Arthritis

Understanding Arthritis and How Chiropractic and Acupuncture Care Can Help Manage Pain Naturally

 

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and disability in New Zealand and around the world. If you're among the millions struggling with aching joints, stiffness, or reduced mobility, you're not alone. At Auckland Wellness Centre, we offer holistic, drug-free solutions to help you better manage arthritis symptoms and enjoy a more active life. Our integrative care model combines chiropractic and acupuncture therapies to naturally alleviate arthritis pain and improve overall joint health.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints and is not a single condition, but a broad term encompassing over 100 different types of joint disorders. The most common types include:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative joint disease often caused by wear and tear. It results in the breakdown of cartilage, causing bones to rub together.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint deformity.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: A form of arthritis associated with psoriasis, characterised by joint pain, swelling, and skin lesions.
  • Gout: A type of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid crystals in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe.

Common Symptoms of Arthritis:

  • Joint pain and tenderness
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning
  • Swelling and redness
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Fatigue and general discomfort

These symptoms can fluctuate in intensity and may progressively worsen if left unmanaged. However, with the right approach, many people can reduce their pain, improve mobility, and enjoy a better quality of life.

 


How Chiropractic Care Can Help Manage Arthritis

Chiropractic care offers a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free option for managing arthritis. At Auckland Wellness Centre, our chiropractors use gentle manual therapies to address joint restrictions, enhance mobility, and improve the function of the spine and nervous system.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Arthritis:

  1. Pain Relief: Reduces joint pain through spinal and joint adjustments that alleviate pressure and improve alignment.
  2. Improved Range of Motion: Enhances flexibility and joint function, helping you move more freely.
  3. Reduced Inflammation: Adjustments may help decrease systemic inflammation by improving spinal health and nervous system function.
  4. Better Posture: Correcting imbalances reduces strain on arthritic joints.
  5. Holistic Support: Your chiropractor can provide lifestyle advice, ergonomic modifications, and home exercises to support joint health.

What to Expect During Chiropractic Treatment for Arthritis

Your first visit includes a detailed consultation, physical examination, and in some cases, imaging (X-rays or referrals) to understand your condition. Treatment may involve:

  • Gentle spinal adjustments
  • Extremity joint mobilisations
  • Soft tissue therapies (including Active Release Technique)
  • Custom stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Ergonomic and lifestyle recommendations

We tailor our chiropractic approach to suit your type of arthritis, severity of symptoms, and overall health status.

 


How Acupuncture Can Support Arthritis Management

Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that continues to be recognised in modern healthcare for its effectiveness in managing pain and inflammation. At Auckland Wellness Centre, our trained acupuncturists use precise needle placement to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

How Acupuncture Works for Arthritis:

  • Pain Relief: Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin, the body’s natural painkillers.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Stimulating specific points helps reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints.
  • Improved Blood Circulation: Enhances nutrient delivery and waste removal around affected joints.
  • Relaxation & Stress Relief: Reducing stress levels can lower inflammation and improve sleep, both critical for managing arthritis.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Arthritis Patients:

  • Relief from chronic joint pain
  • Increased flexibility and joint movement
  • Less stiffness and muscle tension
  • Enhanced mobility and quality of life
  • Fewer reliance on pain medications

Acupuncture is particularly effective for patients who experience side effects from conventional medications or are seeking complementary care.

 


Our Integrative Approach to Arthritis Care at Auckland Wellness Centre

Arthritis care should never be one-size-fits-all. That’s why we believe in a holistic, personalised approach to treatment. Our team of chiropractors and acupuncturists work collaboratively to address your symptoms from multiple angles.

Your Initial Consultation Includes:

  • Comprehensive case history
  • Physical examination
  • Postural and mobility assessment
  • Discussion of goals and expectations
  • Referral for imaging (if needed)

Based on your assessment, we will create a tailored care plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture sessions, and possibly referral to massage therapists, physiotherapists, or GPs to ensure comprehensive care.

 


Why Choose Auckland Wellness Centre for Arthritis Care?

  • Multilingual Team: Our practitioners speak English, Korean, Chinese, and French.
  • Convenient Location: Based in Rosedale, easily accessible from Albany and North Shore.
  • ACC Registered: You may be eligible for acupuncture under ACC with no GP referral needed.
  • Holistic Wellness Support: We also offer massage therapy, spinal decompression, nutrition advice, and mobility training.

Whether you suffer from mild osteoarthritis or a more complex autoimmune condition, our mission is to help you stay active, stay aligned, and live pain-free.

 


Lifestyle and Home Care Tips for Managing Arthritis

In addition to chiropractic and acupuncture, making a few lifestyle adjustments can significantly help manage arthritis symptoms:

  • Stay Active: Low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, or walking can improve joint health.
  • Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and green leafy vegetables can help reduce inflammation.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing extra weight relieves pressure on joints, especially hips, knees, and spine.
  • Warm Baths & Heat Packs: Can soothe stiff joints and improve blood flow.
  • Use Supportive Devices: Braces, ergonomic furniture, and proper footwear can reduce joint stress.

Our team is happy to guide you on exercise routines and dietary recommendations tailored to arthritis management.

 


Book Your Consultation Today

If you're living with arthritis and want to explore natural, effective pain management options, contact Auckland Wellness Centre today. Our integrative team is ready to support your journey to better mobility, less pain, and improved quality of life.

Phone: 09 600 1939  |  022 621 8826
Address: E2/27 William Pickering Drive, Rosedale, Auckland
Email: info@aucklandwellness.co.nz