Acupuncture for Arthritis Pain: Relief for OA & RA Patients

Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain

Research indicates that acupuncture can effectively reduce pain associated with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite their distinct root causes, acupuncture has demonstrated positive outcomes for both conditions.

Osteoarthritis (OA):
- A 2019 randomized controlled trial found that acupuncture, when combined with usual care (typically NSAIDs), significantly reduced pain and improved mobility in knee osteoarthritis patients.
- A systematic review of knee osteoarthritis reported acupuncture’s effectiveness in pain relief and functional recovery.
- Notably, acupuncture had fewer adverse reactions compared to Western medical treatments.
Beyond the Knee:
- While much research focuses on knee osteoarthritis, patients have reported significant relief in other joints as well. Acupuncture has been beneficial for hip, neck, low back, and hand osteoarthritis.
- Additionally, acupuncture may help improve joint stiffness and enhance daily mobility in less commonly studied areas, offering broader support for overall joint health
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
- Recent studies highlight acupuncture’s positive impact on pain relief, physical function, and health-related quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Furthermore, acupuncture may reduce fatigue and emotional stress, common challenges faced by individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.

Consider integrating acupuncture into your pain management strategy, especially if you’re already working with a medical doctor. Always consult qualified practitioners to tailor treatments to individual needs.

Feel free to explore acupuncture as part of your holistic approach to managing arthritis pain.

Natalie Cheng-Kai-On

Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist

Resources:

Zhang L, Yuan H, Zhang L, Li J, Li H. Effect of acupuncture therapies combined with usual medical care on knee osteoarthritis. J Tradit Chin Med. 2019 Feb;39(1):103-110. PMID: 32186030.
Li J, Li YX, Luo LJ, Ye J, Zhong DL, Xiao QW, Zheng H, Geng CM, Jin RJ, Liang FR. The effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: An overview of systematic reviews. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019 Jul;98(28):e16301. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000016301. PMID: 31305415; PMCID: PMC6641846.
Seca S, Miranda D, Cardoso D, Nogueira B, Greten HJ, Cabrita A, Alves M. Effectiveness of Acupuncture on Pain, Physical Function and Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review of Quantitative Evidence. Chin J Integr Med. 2019 Sep;25(9):704-709. doi: 10.1007/s11655-018-2914-x. Epub 2018 Dec 19. PMID: 30569405.

How does acupuncture help with osteoarthritis pain?

Acupuncture can reduce pain, improve mobility, and support functional recovery in osteoarthritis, especially in the knees, with fewer side effects than conventional treatments.

Can acupuncture help with arthritis in joints other than the knee?

Yes, patients have reported pain relief and better mobility in the hips, neck, lower back, and hands after acupuncture treatments.

Is acupuncture effective for rheumatoid arthritis?

Research shows that acupuncture can help ease pain, improve physical function, and enhance quality of life for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Is acupuncture safe for people with arthritis?

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by qualified practitioners and often has fewer adverse effects compared to standard medications.

Should I combine acupuncture with my current medical treatment?

Yes, many experts recommend integrating acupuncture with standard medical care. Always consult your healthcare provider to create a plan tailored to your needs.