Shoreline Acupuncture
logo
Back Pain Q&A

What causes back pain?

With 33 vertebrae and multiple intervertebral discs, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, the back is vital for support, stability, and balance. Even minor stress on the back can lead to pain and injury. Many conditions can lead to chronic or recurrent back pain, including:

Muscle strain

Back pain can develop when the muscles overstretch or tear due to excessive exertion, improper lifting, or overuse.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis causes the flexible cartilage protecting the intervertebral discs to break down, leading to friction, inflammation, and pain.

Herniated disc

Disc herniation occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes and compresses nearby nerves, leading to discomfort and sometimes radiating pain.

Pregnancy

Weight gain and uterus expansion during pregnancy put pressure on the lower back, affecting posture and alignment, leading to lasting pain.

Sciatica

When the sciatic nerve that runs along the lower back, hips, and legs compresses, dull or shooting back pain can develop.

Can acupuncture help relieve back pain?

Yes, acupuncture is an effective treatment for back pain. Inserting sterile, hair-thin needles into specific points throughout your body stimulates the release of endorphins, improves blood circulation, and reduces inflammation to promote pain relief and relaxation.

After evaluating and discussing your specific type of back pain, Lisa develops a personalized treatment plan for you at Shoreline Acupuncture. 

How many acupuncture sessions do I need for back pain?

Back pain is usually a long-lasting condition that benefits from consistency. Lisa typically recommends starting with two sessions a week and adjusting your treatment plan after evaluating your progress. Weekly sessions are necessary to maintain your treatment’s effectiveness and manage your back pain.

Are other alternative treatments effective for back pain?

Lisa works with you at Shoreline Acupuncture to explore various alternative treatments for back pain, such as:

  • Infrared therapy
  • Hydrocollator heating pad
  • Cupping therapy
  • Pain-relieving topicals, and lotions (including white flour oil)

When combined with acupuncture, nutritional counseling, and orthopedic-focused exercises, these treatments can complement a comprehensive plan to relieve back pain. Call Shoreline Acupuncture today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about how we treat back pain.