The Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective of Low Back Pain
Low back pain is an extremely common concern, affecting anywhere from 75 to 90 percent of people at some point in their lives. It is second only to the common cold as a cause of lost days at work and is one of the most common reasons to seek medical care, including acupuncture. In fact, one of the top reasons people get acupuncture treatments is for low back pain.
In spite of the large number of pathological conditions that can give rise to low back pain, up to 85% of cases are classified by Western physicians as ‘non-specific.’ From an Oriental medicine perspective, low back pain is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi within the area, associated with a specific disharmony, and treated accordingly.
The basis of acupuncture is expressed in this famous Chinese saying:
“Bu tong ze tong, tong ze bu tong”
which means “free flow: no pain, no free flow: pain.”
In other words, any kind of pain or illness represents an obstruction in the normal flow of Qi or life force. Simply put, acupuncture moves Qi, restoring free flow.
The disruption of Qi that results in low back pain is usually associated with the following three disharmonies:
Weak Kidney Qi
In Oriental medicine, the lower back is referred to as the “dwelling of the Kidneys.” The majority of chronic low back pain conditions are associated with Kidney Deficiency. Kidney Deficiency-type pain is dull and comes and goes. It is usually aggravated by overexertion and improves with rest.
Stagnation of Qi and Blood
When the flow of Qi along the meridians that traverse the lumbar region becomes congested, it is referred to as stagnation of Qi and blood. This presents with a severe stabbing pain that is worse with rest and better with movement, is tender to touch, and can be accompanied by stiffness and tightness.
Invasion of Cold and Dampness
Cold, damp-type pain is worse in the morning and when the weather is cold and damp. This type of pain improves with movement and the application of heat. Stiffness and contraction of back muscles that are aggravated by rest indicate cold predominance, while swelling, numbness, and a heavy sensation are indicative of dampness.
If you or someone you love suffers from acute or chronic back pain, contact us to learn more about how acupuncture and TCM can help.
Source: Qi Mail
