Acupuncture for knee pain: benefits, results, costs

Acupuncture may be effective for knee pain, but it depends on the cause.

This technique is not a substitute for first aid treatment for acute injuries or surgery to repair knee structures. However, your doctor may recommend using it as a complementary therapy in addition to drug therapy, depending on your symptoms.

Ligament and tendon injuries

Ligaments and tendons are different types of connective tissue that connect muscles and bones. Ligament and tendon injuries are among the most common knee injuries.

a 2020 review Research into the use of acupuncture for sports injuries has found that many case studies to date have reported positive effects such as reduced pain and accelerated recovery after treatment.

However, this review includes many case studies focusing on different types of injuries and using different forms of acupuncture. Further research on knee injuries is needed to determine the effectiveness of this treatment.

Post-operative pain

In recent years, it has become common to use acupuncture to treat postoperative pain.

A 2021 study investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. We have found that when this method is used in conjunction with other treatments, it reduces postoperative pain and reduces the need for painkillers.

A 2019 review of 26 previous studies found that auricular acupuncture, which is applied to the ear, may also help reduce postoperative pain. But researchers say higher-quality, larger-scale trials are needed.

osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down, causing the bones to rub against each other. This causes the affected joint to become swollen, painful, and difficult to move.

according to NCCIH, acupuncture is effective in reducing osteoarthritis pain. Previous research suggests that acupuncture is comparable to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in pain management.

Scientists don’t fully understand how acupuncture reduces pain. some evidence This suggests that needle insertion may affect hormone levels, which in turn may affect how the brain perceives pain.

According to Chinese medicine practitioners, there are approximately 361 acupuncture points in the human body. These points run along meridians, which experts describe as the channels through which life energy flows through the body. These meridians may correspond to peripheral nerves.

Some acupuncture points that doctors can use to treat knee pain include:

• Yin Ling Quan or Spleen 9. It is located in the hollow of the inside of the leg, below the kneecap.
• Yang Ling Quan or Gallbladder 34, located just below the outer knee and above the shin bone.
• Dubi or stomach 35, the part of the leg from below the patella to the outside of the leg.
• Zusanri or stomach 36. It is located on the outside of the leg, below the patella.
• Unyang or bladder 39. It is located on the outer edge of the middle back of the knee.
• Weizhong or bladder 40. It is located in the center of the back of the knee.

Depending on the type and cause of your pain, the effects of acupuncture may last several months. 1 year.

This technique typically involves multiple sessions. Chronic pain may require more sessions, while acute pain may require fewer sessions.

However, some people may not experience any effects even after receiving acupuncture treatment. Or you may only experience short-term effects. People considering trying acupuncture should discuss developing a treatment plan with their doctor or acupuncturist.

The cost of a single acupuncture treatment ranges from approximately $75 to $200. Some insurance companies offer full or partial coverage, while others may not. It depends on the person’s condition, whether other treatments are effective, and the number of sessions needed.

When considering treatment, you can check to see if your insurance covers acupuncture.

You should only receive acupuncture from a qualified professional.If the technique is improperly administered can have Serious risks such as infection and internal organ damage.

Most states require acupuncturists to be licensed, and some states offer an acupuncture license search to ensure that an acupuncturist is practicing legally.

You can find an acupuncturist using the National Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Certification Board directory.

When looking for an acupuncturist, you should check their credentials and consider consulting with an acupuncturist before booking a session. This helps ensure that people feel safe and comfortable around them.

Although scientists still don’t fully understand acupuncture, there is evidence that it may be helpful in treating some types of knee pain.that Might be helpful It can be accompanied by osteoarthritis pain, postoperative pain, and in some cases, acute knee injury.

The duration of acupuncture’s effects varies, so some people may need repeated sessions. However, it is not a substitute for professional medical care and you should consult your doctor before trying it.