Back Pain

8 out of 10 of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives. Most cases are mild to moderate and resolve of their own accord within days or weeks. Acute back pain (lasting 3 days to 3 weeks) may be due to sports injury, car accident, or other spinal stress. Some cases become chronic, persisting for months or even years and may be the result of trauma or arthritis.

Acupuncture works directly on the nerves and muscles in the body to release spasms and congestion. Treatment increases blood flow to the tissues infusing them with oxygen and nerve inflammation is reduced.

Will Acupuncture help MY Back Pain?

If your pain is due to a muscle spasm or tight muscles, acupuncture will probably provide complete and lasting relief. If your pain is due to degenerative changes in the spine, like osteoarthritis or prolapsed disc, acupuncture will provide significant relief, but treatment may be required on a periodic basis to maintain the benefit.

In either case, acupuncture represents an extremely safe alternative to continued medication and is free from side effects. Each person is different; please contact me for a personalized evaluation to determine how your condition will benefit from treatment.

Severe or Chronic Back Pain

When back pain does not resolve on its own or with simple intervention, there may be a more severe underlying problem. You will need an x-ray and possibly an MRI to determine the exact cause of your pain. There may be a problem with inter-vertebral discs, or bony changes in the spine. Any neurological changes like numbness, weakness, or tingling would indicate pressure on a nerve root.

If you are having progressive loss of strength in your arms or legs, or bowel and bladder changes, consult your doctor immediately as you could suffer irreversible nerve damage without intervention. Most patients with back pain recover without residual functional loss.

Recurring back pain resulting from improper body mechanics or other non-traumatic causes is often preventable. Pay attention to your work environment, your posture, and daily activities that put your back at risk. Follow exercise routines that don't jolt or strain the back, maintaining correct posture and lifting objects properly can help prevent injuries.