Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), arthritis is considered a manifestation of disharmony within the body’s energy, or Qi, and blood circulation.
According to TCM theory, arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
External factors: such as wind, cold, dampness, and heat, which can invade the body and disrupt the flow of Qi and blood.
Internal factors: such as emotional stress, poor diet, and lifestyle habits, which can weaken the body’s Qi and disrupt its balance.
Genetic factors: TCM recognizes that some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to arthritis.
The TCM diagnosis of arthritis is based on observing the patient’s symptoms, taking a detailed medical history, and examining the tongue and pulse. Treatment for arthritis in TCM involves addressing the underlying disharmony within the body, and restoring the flow of Qi and blood to the affected area.
TCM treatment for arthritis typically involves a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary and lifestyle changes. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood. Herbal medicine may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and restore balance to the body. Dietary and lifestyle changes may include avoiding cold, damp, and greasy foods, engaging in gentle exercise, and managing emotional stress.
In summary, arthritis is seen in TCM as a manifestation of disharmony within the body’s energy and blood circulation, and treatment involves restoring balance and harmony through a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary and lifestyle changes.
Acupuncture points forArthritis with details
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood, and alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with arthritis. Here are acupuncture points commonly used to treat arthritis, along with their location and function:
LI4 (Hegu) – located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger. This point is known for its ability to alleviate pain and promote circulation.
SP10 (Xuehai) – located on the inner thigh, three finger-widths above the kneecap. This point can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
ST36 (Zusanli) – located on the lower leg, four finger-widths below the kneecap. This point is believed to strengthen the body’s Qi and promote circulation.
GB34 (Yanglingquan) – located on the outer lower leg, in a depression in front of and below the head of the fibula. This point is used to alleviate pain and stiffness in the joints.
LI11 (Quchi) – located on the outer side of the elbow crease. This point is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote circulation.
DU14 (Dazhui) – located on the midline of the upper back, at the base of the neck. This point is believed to help improve the body’s immune function and alleviate pain.
GB20 (Fengchi) – located at the base of the skull, in the hollow between the two vertical neck muscles. This point is used to relieve headaches and neck pain.
LI10 (Shousanli) – located on the outer forearm, two thumb-widths above the wrist crease. This point can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – located on the inner lower leg, three finger-widths above the ankle bone. This point is believed to promote circulation and relieve pain.
GB39 (Xuanzhong) – located on the outer lower leg, three finger-widths above the ankle bone. This point is used to alleviate pain and stiffness in the joints.
BL60 (Kunlun) – located on the outer ankle, behind the ankle bone. This point is known for its ability to relieve pain and improve circulation.
CV6 (Qihai) – located two finger-widths below the navel. This point is believed to strengthen the body’s Qi and promote circulation.
HT7 (Shenmen) – located on the inner wrist, in the depression between the two tendons. This point is used to alleviate pain and promote relaxation.
UB17 (Geshu) – located on the midline of the back, at the level of the lower border of the shoulder blades. This point is believed to strengthen the body’s Qi and promote circulation.
LI3 (Sanjian) – located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger. This point is used to alleviate pain and promote circulation.
KI3 (Taixi) – located on the inner ankle, in the depression between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon. This point is believed to strengthen the body’s Qi and promote circulation.
BL23 (Shenshu) – located on the lower back, at the level of the waist. This point is believed to strengthen the body’s Qi and promote circulation.
GB30 (Huantiao) – located on the outer hip, in a depression behind the greater trochanter of the femur. This point is used to relieve pain and stiffness in the hips.
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