Acupuncture for low back pain
A sudden seize-up or a years-long ache, low back pain almost always involves muscle, disc and nerve together. We treat all three.
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people come to us. Sometimes it's a lumbar strain that came on after lifting, sometimes a disc that flares up with sitting, sometimes a dull ache that never fully left.
We look past the spot that hurts. The lumbar spine, the deep core, the hips and the nerves all share the load, so lasting relief usually means treating more than one of them.
Symptoms we treat
If any of these sound like your experience, acupuncture is worth a conversation. This isn't a diagnosis, your first visit is.
Why acupuncture works here
Three layers at once, local, segmental, and central, chosen for what your body is asking for.
From first visit to plan
Every patient gets the same unhurried four-beat rhythm, the first visit includes a consultation.
The clinical picture
Lower back pain, or lumbar strain, is a common and often debilitating condition that can affect individuals of all ages. The cause of this condition may be numerous, from sports injuries, repeated sitting, falls, anatomical or structural imbalance (such as foot length), and others. One prevalent cause of chronic or acute lower back pain is disc herniation, which occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher exterior.
What Is Disc Herniation?
The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that act as cushions and provide flexibility. A disc herniation happens when the disc’s inner material (nucleus pulposus) protrudes through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can put pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that can radiate through the lower back and down the legs (sciatica).
Causes of Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Age-related degeneration: Over time, discs can lose water content and elasticity, making them more prone to injury.
- Sudden trauma: Accidents or abrupt movements can cause discs to bulge or rupture.
- Repetitive stress: Heavy lifting, improper posture, or repetitive bending can contribute to disc strain.
- Genetic factors: Some individuals are more predisposed to developing disc issues due to hereditary influences.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Sharp or persistent pain in the lower back
- Pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, or calves
- Muscle weakness or reduced mobility
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may become worse with prolonged sitting, bending, or lifting.
Acupuncture can play a crucial role in managing and alleviating lumbar pain due to disc herniation. At our clinic, our acupuncturists use tailored programs to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and prevent future injuries. Key components of our treatment plan include:
- Acupuncture Treatment: the affected areas as well as any areas that are structurally related to the load-bearing work of the lower back will be treated as a primary concern. Electrical stimulation will be applied to these areas to relieve the often shortened muscles, decreasing the tension that is placed on the nerve.
- Targeted exercises: Strengthening core and back muscles to provide support and enhance stability.
- Education on posture and ergonomics: Guidance on body mechanics and posture to reduce stress on the spine.
Early intervention and a proactive approach are essential for preventing chronic pain and enhancing recovery. Our team is committed to providing a personalized care plan to help you regain mobility and return to your daily activities with confidence.
腰 lower back
Read yo in Korean. Hanja are learned meaning first, then sound, so this one is 허리 요.