Acupuncture for Back Pain
It’s remarkable that some estimates suggest nearly 8 out of 10 people will experience back pain, particularly lower back pain, at some point in their lives. In fact, it’s one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention, which is why it’s no surprise that it’s the number one condition we treat in the clinic.
I believe much of this is due to modern lifestyles. We often find ourselves in poor postures—whether working at a computer, constantly looking at our phones, lying on the sofa watching TV, and more. Many people are also overworked and overwhelmed by their environment, leading to exhaustion. In Chinese Medicine, this kind of exhaustion can manifest as conditions like back pain.
Back pain is one of the most common conditions we treat (easily among the top five). It’s also one of the conditions for which acupuncture has been scientifically proven to be effective, as recommended by NICE guidelines for chronic back pain. This includes pain in the lower back, spine, upper back, sciatica, muscle spasms, and everything in between.
"Very thorough session. Listened to my symptoms. Explained what will happen during the session and what benefit I will gain from having acupuncture. Suffering from lower back pain. After session, symptoms relieved"
— David
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain can stem from a variety of factors, including structural or mechanical issues, inflammatory conditions, or other medical causes. In some cases, no clear medical explanation is found. I’ve treated several patients whose scans revealed nothing unusual, despite their persistent pain.
Mechanical Problems
Sprains: Injuries to the ligaments that connect bones, often caused by lifting heavy objects, improper lifting techniques, or twisting.
Strains: Injuries to muscles or tendons.
Discs: This could involve degenerative disc diseases, which are more common with age, or issues like slipped or herniated discs, which are often linked to sciatica.
Scoliosis: A curvature of the spine that can lead to pain.
General myofascial pain: Tightness and discomfort in the muscles supporting the spine, which can result from damage, nerve changes, or degeneration.
Other conditions such as spondylolisthesis and scoliosis.
Inflammatory Conditions
Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis.
Other Medical Conditions
Osteoporosis
Fibromyalgia
Endometriosis
Kidney stones or infections
Tumours
"Great acupuncture with Josh. Back pain gone! After having an in-depth pre assessment, looking into my lifestyle, sleep etc I got to lie down. I was a first timer to the needles and although I wasn’t nervous, Josh kept me relaxed throughout. He had a confident manner throughout and filled me with ease as he explained what the needles were doing After a couple of sessions, my lower back pain has disappeared."
— Jason
Understanding Your Back Pain Condition
Whatever the cause of your back pain, we aim to get to the root of it. This process includes taking a detailed case history, where we explore the nature of your pain, when it occurs, and any additional impacts it may have (such as on your mental health). By understanding your overall health, we can gain a more accurate understanding of the root cause.
We’ll also perform postural assessments and evaluate your movements in various directions to identify areas of tension and pain, helping us determine which areas are affected.
Acupuncture Channels Affected In Back Pain
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the body’s energy, or Qi, flows through pathways known as meridians or channels. Each meridian corresponds to different organs and functions within the body, and imbalances in these channels can lead to pain or illness. When it comes to back pain, several acupuncture channels are often targeted to restore balance and alleviate discomfort.
Bladder Meridian (Taiyang)
The Bladder Meridian is the longest channel in the body, running along the back and spine. It’s commonly associated with the treatment of back pain, especially lower back pain. Stimulating points along this meridian is believed to release tension, relax the muscles, and improve the flow of Qi to relieve pain.Kidney Meridian (Shaoyin)
The Kidney Meridian plays an important role in overall vitality and is linked to the health of the lower back. Acupuncturists often focus on this channel when treating back pain related to kidney function or weakness in the lower back region. Stimulating points along the Kidney Meridian may help strengthen the area and alleviate pain.Governing Vessel (Du Mai)
The Governing Vessel runs along the spine, making it a key channel in addressing back pain. This meridian is often used to treat conditions such as spinal stiffness, muscle tension, and misalignment. Activating points along the Governing Vessel can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and ease pain in the back.Gallbladder Meridian (Shaoyang)
While not directly on the back, the Gallbladder Meridian runs along the sides of the body and can influence tension in the muscles that affect back pain. Acupuncture points on this meridian may help release tightness in the sides and lower back, contributing to overall pain relief.
By targeting specific points along these meridians, acupuncture aims to restore the flow of Qi, reduce inflammation, and relieve back pain. Acupuncture’s holistic approach addresses both the physical and energetic aspects of pain, aiming for long-term relief and improved well-being.
Acupuncture and Massage for Back Pain
There are times when a combination of acupuncture and massage can be incredibly beneficial for back pain. Josh uses this approach a lot as the massage can start to clear the body’s blockages and break down any knots. This means that when the needles are applied, there are fewer obstructions in the way to clinical success. Most patients really do love the combination of massage and acupuncture. Josh employs a range of techniques, including soft tissue release, remedial massage and neuromuscular techniques.
How Acupuncture Can Help Back Pain
Acupuncture, a practice that originated in China over 2,500 years ago, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. TCM identifies over 2,000 of these points, connected by meridians, which allow Qi to flow. By stimulating these points, acupuncture aims to balance Qi, helping to relieve pain and improve overall health.
Possible Mechanisms of Acupuncture
Stimulates the nervous system: Acupuncture may activate trigger points that release chemicals from the brain, spinal cord, and muscles, some of which naturally alleviate pain.
Releases natural painkillers: It may trigger the release of endorphins—natural chemicals similar to opioid pain relievers like morphine.
Releases neurotransmitters: Acupuncture can activate neurotransmitters, which turn off pain signals in the nervous system.
Triggers electromagnetic impulses: Acupuncture can generate impulses in the body that speed up pain relief by helping release endorphins.