Can moxibustion be used for arthritis?

 Moxibustion can generally be used for arthritis, although it only provides certain symptomatic relief and serves as an excellent complementary therapy. It is recommended to actively follow the medication treatment plan prescribed by a doctor. Moxibustion can help warm the meridians, unblock collaterals, promote blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, dispel wind, and eliminate dampness, all of which are highly beneficial in alleviating arthritis symptoms. Specific details are as follows:

Arthritis patients can benefit from moxibustion, as many cases of arthritis are associated with wind-damp conditions. Particularly for patients whose pain worsens during cold weather, moxibustion can effectively relieve pain and other discomforts. Moxibustion techniques include direct moxibustion, suspended moxibustion, and indirect moxibustion (with intervening materials). Arthritis patients typically use direct moxibustion, applying heat directly to painful areas to achieve therapeutic effects. For example, patients with knee arthritis may receive moxibustion at acupoints such as Xuehai (SP10), Liangqiu (ST34), and Zusanli (ST36); those with elbow arthritis may benefit from moxibustion at Yanggu (SI5), Waiguan (TE5), and Yangchi (TE4).

After moxibustion, noticeable local congestion often appears at the treated site, indicating accelerated local blood circulation. Therefore, moxibustion not only improves blood oxygen saturation but also enhances local nutrient supply, thereby accelerating tissue repair and healing. Moxibustion helps invigorate blood flow, promotes faster metabolism, improves overall health, and facilitates quicker absorption of inflammation caused by circulatory disturbances.