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Arthritis (meaning inflammation of one or more joints) can arise from a number of causes. The type we see most often in our clinics is osteoarthritis, which typically afflicts older people and is usually a result of the wear and tear inevitable in several decades of active life. It commonly affects the knees, ankles, wrists and fingers, as well as the shoulders and hips. It can vary quite widely in severity and is one of the most frequent reasons why people come to us for acupuncture treatment.
Acupuncture can help relieve the pain associated with osteoarthritis, and a course of treatment can usually help reduce joint stiffness and increase mobility.
"Chronic pain from my arthritis hurts much less; I need fewer pain killers now. This time of the year (autumn) it's normally bad - it's 10 times better now. An all round physical and mental improvement with every session." P.R. (56) Canterbury
Other forms of arthritis which may be treated include ankylosing spondylitis (which typically involves the pelvic joints and the spine) and gout (which tends to affect the joint at the base of the big toe). In severe cases, and particularly in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, acupuncture may still alleviate symptoms but it may also be worth taking a course of Chinese herbal medicine to reinforce the treatment. Advice on this option will be given where appropriate.