Every where I go at the moment, people are talking about their back pain. It’s no surprise that the back is screaming out for help when we sit hunched over for a lot of the day, either using a computer, or looking at a phone or even slouching on the sofa. Some people are more susceptible to back pain than others due to their constitution and some people experience back pain after a significant life event such as giving birth.
When treating back pain it is very important to get to the root of the problem as otherwise the pain will keep returning. Acupuncture has been shown to help with back pain but comes without the side-effects of pain killers. A typical acupuncture treatment plan will start by the patient receiving weekly acupuncture treatments for 2-3 weeks. Once the patient is pain free between treatments, they are spaced out to every 2 weeks, then 3 weeks and then monthly. This is an example of a treatment plan and every patient is different so it will be based on the individual patients needs.
An acupuncture treatment for back pain will start with a discussion about the type of pain, specific location of the pain, time of day the pain occurs, how long you have been experiencing the pain. As well as other lifestyle questions to get an overall picture of your health and get to the root cause of the pain.
After the discussion I will explain what techniques I plan to use such as needling, gua sha (scraping technique with a plastic tool), cupping, moxibustion (a herb burnt close to the skin to warm the area), massage. You will have the opportunity to agree or decline any elements of the treatment.
Acupuncture needles are inserted in the back but there are other points on the back of the leg that may also be indicted. The points used will depend on the location and type of pain you are experiencing.
I use a very gentle but effective needling technique. With acupuncture it is definitely not a case of no pain, no gain! When inserting the needles I will check in with you to see how it feels. Most people describe the sensation as a dull ache. Some points may be more sensitive and I work with you to ensure that the treatment is comfortable and relaxing.
After the treatment you should drink plenty of water and rest. You may experience pain for a short period after the treatment but this is the body healing and after this period you should notice a significant improvement. This is common in the early stages of treatment and once treatments become maintaining a pain-free back, you should not have this after a treatment.
Finally, if I feel that you would benefit from any particular dietary changes, lifestyle changes or supplements, I will confirm this by email.
For tailored advice to your situation and a treatment plan, contact me to book an appointment.
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Valerie Salt is an Acupuncturist and Naturopath specialising in male and female fertility and hormone health. She is based in Henleaze, Bristol. She has completed advanced training in Fertility and is proud to be a Fertility Support Trained Acupuncturist.