Acupuncture is often used as an alternative treatment option for back pain, with many chronic patients swearing about its benefits.
It is a procedure in which a professional will insert thin needles at key points in your body, to create a kind of pressure that can help relieve pain. As research is still on, there are conflicting views about whether or not acupuncture really helps to ease back pain.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an alternative form of medicine that has originated from the Chinese culture. According to the principles of acupuncture, there are more than 2000 points in the body that are directly connected to various pathways that have a direct bearing on pain. A professional inserts very thin needles in these pressure points, at various depths, as required by the intensity of the pain you’re experiencing.
It is said that acupuncture can help to stimulate the central nervous system, which is your brain and spinal cord area. During the procedure, you will feel a type of tingling sensation in your body, which can help ease the pain, as well as make you feel calm and energized.
Does Acupuncture Really Relieve Back Pain? A Case Study
As many as 70 percent adults are said to suffer from mild to chronic lower back pain at some or the other time in their lives, and it is recognised as a global medical condition.
A study was undertaken in which 11 separate trials were included to check the result of acupuncture on back pain. The results clearly stated that as compared to situations where a patient was given non-steroidal drugs that helped prevent inflammation, acupuncture was a more effective option to control the inflammation. However, the study was not very conclusive on whether or not acupuncture really helps to control and bring down the pain over a long period of time.
The Procedure
Here’s how the procedure works:
- The acupuncturist will understand your overall health history and recommend any additional examination if required. Some standard examination procedures also include checking the pulse point, examining the shape and colour of the tongue as well as check for any coating on the tongue.
- You will lie down comfortably, relaxed, and the acupuncturist will insert the needles at the required pressure points. You may feel a little sensation or mild discomfort, but not pain. The needles will stay in your body for any period between 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the pain.
How Does It Help?
Those who practice acupuncture for back pain relief claim this is how the procedure works:
- Reduces inflammation and stiffness in muscles
- Improves mobility in joints
- Stimulates nerves and tissues
- Releases endorphins and reduces pain signals
While medical evidence is still divided, patients claim to get a significant amount of relief from back pain with the help of acupuncture. Whether or not it will work for you also depends on your overall health, as well as your receptiveness to the procedure. To find out if it can help you, speak to a professional now.
