Acupuncture for Back Pain
Acupuncture Treatment for Back Pain
Back pain, or general discomfort felt in the back, can be caused by various factors such as muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
Typically experienced in the lower or upper region of the back, it is extremely common—affecting a significant portion of the population across all ages.
At Acubody, our talented team of practitioners in the field of acupuncture are well versed when it comes to helping our clients address the symptoms and causes of back pain.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Back Pain?
- Acupuncture can contribute to the alleviation of pain, the promotion of relaxation, and the enhancement of overall well-being through the release of endorphins in the body.
- Back pain acupuncture may help relax the muscles in the back, reducing any muscle tension and stiffness that might be exacerbating any pain or discomfort. Our programs of acupuncture for back pain in London often focus on targeting specific acupuncture points to promote muscle relaxation and improve overall muscle flexibility and function.
- If pain is caused by injury, it would be wise to consult with a medical professional on options for treatments. However, acupuncture may help reduce inflammation at the site of injury by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances and improving blood circulation.
Back Pain – Common Causes
Understanding the underlying cause of back pain always helps us deliver the right kind of treatment.
The most common causes of back pain include muscle or ligament strain, often resulting from heavy lifting or sudden awkward movements. Structural problems, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, can also contribute to back pain by putting pressure on nerves.
Increasingly, lifestyle factors like poor posture, lack of exercise, and obesity are also common culprits in the development of chronic back pain.
What Happens During Acupuncture Treatment for Back Pain?
At Acubody, an appointment begins with an assessment of your symptoms, medical history and any treatment you are already receiving. Duncan McGechie may consider when the back pain started, which movements affect it and whether muscular tension or restricted movement is also present.
The acupuncture points selected depend on the individual assessment. Where appropriate, acupuncture may be considered alongside myofascial bodywork, neuromuscular therapy or rehabilitation exercises.
For many back pain cases that come through our doors, such as those stemming from lifestyle and posture issues, we often recommend acupuncture in combination with other treatments like manual therapy and rehabilitation exercises to address the causes of bad posture and encourage better alignment of the muscles and the joints.
Considering Acupuncture for Back Pain
When integrated with other therapies, such as manual therapy, sports massage, and rehabilitation exercises, back acupuncture may be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan for muscle strains and discomfort.
Integrating acupuncture into a comprehensive treatment program can provide a holistic approach to managing pain and promoting the recovery process, following an injury or the gradual onset of back pain due to long-hours of sitting at a desk or other posture-related issues.
Acupuncture vs Dry Needling for Back Pain
Acupuncture and dry needling both involve inserting fine needles, but they are not necessarily the same treatment. Acupuncture may use points selected through a traditional Chinese medicine or Western medical approach, while dry needling generally focuses on musculoskeletal structures such as sensitive areas within muscles.
People searching for dry needling for back pain in London should ask practitioners about their qualifications, treatment methods and whether the approach is suitable for their symptoms.
Acupuncture for Back Pain in London
Our treatments for acupuncture for back pain in London are one of our most commonly sought after services, highlighting the prominence of this health condition in society today.
To help with back pain issues, Acubody offers a wide range of treatments and activities, from manual therapies like myofascial release, to Qi Gong exercises for rehabilitation, that can all be included in a treatment plan built to cater to your specific condition and needs.
If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture for back pain in London, or other therapies at our centre, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
About Your Acupuncturist
At Acubody, Duncan McGechie has practised acupuncture since 2003 and myofascial and neuromuscular bodywork since 2006. His qualifications include BA, MSc, Grad Dip, MBAcC, MRCHM, MISRM and FHEA.
Duncan is a member of the British Acupuncture Council and also has professional memberships relating to Chinese herbal medicine and sports and remedial massage. His approach considers the individual’s symptoms, health history and wider treatment needs.
Acubody provides acupuncture and bodywork at 46 Theobalds Road, Holborn, London WC1X 8NW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture actually work for back pain?
Research into acupuncture for back pain has produced mixed findings. Some people report improvements, but results vary and acupuncture is not a guaranteed treatment. NICE does not recommend acupuncture for managing low back pain with or without sciatica under guideline NG59.
How many sessions of acupuncture do you need for back pain?
There is no fixed number of sessions suitable for everyone. The appropriate approach depends on the cause of the pain, how long symptoms have been present and the individual’s response. A practitioner should discuss treatment expectations following an assessment.
Is acupuncture or dry needling better for back pain?
Acupuncture and dry needling use needles but can differ in their assessment and treatment approaches. There is no single option that is best for every person with back pain. The underlying condition, available evidence and practitioner’s qualifications should be considered.
How much does acupuncture for back pain cost in London?
The cost of acupuncture for back pain in London varies depending on the clinic, practitioner and appointment length. For Acubody’s current fees and appointment options, please visit our Acupuncture Prices page.
Where can I find acupuncture treatment for back pain in London?
Acubody provides acupuncture and bodywork at its Holborn clinic in Central London. Duncan McGechie assesses each person’s symptoms and health history before discussing appropriate treatment options.
