Musculoskeletal issues

Chronically painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system accompanied by restricted movements of the joints are often treated with acupuncture if surgical intervention is not necessary. Acupuncture not only alleviates pain, but it also reduces muscle spasm, thereby increasing mobility. Therefor joint damage often results from muscle malfunction, and many patients complain of arthralgia before any changes are demonstrable by X-ray. In these cases, acupuncture may bring about a permanent cure.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease with extra-articular manifestations in most patients and is part of a musculoskeletal condition. In this disease, immune system dysfunction plays a major role, which explains the extra-articular and articular features. Acupuncture is beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. While acupuncture may not improve the damage done to the joints, successful pain relief has been verified in most controlled studies. The action of acupuncture on inflammation and the dysfunctional immune system is also beneficial.

Traumatic or postoperative pain For traumas such as sprains, acupuncture is not only useful for relieving pain without the risk of drug dependence, but may also hasten recovery by improving local circulation. Acupuncture analgesia to relieve postoperative pain is well recognised and has been confirmed in controlled studies.

Here is a quick video –  treating a sprained ankle with Acupuncture