Roughly 80% of people suffer from low back pain at some point in their lives, in most cases, it eventually goes away, but in other cases, the back pain can be chronic. Aside from causing intense discomfort, low back pain can be debilitating, reducing the sufferer’s ability to perform basic tasks. In many cases, this can affect their work activities, their leisure activities, and their overall quality of life.
Anyone who suffers from low back pain generally seeks treatment from an experienced doctor or a chiropractor. However, acupuncture is another treatment option that is both safe and effective. Acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment that has been practiced for thousands of years. So, if you have tried other treatment options without getting relief, then try the Miami back pain treatment that has a higher chance of success.
The Causes of Low Back Pain
Low back pain is usually caused by some kind of mechanical injury, but there can be other underlying causes as well. These are a few of the common sources of low back pain in either category.
Mechanical Injuries
Sprains or Strains :
These occur because of improper lifting technique, lifting something that is too heavy or overstretching. Any of those can cause tears in ligaments, tendons, or muscles, which can result in significant back pain and even painful back spasms.
Herniated Disc :
When the discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae become compressed and start bulging, it can create severe back pain. This can be caused by a traumatic injury that compresses the spine.
Sciatica :
This is a condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve extends from the lower part of the spinal cord to just above the knee joint. When it is compressed, it causes a burning sensation in the lower back.
Underlying Causes
Inflammatory Joint Diseases :
These include arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and spondylitis, which is an inflammation of the vertebrae.
Osteoporosis :
A progressive disease that results in a constant loss of bone density and bone strength.
Problems Caused By Low Back Pain
Back pain can cause both physical and mental problems. The physical problems may include the inability to perform basic exercises. This may lead to long periods of inactivity, which can result in weakened muscles and weight gain, both of which can further increase low back pain. Low back pain can also lower job performance, whether that job involves physical labor or sitting at a desk, back pain can have a severe impact on productivity.
Lower back pain can have psychological effects as well because it can keep back pain sufferers from participating in activities with their friends and family. Chronic low back pain can also lead to depression and anxiety because of fear that the pain will never go away. This can result in a vicious cycle where the stress causes more pain, which causes more stress, and so forth.
How Acupuncture Can Help With Chronic Low Back Pain
Sometimes individuals suffering from lower back pains turn to opioids. They can be effective painkillers, but in many cases, opioid use turns into opioid abuse—a similarly effective method that does not lead to a chemical dependence is acupuncture. Acupuncture involves manipulating the flow of energy—called qi (pronounced chee)—throughout the body. The stimulation of these points of energy is believed to promote pain relief and healing.
There are also scientific theories that propose why acupuncture may be effective in treating chronic low back pain. One theory posits that acupuncture might cause the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Another theory is that acupuncture alters the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, which affect nerve impulses.
Consider Acupuncture for Your Chronic Low Back Pain
No matter what theory you believe in, acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic lower back pain. If you have been suffering from the agony of lower back pain for any length of time, then you should seriously think about acupuncture for your Miami back pain treatment. It is safe, does not cause a dependence, and is capable of providing the relief you need to get back to living your life to its fullest.