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Warm Acupuncture (Moxibustion) for Knee Osteoarthritis

Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine method that provides a warming effect by burning mugwort herb on acupuncture points; effective in chronic knee pain.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Warm Acupuncture (Moxibustion) for Knee Osteoarthritis?

Moxibustion (warm acupuncture) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine application based on burning dried mugwort herb (Artemisia vulgaris/argyi) on acupuncture points or on top of an acupuncture needle.

Direct (skin contact) and indirect (with intermediary materials such as ginger, salt, garlic) types exist. Warm needle moxibustion is performed by attaching a moxa cone to the tip of an acupuncture needle.

Strong evidence has accumulated for the indication of knee osteoarthritis. According to the Cochrane review, it provides moderate quality reduction in pain and improvement in functional status. ST35 (Dubi), ST36 (Zusanli), EX-LE5 (Xiyan) and SP9 (Yinlingquan) are the main acupuncture points.

Symptoms

Knee pain (especially with weight-bearing)
Morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes
Crepitus (clicking) sound on knee movement
Swelling and warmth in the knee joint
Difficulty descending stairs
Muscle weakness (quadriceps atrophy)
Reduced walking distance

Risk Factors

Advanced age (>50 years)
Female sex (postmenopausal)
Obesity (BMI >30)
Previous knee injury (meniscus, ACL)
Family history (genetic predisposition)
Repetitive knee strain (occupational)
Limb axis disorder (varus, valgus)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Orthopaedic referral is needed for severe knee pain limiting daily activity
  • Apply to a healthcare provider immediately for sudden knee swelling, redness and fever
  • Surgical evaluation needed for joint locking and instability
  • Conventional treatment (NSAID, physiotherapy, injection) must be evaluated as first line

Treatment Methods

01
Acupuncture needles inserted into knee points (ST35, ST36, EX-LE5)
02
Burning a moxa cone on the needle (10–15 minutes)
03
8–10 sessions, twice a week
04
Combined heat application: hot stone + acupuncture
05
Adjunctive treatment: physiotherapy and quadriceps strengthening exercises
06
Lifestyle: weight loss and low-impact exercises (swimming, cycling)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.