Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain Relief and More
Understanding Lower Back Pain
Did you know that about 80% of all humans suffer from lower back pain at some point in their lives? This common issue can range from a nagging dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. Fortunately, acupuncture can help relieve these symptoms by stimulating the nervous system and increasing blood flow to affected areas. This ancient practice, which has been around for over 2,000 years, offers both short-term and long-term relief from back pain.
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles at specific points on the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, these points are connected by pathways or meridians, which create a flow of energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”). Stimulating these points is believed to correct imbalances in Qi and improve the flow of energy, thereby relieving pain and enhancing overall health1.
Research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic low back pain. A review of 22 studies found that acupuncture provided significant short-term relief from chronic back pain compared to sham treatments1. Additionally, guidelines from the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians recommend considering acupuncture as an alternative therapy for patients with chronic low-back pain that hasn’t responded to conventional treatments1.
The benefits of acupuncture for back pain are thought to come from several mechanisms. It may speed the relay of electromagnetic signals, triggering the release of pain-killing chemicals such as endorphins. Acupuncture can also stimulate the release of natural opioids in the brain, which help reduce pain and promote sleep. Furthermore, it may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, which can affect the function of organs and the perception of pain1.
When performed by a trained and experienced acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally safe and has fewer side effects than many standard treatments for back pain. Serious side effects, such as infections or punctured organs, are rare1.
If you’re considering acupuncture for back pain, it’s important to discuss it with your doctor, especially if other treatments have failed. Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in managing back pain and improving your quality of life.
1: WebMD - Back Pain: Acupuncture Treatment and Points