Stiffness is often worst in the morning or after rest and eases with movement. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause in adults over 50. Inflammatory arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis) is different and needs medical care.
Pain & recovery concern
Joint Pain & Stiffness
Joint stiffness and aching, in the knees, hips, hands or shoulders, are common with age, overuse and conditions such as osteoarthritis. At Flourish TCM Clinic in Yaletown, Vancouver, Chinese Medicine Mud Therapy (warmth), TuiNa & DDS massage and Laser Acupoint Therapy are bookable now; acupuncture is on the waitlist.
TCM calls many joint pains "Bi syndrome": obstruction by wind, cold or damp. Cold, damp joints are often eased by warmth, which is part of why mud therapy is used.
Treatments that may help
What to expect
Warmth and bodywork can make joints feel more comfortable. They don't change the underlying joint condition, and movement and strength work remain important.
Terms to know
Full glossaryGlossary
TuiNa
TCMTuiNa ("push and grasp") is a Chinese therapeutic massage that works along meridians and acupressure points with pressing, kneading and stretching.
Glossary
Acupoints
TCMAcupoints are specific points on the body, mostly along the meridians, that are stimulated with needles, finger pressure or low-level laser.
Glossary
Meridians
TCMMeridians are the channels through which, in TCM, Qi and blood are understood to flow, connecting the body's surface with its organ systems.
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Can mud therapy help arthritis?
Many people find warmth comforting for stiff joints. It's a comfort measure, not a medical treatment.
Is heat or cold better?
Warmth often suits chronic stiffness; cold suits a fresh injury. Ask us or your doctor.
Is laser therapy available?
Yes. Laser Acupoint Therapy uses a low-level laser on points, with no needles, and is bookable now.
Can you treat rheumatoid arthritis?
It needs medical care. Bodywork may be a comfort alongside it; check with your rheumatologist.