Acupuncture is one of a range of natural therapies that are used to treat a number of ailments and conditions, including osteoporosis.  They can be used to complement - or as an alternative to - conventional medical treatments, and is an increasingly popular practice. 

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition whereby the bone density reduces drastically, leaving them brittle and prone to fracture or break.  Females are more susceptible to the condition, which is related to hormonal changes after the menopause.  Bone density is developed in the first twenty to thirty years of our life, where diet, genetics and our overall health determine their conditioning and strength. From around forty years of age there is no longer any significant development of bone density, and we need to supplement our diet with minerals such as calcium.  Calcium is present in dairy products, specifically cheese, yoghurt and milk; and should be included in our daily diet.  Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium in the body, and is readily available from the UV rays of the sun.  Exercise is also beneficial to osteoporosis sufferers, but should be a load bearing exercise such as walking or running.  Conventional medical treatment for osteoporosis focuses on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), dietary modifications and exercise.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a tradition that believes that the body is comprised of energy meridians.  Any disease, ailment or condition is a sign that the meridian, or chi, is blocked.  TCM treatments are designed to relieve any blockages and resolve the condition.  This is a holistic approach to health that also includes massage and herbal medicine, as well as acupuncture.  Acupuncture makes use of microscopic needles that are inserted into the patient’s skin at specific points.  These are chosen with the intention of relieving blockages in certain parts of the body, based on a consultation and evaluation of the patient.  The process is largely painless, with some people feeling a slight sensation when the needles are inserted.  There is also the option of laser acupuncture which is totally painless. 

How Can Acupuncture Help Osteoporosis?

Acupuncture uses special needles that are inserted into the body at specific points or meridians. The needles stimulate nerve endings and cause the brain to release endorphins. Several sessions of acupuncture may be required before pain is fully relieved. Not only can acupuncture relieve pain, it can also relieve other symptoms associated with osteoporosis.

Find out about other effective natural osteoporosis treatments.