contemplating acupuncture

[hopalong1]

Hi, I've had ongoing lower back problems for years and have learned to live with the pain.  I don't like to take medication for it, especially since it doesn't seem to help for any period of time.  Acupuncture makes me nervous but I've read some hopeful things about it.  Any suggestions?

How do they know where to put the needles?  How long is the relief?  How often are repeat treatments needed?  What is the average cost?

Thank you

[caregiver222]

(1) You have to insist they use "one time needles" for starters. Most do, nowadays, but some re-sterilize.

(2)  There are acunpuncturists around who are also M.D.'s. The one I use has such a dual certification. That being said there are many accupuncturists who have no credentials who doo good work.

(3) The treatments are not painful and they can't do much harm.

(4) In the case of pain you will know immediateloy if they work. If you don't get good results from one accupuncturist, try another.

[hopalong1]

Hi and thank you.  I really appreciate your advice and description.  I'm trying to find an acupuncturist in my area.  I understand about practitioners not mixing but I am open to complimentary medicine, not just set on one thing, so taking an anti-imflammitory rx is OK with me.

Would you please suggest a list of questions for me?  I really don't know what to ask or look for.  

Thank you!

[caregiver222]

It works. Of that there is no doubt. The mechanism of action is simple. The human brain cannot accept two pain impulses at once. The body prioritizes inputs. This a pain signal from certain "vital" portions of the body takes precedence over a signal from a less vital area. Chinese accupuncture rests on centuries old mapping of these areas. Unfortunately there is genetic variation and the European population has a different distribution of points, which have never been properly studied.  Anyways, a tiny needle in a "vital area" produces insignificant pain, however the switching mechanism in the brain changes the input track, blocking the pain from lumbar compression. An accupuncture needle in the earlone represents a "major threat" to the body, which senses all intrusions to the head dangerous. This represents a "priority" input and the pain from the back disappears. The message is your perimeter is being attacked and don't bother about the mortar fire in the hinterlands.  As long as the needles are in the pain is relieved. The lasting benefit takes place because while the pain is relieved the musculature relaxes, permitting drainage, which promotes pain reduction. Accupuncture and hot and cold baths or sauna therapy represent the best combination. A TENS device can work as well. If you find accupuncture from one practicioner doesn't help, try another. Accupuncture is also helpful in conjunction with ibuprufin, although the two are not commonly mixed by practicioners.

[milfmichelle]

Starting acupuncture was one of the best things I ever did for myself. It has helped me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. A good acupuncturist treats the whole person, not just the physical symptoms. I can't say enough good things about it.

I started acupuncture due to chronic back pain that would not respond to medication. I also had chronic constipation, anxiety, and just felt awful overall. Acupuncture, in conjunction with chiropractic, has completely helped me turn my life around.

The needles are placed on certain meridians of the body. The relief seems to last longer with each treatment. When my back was really bad, I would go every week to 10 days. I pay $50 for about 1 1/2 hours of treatment. Hope this helps!