Can Acupuncture Help Relieve Back Pain?

Acupuncture can be very helpful for almost any type of pain. This includes limited types of back and neck pains.

Acupuncture originated in China about 3,000 years ago. It was originally based on Taoist religious teachings. Over the centuries, it evolved into a science. In China, where they also teach Western medicine, many physicians choose to specialize in acupuncture and other forms of "traditional Chinese medicine."

Acupuncture treatment involves the precise placement of tiny needles along lines called meridians. These areas are thought to control the communication of nerve pathways. The needles are so small that they do not cause pain when inserted or manipulated. The acupuncturist uses the needles to balance the body's own energies, called yin and yang.

A treatment takes 20 to 40 minutes. Two or three treatments per week, for several weeks, are most commonly recommended for most ailments for which acupuncture may be a recommended alternative to medication or surgery. Research has shown acupuncture to be beneficial. Since it is low risk, common sense would suggest that it be tried before more invasive treatments like surgery (if possible).

The best acupuncturists have been trained in medical schools in China. Ask about your acupuncturist's training and experience before you begin treatment.

Dr. Lieberson is a board certified neurosurgeon who specializes in spinal medicine and surgery. He trained at the University of Pennsylvania and at Stanford Medical Center. He has published and lectured in the field of spine surgery. Dr. Lieberson has been in private practice in the Bay Area for over 12 years and has offices in Fremont and Pleasanton.