The Advantages Of Acupuncture For Back Pain
By Neil P. Hines
The majority of people experience pain in the lower back at some point and for some, the discomfort is enough to interfere with quality of life. Individuals who are seeking relief have many medical options, including surgery and prescription medications. Those who want to take a more natural approach to healing can consider acupuncture for back pain relief.
Individuals with certain types of jobs are more susceptible to discomfort, especially in the lower portion of the back. Triggers include standing on the feet for long periods and lifting heavy weights incorrectly. Professional driver who do not take breaks are also at risk.
The most common symptoms are stiff muscles and discomfort between the shoulders and waist. If the discomfort is severe, an individual may find it difficult to sleep, walk, and focus on work. Some people seek relief by taking over the counter medicines while others see a doctor for medical intervention.
Acupuncture involves using many tiny needles to stimulate specific points on the body to improve energy flow also known as Qi. Some believe the needles stimulate the central nervous system to release chemicals that improve well-being. Some of the chemicals may be opioids, which are natural painkillers.
Some researchers believe this practice promotes the release of neurotransmitters, which can either stimulate or dampen certain nerve signals. The acupuncturist inserts the needles in specific patterns along meridians associated with different organ systems. This means the area for needle insertion may be at a distant location from where the individual feels discomfort.
The negative side effects associated with this treatment method are mild in comparison to those associated with taking prescription medications. Individuals who take painkillers are at risk of developing an addiction. Drugs can also interfere with an individual's ability to drive, operate machinery, and focus on daily tasks.
The risks of undergoing acupuncture are low as long as individuals see a certified practitioner. There is always a risk of infection if needles are not sterilized before use. Possible side effects include soreness at the needle sites and organ injury if the needles are too deep.
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help provide relief. One option is to adopt a regular exercise routine to mobilize and stretch the spine. It is also important to learn the proper way to lift heavy objects to prevent injury. An ergonomic workstation can help those who sit behind a desk for long periods.
Individuals with certain types of jobs are more susceptible to discomfort, especially in the lower portion of the back. Triggers include standing on the feet for long periods and lifting heavy weights incorrectly. Professional driver who do not take breaks are also at risk.
The most common symptoms are stiff muscles and discomfort between the shoulders and waist. If the discomfort is severe, an individual may find it difficult to sleep, walk, and focus on work. Some people seek relief by taking over the counter medicines while others see a doctor for medical intervention.
Acupuncture involves using many tiny needles to stimulate specific points on the body to improve energy flow also known as Qi. Some believe the needles stimulate the central nervous system to release chemicals that improve well-being. Some of the chemicals may be opioids, which are natural painkillers.
Some researchers believe this practice promotes the release of neurotransmitters, which can either stimulate or dampen certain nerve signals. The acupuncturist inserts the needles in specific patterns along meridians associated with different organ systems. This means the area for needle insertion may be at a distant location from where the individual feels discomfort.
The negative side effects associated with this treatment method are mild in comparison to those associated with taking prescription medications. Individuals who take painkillers are at risk of developing an addiction. Drugs can also interfere with an individual's ability to drive, operate machinery, and focus on daily tasks.
The risks of undergoing acupuncture are low as long as individuals see a certified practitioner. There is always a risk of infection if needles are not sterilized before use. Possible side effects include soreness at the needle sites and organ injury if the needles are too deep.
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help provide relief. One option is to adopt a regular exercise routine to mobilize and stretch the spine. It is also important to learn the proper way to lift heavy objects to prevent injury. An ergonomic workstation can help those who sit behind a desk for long periods.
About the Author:
Neil P. Hines is passionate about providing intelligent, unbiased and highly relevant medical information for people dealing with a wide range of pain conditions and related orthopedic needs, including back pain, knee pain, joint replacements, sports medicine, lumbar fusion and more. If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture doctors Philadelphia he recommends that you visit his friends at St. Mary Medical Center.