Acupuncture for Back Pain

Yet Again, Acupuncture Beats Conventional Care

Know anyone with back pain?

They should know that yet another study published in JAMA concludes that “Acupuncture Provides Lasting Relief for Older Adults with Low Back Pain” —great news for the 84% of US adults  who are likely to experience it at some point.

This randomized trial found that acupuncture was significantly more effective (and safer) than usual medical care. The study involved 800 people aged 65+ with chronic low back pain, with or without sciatica, who received 8-15 treatments in a 3-month span and a group that received standard care.

The acupuncture groups experienced greater relief from pain (and its accompanying anxiety) than the drugs-and-physical-therapy group — with results lasting a full year!

Even when imaging shows arthritis or something with a discouraging label like spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease, acupuncture can still be helpful in decreasing pain and increasing strength and mobility.

It works by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, helping muscles regain strength, prompting the release of endocannabinoids and other pain medication that your body makes itself.

It’s worth noting that you don’t have to wait until something hurts. Today’s “tightness” sets us up for tomorrow’s injury. Let’s not go there! 

During preventative or “tune-up” sessions, I can test which muscles may be powered down, feel where muscles and fascia are tight restricted, and correct those imbalances before they become painful.