Many people in Hervey Bay live with osteoarthritis, and some choose acupuncture and Chinese medicine as part of their overall care plan.
Osteoarthritis is a long-term joint condition where the smooth cartilage that cushions your joints gradually wears down, which may lead to pain, stiffness and reduced movement in areas like the knees, hips, hands and spine.
of all knee and hip replacements performed in Australia.
Source: Australian Orthopaedic Association Registry, 2023
are estimated to have osteoarthritis, with numbers rising due to ageing and activity levels.
Source: Arthritis Australia, 2022
Some evidence suggests that acupuncture may be associated with short-term improvements in pain and function for people living with osteoarthritis.
Source: McDonald & Janz, Acupuncture Evidence Project, 2017
Osteoarthritis is a long-term joint condition where the protective cartilage in a joint wears down over time. This can make joints feel stiff, swollen, or sore during daily activities. Many people notice it most in their knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Symptoms can rise and fall. Some days feel manageable, while others feel harder on the body. Stress, weather changes, long periods of standing, or heavy work may make symptoms more noticeable.
Living with osteoarthritis can change how you move and how you feel day to day. Many people tell me they struggle with simple tasks like climbing stairs, getting in and out of a car, walking long distances, or staying active with family.
It’s common to lose confidence in the affected joint, especially when stiffness or pain interrupts normal routines. Over time, sleep, mood, and energy can shift as well.
Modern medicine focuses on managing symptoms and keeping you active. This may include exercise programs, weight management, medication, or in some cases joint injections or surgery. Your GP or specialist will guide you on the right approach for your situation.
Acupuncture is sometimes used alongside these approaches as part of a person’s wider care plan. It does not replace medical treatment, but some people feel it adds another layer of support.
In Chinese medicine, osteoarthritis often relates to patterns such as “bi syndrome,” which describes discomfort caused by stagnation or blocked movement in the joints. I look at the areas involved, your overall health, your lifestyle, stress levels, digestion, sleep, and how your symptoms change across the day.
My aim is to support your movement, ease sensitivity in the affected joints, and help your body find better balance. I use gentle acupuncture, moxibustion when suitable, cupping for tight muscles, and simple lifestyle advice.
The Acupuncture Evidence Project (McDonald & Janz, 2017) reported that acupuncture may be associated with short-term improvement in pain and function for osteoarthritis. Results vary from person to person, and more research is always helpful, but many people choose acupuncture as part of their overall care.
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At your first visit, I take a detailed history and examine how your joints move. I check your tongue and pulse, which are traditional assessment tools in Chinese medicine. From there, I plan a treatment approach based on your pattern and symptoms.
Most people feel calm during treatment. Some notice changes straight away, while others improve steadily over a few sessions. I adjust your plan as your symptoms shift.
You can also read more about Chinese medicine here or explore how acupuncture works here.
If you’re ready to explore acupuncture for osteoarthritis, you can book online or call the clinic.