Joint pain is incredibly prevalent in adults and can hinder everyday movement. Almost half of adults ages 50 to 80 experience joint pain that impacts their daily activities. The majority of older adults with joint pain consider arthritis and joint discomfort a natural aspect of aging that they must manage.
Among adults in that age range, over half utilized NSAIDs or other over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate symptoms of arthritis or joint pain, while one in ten used oral steroids for similar issues. However, the use of both NSAIDs and oral steroids carries significant health risks, particularly for older adults. Finding alternative ways of managing pain could reduce serious side effects and provide relief.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may offer solutions to those seeking help with joint pain. One study on using NSAIDs for pain demonstrated that TCM care correlates with decreased reliance on medication among individuals experiencing chronic pain. Acupuncture and herbal formulas have shown success in reducing joint pain, particularly in cases of arthritis, providing individuals with alternative treatments beyond pharmaceuticals.
Understanding Joint Pain
Joint pain can result from various conditions and affects one or more joints, where the ends of two or more bones meet.
Commonly occurring in the hands, feet, hips, knees, or spine, joint discomfort may manifest as constant or intermittent. Joint stiffness, soreness, or achiness can be felt, along with a throbbing or grating sensation.
Severe and painful joints have the potential to impact one’s quality of life significantly. Treatment should not solely address pain but also restore the ability to engage in daily activities.
Causes
Many health issues can result in joint pain. The most common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis. This form of arthritis develops gradually as the protective cushion between bones, known as cartilage, wears away over time. Joints become painful and stiff, typically emerging after the age of 45.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA, a chronic disease, leads to swelling and pain, often resulting in deformities observed in the fingers and wrists.
- Tendinitis. This health concern causes inflammation of tendons, the flexible bands connecting bone and muscle. It typically manifests in the elbow, heel, or shoulder due to overuse.
Joint pain commonly impacts individuals with chronic medical conditions like arthritis, those who have experienced previous joint injuries, or repeatedly overused specific muscles. Additionally, aging is associated with an increased likelihood of joint pain, as stiff and painful joints may become more prevalent after age 45 due to years of wear.
Obtaining a diagnosis helps identify appropriate treatment options. Understanding the underlying cause allows healthcare professionals to tailor interventions to specific needs, promoting effective pain management and improved well-being.
Some studies have shown TCM techniques improved joint pain, including treating knee osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Herbal formulas and acupuncture may help manage joint pain. However, the ideal treatment will depend on the primary cause of pain.
Herbal Formulas
Herbal formulas can provide significant relief for specific issues, including joint pain, arthritis, inflammation, and bone density problems.
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang nurtures the blood, calms the ligaments, and dispels wind and dampness. In TCM, it is believed excessive wind and dampness can lead to stiff and painful joints.
When addressing arthritis, various Chinese herbal medicine possess the ability to alleviate symptoms. Ingredients such as peony, boswellia, and corydalis offer favorable pain-relieving properties. Formulas like Si Wu Tang, incorporating peony root, may also mitigate arthritis symptoms.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has demonstrated effectiveness in providing relief from pain and specific ailments. By strategically placing needles to target specific points, acupuncture releases blockages in the energy channels, often resulting in immediate relief during the treatment.
Numerous studies have showcased the effectiveness of acupuncture in easing pain associated with osteoarthritis. Given its low-risk profile, acupuncture provides a safe therapy and complementary approach alongside additional treatments for managing pain.
Effectively reducing joint pain may require multiple acupuncture sessions, with the number and placement of needles tailored to the individual’s needs and the severity of the condition.
A Pain-Free Lifestyle
Efficient pain management is vital for handling joint problems, and both Chinese herbs and acupuncture are effective strategies for achieving this goal. By diminishing inflammation and easing joint tenderness, these options reduce chronic pain and improve quality of life.
In parallel with Western medicine, it is imperative to consult with a licensed professional before utilizing any TCM treatment for joint pain. Collaborating with a practitioner who sources high-quality herbs from a manufacturer committed to rigorous standards and safety is essential.
KPC is one of the world’s foremost suppliers of premium TCM Chinese herbs, maintaining high quality and standards when crafting all formulas. Learn more about KPC’s process and the rich tradition of herbal formulas here.
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*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
