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Acupuncture/basal thumb athritis

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Expert: - 2/8/2009


Question
Will acupunture be beneficial for Basal thumb arthritis ?

Answer

Schizandra Health Cent
Yes.  As with any disease process, the length of time and severity of the condition will effect the prognosis.  With this in mind, the goals of treatment for basal thumb arthritis most likely include reduction of pain and inflammation, and increase in range of motion and function.  Acupuncture is very effective at reducing inflammation and pain, two large factors inhibiting mobility and function.  The herbal supplements often used in conjunction with acupuncture will also increase this effect.  Also consider that acupuncture and/or herbal treatment can help slow the progress of this type of arthritis.  
Keep in mind that the destruction of the joint tissue itself is unlikely to improve with acupuncture alone.  Acupuncture will increase circulation and mobility to the joint, improving the health of the tissues, but does not supply the necessary nutrients and connective tissue to regrow cartilage, bone or synovial fluid.  Supplements such as collagen, glucosamine HCL or glucosamine sulfate, small molecular weight chondroitin sulfate, and bone matrix based calcium are helpful for that purpose.
I believe acupuncture and supplements can be very beneficial for this condition, and are much safer with fewer side effects than some of the alternatives (surgery, corticosteroid injections, pain killers).

I wish you the best in health!
-Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentMany thanks for the super fast,comprehensive reply


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Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.

Expertise

Please ask me about acupuncture and oriental medicine, nutrition, dietary supplements, and herbs. I am always happy to answer questions about how any of these areas relate to your health and well-being, specific conditions, or simply if you would like some information. I specialize in acupuncture for palliative care, acute injuries, chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, bone health, and western supplements.

Experience

I am a licensed acupuncturist in the state of California and hold a Master's degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. This degree includes training for acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, exercise and bodywork. I have work for a decade in the natural products industry both at the retail and manufacturing levels. I have worked using acupuncture in private clinics, community clinic settings and in inpatient care facilities; including hospice and supportive housing residences. I currently practice in San Francisco in a private clinic, making house calls for home bound patients, and working on grant funded community acupuncture projects.

Education/Credentials
Master's in Traditional Oriental Medicine, Certified Massage Therapist and Health Educator, Reiki Practitioner.

Past/Present Clients
Everyone from the stressed out worker, to the detoxing substance user, to the dying, to the new mother. Acupuncture can help them all.

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