Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, often referred to as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints gradually breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While OA can affect any joint, it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors:

1. Age
The likelihood of developing OA increases with age as cartilage naturally degenerates over time.
2. Joint Overuse or Injury
Repeated stress on joints from work, sports, or past injuries can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
3. Genetics
Family history of OA may predispose individuals to the condition.
4. Obesity
Excess weight increases stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage damage.
5. Joint Misalignment
Poor joint alignment or structural abnormalities can increase wear and tear on cartilage.
6. Inflammation and Weak Muscles
Chronic low-grade inflammation and weak surrounding muscles can contribute to joint instability and degeneration.

The symptoms of osteoarthritis are varied and differ from person to person, but early indications include persistent joint pain, especially during or after movement as well as stiffness and rigidity after a period of inactivity. In addition, there can be any one of the following symptoms depending on the progression of the disease.

• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Grating sensation or cracking sounds when moving the joint
• Bone spurs, which may form around the affected joint

Acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation while improving blood circulation to affected joints. It also stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, helping to alleviate stiffness and discomfort. Furthermore, osteoarthritis patients often also suffer from overworked and tired muscles due to the additional work they have to do in order to produce movement. Acupuncture can be used in these cases to relieve and restore the overworked muscles of a person with osteoarthritis. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, acupuncture can help delay the progression and allow the patient to maintain their daily activities. 

Treatment Case: 67 year old male

   Patient is a 67-year-old male complaining of chronic knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility due to osteoarthritis (OA) in both knees. He was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of both knees 3 years ago after noticing increased difficulty in getting around and moving in the morning. He had no major surgeries or comorbidities. The patient has a history of occasional back pain, but no history of major cardiovascular or neurological conditions. Currently mobile but experiences difficulty with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. The patient is emotionally unsatisfied as after retirement, walking and hiking was their predominant activity.

   The symptoms are dull, aching pain, intermittent sharp pain on movement (especially bending or walking). There is increased morning stiffness, lasting up to 30 minutes, as well as mild swelling around both knees. The patient experiences difficulty fully extending the knees; limited flexion.

   Acupuncture was done to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joints. This can Improve range of motion and restore mobility by enhancing blood circulation to the knee area. The points selected were near the patella of the knee, below the knee cap, as well as above the knee in the flexion muscles. Initially, treatment was done two times a week, gradually down to once a week as the patient improved.

   In the first few weeks, there was a reduction in knee pain and inflammation. Increased knee flexibility and decreased morning stiffness. There was also an enhanced ability to perform daily activities. The patient noted that while it took about an hour and a half or more to “get going” in the morning, it gradually shortened to about 30 minutes. After about a month of continued treatment, there was greater improved joint mobility, reduced reliance on pain medication, and maintained function. The patient has recently tried doing a short walk in the neighborhood and did not note any pain, although his form and speed is not what it was before. Given that the patient is relatively healthy aside from osteoarthritis and has responded well to acupuncture in the past (if applicable), the prognosis is generally favorable. However, osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, so long-term maintenance of treatments may be necessary to prevent further joint deterioration.