Osteoarthritis (OA)

How Does Acupuncture Benefit Osteoarthritis?

Based on available evidence, the 2019 American College of Rheumatology/Arthritis Foundation Guideline for the Management of Osteoarthritis of the Hand, Hip, and Knee has recommended acupuncture for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

In osteoarthritis, the integrity of the affected joints and tissues are impacted, and there is often degeneration which leads to a condition of chronic pain and impaired ability.

Acupuncture offers a range of therapeutic benefits for osteoarthritis. It is not only the joints that are affected in OA, the anatomy of surrounding tissues are also.

The effect of acupuncture to reduce pathogenic factors in an affected joint and its surrounding tissues, improve blood circulation, and reduce swelling results in important therapeutic benefits which target and improve OA conditions.

• Pain Reduction: Acupuncture is known for its ability to alleviate pain, making it a valuable tool in managing OA-related discomfort.
• Improved Pain Management: It's not just about temporary relief. Acupuncture may help you better manage chronic pain, reducing the need for constant pain medication.
• Reduced Dependence on Medications: If you're looking to minimize your reliance on pain medications, acupuncture offers a drug-free alternative.
• Promoting Health and Wellness: Acupuncture isn't solely about pain relief. It can contribute to your overall health and well-being, addressing the root causes of pain and discomfort.
• Stimulate Tissue Repair: Acupuncture doesn’t only reduce pain, it has been shown to stimulate tissue repair.
• According to TCM: Acupuncture aims to disperse or remove wind, cold, and damp from the body in order open the circulation of qi and blood in the channels and collaterals.

The Efficacy of Acupuncture in Treating Osteoarthritis

Four notable studies have shed light on the effectiveness of acupuncture for osteoarthritis:

• Study 1: This study explored the impact of acupuncture on osteoarthritis patients. The results indicated significant pain reduction and improved joint function in those who received acupuncture treatments.
• Study 2: Another study reinforced the benefits of acupuncture for osteoarthritis. Patients reported reduced pain and enhanced mobility after undergoing acupuncture therapy.
• Study 3: This study concluded that the use of acupuncture is associated with significant reductions in pain intensity, improvement in functional mobility, and quality of life.
• Study 4: This study demonstrated evidence that acupuncture can help stimulate cartilage repair in patients with Osteoarthritis.

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