Over 528 million people worldwide and 32 million in the country are living with osteoarthritis (OA). It's the most common form of arthritis, which causes joint inflammation and stiffness. Women are more affected by OA, and around 88% of the people with this condition are 45 years or older. OA is often associated with aging but doesn't only affect seniors; formerly athletic knees, hips and backs can be impacted in your 40’s. It can impact your quality of life daily and moving forward . Because we know moving your body regularly keeps you moving as you age! So with the right support, you can live your life actively and with less discomfort. Here's how.
What is Osteoarthritis?
It's a degenerative joint disorder that wears down the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of your bones. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, a grating sensation when moving joints, and restricted joint movement. It commonly affects the hands, spine, hips, and knees. Genetics, age, injury, repetitive stress, metabolic changes, or obesity can contribute to osteoarthritis. It is a condition that progresses gradually, the sooner you start self care the better. Setting the stage for a healthier, more active life. You cannot reverse the damage, but proper guidance, nutrition, lifestyle, and supportive therapies can make life easier.
Here’s A Natural Approach to Healing
Modern medicine focuses on managing pain and restricted movement rather than addressing the underlying deterioration. Ideally, the treatment plan may include physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and surgical intervention. However, many people today are looking for holistic treatment methods to manage osteoarthritis, and this is where traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches like acupuncture offer real value. These therapies address not just the symptoms but also the root causes of the degeneration.
When you go in for your acupuncture session, the acupuncturist gently inserts super-fine needles at specific points in the body to encourage blood flow, decrease pain, and increase range of motion . Many studies today support the efficacy of acupuncture in helping manage osteoarthritis. A 2018 study in the Journal of Pain indicates how acupuncture helps relieve pain and improve function in people with knee-related osteoarthritis. However, the real differentiator lies in consulting a professional who can provide a comprehensive treatment plan to promote your body's healing processes.
Seek Professional Assistance
Living with osteoarthritis isn't easy. It doesn't just restrict you physically, but also has a negative impact on your mental health. If you are looking to see a Chinese medicine expert, it's important to partner up with an experienced practitioner. They must have a track record of treating chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. They should know diagnostic and treatment techniques and how to tailor the treatment based on your unique symptoms and needs. They should have a comprehensive understanding of OA from both the TCM and Western diagnostic viewpoints. Treating not just your symptoms, but your overall health.
Jenny Crissman in Oakland Can Be Your Trusted Ally
If you are in Oakland or the Bay Area and are looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate acupuncturist, look no further than Jenny Crissman to help you manage your unique circumstances. She has extensive experience in treating joint-related issues with her TCM approaches. She is known for her personalized and effective care for holistic healing.
Jenny works with her patients one-on-one and provides a comprehensive treatment plan to naturally reduce pain, improve mobility, and support long-term health. She believes in offering alternatives to pharmaceuticals, recovery from invasive procedures and integrating all modalities into sustaining your wellness with less pain and more movement! Holistically treating osteoarthritis with herbal medicines, therapies, acupuncture, and lifestyle modification will help you feel better and live life on your terms. Call 510-595-0700 now to schedule your consultation.