our expertise

what is Back Pain?

Gina’s Advice

At Acupuncture of Columbia, our passion is helping you rediscover the joys of a life free from chronic pain or illness. With our expert practitioners and individualized treatment plans, we’re dedicated to guiding you on your journey towards holistic healing. If you’re ready to take the first step in addressing your pain or chronic condition, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us. Experience the transformative power of acupuncture and let us help you reclaim your health and wellbeing. Together, we can chart a course towards a pain-free, healthier life.

UNDERSTANDING Back Pain

Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Back pain can originate from various structures in the back, including the muscles, ligaments, discs, and vertebrae. Acupuncture has been recognized as an effective alternative treatment for back pain, offering relief and promoting overall wellness.

COMMON CAUSES OF BACK PAIN

  1. Muscle Strain: Overexertion, lifting heavy objects, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to pain and stiffness.
  2. Herniated Disc: When the soft, gel-like material inside a spinal disc protrudes through a weakened area, it can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and tingling.
  3. Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs between the vertebrae gradually lose their flexibility and cushioning ability, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.
  4. Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to back pain and sometimes leg pain.
  5. Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of each leg, can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and legs.
  6. Scoliosis: A sideways curvature of the spine can cause back pain, muscle imbalances, and postural abnormalities.

Acupuncture for back pain

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is based on the concept that energy, known as Qi , flows through meridians or pathways in the body. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the balance of Qi can be restored, promoting healing and relieving pain.

Acupuncture for back pain aims to address the underlying causes of pain and promote overall well-being. It can help by:

Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the back.

Improved blood circulation to the affected area can enhance the healing process and provide relief from pain and stiffness.

Acupuncture can help relax tense muscles, reducing muscle spasms and promoting flexibility.

By targeting specific acupuncture points, nerve function can be stimulated, alleviating pain and improving overall nerve health.

Acupuncture is known to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality, all of which contribute to a healthier back and improved pain management.