5 Integrative Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2025
As of 2019, approximately 18 million people worldwide were living with RA. The age-standardized global prevalence rate was estimated at 0.38%, indicating that about 0.38% of the global population is affected by RA. Over the past decades, studies have reported a gradual increase in RA prevalence. For instance, from 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized prevalence rate increased from 207.46 to 224.25 per 100,000 population, reflecting an estimated annual percent change of 0.37%.
The global age-standardized incidence rate of RA has also seen a slight uptick. Between 1990 and 2019, the incidence rate rose from 12.21 to 13 per 100,000 people, with an estimated annual percent change of 0.3% reported by PubMed Central.
Rheumatoid Arthritis in Canada
Arthritis is a widespread health condition in Canada as well, affecting nearly 6 million people, which accounts for approximately 20% of Canadians aged 15 and older. The condition is more prevalent among women, with 1 in 4 experiencing arthritis compared to 1 in 6 men. Contrary to common belief, arthritis is not limited to older adults, half of those diagnosed are under 65.
When focusing on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, about 374,000 Canadians aged 16 and older (1.2% of this age group) had a confirmed RA diagnosis between 2016 and 2017. During the same period, approximately 23,000 new cases emerged annually, translating to an incidence rate of 0.8 per 1,000 people per year. The likelihood of developing RA increases with age and is more common among women, with a 1.7% prevalence and an incidence rate of 1.0 per 1,000 persons per year, compared to 0.8% prevalence and 0.5 per 1,000 persons per year in men.
These figures highlight the substantial burden of arthritis and RA in Canada, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, early detection, and proactive treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis in the US
In fact, it is so common that more than 54 million people in the United States (25% of the country’s population) have arthritis, 1.3 million of which are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, stated the American College of Rheumatology.
Even though the condition can’t be cured, the symptoms can be managed with early medication treatments, usually with anti-rheumatic drugs. But there is one problem. Drugs often come with a massive list of side effects.
To avoid putting too many chemicals in their body, people have been turning their attention to alternative medicine, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine practices and other integrative approaches. But, with a painful and debilitating condition such as this one, few have the guts to experiment.
The question is, can you rely on acupuncture and Chinese medicine to soothe the symptoms? How effective can it really be?
Here, we will cover everything you need to know about this health disorder and integrative RA treatments.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
When a joint in the leg gets affected, odds are the exact same joint in the other leg will start to feel the same way. This is what we call rheumatoid arthritis. Basically, any damage that appears in the joint can also pop up on the other side of the body.
This disease is known for causing persistent pain and damage all around the body. Every year, 41 out of 100,000 people are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
However, it doesn’t only damage the joints; it can appear anywhere in the system, like the heart, eyes, skin, and even the blood vessels. Unlike osteoarthritis, this disorder impacts the joint’s lining, which is why you start to feel pain and swelling.
What test shows Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves a combination of imaging and blood tests to detect inflammation, joint damage, and disease progression.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound
These imaging tests are particularly useful in detecting RA in its early stages. MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, including cartilage and synovium, revealing early joint inflammation and damage. Ultrasound helps assess synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining) and fluid buildup, making it a valuable tool for monitoring disease progression.
X-rays
While not as effective for early detection, X-rays are commonly used to track RA over time. They help identify bone erosion and joint deformities that develop as the disease advances.
Blood tests
Several blood markers aid in confirming an RA diagnosis. The rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies are commonly tested, with anti-CCP being highly specific for RA. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) help assess the severity of inflammation in the body.
A rheumatologist will typically use a combination of these tests, along with a physical examination and symptom evaluation, to confirm an RA diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Based on NIAMS (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases) – magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound may help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis in the early stages of the disease. In addition, these imaging tests can help evaluate the amount of damage in the joints and the severity of the disease.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
When the disease is in its early phase, it will usually start to damage smaller joints, like the ones we have in our toes and fingers. Overall, people may experience:
- Stiff joints that usually gets progressively worse after lack of exercise or waking up
- Inflammation, warmth, tenderness in the joints
- Lack of appetite
- Exhaustion
- Fever
The more it progresses, however, the likelier it is to spread to different sections of the body. According to Mayo Clinic, 40% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will experience symptoms that have nothing to do with their joints, like changes in the heart, skin, eyes, kidneys, lungs, etc.
Types of сonventional RA Treatments
Many patients may ask “How to cure Rheumatoid Arthritis permanently ?”
The disorder can’t be cured; however, there are plenty of options for relieving the symptoms. Right now, doctors have four different medications they can recommend.
- DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs)
- Inflammation, warmth, tenderness in the joints
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Biologic antirheumatic drugs (agents)
- Corticosteroids
DMARDs are a standard approach. They are meant to curb the onset of the disease. The biologic ones, on the other hand, are often used to keep the immune system on track. The NSAIDs are mainly designed for the early stages but have no effect on the progress of the disease. Corticosteroids are a short-term option.
But, there is one thing they all have in common – they come with a lot of side effects. That’s why so many people are willing to try an alternative approach.
Types of integrative RA Treatments
While traditional treatments such as medications and physical therapy remain essential, integrative approaches are gaining recognition for their ability to enhance overall well-being and provide natural relief. These approaches focus on combining conventional treatments with holistic practices to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural healing process.
There is a variety of integrative approaches for RA treatments, so let’s review top 5 integrative medicine approaches like TCM (Traditional Chinese, Medicine), electro acupuncture, herbal medicine, green light therapy.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a tricky health problem to treat. But, Chinese medicine is a key strategy in managing the symptoms.
All components of Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, and herbs, have an important role to play. According to research, and the improvements we see in our integrative clinic Ottawa they provide the body with the much-needed therapeutic effects.
Traditional Chinese Medicine for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Enough research and statistical analysis support the positive effects of Traditional Chinese Practices. According to the study published by the Healthcare Medicine Institute, acupuncture might be better than drugs at treating Rheumatoid Arthritis. To evaluate the full extent of traditional Chinese medicine, they compared the effects of acupuncture and herbs with medications.
The results were evident. The group that received a combination of acupuncture and herbs noticed an effective rate of more than 95%, while the other group experienced only 68%. Plus, the group that took the drugs experienced an 18% side effects rate, while the other group had only a 3.2%.
A different study from the same institute also supported the results. Their research indicates that herbs and acupuncture provide fair pain-relief properties and boost the quality of life. The effects get better with time, and the best improvements can be noticed 12 months after consecutive treatment.
One of the most significant negative effect of the arthritis is the bone and a cartilage damage that lead to joint deformation and disability. On the other hand, the meta-analysis of sixteen studies that involves 1,171 patients shows that integration of Traditional herbal remedies into the patient care for 3 to 6 months may protect bones and cartilage from destruction.
Chinese herbs have potent natural compounds that can prevent bone erosion, as it also shown in animal studies. When combining multiple specific herbs packed with fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties, it can create a formula that balances out the flora in the intestines and boosts bone protection.
Take the Bi-Qi capsule, for example. Statistics show this formula can reduce inflammation, cartilage destruction, and become a fundamental component in treating Rheumatoid arthritis.
Overall, traditional Chinese medicine could be a good adjunct therapy to the conventional medicine. When combined with arthritis drugs, it can be a useful strategy for managing the condition in the long haul.
Vagus Nerve stimulation and its role in Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness. While conventional treatments focus on managing symptoms through medications, recent research highlights the critical role of the vagus nerve in regulating inflammation and immune function.
At SunRise Neuro-Acupuncture, we integrate Electro Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine to naturally stimulate the vagus nerve, helping reduce inflammation, modulate immune activity, and improve overall well-being for RA patients.
How Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Affects Rheumatoid Arthritis
The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, extending from the brainstem to the abdomen, influencing vital functions such as inflammation control, heart rate, and digestion. Research suggests that stimulating the vagus nerve activates the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway (CAP), which helps:
- Suppress overactive immune responses (preventing excessive joint inflammation.
- Reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (key players in RA progression (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6).
- Improve nervous system balance (lowering stress-related inflammation).
- Enhance blood circulation (supporting joint mobility and reducing stiffness).
For RA patients, low vagal tone is often associated with higher levels of inflammation and pain, making vagus nerve stimulation a promising approach for long-term symptom management.
1. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
2. Vagus Nerve stimulation through Electro Acupuncture
- Pain relief by regulating nerve signals and reducing hypersensitivity.
- Anti-inflammatory effects by activating the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway.
- Improved autonomic nervous system function, leading to better stress response and immune regulation.
3. Herbal Medicine and its role in Vagus Nerve stimulation
- Modulate the immune system, reducing overactivity without suppressing immune defense.
- Support nervous system balance, enhancing vagal tone naturally.
- Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, preventing joint damage.
- Astragalus (Huang Qi) - strengthens the immune system while reducing autoimmunity.
- Turmeric (Curcumin) - blocks inflammatory pathways and supports neuroprotection.
- Licorice Root (Gan Cao) - helps regulate cortisol levels, reducing stress-related inflammation.
- Ginger (Sheng Jiang) - improves circulation and has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Microcurrent Therapy for RA and Vagus Nerve activation
- Boosting ATP (cellular energy) production, accelerating tissue repair by up to 500%.
- Reducing inflammatory markers, helping regulate the immune system response.
- Improving blood circulation and oxygenation, promoting better joint mobility.
- Restoring nerve function, reducing neuropathic pain often associated with RA.
5. Green Light Therapy for RA
Lifestyle Changes for Rheumatoid Arthritis
One key aspect of self-treatment involves lifestyle modifications, which can significantly impact disease progression and symptom management. Engaging in low-impact activities can improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce stress, all of which contribute to better joint health. Here’s how these activities can help:
Tai Qi
This ancient Chinese martial art focuses on slow, controlled movements and deep breathing, which can help improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength. Tai Chi has been shown to reduce stiffness and enhance mobility in people with RA, making it an excellent low-impact exercise.
Yoga
Yoga combines gentle stretching, breathing techniques, and mindfulness, which can help alleviate joint pain and promote relaxation. Research suggests that regular yoga practice can reduce inflammation markers, improve mental well-being, and enhance overall joint function in people with arthritis.
Walking
A simple yet effective form of exercise, walking helps maintain joint flexibility and cardiovascular health without putting excessive stress on the joints. Brisk walking for even 20–30 minutes a day can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation, contributing to overall pain relief.
Water Exercise (Hydrotherapy)
Water-based activities, such as aqua aerobics or swimming, provide resistance while reducing stress on the joints due to the buoyancy of water. Hydrotherapy has been found to ease pain, improve joint function, and enhance mobility, making it an ideal choice for those experiencing severe RA symptoms.
Beyond these physical activities, additional integrative treatments are emerging as promising options for managing rheumatoid arthritis.
Ready to explore a natural approach to RA relief?
Sunrise Neuro-Acupuncture Integrative clinic provides care for rheumatoid arthritis. If you would like to receive more information about this treatment:
Call: +1 613 853 9099
Email: info@neuroacupuncture.ca
At our integrative clinic in Ottawa, we focus on holistic approaches to managing chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Our acupuncture clinic in Ottawa offers targeted treatments, including neuro acupuncture, to help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve mobility. By combining traditional Chinese medicine with modern techniques, we provide personalized care to support your overall well-being and long-term health. If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to manage rheumatoid arthritis, visit our clinic to explore the benefits of neuro acupuncture in Ottawa.
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