People who suffer from back pain, whether chronic or acute, often find that conventional treatments such as medicine are not enough to cure their pain, while more drastic measures such as surgery are expensive and risky. Acupuncture is a non-invasive alternative therapy that can provide relief to sufferers of back pain.Acupuncture, which originated in China, has been practiced for over 5000 years. According to Chinese tradition, living beings have an energy, or “qi” (pronounced chee), that circulates through the twelve meridians, or energy channels, of the body. An imbalance of energy was believed to cause illness, and acupuncturists attempted to stimulate their patients’ meridians with acupuncture. The stimulations would help the patients to resist or overcome illness or pain.
Now, scientists believe that acupuncture works by releasing endorphins and other neurochemicals, which then block or reduce pain signals to the brain. It may also stimulate circulation and the nervous system.
Before inserting needles, the acupuncturist will swab the skin with a sterilizer. In the procedure, up to twelve disposable, stainless steel needles are inserted into the skin, either close to the location of the pain or further away. The needles are then manipulated to stimulate the nerves and healing functions. They may be twirled by hand, electrically energized, or warmed in order to increase their effectiveness. A typical treatment lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. Five to ten treatments may be needed before the patient begins to notice relief.
During acupuncture, you may feel the needle prick your skin, although the pain will be less than that of an injection because the hair-thin acupuncture needle is much smaller in diameter. You may also feel tingling or mild soreness. If the treatment is working, your muscles should start to feel numb or heavy. This feeling is called “de qi” (pronounced day chee). Afterwards, you may feel very relaxed or tired and should not overexert yourself.
Many studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for back pain. For example, a 2001 study of 50 patients in Sweden concluded that patients who received acupuncture reported reduced pain, improved sleep quality and activity level, and less use of pain-relieving medicine, as compared to a group that received only a placebo. The study also indicated that acupuncture is most effective for women.
Currently in the US, about 6500 licensed acupuncturists and more than 3000 physicians provide this therapy to patients for conditions as diverse as back pain, headaches, arthritis, asthma, addictions, and infertility. It may also help alleviate lower back pain and nausea in pregnant women. However, some acupuncture points may actually induce labor, so pregnant women and their acupuncturists should take precautions.
Back pain is one of the most common reasons for visits to doctors. It is responsible for about 20% of their appointments. It is estimated that 80-90% of all Americans will suffer from back pain at least once in their lives.
Some health insurers will pay for acupuncture therapy. However, patients should consult with their physicians about all treatment options before undergoing any procedure. Acupuncture may not cure everyone’s back pain. For some conditions, acupuncture should be used in addition to traditional treatments. Acupuncture is very low-risk as long as the acupuncturist practices with sterile and disposable needles.
.jpg)
