A practitioner supporting an older patient's wrist and forearm during a joint examination, the two seated facing

Understanding arthritis

What causes arthritis pain, and how does acupuncture treat it?

Arthritis pain comes from four sources: age-related cartilage wear, an autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, an old injury, or years of joint strain. All four produce the same result - stiffness, swelling and pain that limits how you move.

Dr. Tsai combines three therapies rather than one: acupuncture to calm inflammation, herbal medicine to nourish the joints, and gentle Chi Kung exercise to rebuild the strength around them. He holds a Doctor of Oriental Medicine degree from Taiwan, a Florida certification as an Acupuncture Physician, and a Certified Chi Kung Instructor qualification.

Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Taiwan
Certified Acupuncture Physician, Florida
25+ years of clinical experience
Sterile, single-use needles every visit
Appointment now
Same-week appointments
Most insurance accepted
25 years of experience
Licensed in Florida

Our process

What happens during arthritis treatment?

Arthritis treatment runs in five steps: a comprehensive consultation, a personalized treatment plan, the therapeutic techniques, progress review and maintenance care. Sessions take 30 to 45 minutes, starting at 1 to 2 per week.

The evidence

Why does acupuncture ease inflamed joints?

Acupuncture eases inflamed joints because it regulates immune and inflammatory response, improves blood and oxygen flow to the affected joint, and encourages natural tissue repair. Traditional Chinese Medicine names the same obstruction Bi syndrome.

Backed by science and tradition

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, arthritis is described as a Bi syndrome - an obstruction of Qi and blood in the joints caused by wind, cold, damp or heat settling into the tissue.

Modern research points to a related mechanism: acupuncture regulates immune and inflammatory response, improves blood and oxygen flow to affected joints, and encourages natural tissue repair.

Read common questions

How acupuncture helps arthritis

Treatment targets the inflammation in the joint and the strength of the tissue supporting it.

  • Lessens inflammation in affected joints
  • Improves blood and oxygen flow to stiff or swollen areas
  • Balances an overactive immune response
  • Encourages natural tissue repair
  • Herbal Medicine to nourish joints and reduce swelling
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Why choose us

Why do arthritis patients choose this clinic?

Patients choose it for a whole-body approach, 25 years of hands-on experience, and less reliance on medication over time. The plan restores the movement arthritis has taken away rather than numbing a single joint.

In-network with most major plans

We accept your insurance

  • UnitedHealthcare
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Aetna
  • Cigna Healthcare
  • Optum
  • GEHA
  • Surest, a UnitedHealthcare company
  • Partners Direct Health

Don't see your plan? Call (954) 987-6988 — we will check it for you before you book.

Not sure acupuncture is right for your arthritis?Call and describe your symptoms - no charge, no pressure, no obligation to book.Call (954) 987-6988
How many sessions will I need for arthritis?
Mild relief appears after 3 to 4 sessions. Noticeable pain reduction and better flexibility develop around 4 to 6.
  • Mild relief: 3-4 sessions
  • Pain reduction and flexibility: 4-6 sessions
  • Chronic arthritis: ongoing maintenance care
Does it hurt?
No. Ultra-fine needles are gently inserted at precise points. Most patients feel relaxed enough during treatment to fall asleep.
Is acupuncture safe for rheumatoid or autoimmune arthritis?
Yes - acupuncture is used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional rheumatoid arthritis care. Dr. Tsai reviews your diagnosis and current treatment first, so your plan is coordinated with your rheumatologist.
Can acupuncture replace my arthritis medication?
Acupuncture reduces dependency on pain and anti-inflammatory medication for some patients, but it belongs in a plan made with your prescribing doctor. Treat it as part of a holistic plan rather than a substitute made without their guidance.
How long does a session take, and how often do I come in?
Sessions last 30 to 45 minutes, starting at 1 to 2 per week. Frequency tapers to maintenance visits as symptoms improve.
What can I do at home between sessions?
Four habits support your treatment: gentle movement, temperature therapy, anti-inflammatory eating and good sleep.
  • Gentle stretching or Tai Chi
  • Heat for stiffness, cold compresses for swelling
  • Anti-inflammatory foods and a healthy weight
  • Good sleep and stress management

Start your healing journey today

Free consultation | Same-week appointments | Most insurance accepted

Ready to stop working around the pain?Free consultation · Most insurance accepted · Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 10:30am–12:15pm, 2–5pm
(954) 987-6988Book an appointment