How Does Acupuncture Help Acute Lower-Back/Neck Pain?

Invasive treatment is often needlessly used to remedy acute pain.
However, acupuncture is particularly successful with acute disorders.

What is back pain?

For many, this is a ridiculous question because we all know back pain. But let us stop to think for a moment. We know back pain as a symptom, but what is the cause, and is it preventable?

According to the John Hopkins Institute, an injury can cause acute pain and last up to six weeks. While not as persistent as chronic pain, it can become chronic if not managed properly. Pain can present as acute stabbing, intermittent, constant, aching, burning, dull, or throbbing. Severe pain can transfer to the legs or the buttocks. It is crucial to address the fundamental cause so that it does not impede our daily activities. Pain can come on suddenly or increase with time. It is caused by injury, over-use, strain, improper body movement, infection, degeneration of muscle or bone, abnormal growth, obesity/weakened muscle, joint/disc/nerve problems, fractures, bone abnormalities, aneurysms, abdominal/immune complications, and more.

Treatments and maintenance

Because there is a myriad of back pain causes, prevention, and proper diagnosis are the key. Depending on the cause, treatments can vary from an ice pack to surgery. Regardless of treatment choice, there are preventative actions we can take to improve or prevent future occurrences. In conjunction with the advice of a doctor, a healthy lifestyle adjustment is crucial. Key improvements include a healthy diet (aimed at weight loss, strength, and improved muscle tone/flexibility), lifestyle changes, stress management, meditation, exercise, physical therapy, and alternative remedies such as acupuncture.

Acupuncture treats acute pain

Many are surprised to hear that acupuncture is effective at treating acute pain. By reducing inflammation, acupuncture improves the range of motion and reduces pain. In a series of successive treatments, the effect is cumulative and can eliminate pain. National Library of Pain (a government resource) compiled articles on the benefits of acupuncture and minimal side effects. In Acupuncture for Pain, Robert B Kelly speaks to the benefits of both traditional and non-traditional acupuncture methods. American Pain Society and American College of Physicians sites twenty-two studies that effectively confirm acupuncture as a viable pain/inflammation relief method. Regardless of studies, acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular. The key is to finish successive treatments and stick to the therapist's prescribed regimen. Take care of your health by scheduling your treatment today and feel instant relief.