Acupuncture for Orthopedic Conditions in NJ

Acupuncture is increasingly recognized as a valuable complement to conventional treatments for a variety of orthopedic conditions. It can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Here are several orthopedic conditions where acupuncture has shown to be beneficial:

1. Osteoarthritis: One of the most common reasons for seeking acupuncture. It can reduce the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees, hips, and spine.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Acupuncture can help alleviate the chronic pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, improving joint function and quality of life.
3. Back Pain: It is highly effective for both acute and chronic back pain, including lower back pain and sciatica, by reducing pain and improving spinal mobility.
4. Neck Pain: Acupuncture can relieve neck pain and stiffness, often caused by muscle strain or cervical spine disorders.
5. Shoulder Pain: Conditions like frozen shoulder, rotator cuff injuries, and general shoulder pain can be treated with acupuncture to reduce pain and enhance shoulder function.
6. Tendonitis and Tendinopathy: Acupuncture can treat repetitive strain injuries including tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendonitis, and patellar tendonitis, promoting healing and reducing inflammation and pain.
7. Sports Injuries: It can accelerate recovery from sports-related injuries such as sprains, strains, muscle contusions, and post-surgical recovery, by enhancing circulation and natural healing processes.
8. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Acupuncture can alleviate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and wrists.
9. Postoperative Pain: It is effective in managing post-surgical pain and can help reduce reliance on medications during the recovery process.
10. Fracture Recovery: While acupuncture cannot heal broken bones, it can significantly aid in the management of pain and help speed up recovery by enhancing local circulation and reducing inflammation around the fracture site.
11. Fibromyalgia: Although not solely an orthopedic condition, fibromyalgia affects the musculoskeletal system with widespread pain and stiffness. Acupuncture can help manage these symptoms.

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, typically with needles, to alter biochemical and physiological conditions. It helps reduce pain and inflammation and stimulates the release of endorphins and other natural body painkillers. It also affects the part of the brain that governs serotonin, a brain chemical involved with mood, thus it can improve psychological well-being alongside physical health.