Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- www.Acute-Acupuncture.com
- Aug 18, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 18, 2024
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Despite advancements in medical treatments, many RA patients seek alternative and complementary therapies to manage their symptoms and avoid taking pharmaceutical drugs. One such therapy that has gained attention is acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. This Blog Post provides a scholarly analysis of acupuncture's potential benefits and effectiveness as a complementary treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
Acupuncture For Autoimmune Diseases Acupuncture is one of the critical components of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to restore the flow of Qi (vital energy in TCM or the neural pathway in Western Medicine) and promote overall well-being. TCM theory suggests that disruptions in the flow of qi can lead to imbalances and various health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis.
The Effects that Acupuncture has on patients for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis are pain relief, inflammation reduction, improved joint function, and the effects on improving one's psychological well-being. Below this paragraph is a list of tabs. Each of these tabs is a category of the benefits of acupuncture for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Pain Relief:
Several studies have reported that acupuncture may effectively reduce pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, alleviating pain and improving overall well-being.
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Inflammation Reduction:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by chronic joint inflammation, leading to tissue damage and joint deformity. Research suggests that acupuncture may help modulate the immune system, reducing the inflammatory response associated with RA. This modulation may restore balance to the immune system, potentially slowing down the disease progression.
Improved Joint Function:
Acupuncture has also shown promising results in improving joint function and mobility in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. By stimulating specific points, acupuncture may help reduce swelling, increase blood flow, and promote healing, enhancing joint flexibility and reducing stiffness.
Acupuncture the Science (Evidence Guide for Sceptics Part One)
Psychological Well-Being:
Rheumatoid arthritis not only affects the physical health of individuals but also takes a toll on their mental well-being. Acupuncture sessions can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, commonly associated with chronic pain conditions. Patients who receive acupuncture as a complementary treatment often report an enhanced sense of relaxation, improved health, and overall quality of life.
Acupuncture the Science (Evidence Guide for Sceptics Part Two)
Scholarly Evidence from Medical Journals on Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Several scientific studies have explored the effectiveness of acupuncture for rheumatoid arthritis. Below are three journals and the evidence published in peer-reviewed journals.
Karatay et al. (2016)
A randomized controlled trial conducted by Karatay et al. (2016) demonstrated that acupuncture significantly reduced pain, reduced stiffness, and improved physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Wang et al. (2019)
Wang et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture for RA. They found that acupuncture when used as adjunctive therapy, had a positive impact on pain, disease activity, and physical function in RA patients.
Lu et al. (2021)
A study by Lu et al. (2021) investigated the effects of acupuncture combined with standard medical treatment on RA patients. The results showed improvements in pain and joint function, indicating that acupuncture may enhance the effectiveness of standard Western Medical therapies.
Acupuncture Near Me- Generalized Who/What/When/Where/Why/How
Evidence from various studies suggests that acupuncture may be a valuable complementary treatment option for individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis. Acupuncture shows the potential to reduce pain and inflammation, improve joint function, and enhance overall well-being. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified acupuncturist before integrating acupuncture into a treatment plan for rheumatoid arthritis. Further research and large-scale clinical trials may be needed to strengthen the evidence base and establish acupuncture's role in the management of RA. Collaborating with healthcare providers and integrating acupuncture into a comprehensive treatment plan may offer additional benefits to Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and enhance their overall well-being. After treatments, one may feel relaxed, energized, and rejuvenated. Communicating with your practitioner about your experience is essential to ensure you receive the maximum benefits from these treatments. Click the button below and book a complementary 15-minute consultation at Acute Acupuncture, 163 The Terrace, Wellington Central, Wellington. Let's discuss if acupuncture is the right thing for you. Thank you for taking the time to read this Blog Post. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this post with others. If you have any questions or concerns check out Acute-Acupuncture Wellington Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as we find this help to answer most people's questions, and please leave a comment below.
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