Acupuncture brings welcome relief for rheumatology patients

For people living with rheumatology conditions affecting their spine, pain is not the only issue they face. Overwhelming fatigue, disrupted sleep and anxiety can affect their everyday lives. Anna Nowak, Specialist Rheumatology Physiotherapist, was already qualified to deliver targeted injection therapy to help people living with this debilitating condition. The addition of acupuncture now enables her to offer people a wider range of supports thanks to funding from Fife Health Charity.

Acupuncture is an evidenced-based treatment that offers patients living with certain kinds of rheumatic conditions meaningful relief from pain, stiffness and inflammation. NHS Fife patients with rheumatoid arthritis affecting their spine can now access gentle, therapeutic support designed to ease the intense morning stiffness and spinal pain that so often shape daily life. It is a safe, drug free option for people who struggle with anti inflammatory medications or hope to reduce their reliance on them.

Beyond easing physical symptoms, the therapy helps to settle the nervous system, addressing the fatigue and other non-pain symptoms. By helping individuals feel better, sooner, the service reduces the need for repeated appointments, and this will help them to support more people in Fife who need help living with their rheumatology conditions. 

People receiving acupuncture are showing positive signs of progress and Anna told us: 

“ This grant has delivered ongoing impact by expanding my clinical skills. It also provides effective, long-term management for complex joint and spinal patients. By integrating acupuncture into my daily practice, I can now offer a holistic, evidence-based treatment option that significantly reduces patient reliance on long-term medication, alleviates chronic pain, and ultimately improves their overall quality of life.”