Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, often caused by general wear and tear. It occurs when the cartilage that lines the bones within a joint wears down. Usually, this cartilage protects the joint so that movement is smooth and pain-free. Once that cartilage is diminished, there’s nothing to prevent the bones of the joint from rubbing against one another, which causes pain.

In Chinese Medicine, osteoarthritis is often diagnosed as Bi Syndrome. “Bi” is translated as “obstruction” and refers to the obstruction of the flow of energy, or qi. This stagnation causes pain and other symptoms of arthritis, such as inflammation and stiffness. Treatment of osteoarthritis Bi Syndrome can include acupuncture points near the affected joint as well as throughout the body to address underlying disharmonies, as well as moxa, cupping, e-stim, herbal formulas, and topical herbal plasters.

Western Medicine Perspective

Osteoarthritis is caused by general wear and tear due to aging, overuse, acute injuries, or other medical conditions. It can affect any joint and presents with pain, stiffness, swelling, instability, and decreased range of motion at the affected joint. Treatment often includes pain medications, topical creams, ointments, patches, exercise, physical therapy, braces, and other supportive devices. Various complementary therapies—including acupuncture—have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in osteoarthritis.

Chinese Medicine Perspective

As mentioned, osteoarthritis is commonly considered Bi Syndrome in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Bi Syndrome refers to joint obstruction that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility. There are different types of Bi Syndromes, and our acupuncturists will assess your specific presentation to determine the appropriate treatment. For instance, Cold Bi is associated with worsening pain in cold weather, stiff joints, and a cold sensation in the area. Treatment may include warming techniques such as moxa, herbal plasters, or internal warming herbs.

Our acupuncturists also examine whether the pain follows a specific meridian. When a meridian is implicated, points both near the joint and distal to the joint are selected to move qi and relieve the obstruction. Osteoarthritis pain is often fixed and may be sharp. In these cases, Xi Cleft points are frequently used. Each meridian has a Xi Cleft point—typically located below the elbows or knees—that powerfully moves qi and blood, helping to relieve joint pain.

Acupuncture is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, and this benefit is enhanced with e-stim (also called electrical stimulation or electroacupuncture). E-stim has been shown to be particularly effective for inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and can be applied near the affected joint or at distal acupuncture points.

Treatment may also continue at home with topical herbs and internal herbal remedies. Depending on whether the joint feels hot or cold, and whether the skin appears red or pale, specific herbal plasters are applied to address the exact type of Bi Syndrome. To support lasting relief, internal herbal formulas are used to treat underlying imbalances that contribute to pain.

Takeaways

Osteoarthritis can be both painful and persistent. Our practitioners will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan, including identifying the most effective acupuncture points, assessing whether e-stim may help, and selecting the right combination of topical and internal herbal medicine. Whether you're dealing with joint pain from wear and tear, inflammation, or cold, damp conditions, Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to reduce pain and support long-term joint health.