Acupuncture and Back Pain

Acupuncture and Back Pain:

What to Expect from This Ancient Pain Relief

If you are experiencing back pain, you probably have tried many ways to 

alleviate the pain and discomfort. You may also be frustrated because 

nothing has helped. If that's the case, it may be time to take another 

avenue – an ancient one.

What do you know about acupuncture? In the past, the process of 

acupuncture was not discussed and was clouded in mystery. The look of 

acupuncture was scary. 

Is acupuncture mystical, magical or medicinal? Acupuncture is none of these 

things. In fact, the process is tried-and-true, having been used for 

thousands of years in ancient medicine. Acupuncture helps with many 

ailments, from smoking cessation to headaches to back pain.

The short explanation

Acupuncture involves using needles that are no thicker than a hair. These 

needles are used to unblock the energy pathways of the body. Acupuncture 

tools are now regulated by the FDA and all needles are sterilized and used 

one time only.

The body is composed of energy that runs throughout along lines called 

meridians. Acupuncturists use meridian maps to help them know where to 

place the needles for treatment. When we are ill, suffering from back pain, 

an energy pathway is blocked. This blocks the blood flow and causes 

stagnation in the tissues leading to toxin buildup.

The needles are placed at these meridians to restore the flow of energy. 

They also facilitate toxins to flow out of the body via the lymphatic system. 

Once the energy or chi is restored, the back pain will resolve itself. The 

muscles of the back will unknot and the spasms will calm down.

The first appointment

Do your homework first. Choose a reputable acupuncturist who has been 

licensed. Tell him or her about your back pain history and any medications 

that you are using, as well as any allergies. Your practitioner will inform you 

of any risks, no matter how slight. There is a chance of bleeding, soreness or 

pain at the insertion site.

You will be given a gown or towels to cover you modestly while the 

acupuncturist works. You will more than likely be lying down on acomfortable table. Let the practitioner know if you feel any discomfort or 

pain. Most people don’t feel anything as the needles are applied.

Some people feel energized right away. However, it may take a few sessions 

for you to feel the full effects. For people with intense pain, heat might be 

applied to the area in question for a more intense treatment.

Acupuncture is considered an alternative treatment for back pain which is 

gaining in popularity very rapidly. When you are frustrated with the results 

of other treatments, this ancient method may be the answer for relieving 

your back pain for once and for all.

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