Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis encompasses a group of conditions marked by inflammation and pain in the joints. It manifests in various forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis - an autoimmune condition, and osteoarthritis, resulting from wear and tear. Symptoms include joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Arthritis can affect one or multiple joints, and while it is more common in adults, it can occur at any age.

How Does TCM View Arthritis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches arthritis as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's Qi (energy), Blood, and organ systems, primarily caused by the invasion of external pathogenic factors such as Wind, Cold, Damp, and Heat. TCM emphasizes identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony contributing to arthritis symptoms. This holistic view allows for treatments that not only alleviate symptoms but also address the root cause of the imbalance, aiming to restore the body's harmony and health.

Root Causes of Arthritis in TCM

In TCM, arthritis is often attributed to the obstruction of Qi and Blood flow due to the invasion of pathogenic factors. Some common patterns include:

Excess-Heat Patterns: These may present with symptoms like fever, flushed face, red skin eruptions, irritability, and thirst alongside joint pain and swelling.
Cold-Damp Patterns: These manifest as pain that worsens with cold weather, accompanied by heaviness and stiffness in the joints.

These conditions reflect an imbalance in the body's natural state, necessitating targeted interventions to expel the pathogenic factors and restore equilibrium.

Educational Consultation Sample:

Acme is classic sign of heat at the Wei and Qi levels. Includes Damp Heat and lung heat.