Acupuncture - Physical And Complementary Therapies: Arthritis

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Acupuncture

Many Americans undergo acupuncture treatments to help relieve pain, including the pain of arthritis. Acupuncture, which involves the application of tiny sterile needles to the skin, has been a staple of Chinese medicine for 2,000 years. Acupuncture is based on the belief that qi, or life force, flows along 14 meridians (channels) within the body. A blockage of qi is said to cause illness, while stimulating certain areas along the meridians with fine needles releases qi and restores health. Acupuncture seems to work by releasing endorphins, a natural morphine-like chemical in the nervous system.

Although some people with arthritis find acupuncture treatments relieve their symptoms, results from studies have been inconsistent. However, a randomized controlled study of 570 people with osteoarthritis, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2004, found improvement in both joint function and pain relief with acupuncture therapy compared with sham therapy ("fake" acupuncture that participants believed was real). There is no proof that acupuncture reduces inflammation in joints. If you do choose to try acupuncture, talk with your doctor first and find a licensed acupuncturist.

Last updated:	September 05, 2008