What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a group of conditions that affects the joints, causing pain and inflammation, which affects about 24% of the adult population in the United States. While there is no cure for arthritis conditions, there are treatments that can help reduce the symptoms. Acupuncture is one such treatment that has been shown to be effective in relieving pain from arthritis.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. This helps to relieve pain by stimulating the nervous system and releasing endorphins, which are natural painkillers. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including pain caused by arthritis.
Acupuncture for Arthritis Pain
There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of acupuncture for arthritis pain relief. A systematic review of acupuncture studies found that acupuncture is an effective treatment for reducing pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Another study found that acupuncture was quite effective in relieving knee pain from osteoarthritis.
Does Acupuncture Have Any Side Effects?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe, but there are some risks associated with the procedure. It can sometimes cause side effects, such as bleeding, bruising, and infection. Some people may also experience pain, nausea, or dizziness after acupuncture. Notify your practitioner if you experience anything other than mild side effects that do not resolve within a day or two.
Is Acupuncture Right for You?
If you are considering acupuncture for arthritis pain relief, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner like Dr. Hancock and the team here at Florida Injury & Wellness Center in Tampa and Wesley Chapel. Make sure to tell your practitioner if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications, as this may affect whether acupuncture is right for you. When you’re ready to get some much-deserved relief from your arthritis pain, contact us at 813-532-3187 or online.
