Is acupuncture an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

Condition analysis:
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic inflammation that may affect many tissues and organs of the body, but primarily attacks synovial joints, which is the most common and movable type of joint in the body of a person. This autoimmune disease that usually causes chronic inflammation to the joints, also affects the tissue around the joints. Autoimmune diseases normally occur when the body's tissues are erroneously attacked by their own immune system.

Since rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, it can last for years, and patients suffering from this disease may experience it for longer times without showing any symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis in a typical manner is a progressive illness that may potentially cause joint destruction and permanent disability. The symptoms that are experienced are joint pain, swelling, stiffness and general discomfort.

Instructions:
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine and healing method that started back more than 3,000 years ago. For Chinese people, it is used to effectively treat the symptoms of arthritis, and some health problems. Acupuncture is a procedure performed in which specific body areas and points are punctured with fine needles for therapeutic purposes, to relieve joint pains, produce regional anesthesia, or provide body relaxation.

Acupuncture is an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis because as a natural medication, it does not have any negative side effects, whereas most prescribed medications do, making it difficult for patients suffering from this chronic joint illness.

Acupuncture works by inserting thin needles into several body points or "meridians", clearing any energy blockages. This allows the illness and the uncomfortable feeling to be quickly alleviated. Acupuncturists may focus on the heart, kidney, back of head, and internal secretion points.