Saturday, June 21, 2014

Reasons People Rely On Acupuncture For Back Pain

By Neil P. Hines


The majority of people experience pain in the lower back at some point and for some, the discomfort is enough to interfere with quality of life. Individuals who are seeking relief have many medical options, including surgery and prescription medications. Those who want to take a more natural approach to healing can consider acupuncture for back pain relief.

Individuals with certain types of jobs are more susceptible to discomfort, especially in the lower portion of the back. Triggers include standing on the feet for long periods and lifting heavy weights incorrectly. Professional driver who do not take breaks are also at risk.

The most common symptoms are stiff muscles and discomfort between the shoulders and waist. If the discomfort is severe, an individual may find it difficult to sleep, walk, and focus on work. Some people seek relief by taking over the counter medicines while others see a doctor for medical intervention.

Acupuncture is an alternative treatment using multiple thin needles inserted in specific areas. Practitioners believe the needles help to improve Qi, or the energy flowing through the body. The needles may trigger a release of chemicals by the central nervous system. Certain chemicals are opioids, which stimulate pleasure centers in the brain and block pain.

Other theories focus on the release of neurotransmitters responsible for dampening or stimulating signals from the nerves. Needle insertion occurs along meridians, which relate to various organ systems in the body. In many cases, the points of insertion are in different body parts away from the affected area.

Individuals who opt for this treatment can avoid taking prescription medications and the many side effects associated with them. Powerful painkillers can affect an individual's mental focus and often decrease the ability to drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery. The side effects associated with acupuncture are relatively minor by comparison.

The risks of undergoing acupuncture are low as long as individuals see a certified practitioner. There is always a risk of infection if needles are not sterilized before use. Possible side effects include soreness at the needle sites and organ injury if the needles are too deep.

In addition to seeking acupuncture for relief from pain, individuals with problems can adopt healthy lifestyle choices to relieve symptoms. Certain exercises are effective for stretching and mobilizing the spine. Individuals who must lift heavy objects should learn proper techniques to avoid injuries to the muscles. Those who work at a desk all day can learn how to organize their workstation to promote good posture and prevent repetitive strain injuries.




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