We frequently treat arthritis and rheumatic disorders, both diagnosed medical conditions and aches and pains. These disorders can be chronic, persistent and debilitating.
Arthritic and rheumatic conditions are layered in complexity. Western medical treatments can range from anti-inflammatory drugs to physical therapy to surgery.
In Chinese medicine, arthritic and rheumatic disorders affecting the muscles and joints are considered a “stagnation and stasis” condition. The causes of which are both internal and external. Externally, invasion by pathogenic factors such as wind, cold or dampness can obstruct the normal flow of Qi and blood, thereby resulting in stiffness, numbness, swelling, pain of the joints and soft tissues and inevitably, lowered mobility. Internal causes include emotional stress weakening the defensive ability of one’s immune system and depletion of the Kidney/vitality system resulting in degeneration of one’s bones, tendons and cartilage.
TCM treatment follows the usual 3-step programme of removal, restoration and fortification. In this sense, it focuses on ridding the body of the invading pathogens, restoring normal circulation and flow of blood and Qi, promoting emotional harmony and fortifying the Kidney/Vitality system. Effective treatments we can offer include acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal therapy, cupping and acupressure.
TCM diagnosis differentiates between types of pain which are indicative of the underlying cause of the pain. For example, heaviness and stiffness may indicate cold-dampness in the channels while throbbing pressured pain pushing outwards may signal a Qi stagnation.
