Are you struggling with neck or back pain that just won’t go away?
Whether it’s from a recent injury or ongoing discomfort, finding effective relief can be challenging. Acupuncture has gained attention as a potential solution for pain management, offering a natural, non-drug option to help reduce pain and improve mobility. In this article, we’ll explore how acupuncture works, its benefits, and why it might be worth considering as part of your neck and back pain treatment plan.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy, is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in treating neck and back pain, including chronic low back pain (CLBP). This non-invasive treatment involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints, which are located along energy pathways called meridians.
The needles are often manipulated manually or with electrical stimulation to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve mobility. Acupuncture is widely used as an alternative to traditional pain relief and inflammation reduction treatments.
How Acupuncture Works for Neck and Back Pain
Acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system, which triggers the release of pain-relieving endorphins. It also reduces inflammation, which can help alleviate neck and back discomfort. This dual action—pain relief combined with inflammation reduction—makes acupuncture an effective choice for those dealing with chronic pain.
Acupuncture for Chronic Back Pain
Acupuncture has proven especially effective for chronic low back pain, which is defined as pain lasting longer than three months. Research shows that acupuncture provides significant pain relief, with stronger effects observed immediately after treatment.
Key Findings for Chronic Pain Relief:
- Chronic Pain Relief: Studies indicate that acupuncture outperforms sham acupuncture (placebo treatment) and provides better results than no treatment or usual care, such as physical therapy or medication.
- Duration of Benefits: Pain relief from acupuncture can last for weeks, with some studies showing reduced pain up to three months after treatment.
- Comparison with Other Treatments: Although acupuncture doesn’t show a significant advantage over medications or electrical nerve stimulation for pain reduction, it still offers meaningful improvements.
Acupuncture for Neck Pain
Chronic neck pain is another common issue that acupuncture can address. Research shows that acupuncture reduces pain and improves the quality of life in individuals with chronic neck pain. One study found that acupuncture significantly eased neck pain while also helping with associated issues like anxiety and insomnia. Combining acupuncture with conventional treatments has shown even greater results in relieving neck pain and improving overall function.
What Neck Disorders Can Acupuncture Help?
Neck disorders can cause discomfort and limit mobility, affecting both the muscles and joints. Common issues include neck pain, stiffness, and conditions like whiplash. Acupuncture has been explored for its potential to alleviate these symptoms by targeting specific points that may help reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote healing.
How Acupuncture Works for Neck Disorders
Acupuncture for neck disorders is believed to help balance the flow of energy, known as “qi,” throughout the body. By inserting needles into precise areas, acupuncture can stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, leading to pain relief and improved movement. Some studies suggest acupuncture may also influence the nervous system, releasing certain chemicals to enhance pain relief.
Acupuncture vs. Traditional Treatments for Back Pain
Acupuncture offers an alternative to traditional treatments for back pain, such as medications, physical therapy, and surgery. While conventional treatments are effective for many people, acupuncture is gaining recognition for its non-invasive, drug-free approach.
- Acupuncture vs. Medications: Acupuncture can be an effective alternative for those who wish to avoid the side effects of pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants. Studies have shown that acupuncture can provide similar, if not better, pain relief without the risks associated with long-term medication use.
- Acupuncture vs. Physical Therapy: While physical therapy focuses on strengthening muscles and improving mobility, acupuncture targets the nervous system and energy flow to relieve pain. For some people, acupuncture may complement physical therapy, enhancing the benefits and speeding up recovery.
- Acupuncture vs. Surgery: For those with chronic back pain, surgery is often considered a last resort. Acupuncture can offer a less invasive option with fewer risks and potentially fewer long-term side effects. Depending on the severity of the condition, it may help delay or even avoid the need for surgery.
Acupuncture at Prestige Health and Wellness
At Prestige Health and Wellness, acupuncture is an integral part of a comprehensive neck and back pain treatment plan. The facility offers holistic treatments that combine acupuncture with chiropractic care, physical therapy, and other therapies to provide a well-rounded approach to pain management.
How Prestige Health & Wellness Uses Acupuncture:
- Neck Pain: Acupuncture is used in conjunction with chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy to reduce neck pain, improve mobility, and address related issues like tension headaches.
- Back Pain: For lower back pain, acupuncture targets specific pressure points to relieve pain and enhance the flow of energy. It is often combined with chiropractic care and massage therapy to create a complete treatment plan.
At Prestige Health & Wellness, personalized care is a priority. Certified acupuncturists develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique health profile, ensuring that every person receives the best care tailored to their needs.
Looking to find lasting relief from neck and back pain?
At Prestige Health and Wellness, we offer specialized acupuncture treatments designed to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing for neck and back pain. Whether you’re dealing with long-term discomfort or recovering from a recent injury, our skilled acupuncturists can help with a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan just for you. We accept most major insurance providers – your treatment may be covered depending on your condition and plan. For more information please view our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Book a personalized assessment today!
Visit us at one of our convenient locations across NYC: Financial District, Hudson Yards, Chelsea, or Nomad. Call (917) 694-1565 or schedule a consultation today to explore how acupuncture can help you feel better and achieve lasting relief. Our dedicated team will guide you through every step of the process to ensure effective results tailored to your needs.
Sources
Fuentes, R. C., Organ, B., Creech, J., Broszko, C. M., & Nashelsky, J. (2020). Acupuncture for low back pain. Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 66(3), 186–187.
Hugh MacPherson, Helen Tilbrook, Stewart Richmond, et al. Alexander Technique Lessons or Acupuncture Sessions for Persons With Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized Trial. Ann Intern Med.2015;163:653-662. [Epub 3 November 2015]. doi:10.7326/M15-0667
Lin, J. G., Kotha, P., & Chen, Y. H. (2022). Understandings of acupuncture application and mechanisms. American journal of translational research, 14(3), 1469–1481.
Trinh, K., Graham, N., Irnich, D., Cameron, I. D., & Forget, M. (2016). WITHDRAWN: Acupuncture for neck disorders. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 11(11), CD004870. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004870.pub5