Acupuncture for Back Pain
Acupuncture is a safe, effective, minimally invasive treatment method for chronic or acute back pain. If your back pain is keeping you from living a happy, healthy life, Horizon Chiropractic might recommend acupuncture in combination with other chiropractic therapies. Undergoing acupuncture in Thornton, CO can help you avoid back surgery and prescription medication. Here’s a look at why acupuncture is so effective at treating back pain.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that was developed more than 2,500 years ago. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body has thousands of trigger points that correspond to different parts of the body. These parts are connected by pathways that allow energy or Qi to flow freely throughout the body. When that flow is interrupted, you can develop symptoms or medical conditions. Stimulating these points can correct the imbalance and restore the flow.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
During an acupuncture session, our chiropractors will map out the trigger points on your body that correspond to your symptoms or condition. They will then insert thin, sterile needles into each point. Each needle will remain in place for 20-45 minutes. They may manipulate or adjust the needles during that time or may leave the room so you can relax. An average session lasts around an hour, and most patients undergo six to eight sessions in total.
How Acupuncture Helps Back Pain
The acupuncture needles can stimulate the body’s release of natural pain killing endorphins and encourage nervous system performance. They trigger the release of chemicals into the muscles, spinal column, and brain, which can either alter the experience of pain or produce changes to the body that improve your overall sense of well-being. Acupuncture also speeds the relay of electromagnetic signals and immune system cells that can lessen pain and promote sleep. Finally, acupuncture can alter your brain chemistry by releasing neurotransmitters and neurohormones that dampen nerve impulses.
Risks or Side Effects of Acupuncture
Like any medical treatment, acupuncture does carry some risk of side effects. When you go to an experienced, licensed acupuncturist, you reduce your risk of side effects. You may experience redness, tenderness, bleeding, or bruising around the treatment site. There is a small risk of infection or skin irritation. However, acupuncture has fewer risks and side effects than other back pain treatment options.
Learn More About Acupuncture in Thornton, CO
If you’re interested in finding out if acupuncture is an effective option for back pain treatment in Thornton, CO, visit us at Horizon Chiropractic. We specialize in safe, effective, non-surgical back pain treatment options, including acupuncture, dry needling, chiropractic care, and spinal decompression therapy. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
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Acupuncture
