Acupuncture for
Herniated Disc

Disc herniation, a common cause of low back pain among middle-aged and older individuals. It occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc protrudes outward, exerting pressure on adjacent nerves. This leads to varying degrees of discomfort, alongside symptoms like numbness, weakness, or tingling sensations in the affected regions. Treatment for disc herniation encompasses both surgical and non-surgical approaches. While surgery may offer rapid relief from pain intensity, the long-term functional outcomes between surgical and conservative treatments show minimal disparity.

Acupuncture has emerged as a popular alternative for patients seeking non-surgical methods to alleviate pain. Widely utilized in clinical practice due to its minimal side effects, acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points to stimulate the nervous system. This stimulation triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and enkephalins. Additionally, acupuncture enhances blood circulation and promotes relaxation in the muscles surrounding the affected area, thereby reducing inflammation, and facilitating nerve healing.

The effectiveness of acupuncture in managing disc herniation has been investigated in various studies. For instance, a study by Buevich et al. (2021) explored the role of acupuncture in treating sequestered intervertebral disc herniation, highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits. Similarly, research by Huang et al. (2019) evaluated the efficacy and safety of acupuncture specifically for chronic discogenic sciatica through a randomized controlled sham acupuncture trial. These studies underscore the growing body of evidence supporting acupuncture as a viable option for pain management in disc herniation cases.

In conclusion, disc herniation poses significant challenges for people. Acupuncture, with its ability to reduce pain, relax muscles, and promote healing, is a safe and effective therapeutic modality.