Chinese Medicine and Low Back pain
Statistics show that almost eight out of ten people will experience low back pain at some point during their life. Seeking medical treatment for back pain is very common. Typically back pain is fleeting and can be quickly resolved with rest, heat, and an occasional anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. However, once the damage is done, the recurrence of back pain can be as high as 50 percent. Part of this is because muscles and tendons become less flexible and pliable as we age. It is well known a sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain that can create added pressure on the body, especially the low back, knees, and ankles.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system that dates back nearly 3,000 years. But despite its age, TCM has a lot of validity to offer in the age of modern medicine. TCM provides many ways of combating low back pain. Here are just a few examples of how this ancient medical system can help.
Acupuncture for Low Back Pain: Studies have shown that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce natural steroids that reduce inflammation. Acupuncture also increases the production of endorphins, which help reduce pain. In this way, acupuncture can be very helpful in preventing costly surgeries or prescription pain medication addiction. Suppose a person seeks out acupuncture treatments when the low back pain is acute. In that case, it can potentially help them avoid chronic pain, thus decreasing the need for pain medications or surgery.
Acupuncture Points for Low Back Pain:
· Large Intestine 4 – Located on the back of the hand, in the webbing between the forefinger and thumb. This point is used for relieving pain anywhere in the body.
· Urinary Bladder 40 – This point is located bilaterally on the crease behind the knee, right in the center, directly behind the knee cap. This point helps relieve pain along the spine. It helps relieve muscle spasms and reduce pain associated with sciatic nerve involvement, which stems from the low back.
Chinese Herbs for Low Back Pain: Herbs and combinations of herbs, known as formulas, are used frequently in TCM. They can be used topically in balms or salves, and they can also be taken internally. One specific herb commonly found in low back pain formulas is Xu Duan. This herb is used to strengthen the ligaments, promote blood circulation, and alleviate pain.
Most herbal formulas have specific herbs that help target the areas that are affected. For instance, Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang contains herbs that target the muscles and ligaments of the low back area to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Nutrition for Low Back Pain: Proper nutrition is vital for everyone, but it can be extra important for those suffering from low back pain to provide the body with the right nutrients. Like tuna and salmon, Fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation. Grapes and berries contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components that inhibit enzymes responsible for pain. Hemp seeds are another great food to consume if you suffer from low back pain. Hemp seeds can decrease pain and inflammation. They are full of anti-inflammatory properties and healthy fats.
As you can see, TCM is a great way to deal with low back pain. If you are experiencing this problem, contact your local acupuncturist to see what they can do for you.
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