Most people will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives, but for some this can become a chronic debilitating condition. Back pain is said to cost the NHS more than £1.37 billion a year, and there are roughly 35 million sick days taken each year as a result of neck and back pain. It is one of the most commonly presented complaints presented at GP’s surgeries with 2.6 million people seeking advice each year.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends Acupuncture as a treatment option for chronic lower back pain. Research studies have shown that Acupuncture can help alleviate pain by triggering the release of endorphins. It helps to reduce inflammation by promoting the release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors. It facilitates healing by increasing microcirculation locally, and thus aids the dispersal of swelling and bruising.
Further information can be found at NICE and the British Acupuncture Council