Back pain affects millions of people and is one of the top physical conditions causing people to seek treatment, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Back pain is often chronic and unresponsive to various methods of pain control. Acupuncture has been used to address this persistent back pain and is frequently successful.
Usage
In a survey performed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2007, an estimated 3.1 million Americans had used acupuncture in the past year. Seven out of 10 individuals using acupuncture did so to treat pain, with back pain being the most common type of pain.
Function
The University of Chicago states that although the specific function of acupuncture is still being studied, it is thought that the benefits acupuncture brings are due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system. This prompts the release of chemicals that bring a sense of well-being, and help the body's natural mechanisms of healing. Acupuncture may stimulate the body to produce opioids, chemicals that reduce pain. Electromagnetic signals may be enhanced by acupuncture, which prompts release of endorphins or other pain-inhibiting chemicals.
Effectiveness
Acupuncture is nationally recognized as a viable treatment for back pain, and is recommended by the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians as a treatment for chronic back pain. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine performed a large clinical study in 2009 that examined the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating back pain as compared to conventional methods of treatment (such as medications). Acupuncture was found to produce better relief from chronic back pain.
Safety
Injury resulting from acupuncture is very rare, according to the Mayo Clinic. However there is a risk of contracting an infection from reused needles. Additionally, organs may be punctured by the needles if they are inserted too deeply. Bleeding, soreness, bruising or other discomfort may occur at the site where the needle was inserted. While these risks do exist, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine points out that they are substantially less than most side effects from other common methods of back pain treatment, such as medication.
Considerations
If you have a bleeding disorder, pacemaker or are pregnant, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you check with your physician before using acupuncture. Ask your physician for a referral for a licensed practitioner, and check the qualifications of the professional who performs the acupuncture. Some insurance plans do not cover acupuncture, and it's wise to check into your payment options before beginning treatment.
