OMBE Integrative Health Center






Acupuncture & Chronic Pain: What's in an -itis?

You've heard the news before-acupuncture is good for chronic pain. You may have heard it on TV, read a research summary, or overheard your Aunt Mary swear by acupuncture for her swollen knees. On average, patients ask their physicians about the effectiveness of acupuncture for conditions such as chronic pain seven times a day. They want to know whether acupuncture is effective for chronic pain conditions such as bursitis, tendonitis, or arthirtis. The suffix -itis simply means inflammation. Inflammation causes pain, swelling, point tenderness, and that good-old-fashioned hot sensation deep in your joints. OUCH! The burning (literally) question is: Why is acupuncture effective for so many inflammatory conditions? Acupuncture is effective for inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and knee osteoarthritis because it helps maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis is the body's ability to constantly adapt to its environment and maintain equilibrium. Acupuncture regulates the underlying physiological processes of the body. Occasionally, your body isn't able to maintain that balance or your body is under too much stress (too much pavement pounding, snow shoveling, or texting). This is when acupuncture can be a powerful catalyst to assist your own body's healing mechanism to beat that inflammation. The next time you feel that burning sensation in your elbow, knees or toes, think of acupuncture first! Here are the top 10 orthopedic reasons to try acupuncture:

Top 10 Orthopedic Reasons to Try Acupuncture

1. Achilles Tendonitis

2. Ankle Sprains

3. Degenerative Disc Disease

4. IT Band Syndrome

5. Knee Osteoarthritis

6. Low Back Pain

7. Piriformis Syndrome

8. Plantar Fasciitis

9. Rotator Cuff Injuries

10. Shin Splints

Jessica L. Molleur, Lic.Ac., DNBAO Licensed Acupuncturist

