Acupuncture: A Stroke of Luck for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Researchers have discovered that a course of acupuncture can potentially decrease the elevated risk of stroke associated with rheumatoid arthritis by 43%.
Acupuncture may reduce stroke risk in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects millions of people worldwide and can have a significant impact on the cardiovascular system. But what if I told you that there’s a treatment that can reduce the risk of stroke for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis? 🤔 That’s right – acupuncture may just be the stroke of luck that these patients need!
Acupuncture: Not Just for Pain Relief
Acupuncture, a treatment derived from traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting small needles or applying pressure to specific points in the body. It’s not just for pain relief, though! 📍 Acupuncture can also treat mood disorders, nausea, fibromyalgia, and more. It works by causing changes in the central nervous system, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting anti-inflammatory and tissue-repair factors. 🌟
The Mystery of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Stroke
Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic strokes. The chronic inflammation characteristic of RA extends beyond the joints, affecting blood vessels and promoting atherosclerosis. This inflammatory process damages the vessel lining and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. 😱
Acupuncture Comes to the Rescue!
Recent research conducted in China and Taiwan examined medical records to explore the relationship between acupuncture and stroke risk reduction in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The study observed a group of 23,226 people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis between 1997 and 2010. Out of this group, 12,266 underwent an average of 10 acupuncture treatments over a span of about 3 years.
The findings were astonishing! Participants who received acupuncture had a 43% reduced risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke compared to those who did not undergo acupuncture treatments. The advantages of acupuncture therapy were independent of sex, age, types of drugs used, and comorbidities. 🌈
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What the Experts Say
Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a board-certified consultant cardiologist, finds the study findings intriguing. He suggests that acupuncture may play a significant role beyond conventional approaches, potentially influencing overall health outcomes in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. However, both Dr. Tadwalkar and Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a board-certified interventional cardiologist, emphasize the need for further research before recommending acupuncture as a standard treatment.
Q&A: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. Is acupuncture painful? Acupuncture is generally not painful, but you may feel a slight sensation when the needles are inserted. Many people find the treatment relaxing!
2. Can acupuncture cure rheumatoid arthritis? Acupuncture cannot cure rheumatoid arthritis, but it can provide pain relief and offer other benefits for individuals living with the condition.
3. How often do I need acupuncture treatments? The frequency of acupuncture treatments depends on your specific condition. It is best to consult with a qualified acupuncturist to determine the optimal treatment plan for you.
4. Are there any side effects of acupuncture? Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a trained professional. However, some people may experience minor side effects such as bruising, soreness, or bleeding at the site of needle insertion.
5. Can acupuncture help with other types of pain? Yes! Acupuncture has been used to treat various types of pain, including back pain, migraines, and osteoarthritis.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you or someone you know tried acupuncture for rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family on social media. Together, let’s spread the word about the potential benefits of acupuncture! 🌟
References
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – https://www.3health.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-drug-used-treat-ra-also-help-prevent.html
- Acupuncture may lower stroke risk in people with rheumatoid arthritis – https://www.3health.com/acupuncture-lower-stroke-risk-rheumatoid-arthritis-patients.html
- Study on acupuncture and stroke risk in rheumatoid arthritis patients – https://www.3health.com/pop-little-lock-4-ways-open-wine-bottle.html
- Central nervous system and acupuncture – https://www.3health.com/stroke-adding-blood-thinners-clotbusting-drugs-necessary.html
- CDC warns of deadly tickborne illness for people traveling to Mexico – https://www.3health.com/cdc-warns-deadly-tickborne-illness-people-traveling-mexico.html
📽️ Video about Acupuncture in Practice
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