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Treatment
Acupuncture |
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Acupuncture is a component of Chinese medicine –
it was developed almost 5,000 years ago and is based on ancient theories of natural
energy. According to these theories an energy force, known as Qi (pronounced chee), is
present in nature. It consist of two components, Yin and Yang – opposite forces that,
when balanced, result in harmony.
According to the theory, Qi permeates the human body, influencing the mental and physical
wellbeing of everyone. It travels through the body via special pathways, known as
meridians, but, if these become blocked for any reason, then the balance of Yin and Yang
is disturbed, leading (so the theory holds) to illness.
To unblock the meridians, special needles are inserted into the skin where the pathways
come to the surface – a treatment known as acupuncture (a related discipline, known
as acupressure, uses massage to bring about the same effect). |
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Efficacy
Whether you subscribe to the ancient theory or not, acupuncture might be able to relieve
some of the symptoms of back pain. Unfortunately, it cannot treat the underlying causes. |
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Conclusions
Acupuncture is not an invalid treatment, but it will only work for relatively mild back
pain. It will not treat the underlying cause. |
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Price
Approximately: £30-40 per session.
A number of sessions are required to reduce the symptoms. |
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