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Arthritis explained - in TCM terms
"Arthritis" in TCM terms is referred to as “Bì Syndrome”.
This condition is commonly seen in the clinic. It affects men and women of all ages and although less frequent, it is also seen in young adults and children.
Arthritis shows itself with symptoms such as pain, swelling and restricted movement. Typically, what we see presenting in the clinic is: joint aches and pain, numbness in the muscles, lack of free movement in the tendons and restriction of movement in bones and joints.
There can be different degrees of severity, and in extreme cases there can be deformity of the bones and joints.
Chinese Medicine sees “Wind”, “Cold”, “Heat” and “Damp” as the main contributing factors for Bì Syndrome as these lodge in the Jīng Luò (the "meridians", "acupuncture channels") and obstruct the free flow of Qì and Blood (Xuè) in those meridians.
When Qì and Xuè are not able to flow naturally they stagnate, causing pain, heat, and other symptoms of illness.
The main treatment factors in TCM
- Resolve the Bì Syndrome and Expel the Wind, Cold, Damp, and Heat.
- Treat any underlying factors contributing to the development of Bì Syndrome.
- Provide indicative relief by stopping pain.
This addresses the symptoms of arthritis and the underlying causes.
TCM treatment
Acupuncture - has good results for treating the pain that accompany arthritis.
Tuina massage - to release tension and increase the body’s circulation of Qì, Xuè (Blood) and nutrients to bring about the body’s own natural healing process. Massage creams and oils made from Chinese herbs may be used to work on affected joints or muscles.
Chinese herbal medicine - is used to treat the underlying imbalances in the body: Wind, Cold, Damp, or Heat.
Exercise - Qi Gong and/or Tai Chi - these gentle exercises can be used to optimize the flow of Qi and blood in the body, and therefore increasing the range of movement and relaxing the muscles and the joints.
Cupping - to relieve / release discomfort in the body caused by the stagnation of blood, energy or mucus, as well as swelling or pain.
Dietary advise - foods which stimulate both blood and Qì may be suggested and other foods which, from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective may help warm or cool the body as appropriate.
All treatments can be combined together or on there own, depending on the individual and the stage of the arthritis. TCM can be used safely alongside other treatments.
Arthritis Ireland
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They provide real solutions and empower people with arthritis and those caring for them to take positive actions to manage the effects of their disease on their lives.
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