Arthritis and spinal stenosis are two of the most common causes of chronic pain and mobility issues as we age. While they have different underlying causes, both can significantly affect quality of life—making even everyday activities difficult.
Acupuncture, an ancient healing system from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a safe, drug-free approach to reducing pain, improving function, and supporting overall wellness. Backed by centuries of clinical experience and modern research, acupuncture can be an important part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
Understanding the Conditions
What Is Spinal Stenosis? Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on nerves. - Central canal stenosis: Pressure on the spinal cord. - Foraminal stenosis: Pressure on nerve roots exiting the spine. Symptoms often include pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, which may worsen with walking or standing.
What Is Arthritis? Arthritis is joint inflammation that can begin as early as age 35. Causes include trauma, wear-and-tear, circulation issues, and autoimmune conditions. Common symptoms are pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and loss of function.
From a Western perspective, pain is often linked to joint degradation, inflammation, tendon problems, circulation issues, and nerve dysfunction. From a TCM perspective, arthritis pain can result from Qi and blood stagnation, dampness, and bi syndrome (painful obstruction).
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture uses very thin, sterile needles placed at specific points to stimulate healing responses. From a TCM perspective, these points help balance Qi (energy) and blood flow, restore homeostasis, and address the root causes of pain. From a biomedical standpoint, acupuncture improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin—natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing chemicals. It also calms overactive nerve pathways and modulates pain signals.
To enhance results, complementary methods may be used. Cupping encourages blood flow and eases muscle tension, manual therapy or massage can prepare tissues for needling, and electroacupuncture provides targeted stimulation that’s especially effective for nerve-related and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Research Evidence
Osteoarthritis: Berman et al. (2004) studied 570 patients receiving 24 sessions over 26 weeks. True acupuncture significantly reduced pain and improved function versus sham or education. A 2020 multicenter RCT found electroacupuncture 3x/week for 8 weeks had a 60.3% response rate compared to 47.3% for sham treatment.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A 2011 sham-controlled study in the Journal of Acupuncture & Tuina found that real acupuncture reduced pain scores and inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP).
Spinal Stenosis: In a study of 80 patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis, those receiving real acupuncture had greater improvement in disability scores compared to sham treatment.
Herbal Support for Arthritis
- Boswellia serrata – Ayurvedic resin shown to reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Turmeric/Curcumin – Anti-inflammatory for OA and RA; protects cartilage.
- Devil’s Claw – African root for joint and back pain, with effects comparable to certain NSAIDs.
- Ginger – Reduces inflammatory cytokines; works synergistically with turmeric.
What to Expect in Treatment
A typical course includes:
- Initial evaluation and customized treatment plan
- 4–6 weekly sessions as a trial
- Maintenance visits every few weeks or months as needed
- Lifestyle and herbal recommendations to support progress
Real-Life Results
Case studies from my practice show:
- An 83-year-old male with sciatica experienced improved mobility and reduced pain.
- An 88-year-old female with stenosis gained walking endurance and less leg pain.
- A 56-year-old woman with knee osteoarthritis regained range of motion and daily comfort.
Takeaway
Whether you are living with back pain arthritis, spinal stenosis, or both, acupuncture offers a time-tested, research-supported way to reduce pain and restore quality of life—without the risks of long-term medication use.
Call 650-564-9002 or Book Online to schedule a consultation and learn how acupuncture can help you move with less pain.
