.
Arthritis simply means inflammation of the joints. There are two main types
of arthritis C osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is
characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage, hypertrophy of bone at
the margins and changes in synovial membranes. This is the type of arthritis
where the cartilage in joints wears away and leads to pain, weakness and
deformities of the joints. That is why osteoarthritis is also known as
degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Rheumatoid arthritis,
however, is an inflammatory disease thought to be caused by a mistaken
immune system attack on the joints (an autoimmune disorder). It is known
more for hot, swollen, painful joints with decreased range of motion.
Both types of arthritis are common problems for many Americans, especially
those individuals age 60 or older. Not only does it interfere with daily
routines once it sets in, but it progressively worsens as one ages.
Unfortunately, arthritis culminates in severe debilitation and joint
deformation. The reason arthritis affects so many people to such a severe
degree is that there are very few effective treatments for it. For the most
part sufferers are given anti-inflammatory drugs. When these do not work,
surgery and joint replacement are the next option. Those inflicted with
arthritis are offered limited help with symptoms, and very few treatments to
stop the diseases progression.
Acupuncture can increase blood circulation to joints, and thus their
absorption of calcium as well as the removal of noxious elements. It can
also increase the production of synovial fluid to keep joints better
lubricated. In addition it reduces inflammation and swelling as it stops
pain. These well documented effects of acupuncture are what allow it to
treat both types of arthritis. Acupuncture treatments can therefore
eliminate the symptoms of arthritis and slow down the progression of the
disease. And it is able to do this without any of the long-term side-effects
associated with most anti-inflammatory drugs used for arthritis.
When considering acupuncture for the treatment of arthritis there are some
important considerations to keep in mind. The fastest results will be seen
in patients with a relatively short history of either type of arthritis.
Those with chronic cases of 10 or more years with arthritis will need 8 to
10 acupuncture treatments to notice a positive change in their condition.
The longer a person has arthritis, the longer it may take to eliminate the
symptoms. While acupuncture cannot reverse any deformity of the joint that
has already occurred, it can slow down and stop further destruction and
additional negative symptoms. It is commonly combined with Chinese herbal
medicine to strengthen the results. In tandem with herbs, or by itself,
acupuncture offers arthritis sufferers a legitimate and effective option to
reduce the symptoms that negatively impact their lives and stop the
diseases worsening progression.
1. Acupuncture to treat arthritis
2. Acupuncture to treat back pain
3. Acupuncture to treat Fibromiyalgia
4. Acupuncture to treat headaches
5 Acupuncture to treat heel Pain
Quit smoking with unique acupuncture program