Medical Blog

Acupuncture Treatment for Knee Pain: Benefits, How It Works, and What to Expect

by MD therapeutics on Feb 01, 2025

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing, relieve pain, and improve overall well-being. It has gained popularity as a complementary treatment for knee pain, particularly for those dealing with chronic pain, inflammation, and joint issues. If you're experiencing knee pain and are seeking alternative, non-invasive treatment options, acupuncture may offer relief.

How Acupuncture Helps with Knee Pain

Acupuncture works by stimulating certain points along the body’s meridians (energy pathways) to restore balance and promote natural healing. For knee pain, acupuncture can help in several ways:

  1. Pain Relief

    • Acupuncture triggers the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, including the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) and other neurochemicals that reduce discomfort.
    • By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points near or around the knee, it can block pain signals and reduce pain intensity.
  2. Improved Blood Circulation

    • One of the key benefits of acupuncture is its ability to enhance blood flow. Improved circulation can help reduce inflammation in the knee joint and promote healing in damaged tissues, such as cartilage or tendons.
    • Acupuncture helps increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the knee joint, which is important for repair and recovery.
  3. Reduction of Inflammation

    • Acupuncture can stimulate the body’s immune system to reduce inflammation and swelling in the knee. For conditions like osteoarthritis, where inflammation is a primary concern, acupuncture may help alleviate the discomfort caused by swelling in the joint.
  4. Muscle Relaxation

    • Knee pain is often associated with muscle tightness around the joint. Acupuncture can help relax the muscles and tendons around the knee, which can provide relief from discomfort and improve mobility.
    • For patients with muscle imbalances that contribute to knee pain, acupuncture can help release tension and promote better alignment and movement patterns.
  5. Restoring Joint Function

    • Acupuncture may support the restoration of joint function by promoting the natural healing processes in the knee. It can help improve the flexibility and mobility of the knee, making it easier to perform daily activities without pain or stiffness.
  6. Managing Chronic Knee Conditions

    • Acupuncture is commonly used for long-term knee conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and other chronic knee disorders. It may be a helpful adjunct therapy for those looking for non-surgical options to manage ongoing knee pain.

What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment for Knee Pain

If you are considering acupuncture for knee pain, here's what you can expect during a typical treatment session:

  1. Initial Consultation

    • During your first visit, the acupuncturist will take a detailed health history and ask about the nature of your knee pain, including when it started, the severity, and any factors that make it worse or better.
    • They may also ask about other symptoms, lifestyle factors, and your overall health, as acupuncture is a holistic therapy that looks at the whole body.
  2. Needle Insertion

    • The acupuncturist will insert very fine, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points around the knee, as well as possibly other areas of the body that may be related to the pain. The needles are typically thin and cause minimal discomfort.
    • The needles are left in place for about 15-30 minutes, during which time you may experience a feeling of relaxation or a mild tingling sensation.
  3. Adjustment of Needles (Optional)

    • Depending on the condition and your response, the acupuncturist may gently adjust the needles during the session to target specific points or stimulate energy flow more effectively.
  4. Feeling During Treatment

    • Most patients find acupuncture to be relaxing, with some even falling asleep during the session. The sensation of the needles is generally described as mild, with a slight ache or pressure around the area being treated.
  5. Post-Treatment Effects

    • After the session, some people feel immediate relief from knee pain, while for others, the effects may take a few hours or days to manifest. It’s common to feel relaxed and slightly energized after acupuncture.
    • Mild soreness at the acupuncture points is also possible but should subside within a day or two.
  6. Number of Sessions

    • The number of sessions needed to see significant improvement in knee pain can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. For chronic knee pain, a series of 5-10 sessions is typical, though some people experience relief after just a few treatments.

Conditions Acupuncture Can Treat for Knee Pain

Acupuncture is particularly effective for treating various knee pain conditions, including:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA)

    • OA is a degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage breakdown, leading to pain and stiffness. Acupuncture can reduce inflammation and improve knee function in individuals with OA.
  • Tendonitis

    • Tendonitis involves inflammation of the tendons around the knee. Acupuncture can reduce tendon irritation and speed up the healing process.
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

    • PFPS, also known as "runner’s knee," causes pain around the kneecap. Acupuncture can help manage the pain and improve joint function.
  • Ligament Strains and Sprains

    • Whether caused by sports injuries or accidents, ligament strains or sprains around the knee can benefit from acupuncture’s ability to reduce swelling and support tissue repair.
  • Bursitis

    • Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can cause pain. Acupuncture can alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and enhancing blood flow.
  • Referred Pain

    • Sometimes knee pain can be caused by issues in other parts of the body, such as the lower back or hips. Acupuncture can treat referred pain by addressing the root cause of the discomfort.

Safety and Considerations

Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a trained and licensed acupuncturist. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before starting acupuncture, it’s essential to consult with your doctor, especially if you have underlying medical conditions like diabetes or blood clotting disorders.
  • Qualified Practitioner: Ensure you seek treatment from a licensed and experienced acupuncturist who follows proper safety standards and uses sterile needles.
  • Possible Side Effects: Although rare, acupuncture can cause side effects such as dizziness, bruising, or mild soreness at the needle insertion points. These should subside shortly after treatment.

Supporting Knee Health with Nutrition

In addition to acupuncture, supporting knee health with nutrition can help reduce discomfort and improve overall joint function. Regenerix Gold™ is a dietary supplement designed to promote joint health, improve mobility, and support tissue repair.

Why Regenerix Gold™ Helps with Knee Pain

  • Hydrolyzed Collagen (Type II): Supports cartilage repair and improves knee flexibility.
  • Proprietary Herbal Blend: Includes ginger, turmeric, and frankincense, known for their ability to support joint health.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Lubricates the knee joint for smoother movement.

Key Benefits of Regenerix Gold™:

  1. Hydrolyzed Collagen (Type II): Promotes cartilage repair and enhances knee flexibility.
  2. Proprietary Herbal Blend: Improves joint health and reduces discomfort.
  3. Hyaluronic Acid: Lubricates the knee joint for smoother movement.

Recommended Dosage:

Take three capsules daily. For more severe knee pain, four capsules per day (two in the morning and two in the evening) may provide faster relief.

Safety and Side Effects:

Regenerix Gold™ is generally safe for most individuals, with no reported adverse effects. However, it is not recommended during pregnancy. If you have allergies to any of the ingredients or are taking other medications, consult your healthcare provider before use.

Conclusion: Acupuncture for Knee Pain

Acupuncture is a promising treatment for knee pain, offering relief from discomfort, improved circulation, and better joint function without the need for invasive procedures or medications. Combined with strengthening exercises, stretching, and supplements like Regenerix Gold™, acupuncture can be an effective part of a comprehensive approach to managing knee pain.

Support your knee health with Regenerix Gold™. Order Regenerix Gold™ today.

Feel the difference in your knees and move with ease!