and associated symptoms can be successfully managed with acupuncture. Chinese medical practitioners have been treating arthritis for more than 2,000 years, typically with Acupuncture and a combination of Chinese herbal remedies. The course and frequency of treatment varies with individual circumstances. Small needles are inserted across various locations in the body, and not necessarily directly into the affected joint.

Much research has been done to study the effects of acupuncture on the symptoms of arthritis, with results overwhelmingly supporting the ancient practice as an effective treatment. In one European study, about 25 percent of arthritis patients treated with acupuncture opted to forego previously scheduled knee surgery because they had lasting relief.

Due to the holistic nature of Traditional Chinese Medicine, arthritis is not viewed as a separate disease. The approach is to treat symptoms that are specific to each person, with a combination of remedies like energy exercise, herbal therapies, body work, and improving diet and lifestyle influences. Each treatment is tailored to the person’s specific needs, taking into account mental, spiritual and physical factors.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine continue to rise in popularity in general, and for conditions like arthritis specifically. Many patients find long-term relief with typically no negative side effects found in many conventional medications. In fact, because Chinese medicine takes a whole body approach to healing, many patients notice an overall improvement in their health and well being after seeking treatment for one ailment.

With growing support from the Western medical community and patient satisfaction, acupuncture and traditional Chinese techniques are becoming increasingly more integrated into conventional medicine. Researchers are finally beginning to understand how acupuncture works in the body to effectively heal disease.