ACUPUNCTURE FOR JOINT PAIN
June 23rd, 2008
Most people over 50 experience some form of joint pain. Joints naturally deteriorate over time, resulting in loss of normal movement. The goal of treatment for joint pain is to limit pain and inflammation, while ensuring optimal joint function.
Acupuncture for joint pain treats the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual. Acupuncture effectively reduces the pain and inflammation associated with all types of joint pain, including arthritis, bursitis, rotator cuff damage, tendonitis, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis.
For individuals experiencing joint pain, acupuncture often reduces the number of tender joints and decreases joint stiffness and swelling. Acupuncture for symptomatic treatment of joint conditions is ideal for individuals who are unable to tolerate medication side effects resulting from intake of analgesics and muscle relaxants.
Acupuncture treatment plans for joint pain often involve both short-term and long-term relief approaches. When used as a primary treatment for joint pain management, acupuncture reduces the pain at or near a joint and the swelling around the joint area.
Acupuncture increases muscle and tendon relaxation around the affected joint area and increases levels of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Acupuncture also balances the movement of qi (vital energy) in the body, which enhances overall health.
Individuals experiencing joint pain, when treated with acupuncture, often show significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life. Acupuncture therapy for joint pain often results in reduced dependence on pharmacotherapy and improved functional ability. A tailored acupuncture treatment program can improve joint function in as few as eight to ten treatment sessions, allowing the individual to return to normal activities.
Acupuncture for joint pain, when used in conjunction with disease modifying agents, can provide beneficial pain relief for those with otherwise intractable joint pain. Your acupuncture physician may also recommend Chinese herbal medicine to reduce soft tissue inflammation.
Treating joint pain with acupuncture should be seen as a long-term process, especially if the condition is chronic. A balanced, varied diet can aid in joint pain reduction by providing vitamins and minerals that keep joints healthy.
Certain exercises, such as swimming, walking, low-impact aerobic exercise, and range-of-motion exercises, may help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Stretching exercises may be helpful in keeping joints flexible. For more information about acupuncture for the treatment of joint pain call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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