Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory systemic illness affecting the entire human body, but more so the joints. It is classified as an autoimmune disorder, which means the immune system in the body mistakenly starts attacking the body instead of fighting off infections, damaging healthy tissues in the process.

One of the most commonly encountered symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain. People suffering from pain conditions, such as RA-connected joint pain, may find a solution using acupuncture. Acupuncture is not a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but it may provide much-needed relief from joint pain you can rely on.

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture stimulates a series of points across the body called acupoints. This is done through the use of fine, thin and sterilised needles. They may or may not be located at the place where the symptoms are occurring.

Studies show that most of the acupoint clusters are located near nerves in the body. Whenever a needle is placed, patients will feel soreness and tingling or even electrical sensations as the nerves are getting activated. Needle placement activates the nerve, then sends signals to the spinal cord and the brain, the pain centres of your nervous system. These are activated, releasing the body’s natural pain relief response - endorphins.

What Can It Do?

Studies have shown some evidence pointing toward acupuncture helping patients with chronic pain, one that lasts more than three months and can relieve back pain disability. Acupuncture has also been found to help treat lower back pain and other conditions, such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Acupuncture Treatment and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Acupuncture has not been shown to help prevent joint damage, with study data conflicting on whether acupuncture can help control inflammation. Even though there is no definite proof that acupuncture may reduce inflammation, this has been reported occasionally.

Acupuncture may help with RA-related pain, just like it does with other types of pain, by stimulating the production of endorphins. It is a good tool for dealing with pain, with minimal side effects, and can be undertaken alongside medication treatments. Acupuncture must never be used as the single source of treatment for RA but as an additional treatment instead, combined with other medications for RA.

What to Expect at an Acupuncture Appointment

Whether the practitioner is a licensed non-physician acupuncturist or a medical doctor, their credentials must be displayed in their office. When the practitioner places the needles, they may be stimulated electrically or manually, possibly alongside a warming lamp. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than injection hypodermics, so the insertion won’t feel any more painful than a mosquito bite. The patient may feel sore or tingly or feel like an electrical sensation is being released when the needles are being manipulated. The patient may feel a sense of relaxation and calm during treatment.

The patient should communicate any concerns before they undergo treatment and note any possible ways to contact the practitioner if any assistance is needed. Sometimes, the practitioner may leave the room when the needles are placed, allowing the patient time to relax.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, but it is not a substitute for the actual disease-modifying medical treatments that may be necessary. You should always consult your physician before you start treatments, so you can reach a consensus on whether or not this treatment is a good fit for you.

©The Acupuncturists Ltd

Back pain is a widespread condition that affects millions of people all over the world. It can be triggered by a variety of causes, including poor posture, injury, and medical disorders. However, there are various everyday habits that might lead to back pain. In this article, we will discuss eight daily habits that can cause back pain and suggest ways to prevent it.

1. Sitting for long periods

Back pain affects many people who sit at a desk or sit for prolonged periods of time, such as students or office workers. Sitting for extended periods of time puts a lot of tension on the lower back, which can cause muscle strain and discomfort. 

Every hour or so, take a break to stand up, stretch, and move about. This can help relieve lower back pain and avoid muscular strain. Also, sitting with the correct posture might assist relieve back pain. This involves sitting up straight, with your feet flat on the ground and your shoulders relaxed.

2. Carrying heavy bags

Back pain can result from carrying heavy bags, such as a handbag or a backpack, especially if the weight is disproportionally distributed. Carrying a bag on one shoulder can pull the muscles on one side of the body, resulting in muscular tension and pain. To avoid this, get a backpack with two straps and equally divide the weight. Additionally, when carrying a bag, swap sides to prevent putting too much strain on one side.

3. Using a smartphone or tablet

A significant number of people use their phones or tablets often throughout the day. Holding these gadgets at a low angle, on the other hand, might put a strain on the neck and upper back. This can cause muscle strain and pain. Avoid slouching or hunching over the device by holding it at eye level or using a stand. Taking pauses from using the device can also assist to limit the amount of time spent in this pose.

4. Wearing high heels

High heels can push the lower back to arch abnormally, causing muscular tension and pain. To avoid this, choose lower-heeled shoes or comfortable, supportive shoes that allow for natural spine alignment. Stretching the foot and calf muscles can also help relieve lower back pain.

5. Poor sleeping habits

Many people wake up in the morning with back pain. Sleeping in an uncomfortable posture or on an unsupportive mattress might cause this issue. To avoid this, it is critical to sleep on a mattress that provides enough back support. Furthermore, sleeping in a position that provides natural spine alignments, such as on your back or side, can help avoid back pain.

6. Poor posture

Back pain is often caused by poor posture. The back can experience a lot of pressure from slouching or hunching over, which can result in soreness and muscle tension. It is essential to keep proper posture by sitting up straight, keeping your shoulders back and down, and aligning your ears, shoulders, and hips. Stretching the chest and shoulder muscles can also help relieve upper back pain.

7. Lack of exercise

Inactivity can cause muscle tension and discomfort by weakening the muscles that support the back. Regular exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help avoid this by strengthening the muscles that support the back. Stretching before and after exercise can also help avoid muscle tension and strain.

8. Smoking

Smoking causes back pain by decreasing the blood supply to the spine and weakening the bones and muscles. To avoid this, quit smoking or get support to quit smoking. Exercise and proper posture can also help increase blood flow and strengthen the muscles that support the back.

Suppose you've recently been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC). In that case, you understand how difficult it can be to distinguish symptoms of this gastrointestinal disease from other aches and pains in your body. Is your stomach ache the result of an unsatisfactory meal or of inflammation in your colon? Is your inflammatory bowel disease or your monthly cycle causing the cramps? Let's take a closer look at how to relieve pain and get back to doing what you love.

1. Pain Meds

Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, is generally safe to use in cases of mild pain. Acetaminophen alleviates pain by increasing your body's overall pain threshold. You will almost certainly be advised to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, which may aggravate your symptoms.

2. Anti-Diarrhea Medications

Inflammation in the colon can cause diarrhea, causing the colon to empty itself frequently. Loperamide may be prescribed as an over-the-counter medication to treat your diarrhea. It works by restoring your digestive system's overactive pace to normal. Imodium is a common over-the-counter medication, but just because it's widely available without a prescription doesn't mean you should ignore your doctor's advice.

3. Antispasmodics

Muscle spasms and cramps are treated with antispasmodic medications. They can also help with pain relief by decreasing the intensity of your gut contractions as food passes through your intestine. Peppermint oil is an antispasmodic that can be found at your local pharmacy.

4. Corticosteroids

If your pain becomes unbearable, don't be surprised if your doctor prescribes a course of corticosteroids to get things under control quickly. Steroids can be extremely helpful in lowering pain by reducing inflammation through multiple pathways. However, steroids should only be used for short-term relief because the long-term side effects of these medications can be severe.

5. Aminosalicylates (5-ASA)

This class of medication is used to treat inflammation in the digestive tract lining. 5-ASA medications are well-tolerated and safe for people who have UC. Sulfasalazine, mesalamine, and olsalazine are examples of these medications.

6. Immunomodulators

Immunomodulators are a type of medication that alters the activity of the immune system, reducing ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. These are not new drugs, with some dating back 70 years for other purposes such as cancer and arthritis treatment.

7. Biologics/Biosimilars

Unlike other medications, biologics are made from living compounds rather than chemicals. Biologics are antibodies that target specific proteins in the body that cause inflammation. Biological medications approved to treat UC include adalimumab, golimumab, infliximab, ustekinumab, and vedolizumab.

8. Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors/Targeted Synthetic Small Molecules

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are one of the newest classes of drugs available for UC treatment, and they are doing well. In a 2021 study published in the Journal of Crohn's and Colitis, a higher proportion of patients reported no bowel urgency and less abdominal pain when given a JAK inhibitor versus a placebo, with improvements seen as early as two weeks. JAK inhibitors work by interfering with inflammation-related signaling.

9. Diet 

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are one of the newest classes of drugs available for UC treatment, and they are doing well. In a 2021 study published in the Journal of Crohn's and Colitis, a higher proportion of patients reported no bowel urgency and less abdominal pain when given a JAK inhibitor versus a placebo, with improvements seen as early as two weeks. JAK inhibitors work by interfering with inflammation-related signaling.

10. Surgery

Given the complexity of ulcerative colitis, different treatments for UC pain may be required over time. Surgery may be recommended if more conservative approaches have failed to relieve your pain, or if your medication has stopped working and your pain has returned. A proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the most common surgery for UC. Your colon and rectum will be removed, and the end of your small intestine will be used to form an internal pouch shaped like a J.

If you lead an active lifestyle or work on your feet, you may have minor aches and pains rather frequently. You likely decide to put off going to the doctor because of these symptoms since you think they will disappear if you wait a few days. This idea may be accurate at times, but what if it is not? 

Continue reading to discover the ten knee pain symptoms that should prompt a visit to the doctor or an orthopedic surgeon.

1. Joint deformity 

Look at your knees positioned side by side. You might have a fracture, dislocated knee cap, or patella damage if your injured knee looks different from the healthy one.

2. Walking abnormalities 

Consult a doctor if your knee discomfort worsens to the point where it affects your gait or creates difficulty walking. An injury to the bone or a degenerative condition can both be indicated by these symptoms.

3. Your knee can't bear your weight

Have you ever felt like shifting the weight of your body onto your healthy knee when standing? Seek professional medical assistance if the injured knee cannot support your weight. Numerous knee disorders can be indicated by this symptom, all of which call for medical attention.

4. Knee Instability

Seek medical attention if you experience any wobbling or feel like your knee is about to give way. Joint instability typically suggests a ligament injury, which could get worse if you use your knee as usual.

5. No pain when the knee is touched 

Even though pain is a common symptom of knee problems, it can also be a sign of more severe medical conditions. If pressing on your knee does not make your leg or knee pain worse, sciatica or another non-knee issue may be to blame.

6. Chronic symptoms 

A doctor can help if you try to wait out your pain but it doesn't seem to improve. Generally, the discomfort that persists for more than 48 hours in athletes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, and individuals should consult a specialist if symptoms persist for longer than three weeks.

7. Pain that hampers your life 

Consider making an appointment as soon as you realize that your symptoms are affecting your daily tasks and significantly decreasing your quality of life. Have a specialist examine the joint if knee pain makes your job more challenging, your afternoon jog awkward, or your commute more stressful.

8. Symptoms that cause difficulty sleeping 

Many individuals who suffer from knee problems find it difficult to get to sleep or remain asleep as a result. If your knee pain is keeping you awake, get help.

9. Swelling and redness 

Changes in the appearance of your knee, such as deformity of the knee joint, might be a sign of more significant issues. Touch the area if it appears red or swollen to check for any discomfort or warmth. These could be the symptoms of an infection and require prompt treatment. 

10. Limited mobility 

There may be swelling inside your knee after an injury. Your knee's mobility may be restricted by this swelling, making it challenging to fully straighten or bend your leg. Consult a doctor if you have a reduction in range of motion that doesn't subside within a day. 

The bottom line

Avoid ignoring knee pain. Seek medical attention if you suffer one of the aforementioned symptoms or their combinations. Consult your primary care physician first if your symptoms appear to be minor or infrequent. They can help you decide whether or not to see a specialist.

Make an appointment with a knee specialist for an evaluation if your symptoms change suddenly or become more intense, particularly if you are an athlete. Please seek emergency medical care right away if you suffer severe symptoms, such as a high fever.

When you're having trouble sleeping, your mattress might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But your body can warn you when it is time to change your mattress before you do. There are several reasons why a mattress is damaged or has to be replaced in order for you to sleep better.

Proper sleep is vital if you want to perform at your best every day. Unfortunately, our mattresses degrade with time, with no obvious indication that it's time to replace them. Mattresses don't demonstrate a lot of wear and tear. However, after years of usage, they progressively become an adversary of a good night's sleep. Here is a list of five weighty reasons to change a mattress.

1. Your mattress is more than eight years old

One of the first factors to evaluate is the age of the mattress. Most people can’t recall the last time they purchased a mattress. If you don't keep excellent records, write the date of purchase on the mattress label. It is recommended to replace mattresses every 7 to 10 years. 

Many consumers who have purchased a mattress with a 20-year guarantee may be surprised by this. You should be aware that the guarantee only covers certain parts (springs) and craftsmanship, not the general comfort of the mattress.

2. You hear unpleasant sounds

Once the springs and other mattress components begin to fail, your bed may begin to squeak and creak. Such sounds are obviously annoying and may wake you (as well as other people in the house) up at night. The source of these sounds might possibly be hidden within the bed itself. That's why it is recommended to inspect the bed before replacing the mattress. 

You might just need to tighten a few screws or replace a few damaged bed slats. If the bed is in good condition, it may be high time to get a new mattress. The squeaking is more than simply irritating. It indicates a considerable decrease in mattress quality.

3. You wake up stiff and achy

Do you wake up every morning with aches and pains? Is it necessary to wait a while before you feel your muscles have relaxed? Needless to say, this is not meant to happen, and you should not tolerate it. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate severe back pain.  

If you wake up stiff every day, your mattress might be a key factor. Aching when you wake up might be an indication that your mattress isn't giving the support and comfort you require.  If your back hurts when you wake up but relaxes when you stretch and move, it indicates that your mattress is causing or contributing to your problem.

4. Your mattress has an unpleasant odor

Even if you wash before going to bed, your body secretes oils, perspiration, and other fluids. The problem is that these liquids are easily absorbed by the soft surface of a mattress. A tiny quantity of liquid on a mattress might host a colony of bacteria or function as a breeding ground for mold and mildew, lending a musty odor to your mattress.

In addition to exacerbating asthma and allergy problems, sleeping on a foul-smelling mattress may result in bad nightmares. Because disruptive dreams are harmful to sleep, the consequences sometimes persist into the next day, causing symptoms such as brain fog, anger, and general lethargy. In a nutshell, stinky bedding, bad nightmares.

5. You have an allergic reaction to your mattress

If your allergies have worsened even though it isn't allergy season, your mattress can be a culprit since it collects dust. Dust mites might be more common in older mattresses than you might imagine.  

Though older mattresses have the largest concentration of dust mites of any object in your home, your old mattress may contain more than just dust mites. Dust mite feces, mold, germs, and other allergies may also be present. Dust mite feces can cause respiratory issues, as well as allergies and asthma attacks.