Acupuncture can help with many health issues, especially anything associated with the knee, and can be tremendously beneficial in stopping pain and decreasing inflammation.
Often knee issues arise from problems with muscles and connective tissue in the hamstring, quadriceps, ankles, knees, buttocks, IT (iliotibial) band, and lower back. Continuous pulling and tension can easily affect knee articulation, stressing the cartilage and the joint. Stretching, proper strengthening, and foam rolling can all help the knees. Qi Gong and tai chi exercises can help maintain good joint health.
It’s amazing how pain can manifest in an area far from where the pain originates, for instance an ankle problem creating a knee problem. If you are suffering, you may change how you are walking, without even realizing it, to avoid pressure on your ankle. This, in turn, creates pulling and pressure on the knee and hip.
As an avid running, I can attest to how very tight muscles can affect the knees. My personal go-to for knee discomfort is acupuncture followed by an intense massage, including trigger point (pressure to direct points and adhesions that radiate discomfort when palpated) and myofascial release to my IT bands, quads, and calf muscles. The acupuncture really pinpoints the spots and helps to release the muscle tension and fascia. The acupuncture-massage combo makes my knee discomfort disappear instantly and reduces my knee clicking to a near zero. Continuous work on these muscles and areas connected to the knee is essential if I want to continue with regular running.
Running gives me peace of mind, so I have to be diligent about caring for my knees to protect this important outlet for me. Please be mindful of what your body tells you. Aches and pains may not magically disappear on their own. Discomfort and pain in one area can affect the body as a whole. Proper treatment and maintenance work are critical to keeping your body in tip-top shape, so that you can do what matters to you.
Contributor
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.