Johns Hopkins Health Alert
Does Complementary Medicine Work for Osteoarthritis? Here’s What We Know …
Many people with arthritis rely on complementary medicine, products and techniques used in combination with conventional treatments. For example, they may listen to soothing music or practice yoga. This is very different from alternative medicine, in which certain products and techniques are used instead of conventional medicine.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), part of the government's National Institutes of Health (NIH), now funds research on complementary and alternative medicine. This means that in the coming years we will have more accurate information to guide decisions about nontraditional remedies. In the meantime, here's a brief rundown of what we know now:
Yoga for osteoarthritis. An ancient Indian exercise and breathing technique, yoga has been proven to improve breathing, strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, mobility and stability. Yoga is also an effective stress-reduction technique.
Tai chi for osteoarthritis. This Chinese exercise program provides benefits similar to those associated with yoga. One recent study found that twice-weekly tai chi classes improved function and lessened pain in people over age 50 with knee or hip osteoarthritis. Tai chi and yoga have become increasingly popular in the United States, and both are safe.
Hydrotherapy for osteoarthritis. The same study above that found tai chi effective found that twice-weekly hydrotherapy sessions are effective in reducing pain, lowering stress and increasing function.
Acupuncture for osteoarthritis. Practitioners of this ancient Chinese healing method insert, then manipulate, thin metallic needles in specific anatomical points in the body. Recent research from NCCAM indicates that acupuncture, when used in conjunction with medication, may help reduce pain and improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis. It’s important to select an acupuncture practitioner who is certified by a national accrediting organization such as the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture or the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Mind-body interventions for osteoarthritis. Meditation, prayer and creative therapies using art, music and dance are examples of mind-body interventions. Some other interventions that involve the mind, such as support groups and cognitive-behavioral therapy, have become elements of mainstream medical approaches to osteoarthritis.
Electromagnetic field therapy for osteoarthritis. Pulsed electrical stimulation is applied over the joints to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms. Some studies show this technique to be more effective than placebo treatments.
Posted in Arthritis on November 14, 2011
Medical Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute for the advice of a physician. Click here for additional information: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Disclaimer
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