Arthritis & Acupuncture

Arthritis refers to a group of conditions affecting the joints and can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced mobility. Two common forms are osteoarthritis, which involves changes within the joint over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune inflammatory condition.

Arthritis can affect many areas of the body, commonly including the knees, hips, hands, spine and shoulders, and symptoms can have a significant impact on movement and everyday activities.

Acupuncture for Arthritis

Acupuncture may be used as part of a broader approach to managing arthritis-related pain and improving function.

Treatment is tailored to the individual and may focus on reducing pain, easing muscular tension around affected joints and supporting mobility and function. Depending on the presentation, techniques such as electroacupuncture, cupping or moxibustion may also be incorporated.

Acupuncture does not reverse structural changes within an arthritic joint, but it may help to manage the symptoms associated with those changes and make movement more comfortable.

An Individualised Approach to Arthritis

Not everyone experiences arthritis in the same way.

Treatment considers which joints are affected, the nature and severity of the pain, stiffness, swelling, mobility and what makes symptoms better or worse.

For inflammatory or autoimmune forms of arthritis, treatment is used alongside appropriate medical and specialist care rather than as a replacement for it.

If arthritis is affecting your movement or quality of life and you would like to explore whether acupuncture may be a useful addition to your care, please GET IN TOUCH