Effects of Acupuncture on Arthritis &
Other Inflammatory Ailments

Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as millions of grateful individuals, for its beneficial effect in relieving arthritis pain.

Acupuncture relieves arthritic pain in four ways. First, it causes the body to produce chemicals called endorphins, which are opiate-like substances naturally produced by the body to inhibit the perception of pain. Second, acupuncture works through the nervous system by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Third, acupuncture deactivates trigger points, which are overly sensitive spots beneath the skin that are often responsible for chronic pain and are frequently found around arthritic joints. Fourth, acupuncture greatly enhances local circulation, which is usually compromised in arthritic patients, particularly in the hands and feet. Acupuncture gets Qi (energy) and blood moving normally again, helping to bring the body's systems back into balance. In addition, acupuncture has a very relaxing effect on the mind as well as the body, helping to alleviate stress and promote the healing process.

Acupuncture reduces inflammation in joints by stimulating the body to produce natural steroids.
It also helps joint stiffness. Oftentimes, the movement of joints is restricted because of trigger points in the muscles around the joint. This restriction puts more stress on the joint, which can cause further arthritic degeneration. When acupuncture deactivates these trigger points, the joint can move more freely.

Acupuncture is helpful in treating many other conditions as well. The WHO recognizes over 40 conditions that respond to acupuncture. A short list includes: headache/migraine, insomnia, low sex drive, accident/sports injuries, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, neck/shoulder pain, PMS/menstrual disorders, post-stroke paralysis, substance addictions, stress disorders, bursitis, back pain, and asthma.

If you suffer from arthritis or another condition and would like to know whether acupuncture would be helpful, you are welcome to call me at 858/673-1397 for a free phone consultation.


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Rancho Bernardo Sun/ Diamond Gateway Signature
August 1999