Did you know acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help relieve back pain? Acupuncture and TCM are safe, time-tested, natural approaches and methods to healing that leverage ancient herbal remedies and your body’s innate healing processes. They may help you return to optimal health without drugs or harmful side effects.

In May 2018, a team of researchers from the Acupuncture Trialists Collaboration published an updated study which concluded acupuncture based on TCM relieved people’s pain and improved their mobility in comparison to those who underwent placebo or non-TCM-based acupuncture treatments. The researchers showed the effects of acupuncture persisted for at least 12 months after the treatments ended. This study adds to the growing body of literature that suggests acupuncture can be a viable treatment for chronic pain. The findings in this study cannot speak to how each patient may have been affected by placebo, given that significant changes were not observed in the group who received those acupuncture treatments. Additional studies would be needed to conclude any results from the non-TCM-based acupuncture portion of this study. Therefore, it is important to know the length and quality of the acupuncture training of a provider.

"We conclude that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic pain, with treatment effects persisting over time."

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine address the root causes of your pain, whereas Western medicine is often most focused on masking the symptoms. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins – neurotransmitters responsible for blocking the sensation of pain. The stimulation also releases other chemicals that either change how the body experiences pain or that activate the body’s internal regulating system. A TCM practitioner will develop a treatment plan that is unique to each patient, considering the patient’s unique body, health history, and root cause of the pain. This may consist of acupuncture, Chinese dietary therapy, tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage), cupping, Reiki, Chinese herbal medicine prescriptions, or other related modalities.

Self-care is crucial for individuals with chronic back pain to manage their condition and improve quality of life. Following are suggestions for easy-to-follow self-care tips for people with chronic back pain:

Heat and cold therapy: A combination of cold plunge and hot sauna therapy can dramatically reduce inflammation.
Relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness has been shown to manage pain-related stress and reduce perceived levels of pain.
Gentle Massage: Gentle massage or self-massage techniques can relieve muscle tension and reduce pain.
Stay hydrated and eat nutritiously: Proper hydration and a balanced diet can support overall health and may help reduce inflammation.
Emotional support: Chronic pain can affect mental well-being. Don't hesitate to seek emotional support from friends, family, or a counselor.

Herbs and Natural Remedies for Back Pain:

Turmeric: This spice, a staple in Ayurvedic cooking, contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain. The best way to take turmeric is as a seasoning in your food. It also is available in tea and capsule form.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. As a spice, it is available as a fresh root or dried and ground. It can be consumed as tea, added to dishes, or taken as a supplement.
Devil's Claw: This herb contains iridoid glycosides which are believed to have strong anti-inflammatory effects and potential pain relief. Devil's Claw supplements are available; however, there are contraindications for those with circulatory problems, high or low blood pressure, ulcers, or gallstones. It may have adverse interactions with certain medications. Consult with a medical professional to determine if Devil’s Claw is a safe and appropriate remedy for you.
White Willow Bark: It contains salicin, which is the active ingredient in aspirin and has been used as a pain reliever for centuries. Salicin has been proved to reduce pain and inflammation. It's available in capsules, tincture, tea, or as a topical application. Check with your physician if you are taking blood thinners.
Arnica: This topical herbal remedy often is used for muscle and joint-pain relief. Arnica creams or ointments can be applied to the affected area.
Capsaicin: Derived from chili peppers, this cream can be applied topically to the back to alleviate pain. It works by desensitizing nerve receptors.
Boswellia: Also known as Indian frankincense, Boswellia supplements may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with back pain.

Remember that individual needs and preferences may vary, so it's important to develop a tailored self-care plan that addresses your specific back pain issues and goals. Consistency in self-care practices is key to managing chronic back pain effectively. For a more targeted treatment plan, schedule an appointment with a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and other material contained in this post are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Supplements and herbal remedies may be contraindicated for certain conditions and have the potential to cause interactions with prescription medications. Consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbs or supplements.

Source: Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. May, 2018. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29198932

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