Back Pain

Back pain is the largest cause of work-related absence in the UK. Acupuncture has been shown to be very effective in relieving back pain and speeding up recovery.

Acupuncture treatment involves an examination of the back through palpation and focussed massage.  In addition to acupuncture, treatment may also involve the use of moxa, cupping and electro-acupuncture, depending on the condition and muscle groups involved.  Lifestyle advice may be given to help aid recovery.

Treatment for acute injuries may involve twice weekly sessions.  For more chronic or recurring conditions, weekly or fortnightly sessions are recommended until symptoms are relieved.  Many people find that occasional ‘maintenance’ treatments (once every 4-6 weeks) help to minimise the reoccurrence of back problems and injuries.

In May 2009 NICE guidelines recommended acupuncture for low back pain within the NHS.

Several clinical trials have been done on acpuncture for back pain (& low back pain). Read the Acupuncture may ease back pain article on the NHS Choices website.

You may wish to read the following news articles and research:

Scientists find acupuncture can help to relieve chronic back pain The Times 12/5/09

Needles ‘are best for back pain’, BBC News Online, 25/9/07