Low Back Pain & Acupuncture

Acupuncture has a fantastic track record for treating low back pain, and is probably one of the most common conditions that acupuncture generally treats. Using often both massage and Neoclassical acupuncture (NCA), I tend to generally get quite good results - sometimes I find only using the acupuncture is better than using massage! Whether caused by injury, poor posture, or chronic conditions, the discomfort can be quite debilitating. While traditional treatments often include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, acupuncture has emerged as a popular alternative for many people seeking relief. In this blog post, we’ll explore how acupuncture works, its benefits for low back pain, and what to expect during a session.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture dates back thousands of years, and involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing, restore balance, and alleviate pain. According to TCM, the body’s vital energy, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”), flows through pathways called meridians. When this flow is disrupted, it can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture aims to restore this balance and improve overall well-being.

How Acupuncture Helps Low Back Pain

1. Pain Relief

Research shows that acupuncture can be effective in reducing low back pain. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it encourages the release of endorphins—natural painkillers produced by the body. This can lead to immediate pain relief and a reduction in muscle tension.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Chronic low back pain often involves inflammation. Acupuncture can help decrease inflammation by increasing blood circulation to the affected area. Enhanced circulation brings essential nutrients and oxygen, aiding in the healing process.

3. Muscle Relaxation

Tension in the muscles can contribute significantly to low back pain. Acupuncture helps to relax tight muscles, improving flexibility and mobility. This relaxation can also enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, such as physical therapy.

4. Holistic Approach

Acupuncture doesn’t just target the symptoms; it looks at the whole person. Lifestyle factors, emotional health, and overall well-being are also an important part. For example, I have treated cases where emotional trauma and stress have played a crucial role in back pain as well - I've had several cases where even crying in the session, caused partly by the acupuncture has suddenly lead to the pain no longer been present. Although causation is of course hard to prove, correlation is certainly present and interesting in these cases.This holistic approach can lead to more sustainable pain management and improved quality of life.

5. Fewer Side Effects

Unlike many pain medications that can have unwanted side effects, acupuncture is a natural treatment option with minimal risks. Most people experience little to no discomfort during sessions and can often enjoy immediate benefits without the drawbacks of pharmaceutical interventions.

Research

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have demonstrated that acupuncture effectively reduces low back pain. A meta-analysis by Vickers et al. (2012) in Archives of Internal Medicine concluded that acupuncture is associated with a significant reduction in pain compared to sham acupuncture and usual care.

A randomised controlled trial by Tough et al. (2014) compared acupuncture with standard care and found that acupuncture significantly improved pain and function in patients with chronic low back pain.

Finally, research indicates that the benefits of acupuncture tend to be sustained over time. A study by Cherkin et al. (2009) found that patients receiving acupuncture reported longer-lasting pain relief compared to those receiving usual care.

To sum up

Overall, scientific evidence supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for low back pain, particularly in chronic cases. Acupuncture offers a promising, holistic approach to managing low back pain. Whether you’re dealing with acute discomfort or chronic issues, this ancient practice could provide the relief you’ve been seeking. With its growing body of research and positive patient outcomes, acupuncture has clearly demonstrated over the years its use as an effective treatment.

References

Cherkin, D. C., et al. (2009). "A randomized trial comparing acupuncture, medication, and usual care for back pain." Archives of Internal Medicine, 169(9), 862-870)

Tough, E. A., et al. (2014). "Acupuncture in the management of chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial." Clinical Journal of Pain, 30(4), 320-328

Vickers, A. J., et al. (2012). "Acupuncture for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(19), 2192-2203