Arthritis is one of the most prevalent and inhibiting diseases that often develops with age. Nearly 1 in 2 U.S. adults will have experienced symptomatic knee osteoarthritis by the time they reach 85 years old.
There are over 100 types that damage joints in different ways. Each of them can require distinctive treatments to help alleviate the pain.
Even with the prevalence of arthritis, there is no cure. There are pain management strategies, surgeries, and other treatment options, but once diagnosed, it must be managed over time.
Thankfully, there are many ways to help lessen the impacts of arthritis, including the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Read Also: TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicines) for Beginners
This blog goes over the root causes of arthritis and how TCM can help patients successfully manage the condition.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is generally defined as joint disease or pain in the joints due to inflamed or swollen joints where the bones meet. It is not directly correlated with age, but some types of it do impact older people more frequently.
Some of the most common types of arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Infectious arthritis
- Autoimmune inflammatory arthritis
- Gout (or metabolic arthritis)
Symptoms of joint inflammation can include a limited range of motion, pain, joint stiffness, and swelling, impacting the knees, hands, and spine. Some types of arthritis can even affect organs like the eyes, lungs, and heart. Joint disease can lead to chronic pain and leave individuals struggling to perform day-to-day functions and care for themselves properly.
The Root Cause
While arthritis is commonly diagnosed, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is the leading cause of disability in the United States and impacts people aged 18 to 80 or older.
The causes of arthritis include previous joint-related injuries and general wear and tear, especially from repetitive motions. A loss of cartilage can lead to the rubbing of bones, impacting their shape and position in the body as well as the surrounding tissue. There is often little that can prevent joint disease other than taking care of joints and avoiding injuries as much as possible.
With so many treatment options available, picking the best methods can be overwhelming. TCM is a great option for those looking for both at-home care and long-lasting, non-invasive treatment.
TCM Treatments for Arthritis
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Arthritis is the result of a blockage in the Meridians, pathways for Qi, the life force, and blood flow. It’s considered a Bi syndrome because of the issues that arise due to these blockages. An acupuncture treatment plan can help target pain, and herbs can help reduce the body imbalance caused by the blockage.
Chinese Herbs
Many Chinese herbs can help target pain and reduce arthritic symptoms. This is especially true for symptoms related to rheumatoid arthritis.
Specific ingredients that may help with pain include peony, boswellia, and corydalis. Formulas such as Si Wu Tang, which includes peony root, could help alleviate symptoms of arthritis. Other formulas that may benefit those suffering from arthritis pain include Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu and Wu Toa Tang.
Taking the right herbs can help the body achieve better balance so as to reduce inflammation and tenderness at the joints. Since there is no cure for the condition, treating the symptoms is crucial in maintaining a healthy, high-functioning life.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has shown efficacy in pain relief and other specific ailments. The placement of needles targets specific spots to release blockage in the energy channels. It is common for someone to feel immediate relief as the treatment takes place.
To properly treat and alleviate joint pain, multiple sessions of acupuncture may be necessary. The number and placement of needles will depend on the patient and the severity of their disease. However, TCM ensures that each individual is treated for their entire host of symptoms, not just the over-arching diagnosis.
The Bottom Line: Treatment for the Entire Patient
TCM considers a patient’s specific symptoms, and treatment plans are developed with the individual in mind. There is no one size fits all solution. Someone with arthritis may find some treatments work for them better than others. This holistic approach can provide someone with the exact relief they need, and that is something crucial when suffering from joint disease.
Pain relief is absolutely essential when handling joint disease, and Chinese herbs help to provide that. Lessening inflammation and tenderness of the joints can help people live a life much freer from chronic pain.
Just like in Western medicine, it is essential to consult with a licensed professional before beginning any TCM treatment for arthritis. Make sure to work with a practitioner that handles high-quality herbs from a manufacturer that prioritizes high standards and safety. KPC is the world’s leading supplier of high-quality TCM Chinese herbs.
For those interested in learning more about how Chinese herbs can help manage arthritis or need help finding a licensed TCM practitioner, get in touch with KPC herbs.
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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.
