Knee pain (arthritis, injury)

Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages, whether due to arthritis, sports injuries, overuse, or degenerative changes. It can severely limit mobility, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Without proper treatment, knee problems can worsen, leading to long-term discomfort and disability.

Understanding Knee Pain in TCM

In TCM theory, knee pain often results from:

• Qi and Blood stagnation from trauma or overuse
• Wind-Cold-Damp invasion lodging in the joints
• Kidney and Liver deficiencies weakening tendons and bones
• Spleen Qi deficiency leading to poor nourishment of muscles and joints

Blockages in Qi and Blood flow around the knees create pain, stiffness, swelling, and weakness. TCM aims to restore balance, promote circulation, and strengthen the underlying organ systems.

How Acupuncture Helps with Knee Pain

Acupuncture provides powerful pain relief and functional improvement by:

• Stimulating blood flow to nourish cartilage, tendons, and ligaments
• Reducing inflammation and swelling in the joint
• Relieving muscle tightness and improving joint flexibility
• Modulating nerve signals to reduce pain perception

We target acupuncture points along the Stomach, Spleen, Bladder, and Gallbladder meridians, which influence knee health. In chronic cases, electroacupuncture may be used to further stimulate healing responses.

Scientific research, including studies published in the Journal of Pain Research (2022), supports acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, and general knee pain, leading to better outcomes than medication alone.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Knee Recovery

Chinese herbal medicine complements acupuncture by addressing internal factors contributing to knee problems. Herbal formulas help to:

• Move Qi and Blood to relieve pain and stiffness
• Strengthen tendons, ligaments, and bones
• Clear Dampness and Cold trapped in the joints
• Nourish and rebuild cartilage and connective tissue

Common herbs used include:

• Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark): Strengthens joints and bones
• Xu Duan (Dipsacus Root): Promotes tissue repair and stabilises injuries
• Sang Ji Sheng (Mistletoe Stem): Tonifies Kidney and Liver to support joints
• Niu Xi (Achyranthes Root): Directs Blood downward and benefits the knees

Each prescription is customised based on whether the patient presents with acute trauma, chronic degeneration, or constitutional deficiencies.

Arthritis vs Injury-Related Knee Pain: TCM Approach

Arthritis-Related Knee Pain

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common causes of chronic knee pain. TCM treatment focuses on:

• Reducing joint inflammation
• Nourishing Kidney and Liver systems to support bone and tendon health
• Clearing Dampness that contributes to joint swelling and stiffness

Acupuncture and herbal medicine work together to slow degeneration, relieve pain, and maintain function.

Injury-Related Knee Pain

Injuries such as ligament tears, meniscus damage, or tendonitis are typically treated by:

• Invigorating Blood flow to repair soft tissues
• Reducing swelling and promoting flexibility
• Strengthening supportive muscle groups

Early intervention with acupuncture and herbs can speed up healing and prevent chronic weakness.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Knee Health

Optimising daily habits can enhance recovery and prevent worsening knee problems. At Vital Duo, we advise patients to:

• Avoid standing or sitting in one position for too long
• Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or Tai Chi
• Use knee supports or braces when necessary
• Keep knees warm, especially in cold or damp weather
• Eat foods that nourish the Kidneys and Blood, such as black beans, walnuts, leafy greens, and bone broth
• Minimise cold, raw, and greasy foods that contribute to Dampness

Breathing exercises, meditation, and stress management are also encouraged to ease muscle tension and promote overall body balance.

Final Thoughts

Knee pain—whether from arthritis or injury—doesn’t have to limit your life. Through Traditional Chinese Medicine’s powerful combination of acupuncture, herbal therapy, and lifestyle support, natural healing and lasting relief are possible.