How Acupuncture Works in Treating the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
One of humanity’s most debilitating conditions, osteoarthritis can greatly affect the quality of life and mobility of its victims. Over time, various types of anti-inflammatory medications have been created to address this problem but unfortunately, they all bring undesirable side effects to the patient. This has forced individuals to resort to alternative treatments such as acupuncture in the treatment of osteoarthritis in Miami.
It is a provable fact that an increasing number of people suffering from osteoarthritis are turning to traditional acupuncture therapy mainly because it does not cause negative side effects. In truth, a majority of people have tried acupuncture for the management of chronic pain associated with this enervating condition. But, what exactly is osteoarthritis and in what way can acupuncture contribute to the better management of this condition?
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is a condition mainly distinguished by issues related to the structure and function of the joints. This condition usually affects a single joint as well as the adjacent joint cover, joint lining, muscles, ligaments and the underlying joint. Sometimes, it can mean a progressive loss of cartilage in the body.
Various factors such as disease, injury, aging, and heredity can bring about osteoarthritis though usually it develops because of the degeneration of the cartilage. Cartilage is made up of a protein substance and its role is to serve as a “shock absorber” or “cushion” to prevent the bones from coming into contact with each other.
There are two types of osteoarthritis: primary and secondary osteoarthritis. The former typically develops due to the aging process when the joints gradually degenerate over time. Cartilage loss due to time causes the two adjacent joints to come into contact and grind on each other causing limited mobility and intense pain. The most common type of osteoarthritis seen is one that is hereditary.
Secondary osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is usually triggered by diseases or conditions such as hormonal disorder, obesity, gout, and diabetes. Your cartilage can suffer if you are obese since your weight increases the mechanical stresses between the joints. In fact, obesity is known as the second most significant risk factor for degenerative arthritis, based on studies. The number one risk factor is aging.
Osteoarthritis signs and symptoms may differ from person to person although the most common denominator for this disease is pain as well as limited mobility if the joints and joint stiffness. The Western conventional way of treating osteoarthritis focuses on the relief of the joint inflammation and pain. The treatments also are aimed at improving and maintaining the function of the joints.
What is Acupuncture? What are Its Benefits?
Acupuncture has been used for over 3500 years. It is used as a treatment for wide range of illnesses and conditions due to its very multiple health benefits. Serious clinical studies of this ancient therapy actually only began five decades ago. Because of acupuncture’s and traditional Chinese medicine’s huge present popularity, a lot of Western physicians and other medical professionals have developed a curiosity and keen interest on how this treatment works and its ability to relieve pain to osteoarthritis sufferers.
Illnesses, from the viewpoint of TCM (traditional Chinese medicine), are basically due to development of an imbalance or hindrance to the flow of vital energy known as chi or qi in the body. By means of acupuncture, these hindrances and imbalances can be rectified through the utilization of filiform and special needles.
TCM teaches us that the body possesses a dozen primary meridians or energy channels, thousands of acupuncture points, and eight secondary energy channels. When the acupoints are stimulated, it results in positive health benefits to specific organs in the body. Acupuncture is a procedure in which very thin needles penetrate the skin and are manipulated in such a way that it generates mild electrical impulses.
Acupuncture for the Management of Pain – Studies
There have been several studies conducted over time, to test whether acupuncture is effective or not in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Acupuncture, studies show, aids in the stimulation and creation of the body’s own natural painkillers known as endorphins. The endorphins that enter the bloodstream can help osteoarthritis patients to better cope with pain.
Acupoints are usually situated near the nerves. A dull achy feeling or a sensation of fullness can be felt when these nerves are stimulated. Muscle stimulation sets off signal transmission to the central nervous system, made up of the brain and the spinal cord to create endorphins. Endorphins are what the body creates in times of stress or pain. Along with other neurotransmitters, endorphins can help block the dispatching of pain signals to the brain. This causes the patient to feel less pain.