Knee Pain Focus: Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee gradually wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Osteoarthritis can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for extended periods difficult and uncomfortable. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for knee osteoarthritis can help individuals find relief and improve their quality of life.

Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

Several factors contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis:

• Aging: Cartilage naturally wears down over time, making osteoarthritis more common in older adults.

• Previous Injury: Past knee injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can increase the risk.

• Excess Weight: Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on the knee joints.

• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can predispose individuals to the condition.

• Overuse: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive knee movements can accelerate cartilage breakdown.

  
  

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

The primary symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:

• Pain: Especially after activity or prolonged periods of inactivity.

• Stiffness: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee, particularly in the morning or after sitting.

• Swelling: Inflammation around the joint.

• Decreased Range of Motion: Reduced flexibility and mobility in the knee.

• Grinding Sensation: A feeling of bones rubbing together during movement.

These symptoms tend to worsen gradually over time if left untreated.

East Asian Medicine Perspective on Knee Osteoarthritis

In East Asian Medicine, knee osteoarthritis is often viewed as a result of qi and blood stagnation, sometimes combined with underlying deficiencies in the Kidney and Liver systems, which govern bone health and tendon flexibility. External factors like wind, cold, and dampness can also invade the joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and swelling.

Treatment focuses on improving circulation, nourishing the underlying deficiencies, and dispelling pathogenic factors to relieve pain and support joint health.

Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment at Mi Rae Acupuncture

At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we take an integrative approach to treating knee osteoarthritis. After a thorough evaluation, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:

• Acupuncture Therapy: Targeting points that reduce pain, enhance circulation, and address systemic imbalances.

• Electroacupuncture: Gentle electrical stimulation may be applied to acupuncture needles for enhanced pain relief and tissue healing.

• Moxibustion: Using heat therapy to dispel cold and dampness from the affected joint.

• Cold Laser Therapy: Supporting tissue repair and reducing inflammation at the cellular level.

• Herbal Medicine: Prescribing traditional herbal formulas to nourish joints and manage inflammation internally.

Our goal is to provide both symptomatic relief and long-term support for joint function and overall wellness.

Tips to Support Knee Health

While professional treatment can make a significant difference, lifestyle adjustments are also important for managing knee osteoarthritis:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight can ease stress on the knees.

• Engage in Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like swimming, cycling, or tai chi help maintain joint mobility without excessive strain.

• Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Building strength in the thighs, hips, and calves can stabilize the knee joint.

• Protect the Joints: Use proper footwear and avoid activities that involve sudden twists or heavy impact.

• Stay Warm: Keeping the knee joints warm can help prevent stiffness and discomfort.

  
  

Finding Comfort and Stability

Living with knee osteoarthritis can be challenging, but with the right care, it's possible to manage symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle. At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we are committed to helping you find natural, holistic solutions to relieve pain, improve function, and support long-term joint health.

Take the first step toward greater comfort and stability. Contact Mi Rae Acupuncture today and discover how personalized care can make a difference in your journey to better knee health.