Back Pain Exercises

Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine involving the use of thin sterile needles that are carefully inserted into certain areas of the body. The idea behind acupuncture is that it balances the flow of energy or life force, known as Qi. Acupuncture is meant to release Qi, also called Chi, that may become blocked. The treatment has been used to treat a variety of conditions including back pain experienced during pregnancy or affecting athletes.

While the treatment has proven effective in relieving back pain, doctors and scientists do not fully understand how acupuncture brings relief. The treatment is considered safe when it is performed by a trained, knowledgeable practitioner. It is also important to remember that acupuncture is not a cure for pain in the back and everybody responds differently to the treatment. Those who do not experience improvement in their pain in the back after a few weeks of treatment may be better served seeking other treatments.

Lower back pain during pregnancy is a common nuisance that by some accounts affects about one third of pregnant women, most commonly between the sixth and ninth month of pregnancy. Some have found that acupuncture helps to relieve this back pain better than other treatments such as massage, heat therapy and light exercise. Again, everybody is different, and what works for some women may not work for others.

As an added benefit of acupuncture, though, some doctors have indicated that acupuncture may relieve nausea during pregnancy. This is a common problem for many women in the early months of pregnancy. Women should be aware, however, that some experts believe that certain acupuncture points may actually induce labor.

Athletes have also been attracted to acupuncture, as the treatment may help reduce swelling, spasms and inflammation. It may also increase healing and relieve pain, including back pain. Many practitioners of acupuncture say that acupuncture is not only intended to treat the pain, but the underlying conditions that may lead to pain, making it a popular treatment among those experiencing chronic pain or recurring injuries.

Acupuncture has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years and is popular among many people interested in alternatives to traditional therapies or medicines. In addition to back pain, other conditions may be treated using acupuncture as well. Knee pain, joint pain, muscle spasms and other common aches and pains associated with athletes may be treated with acupuncture.

In addition to pregnant women and athletes, acupuncture may improve the well-being and relieve back pain in any individual.