our expertise

What is Arthritis?

Gina’s Advice

At Acupuncture of Columbia, our passion is helping you rediscover the joys of a life free from chronic pain or illness. With our expert practitioners and individualized treatment plans, we’re dedicated to guiding you on your journey towards holistic healing. If you’re ready to take the first step in addressing your pain or chronic condition, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us. Experience the transformative power of acupuncture and let us help you reclaim your health and wellbeing. Together, we can chart a course towards a pain-free, healthier life.

GET EXPERT HELP

UNDERSTANDING arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness in one or more joints. There are several types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, each with its own unique features and underlying causes. Arthritis can affect people of all ages and can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and decreased quality of life.

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form of arthritis, occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation and damage. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that often occurs in individuals with psoriasis and can cause joint pain, swelling, and skin lesions.

SYMPTOMS of arthritis

The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, common symptoms may include:

  • Joint pain and stiffness: Arthritis typically causes pain and stiffness in the affected joints, which can worsen with movement or after periods of inactivity.
  • Swelling and inflammation: Inflammation in the joints can lead to swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected area.
  • Limited range of motion: Arthritis can restrict the movement of the joints, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks or participate in physical activities.
  • Joint deformities: Over time, arthritis can cause joint deformities, such as the formation of nodules or the misalignment of bones.
  • Fatigue and general discomfort: Many individuals with arthritis experience fatigue, as well as a general feeling of malaise or discomfort.

ACUPUNCTURE for arthritis

Acupuncture can be a beneficial treatment modality for managing the symptoms of arthritis and promoting overall joint health. The precise placement of needles at specific points during acupuncture therapy can have various therapeutic effects on the affected joints, including:

The most commonly known therapeutic effect of acupuncture is its ability to reduce pain. In the case of arthritis, the insertion of needles at particular points can block pain signals from reaching the brain or stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This can help manage chronic pain associated with arthritis.

Acupuncture helps reduce inflammation by influencing the body’s immune response. Research suggests that the treatment can trigger the release of anti-inflammatory chemicals within the body, helping reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints.

By reducing pain and inflammation, acupuncture helps improve mobility in arthritic joints. Regular treatments can make movements less painful and easier to perform, potentially aiding in tasks like walking, lifting objects, or performing other activities of daily living that may be difficult due to arthritis.

Acupuncture helps improve blood circulation, promoting better distribution of nutrients and oxygen to the body’s tissues. Improved circulation around the arthritic joints can promote healing and recovery and also help eliminate waste products that contribute to pain and inflammation.

microcurrent therapy for arthritis

Microcurrent therapy can be a beneficial treatment modality for managing the symptoms of arthritis and promoting overall joint health. The low-level electrical currents delivered during microcurrent therapy can have various therapeutic effects on the affected joints, including:

Microcurrent therapy has been shown to help reduce pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. The electrical currents stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body.

Microcurrent therapy can help decrease inflammation in the joints, which is a common feature of arthritis. The electrical currents have an anti-inflammatory effect, helping to alleviate swelling and improve joint function.

Microcurrent therapy promotes blood flow to the affected joints, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for tissue repair and healing. Improved circulation can also help remove waste products and reduce joint stiffness.

The electrical currents used in microcurrent therapy can stimulate cellular activity, promoting tissue repair and regeneration. This can contribute to the maintenance and restoration of joint health.

By reducing pain and inflammation and promoting tissue repair, microcurrent therapy can help improve joint mobility and flexibility. This can enhance the individual’s ability to perform daily activities and engage in physical exercises.