Acupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that affects the cartilage in the knee, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It’s one of the most common forms of arthritis and typically develops over time due to wear and tear. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty with activities like walking, climbing stairs, and standing for long periods.

Knee osteoarthritis is a widespread issue in Australia, affecting about 1 in 5 people over the age of 45. It’s a leading cause of disability and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Risk factors include age, obesity, joint injuries, and genetic predisposition.

How is Knee Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Western medicine diagnoses knee OA through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. Diagnosis often reveals cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing. Treatment typically focuses on pain management through anti-inflammatory medications, physiotherapy, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions like knee replacements.

Acupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis involves the degeneration of joint cartilage and surrounding tissues, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Acupuncture can help manage these symptoms by stimulating nerves in the skin and muscles around the knee, which promotes the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that reduce pain. It also improves local circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports muscle relaxation—helping to ease pressure on the joint and improve function. Research suggests that acupuncture may also influence brain regions involved in pain processing, offering both local and central relief for chronic knee conditions.

In my practice, I use a combination of therapies tailored to each patient’s needs:

• Acupuncture: Reduces pain, decreases inflammation, and improves joint function.

• Electro-Acupuncture: Enhances acupuncture’s effects through gentle electrical stimulation for faster and longer-lasting relief.

• Herbal Medicine: Supports joint health and addresses underlying imbalances.

• Tuina Massage: Relieves muscle stiffness and promotes better circulation around the knee.

• Cupping Therapy: Relieves pressure, reducing pain and swelling.

Osteoarthritis Research increasingly supports acupuncture’s effectiveness in managing knee osteoarthritis. A 2017 meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE found that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved physical function compared to standard care. Another study in The Journal of Pain highlighted acupuncture’s ability to reduce the need for pain medications.

If you’re struggling with knee osteoarthritis and seeking a holistic, non-invasive approach, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers effective treatments that address both the symptoms and root causes. Together, we can develop a personalized plan to help you manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.