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.
Symptoms include soreness and stiffness in the muscles between the waist and shoulders. The discomfort may be severe enough to cause trouble with walking, concentrating on tasks, and sleeping. Some people attempt to work through the pain by taking nonprescription painkillers while others seek help from a physician.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment method that involves inserting many tiny needles into the skin at specific points. The purpose of the needles is to restore the normal energy flow, known as Qi, to promote well-being. Some believe the needles signal the central nervous system to release chemicals, including opioids, which naturally block the sensation of pain.
The needles may also stimulate the body to release neurotransmitters, chemicals responsible for blocking or stimulating nerve transmissions. Needles inserted along certain meridians affect specific organ systems. Sometimes, the insertion point is in a different part of the body from where the person feels discomfort.
Individuals who take prescription drugs are at risk of suffering with multiple side effects. These may include addiction, a reduction in mental focus and the inability to operate machinery or drive a vehicle. In general, acupuncture is considered safe and the side effects are usually mild in comparison.
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.
In addition to seeking acupuncture for relief from pain, individuals with problems can adopt healthy lifestyle choices to relieve symptoms. Certain exercises are effective for stretching and mobilizing the spine. Individuals who must lift heavy objects should learn proper techniques to avoid injuries to the muscles. Those who work at a desk all day can learn how to organize their workstation to promote good posture and prevent repetitive strain injuries.
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.
Symptoms include soreness and stiffness in the muscles between the waist and shoulders. The discomfort may be severe enough to cause trouble with walking, concentrating on tasks, and sleeping. Some people attempt to work through the pain by taking nonprescription painkillers while others seek help from a physician.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment method that involves inserting many tiny needles into the skin at specific points. The purpose of the needles is to restore the normal energy flow, known as Qi, to promote well-being. Some believe the needles signal the central nervous system to release chemicals, including opioids, which naturally block the sensation of pain.
The needles may also stimulate the body to release neurotransmitters, chemicals responsible for blocking or stimulating nerve transmissions. Needles inserted along certain meridians affect specific organ systems. Sometimes, the insertion point is in a different part of the body from where the person feels discomfort.
Individuals who take prescription drugs are at risk of suffering with multiple side effects. These may include addiction, a reduction in mental focus and the inability to operate machinery or drive a vehicle. In general, acupuncture is considered safe and the side effects are usually mild in comparison.
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.
In addition to seeking acupuncture for relief from pain, individuals with problems can adopt healthy lifestyle choices to relieve symptoms. Certain exercises are effective for stretching and mobilizing the spine. Individuals who must lift heavy objects should learn proper techniques to avoid injuries to the muscles. Those who work at a desk all day can learn how to organize their workstation to promote good posture and prevent repetitive strain injuries.
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 Bucks County he recommends that you visit his friends at St. Mary Medical Center.
