Arthritis, including gout, is an inflammatory joint disease that causes pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Conventional management includes anti-inflammatory drugs and urate-lowering therapy, but long-term side effects often pose challenges. Acupuncture, as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is widely used to alleviate pain and improve joint function with minimal adverse effects. The objective of this study is to examine the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with gouty arthritis. Methodology: A descriptive literature review was conducted by analyzing clinical studies relevant to acupuncture treatment for gout and arthritis from 2010 to 2025. Key variables included pain reduction, joint function improvement, uric acid levels, and therapy side effects. Results indicate that acupuncture can reduce pain intensity, improve joint mobility, and assist in stabilizing uric acid levels. The most frequently used acupuncture points include ST36 (Zusanli), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), LI11 (Quchi), and Ashi Points. Reported side effects were mild, such as temporary bruising or soreness at the needle insertion site. Conclusion: Acupuncture is an effective adjunct therapy to reduce pain and inflammation in patients with gouty arthritis, with minimal risk of adverse effects. Recommendation: Further experimental studies with larger sample sizes are needed to establish optimal acupuncture protocols for gout patients
Copyrights © 2026