If you live with arthritis, you know what a challenge it can be to find relief from joint pain and other symptoms. But there are many things you can do to manage and control your arthritis and live a healthy, active life.
Arthritis is a widespread condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Below are the most common types:
Osteoarthritis (OA): This occurs when cartilage between joints wears down, often affecting the hips, knees, hands, lower back, or neck. Risk factors include aging, joint injuries, obesity, and repetitive stress.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the joint lining becomes inflamed, potentially causing long-term damage. It typically affects the hands and feet symmetrically and is more common in women.
Gout and Psoriatic Arthritis: These types also lead to significant joint pain and inflammation.
Common Arthritis Symptoms
Warm, swollen or tender joints
Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
Fatigue and weakness
Flu-like symptoms such as fever
Conventional Treatment Options for Arthritis
Western medicine often focuses on relieving pain and preventing further joint damage through:
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers
Physical Therapy: To maintain joint function
Surgery: In severe cases
While effective for some, these treatments may not address the root cause and can have side effects. This is where Chinese medicine offers a holistic alternative.
How Chinese Medicine Treats Arthritis
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, arthritis is seen as a blockage of Qi (vital energy) and blood in the joints, causing pain and inflammation. TCM treatments aim to restore balance, alleviate symptoms, and enhance overall health. Below are the key approaches:
Acupuncture for Arthritis: Pain Relief and Beyond
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate Qi flow and promote healing. It’s a cornerstone of TCM and offers multiple benefits for arthritis:
Pain Relief: Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, reducing joint and muscle discomfort.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: By improving blood flow, it helps decrease swelling and inflammation in affected joints.
Improved Joint Function: It addresses underlying imbalances, enhancing mobility and reducing stiffness.
Research on Acupuncture for Arthritis
A 2004 study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that acupuncture significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
A 2008 trial in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology showed that acupuncture improved joint function and alleviated pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Arthritis Relief
Chinese herbal medicine complements acupuncture by using tailored formulas to treat arthritis based on your unique symptoms. These herbs target inflammation, pain, and joint health. Here are 10 commonly used options:
Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong): Strengthens bones and tendons, ideal for joint support.
Chinese Skullcap (Huang Qin): Reduces inflammation and pain.
White Willow Bark (Bai Liu): A natural pain reliever with anti-inflammatory properties.
Frankincense (Ru Xiang) & Myrrh (Mo Yao): Used together for pain relief and inflammation reduction.
Clematis Root (Wei Ling Xian): Improves circulation and eases stiffness.
Mulberry Twig (Sang Zhi): Relieves swelling and stiffness by dispelling dampness.
Gentianae Macrophyllae (Qin Jiao): Alleviates pain and swelling, especially in the upper body.
San Bi Tang: A formula for all types of joint pain.
Juan Bi Tang: Targets pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang: Focuses on chronic pain, particularly in the lower back and knees.
These remedies are customized by qualified TCM practitioners and can be taken orally or applied topically.
Other TCM Therapies for Arthritis Management
Beyond acupuncture and herbs, TCM offers additional therapies:
Tui Na Massage: Enhances circulation, relaxes muscles, and reduces pain.
Qi Gong and Tai Chi: Gentle movements and breathing exercises that improve flexibility, balance, and well-being.
Why Choose Almond Wellness Centre?
At Almond Wellness Centre, our fully qualified TCM practitioners in Coburg and Ringwood provide personalized arthritis treatment plans. We combine acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and other therapies to address your specific needs, helping you manage symptoms effectively.
Contact Us for Natural Arthritis Treatment
If you’re seeking a natural way to relieve arthritis pain and improve joint health, explore the benefits of Chinese medicine. Contact Almond Wellness Centre at 8802 1519 or visit us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced practitioners.
References
Annals of Internal Medicine (2004): Acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis.
Journal of Clinical Rheumatology (2008): Acupuncture for rheumatoid arthritis.
Additional studies available in the original article.
Living with migraines can be overwhelming. The persistent pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and other challenging symptoms can take a toll on your daily life. If you’re in Melbourne and looking for a natural, holistic approach to managing migraines, acupuncture might be an option worth exploring.
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Understanding Migraines
Migraines are more than just headaches; they are a complex neurological condition that affects many aspects of life. While the exact cause of migraines remains uncertain, it’s widely believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors contribute to their onset. Common triggers include hormonal changes, stress, certain foods, lack of sleep, and even changes in weather.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. For example, a systematic review published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2009 analysed 22 randomised controlled trials involving over 4,000 participants. The study concluded that acupuncture is more effective in reducing migraine frequency compared to no treatment or routine care, although the long-term benefits and optimal treatment parameters are still being explored .
Another meta-analysis conducted by Cochrane in 2016, published in The Journal of Headache and Pain, reviewed 22 randomized controlled trials with nearly 5,000 participants. This study found that acupuncture was superior to both sham acupuncture and conventional migraine treatments in reducing migraine frequency. However, it also noted that the quality of evidence was generally low, indicating a need for further high-quality research .
Moreover, a 2017 study published in Pain compared the effectiveness of acupuncture with sham acupuncture and flunarizine, a conventional migraine medication. The study involved 249 participants and found that acupuncture was not only superior to sham acupuncture but also had similar effectiveness to flunarizine in reducing migraine frequency and intensity .
What to Expect from Your Acupuncture Session
When you visit Almond Wellness Centre – the acupuncture clinic in Melbourne, our experienced practitioners will take the time to understand your unique situation. We’ll discuss your migraine history, triggers, and overall health to create a personalised treatment plan. During your acupuncture session, you’ll relax in a comfortable environment as fine needles are carefully placed on specific points tailored to your needs.
Common acupuncture points for migraine relief include:
Yintang (Extra Point): Located between the eyebrows, this point helps calm the mind and relieve headaches.
Baihui (GV20): Situated on the top of the head, this point regulates energy flow and is commonly used for migraines.
Taiyang (EX-HN5): Found in the temples, this point is effective for easing tension and migraine pain.
Fengchi (GB20): Located at the base of the skull, this point is known for alleviating headaches and promoting relaxation.
Hegu (LI4): Positioned on the hand, this versatile point aids in pain relief and overall relaxation.
acupuncture on hegu LI4
Our approach is holistic, meaning we consider your overall health in addition to treating the migraines. Alongside acupuncture, we might recommend lifestyle changes or Chinese herbal medicine to support your migraine management.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Migraine Relief
In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can play a crucial role in managing migraines. Our practitioners may prescribe a customised herbal formula based on your specific symptoms and health profile. Herbs like Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong), which promotes blood circulation, and Bo He (Mentha haplocalyx), known for its cooling properties, are often included in these formulas.
Your Path to Migraine Relief
At Almond Wellness Centre, with locations in Coburg and Ringwood, we’re here to support your journey to better health. If migraines are impacting your life, and you’re seeking a natural, personalised approach, we invite you to explore the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine with us.
Our fully qualified practitioners are ready to assess your condition, provide tailored treatment options, and help you manage your migraines more effectively. Don’t let migraines control your life—reach out to us today and take the first step toward lasting relief. We’re here to help you feel your best.
References
Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Manheimer, E., Vickers, A., & White, A. (2009). Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD001218.
Cochrane, D. J. (2016). Acupuncture as a treatment for migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 17(1), 1-9.
Wang, L. P., Zhang, X. Z., Guo, J., Liu, H. L., Zhang, Y., Liu, C. Z., & Wang, L. (2017). Efficacy of acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis: A single-blinded, double-dummy, randomised controlled trial. Pain, 158(10), 1864-1871.
Based on the available evidence, acupuncture can be a valuable option for individuals with migraines.
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Review
A review of 22 trials involving 4,985 people found that acupuncture reduced the frequency of migraine episodes. In trials where acupuncture was added to usual care, it resulted in a significant reduction in headache frequency compared to usual care alone. When acupuncture was compared to “fake” acupuncture, the true acupuncture group had a higher rate of halving headache frequency. Acupuncture was also found to be similarly effective as prophylactic drugs in reducing migraine frequency. Side effects were minimal, and dropout rates were lower compared to drug treatments.
The findings suggest that acupuncture can reduce the number of migraine days per month, with an average reduction from six days to three and a half days for those receiving true acupuncture. The quality of the evidence was considered moderate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acupuncture can be considered as a treatment option for individuals with migraines who are willing to undergo this therapy. However, more long-term studies are needed to further evaluate its effectiveness compared to other migraine treatments.
Reference
Klaus Linde, etc, Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Review, June 2016
Double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are the golden standard for high quality of research. However, it can be very challenging to design and implement to acupuncture trials. Here are several factors affect the design of trials :
Needle insertion and sensation
Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body, which creates a unique sensory experience. It can be challenging to create a placebo treatment that mimics the sensation of needle insertion convincingly. Sham acupuncture controls attempt to simulate the sensation, but it is difficult to completely mask the difference between real acupuncture and a placebo treatment.
Acupuncturist involvement
In traditional acupuncture practice, the acupuncturist plays an active role in the treatment. They may have specific training, techniques, and interactions with the patient that contribute to the therapeutic process. It can be difficult to blind the acupuncturist to the treatment being administered, which can introduce bias and affect the blinding of the study.
Expectations and beliefs
Acupuncture has a strong placebo component, and patient expectations and beliefs can significantly influence their perception of the treatment’s effectiveness. It is challenging to completely blind participants to their treatment group, as they may have prior knowledge or beliefs about acupuncture that can affect their responses.
Variability in treatment protocols
Acupuncture encompasses various techniques, styles, and individualised treatment approaches. There is significant variation in the choice of acupuncture points, needling techniques, and treatment durations among practitioners. Standardising treatment protocols for a placebo-controlled trial can be difficult due to these variations, which may limit the ability to compare results across studies.
Despite these challenges, researchers have made efforts to develop sham acupuncture controls to create placebo-like experiences. These sham controls may involve superficial needle insertion, non-penetrating needles, or non-specific needling locations. However, sham acupuncture is not real placebo. These methods may still provide some therapeutic effects or fail to fully replicate the specific physiological effects of true acupuncture.
While may be not impossible achieving complete blinding in acupuncture trials remains a complex task, and studies may still face limitations in achieving a fully placebo-controlled design.
A sham acupuncture needle is a type of placebo device used in research studies to create a control group for acupuncture trials. A sham needle is designed to mimic the sensation of needle insertion without penetrating the skin or stimulating specific acupuncture points.
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There are different types of sham needles. They have their own method of simulating acupuncture without delivering the therapeutic effects with real needling. Here are a few examples:
Streitberger placebo needles
Streitberger placebo needle: This type of sham needle consists of a blunt tip that retracts into the handle upon contact with the skin. It gives the sensation of needle penetration without actually piercing the skin.
Park sham device: The Park sham device resembles a real acupuncture needle, but it has a blunt tip and a sheath that covers the needle, preventing skin penetration during insertion.
Non-penetrating needle: This type of sham needle has a blunt tip and does not penetrate the skin. It may have a collapsible handle or other mechanisms to create the sensation of needle insertion.
non-penetrating needles
Toothpick or placebo needle: In some cases, a toothpick or a specifically designed placebo needle that does not penetrate the skin is used as a sham control. This provides a tactile sensation similar to acupuncture but without actual needling.
What are shame needles used for?
The purpose of using sham acupuncture needles is to create a control group that experiences a placebo treatment closely resembling real acupuncture. By comparing the outcomes of the real acupuncture group with the sham acupuncture group, researchers can assess the specific effects of acupuncture beyond placebo or non-specific effects. The use of sham needles helps control for placebo responses and improves the validity of the study results.
Sham needles creates some stimulation as real needles too
Sham acupuncture needles are designed to create a sensory experience similar to real needles. They provide a placebo-like stimulation. While they do not penetrate the skin or stimulate specific acupuncture points, they are intended to mimic the sensation of needle insertion and create a tactile experience for the recipient.
As sham acupuncture needles contact the skin, the sensation they created can be part of acupuncture sensation
The sensory experience created by sham needles, including the tactile sensation when they come into contact with the skin, can be considered part of the overall acupuncture sensation. Sham acupuncture is designed to mimic the physical aspects of real acupuncture, including the feeling of needle insertion and the associated sensations that patients may expect during an acupuncture treatment.
Sham acupuncture is not real placebo
While sham acupuncture is designed to serve as a placebo control in research studies, it is not a true placebo in the strict sense.
A true placebo would be an inert substance or intervention that has no specific physiological effects.
While sham acupuncture is intended to mimic certain aspects of real acupuncture, it does have some similar sensory experience and the ritualistic aspects of real treatment.
Sham acupuncture may still elicit non-specific effects, such as the placebo response, which can influence participants’ perception of the treatment’s effectiveness. Additionally, the sensory experience of sham needles, even though it does not involve needle penetration or stimulation of specific acupuncture points, can have its own distinct effects on the body and may activate certain physiological responses.
While sham acupuncture attempts to control for placebo effects and other non-specific factors, it is important to recognise that it is not a true placebo. It serves as a method to isolate and evaluate the specific effects of acupuncture beyond these non-specific influences, but it does not completely eliminate all potential confounding factors.
A study explored how acupuncture could help manage menopause symptoms in breast cancer patients. It discovered that while acupuncture effectively relieved general menopause symptoms, it didn’t significantly reduce hot flushes in patients undergoing medical menopause due to breast cancer treatments. For those concerned about hormone therapy’s side effects, acupuncture might serve as an alternative.
Method
The study, accessible at this link focused on breast cancer patients experiencing hot flushes due to medical menopause. Instead of traditional hormone therapy, some patients chose acupuncture. The research reviewed various randomised clinical trials involving 844 women, averaging 58 years old, using Cochrane criteria to assess the acupuncture’s effectiveness.
Result
The analysis showed that while acupuncture didn’t notably impact the frequency and severity of hot flushes (p = 0.34; p = 0.33), it did significantly improve overall menopause symptoms (p = 0.009). No severe adverse effects were reported from acupuncture treatment.
Conclusion
Acupuncture emerges as an effective method to alleviate menopause symptoms for breast cancer patients. However, its influence on hot flushes appears limited. For those worried about hormone therapy’s repercussions, considering acupuncture as an alternative is recommended. Further large-scale studies exploring biomarkers or cytokines could deepen our understanding of how acupuncture aids in managing menopause symptoms in breast cancer patients.
At the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, researchers are delving deep into the mysteries of acupuncture for treating asthma. Their work could lead to a breakthrough anti-asthma medication targeting specific acupuncture points on the back. But what really goes on at the molecular level behind this ancient therapy?
Deciphering Acupuncture’s Effects
In the latest issue of “Science Translational Medicine” from February 8, 2018, Professor Yang Yongqing and his team showcased remarkable progress after nearly a decade of studying acupuncture’s impact on asthma and identifying potential targets.
Their research not only uncovered new targets through clinical trials but also shed light on how acupuncture triggers various protein reactions in the body. They even found promising molecules mimicking acupuncture’s effects, possibly evolving into versatile “acupuncture drugs.”
Editorial Acclaim
The editor-in-chief of “Science” praised these findings, marking a milestone for traditional Chinese medicine. It’s the first time such practitioners have published original scientific work with independent rights in a specialized journal. It’s also the first confirmation of a new asthma target by Chinese scientists.
Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Science
Asthma, commonly treated with medications, often comes with side effects. Traditional Chinese medicine, however, has long relied on acupuncture at specific points to improve respiratory function in patients like Shao Jingming did. This wisdom, refined over decades, still holds promise today.
How Acupuncture Works For Asthma
Professor Yang’s team dug into how acupuncture helps asthma. Using mouse models, they honed in on Metallothionein-2 (MT-2) as crucial in alleviating symptoms. By understanding its interaction with Transgelin-2, they revealed how acupuncture eases breathing.
Pioneering New Treatments
Their study also uncovered potential “acupuncture drugs.” Collaborating since 2003, they identified molecules with bronchial-dilating properties similar to acupuncture. These could be the next wave of anti-asthma medications, bridging traditional and modern medicine.
New Frontiers in Asthma Care
Targeting Transgelin-2 offers fresh solutions for asthma treatment, as highlighted by “Science” reviewers. This approach ensures China’s leadership in acupuncture research, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology. Ultimately, acupuncture and its derived drugs offer a holistic approach to asthma treatment.
31-year-old Sarah came to see me at Almond Wellness Centre, our acupuncture Chinese medicine clinic. Sarah had been trying to get pregnant for over a year without any success, and was concerned that her short menstrual cycles might be hindering her chances.
Sarah’s period was so short that she almost had two periods in one month. Her first period lasts for 5 days, normal flow with mild cramping and some PMS. She then has another period a few days later. The second “period” is light or spotting only, with clear stretching discharge and some cramping or sharp pain on the sides of lower abdomen.
I suggested her to do ovulation test and check her basal body temperature (BBT). From her BBT and ovulation history we discovered that she was not actually having two periods in one month, but was experiencing ovulation bleeding instead.
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So, what is ovulation bleeding?
Ovulation bleeding is light bleeding or spotting that occurs during ovulation.
The exact cause of ovulation bleeding is not clear, but it is thought to be related to changes in hormone levels that occur during ovulation. The surge in oestrogen and luteinising hormone that triggers ovulation can cause some women to experience spotting or light bleeding.
Does ovulation bleeding affect fertility?
Ovulation bleeding is generally not a concern; however, it may affect chances of getting pregnant. For instance, Sarah thought that she was having period. She avoided having intercourse during that period time, therefore missed her fertile windows and had difficulty to get pregnant.
Chinese medicine and ovulation bleeding
In Chinese medicine, ovulation bleeding is seen as a sign of disharmony in the body’s energy, or qi. This disharmony can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, poor diet, and hormonal imbalances. A Chinese medicine practitioner will work to identify the root cause of the problem and develop a customised management plan. In addition, dietary and lifestyle changes may be recommended to support your overall health and improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Because Sarah was avoiding intercourse during her bleeding time, she was actually missing her fertile windows, which made it more difficult for her to conceive. After following her treatment plan and other advice, her period became more regular and her ovulation bleeding stopped. She could “time it right” – having intercourse during her fertile windows. A few months later Sarah successfully became pregnant, much to her delight and relief.
So, if you are experiencing two periods in one month, with light flow or unusual spotting or discharge, you may actually be experiencing ovulation bleeding. Don’t let ovulation bleeding or any other menstrual irregularities get in the way of your dreams of becoming pregnant. With the right treatment and care, you can improve your chances of conception and start your journey towards motherhood.
It’s worth noting that while some people respond positive to Chinese medicine treatment on fertility outcomes, others have found no significant benefits. You should consult with your fertility specialist and registered Chinese medicine practitioner before start any treatment.
If you live with arthritis, you know what a challenge it can be to find relief from joint pain and other symptoms. But there are many things you can do to manage and control your arthritis and live a healthy, active life.
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate Qi flow and promote healing. It’s a cornerstone of TCM and offers multiple benefits for arthritis:
Living with migraines can be overwhelming. The persistent pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and other challenging symptoms can take a toll on your daily life. If you’re in Melbourne and looking for a natural, holistic approach to managing migraines, acupuncture might be an option worth exploring.
Based on the available evidence, acupuncture can be a valuable option for individuals with migraines.
Park sham device: The Park sham device resembles a real acupuncture needle, but it has a blunt tip and a sheath that covers the needle, preventing skin penetration during insertion.
31-year-old Sarah came to see me at Almond Wellness Centre, our acupuncture Chinese medicine clinic. Sarah had been trying to get pregnant for over a year without any success, and was concerned that her short menstrual cycles might be hindering her chances.
In Chinese medicine, ovulation bleeding is seen as a sign of disharmony in the body’s energy, or qi. This disharmony can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, poor diet, and hormonal imbalances. A Chinese medicine practitioner will work to identify the root cause of the problem and develop a customised management plan. In addition, dietary and lifestyle changes may be recommended to support your overall health and improve your chances of getting pregnant.