Arthritis

Arthritis is not a single condition. It is a term for many medical conditions that influence the musculoskeletal system, principally the joints. Arthritis is extremely common and is the major cause of disability and chronic pain in Australia. Many patients’ conditions include stiffness, pain, inflammation and damage to the tissue that covers the ends of bones and surrounding structures. The acceptance is that it is a condition that affects the ageing, however, many sufferers are actually of working age and extremely healthy. The condition affects a patient’s ability to participate in valued activities, quality of life and comprises varying levels of pain and discomfort.

Arthritis is not yet curable, yet research recommends that the addition of acupuncture to the treatment schedule will result in “clinically relevant and persistent benefits“. A skilfully inserted acupuncture needle triggers a release of  endorphins and enkephalins, which reduce the sensation of pain. Acupuncture also stimulates the production of cortisol, a hormone that helps to naturally control inflammation in the joints.

It is not only mobility that is affected, without proper management; arthritis limits participation in valued activities, and quality of life.

Recent clinical  trials reveal that acupuncture is associated with significant clinical improvement in patients with chronic arthritis related pain of the knee or hip.

A treatment plan at Essential Acupuncture Clinic will include acupuncture sessions that can stimulate production of other pain-relieving chemicals in the body, as well.

The frequency of acupuncture treatment for arthritis conditions would usually be once or twice a week for three to six weeks. Ongoing acupuncture treatment is usually necessary, as there are progressive changes to the joints. If the condition is mild to moderate you will receive some degree of benefit immediately.

If the treatment is consistent and combined with individualised Chinese Herbal Medicine formulas then the majority of patients report persistent, increased joint movement and mobility.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the principle is to treat the body as an organic entity instead of concentrating on one simple syndrome. Julie will work with you to  to identify the root of the condition and  will develop a treatment plan designed to  maintain a healthy, balanced life.