RA: TCM Unique Insights into Causes, Symptoms, Types and Treatment

How TCM perceives RA

Introduction:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation, pain, and discomfort. While modern medicine offers various treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides a unique perspective on rheumatoid arthritis by addressing imbalances within the body’s energy systems. In this article, we delve into the TCM approach to understanding the causes, symptoms, types, and holistic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis in TCM:

In TCM, rheumatoid arthritis is often attributed to the imbalance of vital energy, known as Qi, as well as the interplay of Yin and Yang within the body. Several factors can contribute to these imbalances:

1. Wind, Cold, and Dampness: TCM recognizes external pathogenic factors like wind, cold, and dampness as triggers for rheumatoid arthritis. These factors can invade the body and obstruct the flow of Qi, leading to joint inflammation and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is called 风湿性关节炎 which means joint inflammation caused by wind and dampness.

2. Stagnation of Qi and Blood: Emotional stress, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to the stagnation of Qi and Blood. This stagnant energy can accumulate in the joints, causing pain and inflammation.

3. Kidney and Liver Imbalances: TCM places great importance on the health of the Kidney and Liver systems. Imbalances in these systems can contribute to the development of RA.

4. Medication: In the modern day the cases of Rheumatoid arthritis have increased many folds due to overuse of drugs like steroids. these medications or medications in general have an alarming damaging impact on kidney and liver functioning leading to severe deprivation of jing essence causing severe autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Vaccination: After the 2020 Pandemic the cases of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases have increased probably due to extensive vaccination programs implemented for the so-called control of Covid-19. Unfortunately, such mRNA vaccinations cause the immune system to fail to distinguish between its own cells and foreign invasion causing autoimmunity.

Symptoms of RA in TCM:

TCM categorizes rheumatoid arthritis into different patterns, each with distinct symptoms:

1. Bi Syndrome: Bi syndrome refers to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. This aligns with the main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It is further classified into Wind-Cold-Damp Bi and Wind-Heat Bi, based on the specific pathogenic factors involved. Bi syndrome can be caused by external invasion or an internal imbalance. Either way the symptoms aggregates under wind, cold, and damp environmental conditions.

3. Kidney and Liver Deficiency: Deficiencies in the Kidney and Liver systems may lead to chronic pain, weakness, and joint instability. As mentioned above this becomes the major cause of the disease, hence this pattern is more common in cases of long-term or chronic rheumatoid arthritis. use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs further damage the kidney leading to worsening of the symptoms.

Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis in TCM:

TCM identifies different types of RA based on the patterns of imbalance present:

1. Wind-Cold-Damp Bi: This type is characterized by joint pain that worsens in cold and damp conditions. The joints feel stiff and heavy, and the pain can migrate from one joint to another.

2. Wind-Heat Bi: In this type, joint pain is accompanied by redness, heat, and swelling. The pain is usually more severe and can be associated with fever.

3. Blood Stasis Bi: Blood stasis type involves intense, fixed pain with purple or dark coloring around the joints. The pain is aggravated by cold and eased by warmth.

Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis in TCM:

TCM treatment for RA focuses on restoring balance and harmonizing Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang. Some approaches include:

1. Acupuncture: Fine needles are inserted into specific points to stimulate Qi flow, alleviate pain, and reduce inflammation in the affected joints. Acupuncture research treatment at SARC-Goa specializes in treating Rheumatoid arthritis from its root. And may in some cases result in a permanent solution

2. Herbal Medicine: TCM herbal formulas are tailored to the individual’s pattern of imbalance. These formulas aim to dispel pathogenic factors, tonify deficiencies, and promote healing.

3. Cupping and Gua Sha: These techniques improve circulation and help releases stagnation in the joints, providing temporary relief from pain and discomfort.

4. Diet and Lifestyle: TCM emphasizes the importance of a balanced vegetarian diet, regular exercise, and stress management to support overall health and well-being. Movement of the joint is essential to prevent stiffness, but overexertion must be prevented.

Conclusion:

The Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective on rheumatoid arthritis offers a holistic approach to understanding and treating this complex condition. By addressing the underlying imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, TCM aims to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Individuals seeking TCM treatment should consult a qualified practitioner to receive personalized care that considers their unique pattern of imbalance. Integrating TCM into the management of rheumatoid arthritis can provide a comprehensive and holistic path toward improved joint health and overall wellness.

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