Chronic back pain can make anyone miserable. Those with back pain tend to first try over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, ice and heat therapy, and exercise to relieve the pain. This is a common story for chronic pain sufferers, and the pain often doesn’t improve.
Alternative therapies often prove to be effective in finally providing relief for back pain, and one of the most popular alternative remedies is acupuncture. Many people report that this method helps to relieve their pain for longer periods of time than do the other nonsurgical methods.
You may be wondering how acupuncture works to help with back pain. Let’s talk about what’s involved in acupuncture.
Acupuncture Treatment for Back Pain
Many people are apprehensive about the effectiveness of acupuncture because it seems so unusual. But acupuncture doesn’t involve traditional needles that are used for sewing, but rather special hair-thin needles which are targeted on key “pain points” throughout the body.
The sensation is usually reported to be a mild and temporary ache or a tingling feeling, and then the needle is removed. If you feel pain, the acupuncturist should immediately remove the needle and try a different location along the back.
How Does Acupuncture Relieve Pain?
The insertion of these flexible needles – in this case, in the back – encourages the body to release endorphins, which are believed to be the body’s natural painkillers. This system is also believed to affect the part of the brain that releases serotonin, which is a chemical that helps foster a positive mood.
However, the effectiveness of the acupuncture treatment relies on the expertise of the one administering it. There are many sham acupuncturists, so be sure to see a licensed and experienced acupuncturist.
Acupuncture typically involves weekly treatments. Once you start to feel better, you can decrease the frequency of your visits.
Is Acupuncture Right for You?
If you suffer from chronic back pain, and you’ve tried various traditional nonsurgical treatment methods to no avail, it won’t hurt to try acupuncture. Look for a licensed acupuncturist with many years of experience.
However, if your back pain is new, severe, or sporadic, and you haven’t tried noninvasive therapies first, it’s best to try them out before having acupuncture. New pain should be evaluated and diagnosed by a licensed physician, because it may be an indicator of an underlying condition that should be treated.
Treatment for Back Pain in Colorado Springs
Acupuncture is safe and may be effective if performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. If it doesn’t work for you, and you continue to experience back pain that is getting worse, it’s time to see a doctor who specializes in treating back pain for lasting relief.
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, our board-certified neurosurgeons have the utmost compassion for chronic pain sufferers. We fully understand what it’s like to live with pain, which is why we provide our patients with choices.
To schedule an appointment, call our team at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery today at (303) 790-1800 or request an appointment now via our online form. We look forward to serving you!
