The Chicken or the Egg: Weight Gain and Arthritis

Emily Chau, Acupuncturist

For some people, arthritis began as pain from extra pressure on joints from weight gain, that pain became chronic and became arthritis. While for others, arthritis sets in, which makes exercising difficult because the pain limits the types of movement possible and the lack of movement contributes to weight gain. The cascade continues when that weight gain puts pressure on the joints making the pain worsen. With the restrictions to movement, this cycle is a hard one to break.

From the Chinese medicine perspective, the cause of arthritis or any sort of pain is either a lack of qi (energy) and blood from getting to the area or a blockage of the channels preventing the free flow of qi and blood. In the case of excess weight and arthritis, it’s this blockage that is causing your pain. Whether your pain or the weight gain came first there is now a blockage of “Phlegm” in the area.

Phlegm is created when your digestive system can not properly process and manage fluids. When fluids accumulate it becomes Phlegm (of which fat is the physical manifestation). Phlegm is sticky and hard to get rid of (as anyone who has ever tried to go on a manage their weight can attest to). But once it is removed your pain should be may ease and allow you to begin a low-impact exercise routine to stave off the weight.

So how do we get rid of this Phlegm? Acupuncture can start the process of moving your qi and improving digestion to helping begin the removal of Phlegm. Adjusting your diet will also may help with your digestion and help manage the Phlegm. Avoiding cold, raw foods that require a lot of energy to digest will allow your digestion to work more efficiently. Certain foods like seaweeds can help break down the Phlegm and foods that help may help with digestion like squashes and papaya may help may support the digestive system and ease Phlegm.

This process takes time to repair and consistency to maintain. It is not uncommon to require acupuncture once or twice a week for several months to manage the Phlegm and may help with digestion. But after the first couple of sessions, you will may ease pain and support energy levels. Book an appointment today.