Treatment of Back Pain
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FAQ #2

Acupuncture for Relief of Back Pain

Studies show that as much as 80% of the population experiences back pain at some point in their lives. Back pain is also one of the main reasons people seek acupuncture treatment. Research shows that acupuncture is highly effective in treating chronic low back pain. Although the success rate of acupuncture for back pain depends on a variety of factors, it is generally considered a safe and useful practice.

Sharp, localized pain in any area of the back or neck may impair your ability to move normally and interfere with your active lifestyle. Intervention with acupuncture treatment can help both acute and chronic back pain, as it has an immediate effect on the neuromuscular system. Results may vary, but even a single or only a few acupuncture sessions can make a significant impact on back pain.

Types of back pain that benefit from acupuncture

Acupuncture is now considered to be helpful for many types of back pain, including

  • Arthritis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Bulging or ruptured discs
  • Sciatica
  • Back sprain or strain
  • Spondylosis
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Sports injury-related pain
  • Auto accident injury-related pain
  • Acute pain
  • Chronic pain

Treatment of back pain with acupuncture

Acupuncture for back pain is comprehensive and addresses ligaments, tendons, nerves, and muscles surrounding the spine. In the view of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the human body consists of 12 main energy channels (called meridians) that can become blocked or restricted, leading to illness and pain. Stimulation of the meridians by placing fine needles into acupuncture points along them helps to unblock the flow of energy and relieve pain. Acupuncture can also work to correct imbalances within the spine.

Recent studies demonstrate that acupuncture can:

  • Release the body’s natural chemical opioids that inhibit pain signals to the brain
  • Dilate blood vessels and increase oxygen flow to an injured area
  • Accelerated healing mechanisms, leading to pain relief and faster recovery

Acupuncturists and pain management

Professionals who study acupuncture gain an extensive knowledge of a myriad of ailments and learn how to choose the right treatment for each one. Acupuncturists typically don’t choose one particular medical specialty. Still, most acupuncturists have substantial knowledge and clinical experience in pain management and the treatment of back pain and spine-related conditions.

 

Chronic back pain is widespread in today’s sedentary lifestyle of prolonged sitting and inactivity, unhealthy dietary habits, and poor spinal posture, including “tech neck.” Consequently, people of all ages can be affected by back pain. Acupuncture addresses the body in many profound ways and seeks to fix the underlying cause of pain, instead of just eliminating the back pain sufferer’s symptoms. Patients who receive regular acupuncture treatments often see marked improvements in back pain and general health as the root cause of pain and illness is healed.

Natural pain relief clinics typically have licensed acupuncture professionals who can help with pain management. For more information on how an acupuncturist can provide relief for your back pain or other painful condition, contact a practitioner in your local area.