Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to treat the
specific symptoms that are unique to each individual using a variety of
techniques such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, lifestyle/dietary
recommendations, and energetic exercises to restore imbalances found in the
body.
And, because TCM involves treating the root cause at the same time your symptoms are being treated, your acupuncturist will discuss your condition from a broader perspective to determine overall imbalances that need to be addressed.
Treating Arthritis with Acupuncture
Acupuncture points for arthritis treatment are located throughout the body, not just directly over the affected area. During your treatment, tiny needles could be placed along your legs, arms, shoulders, and perhaps even your little toe!
Acupuncture needles are very thin; several can
go into the middle of a hypodermic needle. Once the needles are in place, most
people relax and even fall asleep for the duration of the treatment. The length, number,
and frequency of treatments will vary. Typical treatments tend to last 20 to 30
minutes, with the patient being treated once or twice a week. Some symptoms are
relieved after the first treatment, while more severe or chronic ailments often
require multiple treatments.
Lifestyle and Nutritional Therapy
Your diet plays a critical role in helping you prevent or control arthritis. The first objective is to help you lose weight if you are significantly overweight because added weight adds additional stress to your joints. We then look at your diet and make sure the foods you're eating are providing the nutritional support you need to keep your joints healthy. Often, it's recommended to avoid “damp” foods such as dairy products and greasy or spicy foods. If you have arthritis or knee or hip pain, vitamins C and D can help prevent bone and cartilage destruction.
A few healthy foods you may want to consider having readily available, that can naturally help your arthritis, include:
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Ginger
·
Cherries
·
Fish
·
Turmeric
There are many Chinese herbs and supplements that are highly effective for arthritis sufferers. If you are interested in learning more, contact Deborah Farley at 804.288.3927 or debifarley@verizon.net.
© 2012 Deborah Farley, L.Ac, CHHC, DOM
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Debi Farley is an acupuncturist, holistic health practitioner and owner of Acupuncture Clinic of Richmond, in Richmond, Virginia. She's a leading authority on using nutrition and the principles of Chinese medicine to treat illness and achieve optimal health. Visit www.debifarley.com or call 804.288.3927 for details.
