Back Pain
Dr. Roberto Irawan, OMD at Golden Bamboo Acupuncture can treat Back Pain
Acupuncture is a treatment option that is commonly used to relieve back pain. Acupuncture can provide pain relief for lower and upper back pain caused by lumber discs, back injuries, joint inflammation, sciatica pain and disc herniation. Many adults suffer significant back pain at some time in their lives due to an injury at work, at home or at play. Back pain and spine problems can be caused by: mechanical difficulties when moving the spine in a specific manner; injuries such as a sprain or fracture; constant, repetitive movement; conditions such as arthritis or scoliosis; and infections or tumors. Traditional treatments for back pain include medication physical therapy and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Acupuncture is a safer alternative to medication, or risky surgical procedures, as there are no side effects and no negative interactions with other treatments.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture for back pain works by reducing inflammation in the area and reducing pain through both local (nerves and nerve root) and systemic (spinal cord and brain) pathways. Acupuncture can also help in rehabilitation of an injury by reinforcing movement patterns that are less likely to cause injury. Acupuncture treatments may also help to to stimulate tissue repair in spinal ligaments, discs, nerves, and muscles. Electrical acupuncture stimulation helps to improve blood flow in the sciatic (and other) nerves, improving circulation, decreasing muscle stiffness, and inhibiting pain.
The Acupuncture Method
Acupuncture treatment is aimed at identifying the specific area of back pain. Depending on the cause and area of pain, the location of the acupuncture points may vary. Fine needles are inserted into the skin and they may be manipulated manually or by electrical stimulation. Heat, pressure and lasers may also be used as part of the acupuncture treatment. Cupping techniques may also be used. Typical treatments last from 15 to 30 minutes and frequency of treatments will vary based on the individual.