Pain costs the U.S. billions of dollars a year, and back pain alone runs the costs over $134 Billion a year. According to a recent article on the costs of low back pain (LBP) in the U.S., “Low back and neck pain – $76.9 billion paid by private insurance, $45.2 billion paid by public insurance, and $12.3 billion paid by individuals out-of-pocket. “ (see Footnote 1)
Acupuncture for chronic LBP was recognized by the American College of Physicians several years ago as a recommended treatment before pain medicine (Footnote 2) but few medical doctors follow the new guidelines.
Research has shown that acupuncture is effective for chronic LBP as shown by this systematic review. “For chronic LBP, consistent evidence shows that acupuncture is more effective for pain relief and functional improvement at short-term follow-ups when compared to no treatment or when used with other conventional therapies; these results had medium to large clinical effects. According to these findings, it is encouraging to note that acupuncture, either used in isolation or as an adjunct to other interventions, has been demonstrated as an effective clinical option for patients with chronic LBP and should be advocated in routine clinical practice.” (Footnote 3)
As we know from treating hundreds of patients over the years, the typical Western methodology to treat back pain doesn’t always work. We have some patients who have suffered Chronic Low Back Pain (LBP) for years until they make it in for acupuncture treatment and finally get relief.
If you want to learn more about how we can help you with low back pain, please, give us a call at 910.262.1122 and speak with JJ about scheduling a consultation. We look forward to helping you live the life you want, pain free with plenty of movement and activity!
