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As a traditional Chinese medicine acupuncturist and yoga teacher practicing from my clinic in Auckland, New Zealand, I have helped countless individuals find relief from back pain through the use of acupuncture, yoga, and complementary therapies in traditional Chinese medicine. In this blog post, I will discuss the causes of back pain, the ways in which acupuncture can alleviate it, and other therapies that can be used to complement acupuncture treatment.
Back pain is a common and often debilitating condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. Understanding its causes and exploring effective treatment options can help you manage and reduce discomfort. Read on to discover practical tips and holistic approaches to back pain relief.
Back pain is a common ailment that refers to any discomfort or pain experienced in the area of the back, from the neck to the hips. It can range from a dull, constant ache to sharp, sudden pain. Back pain can be acute, lasting for a short period of time, or chronic, lasting for several months or longer. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, poor posture, overuse, and degenerative conditions. Back pain can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle stiffness, soreness, and limited range of motion. It can negatively impact daily activities and quality of life, and in some cases, it may require medical attention.
According to Western medicine, back pain can be caused by a variety of physical factors and can be classified into several types:
Mechanical back pain: This type of back pain is caused by problems with the muscles, bones, and joints in the back. It can be caused by injury, overuse, poor posture, or degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease.
Acute back pain: This type of back pain is sudden and severe, and is usually caused by an injury, sports injury or trauma.
Chronic back pain: This type of back pain is characterized by persistent pain that lasts for more than three months and may be caused by a combination of factors such as poor posture, lack of exercise, or chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or spinal stenosis.
Radicular pain: This type of back pain is characterized by pain that radiates down the leg, caused by compression of the spinal nerve roots. It is commonly known as sciatica and can be caused by herniated disk, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disk disease.
Axial pain: This type of back pain is characterized by pain that is localized to the back and does not radiate to the legs or arms. It can be caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease.
Vertebral fractures: This type of back pain is caused by a fracture in one of the vertebrae, which can occur as a result of osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors.
Referred pain: This type of back pain is caused by a problem in another part of the body, such as the kidney, and is felt in the back.
Psychological causes: Back pain can also be caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression.
It’s important to note that back pain can have multiple causes and that a combination of factors may be involved. A healthcare professional will be able to help identify the underlying cause of back pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the primary cause of back pain is the stagnation of Qi and blood in the meridians of the back. When Qi (the body’s vital energy) and blood are not flowing smoothly, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and discomfort. Understanding the underlying factors that contribute to this stagnation is essential for effective treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for Qi and blood stagnation in the back:
Engaging in repetitive movements or prolonged activities that strain the back muscles, such as heavy lifting, bending, or sitting for long periods, can lead to overuse injuries. These activities cause micro-traumas, inflammation and produce what in Chinese medicine are called ashi points or trigger points. These points tighten the muscles, fascia, tendons, and ligaments, disrupting the smooth flow of Qi and blood in the affected area.
Exposure to adverse weather conditions like wind, cold, and dampness can invade the body and cause the muscles and tendons to contract. This contraction can impede the flow of Qi and blood, leading to stagnation. Cold and damp environments, in particular, can exacerbate back pain by making the muscles and joints stiff and less flexible.
Emotional stress, frustration, and anxiety can cause liver Qi to become stagnant. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, and when liver Qi is obstructed, it can lead to tension and pain in the muscles and tendons, including those in the back. Stress-related tension often accumulates in the upper and lower back, leading to chronic discomfort.
Physical injuries to the back, such as sprains, strains, or direct blows, can cause immediate disruption of Qi and blood flow. The resulting inflammation and swelling can further impede circulation and contribute to the development of chronic back pain. Injuries can also create scar tissue, which can block the normal flow of Qi and blood in the area.
A diet high in greasy, fatty, or sugary foods can lead to the accumulation of dampness and phlegm in the body. This internal dampness can obstruct the meridians, hindering the flow of Qi and blood. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate stagnation, as regular movement is necessary to maintain the circulation of Qi and blood. Poor posture and lack of exercise can contribute to muscle weakness and tension, further aggravating back pain.
Chronic illnesses, poor nutrition, or excessive physical and mental work can deplete the body’s Qi and blood. When the body is deficient in these vital substances, it lacks the necessary resources to nourish the tendons and ligaments properly, making them more susceptible to stagnation and injury. This deficiency can lead to weakness and pain in the back, particularly in the lower back where the kidneys and bladder meridians are located.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is used to treat back pain. According to TCM, back pain is caused by an imbalance of energy, called Qi, in the body. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance of Qi by inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, called acupoints. Here are a few ways that acupuncture is thought to treat back pain according to TCM:
In the world of acupuncture, there are many different treatment methods and styles, so treatments can vary from practitioner to practitioner. Here, I will explain my most common treatment method for back pain and what you can expect during a 60-minute session:
The session begins with a thorough consultation to determine the root cause of your back pain. Understanding the specific factors contributing to your discomfort is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. During this consultation, I will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and any specific symptoms you are experiencing.
Based on the consultation, I will select specific acupuncture points aimed at releasing tight muscles, addressing trigger points, and helping the body’s Qi and blood flow. The needles could be left in place for anywhere between a few minutes to 30 minutes, depending on your individual needs and response to the treatment. This process helps to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing by restoring balance to the body’s energy pathways.
To enhance the effectiveness of the acupuncture treatment, I often incorporate adjunctive therapies such as Tuina massage, cupping, or moxibustion. Nearly everyone will receive Tuina massage, myofascial release and gentle mobilization in my treatments. These additional techniques help to further relax the muscles, improve circulation, and support the overall healing process.
I often create custom, beginner-friendly yoga programs that people can do at home. These programs are designed to help speed up the recovery process and keep the pain away. Incorporating gentle yoga stretches and exercises can improve flexibility, strengthen the back muscles, and promote overall well-being.
By combining these methods, my goal is to provide a comprehensive treatment that not only alleviates your back pain but also addresses its underlying causes, promoting long-term health and well-being.
Traditional Chinese therapies such as tuina massage, cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion can be used alongside acupuncture to help relieve back pain, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the affected area.
This traditional Chinese massage technique involves rhythmic compression along energy channels and specific acupressure points to relieve pain and tension. Tuina is unique in that it integrates the principles of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to restore balance and promote the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body. During a tuina session, various hand techniques are used to stimulate acupoints and meridians, effectively reducing muscle stiffness, enhancing circulation, and alleviating pain.
This therapy uses suction cups placed on the skin to increase blood flow, loosen muscles, and encourage the flow of Qi. The suction creates a vacuum that draws blood to the surface, helping to relieve muscle tension and promote healing.
This technique involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. It can effectively break up stagnant energy, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
This involves burning a small amount of mugwort herb near the skin to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body. The heat generated from the burning moxa stimulates circulation, enhances the immune system, and promotes healing.
A type of massage that helps release tension in the fascia (connective tissue), alleviating back pain and improving mobility in the affected area. It involves applying gentle sustained pressure to the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.
Both general and beginner’s yoga are highly beneficial for back pain as they help improve flexibility, strength, and balance, which can prevent injuries from occurring. Research has shown yoga therapy to be helpful for relieving back pain. Yoga poses and stretches specifically designed to target back muscles can alleviate tension and improve posture.
Techniques such as pranayama can help relieve stress, depression, and anxiety, improve circulation, and oxygenate the body. Proper breathing acts like an internal massage, creating space and releasing tension in the affected area. Controlled breathing exercises can also enhance relaxation and mental clarity, contributing to overall well-being.
Practices like mindfulness meditation can be very beneficial for managing pain and reducing stress levels, promoting healing. Meditation helps calm the mind, reduce stress hormones, and increase pain tolerance, making it an effective complementary therapy for back pain.
Herbal remedies can be used to reduce inflammation and back pain and speed up the healing process. Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties that can naturally alleviate pain and support recovery.
Eating a balanced diet and taking supplements can promote healing and reduce inflammation. Nutrient-rich foods provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to support tissue repair and overall health.
Sit Correctly: Use a chair with good lumbar support, keep your feet flat on the floor, and avoid slouching.
Stand Tall: Keep your shoulders back, and your head level, and distribute your weight evenly on both feet.
Use Ergonomic Furniture: Ensure your workspace is set up to promote good posture, with your computer screen at eye level and your chair adjusted to the right height.
Exercise Regularly:
Stretch Daily: Incorporate stretching routines to maintain flexibility in your spine and reduce muscle tension.
Bend Your Knees: When lifting objects, bend at your knees and hips, not your back.
Keep Objects Close: Hold objects close to your body to reduce strain on your back.
Avoid Twisting: Turn your whole body instead of twisting your back when carrying heavy items.
In conclusion, acupuncture is a safe and effective way to alleviate back pain. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can help to relieve pain and tension in the muscles and joints. It can also help to improve circulation and promote the body’s natural healing process. If you’re experiencing back pain, consider giving acupuncture a try. It is always best to consult a licensed acupuncturist to ensure that you are receiving safe and effective treatment. In addition to acupuncture, incorporating practices like yoga, heat therapy, massage, proper hydration, and good posture can also help to alleviate back pain. Remember to consult with a doctor if your pain is severe. With the right approach, you can find relief from back pain and improve your overall well-being.
Dean, holding a Bachelor of Health Science, is registered in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Tuina Massage with the Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand. With over 20 years of experience in yoga, he has earned a 1200-hour diploma in yoga and is a certified instructor of Yantra Yoga and the Tibetan Yoga of Movement.
Committed to natural health and healing, Dean takes a holistic approach in his practice, incorporating a wide range of therapeutic methods. His offerings include acupuncture, massage, dietary advice, myofascial release, herbal medicine, moxibustion, cupping, qigong, yoga, and meditation. He practices from his clinic in Auckland, New Zealand, dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to the individual needs of his clients