Arthritis, a condition that brings pain and limits daily activities, has many seeking effective treatments to alleviate symptoms. Among the available options, acupuncture has emerged as a popular alternative treatment. At Pure Life Physiotherapy & Health Centre in Surrey, we delve into the science behind acupuncture’s ability to aid those suffering from arthritis. This blog post explores its methods, effects, and the studies that underline its benefits.
How Does Acupuncture Affect Arthritis?
Traditional medicine, especially in the East, has long advocated for acupuncture as an effective method to treat various ailments, including arthritis. But how exactly does this treatment work?
Personalized Acupuncture Treatments in Surrey
Each individual’s experience with arthritis is unique. Consequently, a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply when it comes to acupuncture. Acupuncturists at Pure Life Physiotherapy & Health Centre emphasize on tailoring each session to a person’s individual needs. This personalized approach, while effective, does make conducting controlled clinical trials a tad challenging.
Acupuncture Techniques
- Traditional Acupuncture: Involves the insertion of fine needles into specific sites on the skin or muscle. These sites are believed to be intersections of energy pathways, known as meridians.
- Electro-Acupuncture: An enhancement of the traditional method, it involves stimulating the acupuncture needles with electric currents. This provides intensified relief by bolstering the effects of the procedure.
- Moxibustion: Here, a practitioner carefully burns mugwort leaves close to the skin at essential acupuncture points. The heat generated by the burning leaves works in tandem with the needles to stimulate relief.
Clinical Evidence
Recent meta-analysis provides encouraging results on acupuncture’s efficacy. In one such study, 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared the effects of Western medicine alone versus its combination with acupuncture. The results were clear: those who received the combined approach showed significant reductions in inflammatory markers, disease activity, tender joints, and self-reported pain.
Unraveling the Benefits of Acupuncture for Arthritis
Acupuncture isn’t just about inserting needles; it’s about holistic healing. Many who have undergone this treatment, especially at Pure Life Physiotherapy & Health Centre, have reported marked improvements in their quality of life.
The Healing Hormones
According to the Arthritis Foundation, one of the primary reasons acupuncture aids pain relief is its ability to stimulate the production of endorphins and oxytocin. These hormones play crucial roles in pain management and overall well-being.
Groundbreaking Study from 2022
One study in 2022 delved deep into understanding acupuncture’s effect on those suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) of the hand. Participants were divided and provided with either traditional acupuncture using the TCM method, sham acupuncture, or no treatment.
The results? Those treated with the traditional TCM method saw:
- Decreased pain levels
- Enhanced strength in hands and arms
- Better overall health
- Improved quality of life
This study further affirms that traditional acupuncture might just be the answer many arthritis patients are searching for.
Conclusion
Arthritis can be debilitating, but there’s hope in treatments like acupuncture. As evidenced by the studies and the experiences of countless individuals at Pure Life Physiotherapy & Health Centre in Surrey, acupuncture offers a viable alternative to conventional treatments. Whether you’re considering acupuncture for the first time or have been a long-time advocate, understanding its methods and benefits can guide you to a pain-free life.