Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating fine needles into the body to relieve pain.
- What is it?
- Who provides it?
- Evidence for acupuncture?
- What to expect?
- Side effects
- Where to get it
- More information
What is it?
Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that involves the stimulation of certain key points (acupuncture points) on the body by the insertion of fine needles. In the context of back pain this is done to relieve pain.
In the UK acupuncture is practiced in two main styles; traditional East Asian forms and Western medical forms; and although both essentially carry out the same function they differ in their theoretical and philosophical basis. Traditional acupuncturists believe the ancient Chinese philosophy that in a healthy individual the body’s vital energy force (Qi) flows freely and smoothly through channels under the skin (meridians). The Qi is balanced, consisting of equal and opposite energies (yin and yang) which when unbalanced block the energy flow resulting in possible illness. Western medical acupuncture is based on contemporary neurophysiology ie a modern understanding of how acupuncture needles can cause an effect through stimulation of certain nerves in muscles and other tissues. The principal effect is on the processing of pain in the spinal cord, with the release of encephalins and endorphins (the body’s natural pain killers) during or after the procedure being the probable cause of pain relief.
Who provides it?
Acupuncture is provided by acupuncturists most of whom work in the private sector where the treatment is widely available. Some health professionals such as GPs and physiotherapists also use acupuncture as part of the treatment they provide. Although not as widely available, acupuncture is now accessible in certain areas on the NHS.
Acupuncture is not a state registered profession in the UK and therefore anyone can call themselves an acupuncturist. However, the members of certain organisations are all regulated healthcare professionals (eg doctors, nurses, physiotherapists etc). The British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS) is one such organisation made up of regulated healthcare professionals. The Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) is another special interest group which has all its members registered with the Health Professions Council. Most traditional acupuncturist who are not already regulated are members of the British Acupuncture Council (BacC).
Evidence for acupuncture
There is evidence that acupuncture can provide relief from back pain for some individuals. It appears to be particularly useful in cases of back pain caused by muscle strains or spasms and chronic low back pain confined to one side and aching in nature. The evidence suggests that it is an effective, low risk and cost effective treatment option.
What to expect?
During your first consultation an acupuncturist may ask about your lifestyle, personality, likes/dislikes and physical symptoms. Western medical acupuncturists may also look at the results of orthodox diagnostic procedures such as x-ray films, and examine your spine and surrounding tissues for tenderness, knots etc. Both will then use the information they gain to determine where the acupuncture needles are to be placed.
The needles will be placed in various locations based on the area of pain, the type of pain and other factors. Acupuncturists may also use an acupuncture chart or model which illustrates all the acupuncture points on the body to determine where to place the needles. Acupuncture needles are fine, single use, pre-sterilised needles that are disposed of after use so there is no risk of contamination.
Acupuncture is considered pain free but the feeling of the needles will differ according to the individual. This feeling is generally described as a tingling, ache, warmth or vibration sensation rather than a pain and many claim not to feel anything once the needles have been inserted. Sometimes the acupuncturists may move the needles a little bit or connect the needles to an electrical stimulator that sends small electrical currents through the needles to provoke a tingling sensation (known as de qi). The number of needles placed will vary according to the individual case as will the length of time they will be left in place, which can range from anything from 5 to 20 minutes, although it can be shorter or longer. It is estimated that 6-12 sessions are required in order to feel the benefits but again this varies and more or less sessions may be needed.
Side effects
Serious side effects directly related to acupuncture are very rare but can be avoided through the use of safe needling techniques. Minor side effects include bruising at the needle sites.
Most traditional acupuncturists are not medically qualified; you may therefore wish to consult with your GP/health professional to ensure that you have no serious medical issues that may need orthodox treatment.
Where to get it?
Acupuncture is widely available in the private sector but is now also available on the NHS in certain areas. To find out if it is available on the NHS in your area ask your GP who will refer you to a trained acupuncturist should the option be available and suitable.
To find an acupuncturist in private practice, you can search BackCare’s database of Professional members.
More information
Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP)
British Academy of Western Medical Acupuncture (BAWMA)
British Acupuncture Council (BAC)
British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS)