Back pain is one of the most common medical problems, often affecting 8 out of 10 Americans at some point in their lives. This pain can range from dull constant aches or sudden sharp pain. It can often last from a few days to a few months, with lower back pain in particular frequently becoming a chronic issue.
Causes for Back Pain
Back pain can be caused by a variety of reasons. Injury and strained muscles through sudden movement, improper lifting or traumatic injury. Other health issues can also cause back pain, such as arthritis, nerve issues, or spine misalignments. Depending on the cause, the duration and treatments often vary. Most cases are generally treated with medication, physical therapy and sometimes surgery.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture and TCM are a popular and effective way of treating and managing back pain. Acupuncture is often used as a treatment to help relieve symptoms and help provide long term relief. Acupuncture and TCM are based on the concept that back pain is caused by a stagnation, imbalance or deficits of the body's energy, Qi, leading to differing types of back pain. Your practitioner will determine the cause of your back pain and then use needles to treat the appropriate trigger points to restore balance and flow of Qi. Other treatments such as cupping, and tuina (Traditional Chinese Medicine Massage Therapy) depending on your symptoms. By stimulating the trigger points, parts of the nervous system are stimulated and acupuncture may naturally release pain relieving neurological chemicals, allowing your body to have a natural pain relief.
Results
Acupuncture for back pain is more effective after consistent treatment. Other lifestyle changes can also help relieve chronic back pain, such as:
Managing stress: Staying relaxed will help your body loosen tense muscles that may cause tension and fatigue to your back.
Improve posture: Constant slouching or uneven walking can overwork and tighten back muscles and lead to pain.
Exercise: Keeping your back muscles strong will help your muscles be able to maintain proper posture, but also exercise
Seeking Treatment
Interested in TCM? UEWM Clinic offers TCM treatments like acupuncture, tuina and herbal medicines. Look at our Specialists's page to learn more.
Talk to your doctor to see if acupuncture may be a good option for you, or schedule with UEWM Clinic here.
For more information about UEWM Clinic visit our website at www.uewmclinic.com