PAIN MANAGEMENT
Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is one of the conditions acupuncture has been studied for most. Research suggests it can reduce pain and improve function for some people with chronic lower back pain, especially as part of a plan that keeps you moving.
Who we see for back pain
- Long-standing (chronic) lower back pain
- Stiffness after desk work, driving or shift work
- Back pain from lifting, gardening or snow shovelling
- Back pain that hasn’t settled with rest alone
What the research shows
A large analysis of individual patient data from about 20,000 patients found acupuncture was better than both sham acupuncture and no-acupuncture controls for chronic back and neck pain, osteoarthritis and chronic headache, with benefits that largely persisted over time (Vickers et al., 2018). The differences compared with sham treatment were modest, which is why we set realistic goals together.
How treatment works at Healify
- Your first visit (60 minutes) includes a full health history, a Traditional Chinese Medicine assessment and your first treatment.
- Frank explains what he thinks is contributing to your symptoms, what acupuncture can and can’t realistically do, and a suggested plan.
- Many people start with a short course of about 4–6 sessions. We review progress together, and if you aren’t seeing meaningful change we discuss whether to continue or whether another provider would help more.
What you can do between visits
- Stay as active as you comfortably can. Bed rest usually slows recovery.
- Get up and move every 30–45 minutes if you sit for long periods.
- Lift from your knees and hips, keep loads close, and avoid twisting while lifting.
When to see a doctor first
Seek medical care promptly if pain follows a fall or accident, or comes with fever, unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, new weakness or numbness, or pain that is severe and getting worse. Numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or new problems controlling your bladder or bowels, needs emergency care.
Common questions
Is acupuncture or chiropractic better for back pain?
They are different approaches, and many people use both. The right choice depends on your symptoms, your preferences and how you respond. We are happy to coordinate with your other providers.
How soon might I notice a difference?
Some people notice change within a few sessions and others take longer. We review progress with you along the way rather than committing you to a long plan up front.
References
- Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. J Pain. 2018;19(5):455–474. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpain.2017.11.005
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Acupuncture: Effectiveness and Safety. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-effectiveness-and-safety