Arthritis, Acupuncture and AromatherapySome alternative health therapies such as diet, yoga and aromatherapy can be done with little or no guidance from a physician. Others such as acupuncture and chiropractic require the direct guidance of a physician. No one single treatment method is effective for everyone with a particular condition. It is important to find a therapy that works for you and has long lasting benefits. Make use of the information available to make intelligent, informed choices for your own health. AcupunctureAcupuncture originated in China over five thousand years ago. Acupuncture is based on the concept that chi (energy) circulates through the body along twelve major pathways, called meridians. Each meridian is linked to specific internal organs and organ systems. Very fine needles are inserted at precise points on the meridians just under the skin to stimulate, disperse and balance the flow of energy (chi), relieve pain and treat a variety of chronic, acute and degenerative conditions. AcupressureAlso referred to as Relief with Fingertips, acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but uses the hands for healing technique instead of needles and other devices. Depending upon the afflicted area and type of arthritic condition, a combination of knuckles, fingers, thumbs and palm massage techniques are used in the surrounding areas. AromatherapyAromatherapy or "treatment using scents," is another holistic treatment used by some arthritic sufferers for pain relief, skincare and revival, rejuvenation and stress management. Treatment focuses on using pleasurable aromatic botanical oils by either massaging them into the skin, adding them to the bath water, inhaling them directly or diffusing their scents into the surrounding environment. The oils have been known to affect moods, help with relaxation, lessen or end fatigue and anxiety, and help the brain and nervous system via olfactory nerves stimulation when inhaled. Aromatherapy is reportedly one of the fastest growing fields in alternative medicine, used in home, and clinical and hospital environments for pain and stress relief. Aromatherapy treatments for arthritis vary and essential oils used can include:
Recipe for Arthritis Aromatherapy:Add six drops each of rosemary and chamomile oils to four ounces of a base oil like almond, avocado, sesame or soybean. Massage oil into sore arthritic joints. For added pain relief, relax for about 10 minutes in a warm tub of water in which ten drops each of rosemary and chamomile oils are added. Other Aromatherapy Oil Applications:
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