Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects 2.1 million people in the United States. This chronic condition occurs when the lining of the joints becomes inflamed and can lead to long-term joint damage and even loss of movement. Women are two to three times more likely to get RA.

RA often starts in the hands or feet, and usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

Symptoms include:

• Warm, swollen or tender joints
• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
• Fatigue
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever
• Muscle pain and weakness

Treatment options:

Western treatment generally focuses on relieving pain and preventing further joint damage. Often this is done through the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications, as well as self-care and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may even be needed.

Acupuncture offers a safe, natural way to control joint pain and other symptoms and maintain overall health. In fact, a 2019 study showed that patients with Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee experienced a 40 percent decrease in pain and a 40 percent increase in function after receiving a series of acupuncture treatments.