Blog#47:
Acupuncture for Arthritis
Arthritis derives its
meaning from two roots: arthr = joint and itis = inflammation. Some types of arthritis, such as osteo or
other degenerative conditions, often worsen with cold weather or ice treatment
and feel somewhat better during warmer weather or with heat treatment. Other types of arthritis, such as
inflammatory or rheumatoid (an autoimmune disease) tend to be overly hot and
worsen greatly with the application of heat.
There are many types of arthritis, such as gout, which is associated
from the over-consumption of rich foods, and reactive arthritis, which is
associated with infections from certain types of bacteria, such as Shigella or
Chlamydia. People often use over-the-counter
pain relievers to manage arthritis symptoms, but repeated use of these drugs can damage the stomach, kidneys or
liver. Over-the-counter drugs such as
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen (Aleve) can cause stomach bleeding
and kidney damage. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can damage the liver. All three of these drugs can increase the risk
of heart disease.
A far better treatment
approach for arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, is to lose weight if
needed, thereby decreasing pressure on the joints, and to exercise appropriately
and regularly to strengthen muscles that in turn stabilize joints, thus
reducing the likelihood of further joint damage. Acupuncture and mobilization, such as
Chiropractic, can be used to improve circulation of blood and lymph to and from
the joints. This helps detoxify the area and increases the rate of healing, as
well as reducing the pain level. Moxibustion (Moxa),
one special aspect of Acupuncture, involves using Mugwort, an herb, to heat specific
points on the body, including problematic joints. This therapy can greatly speed joint healing. Moxibustion should not be used with inflammatory or
reactive arthritis, and often is not appropriate with rheumatoid or gout. Several of my teachers claim that when used
appropriately, on a regular basis over months and years, Moxa can help damaged
ligaments, tendons and muscles regenerate.
I have seen quite a few patients walk into my office in severe pain and
leave almost pain-free after treatment with Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Sometimes this happens after only one
treatment, sometimes only after many such treatments, since the effects of
Acupuncture are cumulative.
This month’s offer. Contact me for a free consultation to find out
if acupuncture is appropriate for your arthritis problems.
