Acupuncture has become a popular alternative treatment fo osteoarthritis. In a National Health Interview Survey (in 2002), it was determined that 8.2 million adults in the United States had ever used acupuncture while 2.1 million had used acupuncture the previous year. Acupuncture is among the oldest medical procedures in the world, originating in China more than 2000 years ago. Acupuncture first became well-known in the United States in the early 1970s.
Acupuncture is not a single procedure, but instead refers to various techniques which involve the stimulation of anatomical points on the body. The acupuncture technique which has been most studied, and which most people know as acupuncture, involves penetrating the skin, with very thin, solid, llic needles that are manipulated by hand or electrical stimulation.
Acupuncture has been studied as a treatment for a variety of conditions and its effectiveness has not always been clear. Studies have shown acupuncture to be effective for osteoarthritis of the knee. It is best to discuss acupuncture with your doctor to see if it's a treatment option for you. Read more in Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis.
