Joint stiffness refers to pain when moving a joint, or the loss of range of motion when moving a joint. The most common joints to become stiff include the joints of the fingers and hands, toes and feet, wrists, ankles, knees, elbows, shoulders and hips. Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, stress and hormone imbalances are the most common causes of joint stiffness.

            In Rheumatoid arthritis, three stages contribute to joint stiffness: first, the lining of the joint becomes inflamed, then the joint synovium thickens and finally the inflamed cells release bone-digesting enzymes, often distorting the joint shape. Acupuncture addresses the problem right at the source – inflammation. By reducing and then eliminating the inflammation, the stiffness goes away and the next two stages simply cannot happen. Even if Rheumatoid arthritis has progressed, once the cause of inflammation is gone, bones and cartilage can heal. Acupuncture treats rheumatoid arthritis very effectively in restoring circulation, reversing inflammation and restoring full range of motion with ease. Osteoarthritis is also called “degenerative joint disease.” This painful condition occurs when joint cartilage wears away. Resolving the root of the problem, that is, reducing inflammation and improving circulation in the joints, will allow joint cells to regenerate new tissue and reverse this condition, relieving pain and restoring range of motion.

            Stress also causes joint stiffness. Stress hormones act as inflammatory agents in your joints, reducing the body’s ability to heal its tissues. The gentle healing used in acupuncture helps the body to resolve stress, thus removing the cause of inflammation. As a result, cells in the joints can regenerate and repair the tissues. Another common cause of joint inflammation is hormonal imbalance. Acupuncture’s balancing effects help restore normal hormone levels so that inflammation doesn’t occur and joints regain their health.

            Most people consider joint pain and stiffness an inevitable part of aging, however it usually results from chronic inflammation, and upon resolving that inflammation with acupuncture, joint pain and stiffness will disappear.

Source: Ingri Boe-Wiegaard, LAc. Offices located in Bethel, Fairfield, Wilton. CTacupuncture.com. 203.259.1660.