Acupuncture for Back Pain in Point Pleasant, NJ

Acupuncture for Back Pain

It has been estimated that nearly 80% of people will deal with low back pain during their lifetime. With so many people suffering from this problem, it is no surprise that acupuncture has become a popular form of treatment.

Research now shows that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for all kinds of back pain issues.

Acupuncture vs. Traditional Treatments

Reviews of medical studies show acupuncture to be a viable treatment option for back issues and can provide sciatica pain relief as well . In fact, these studies indicate that acupuncture provides more effective pain relief than conventional back pain treatments. Both the American Pain Society and American College of Physicians recommend acupuncture when more traditional medical methods fail.

Why Acupuncture Works for Back Pain

The roots of acupuncture can be traced back over 2,500 years to ancient China. The practice involves the insertion of very thin needles into various energetic points located all around the body. According to traditional Chinese medical theory, there are over 365 acupuncture points on the human body. A form of energy known as Qi (pronounced chee), flows through the pathways, or meridians, that connect these points like a grid. Needles inserted into the appropriate points along these meridians help to correct imbalances or clear blockages of this energy, leading to pain relief and better overall health.

On a more scientific level, some experts feel that the relief comes from stimulation of the central nervous system, triggering chemicals that release into the brain, muscles and spinal cord. It is believed by some, that these chemicals either create an overall sense of well-being within the body or may actually alter the way the pain is felt and/or experienced.

Others believe that acupuncture speeds up electromagnetic signals in the body. These signals can stimulate chemicals, such as endorphins, that reduce pain and may even affect the body’s own immune system cells. Other theories suggest that acupuncture releases natural opioids from the brain or that it may even change the brain’s chemistry altogether through the release of neurohormones and neurotransmitters throughout the entire body.

All of these are ways in which pain is reduced.

What to Consider With Acupuncture

Acupuncture is rapidly becoming one of the most popular forms of lower back pain treatments. It interesting to note that the FDA has removed acupuncture needles from the “experimental medical devices” category and now regulates the practice of acupuncture within the United States.

Whether it’s for low back pain, sciatica pain relief,  or other back issues, always take some things into consideration and do your research before seeking treatment. It is best to seek a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.), who is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). It is also advised to see what others have to say about any acupuncturist you might be considering.

Patients seen by appointment only.

Acupuncture for Back Pain in Ocean County, NJ