Acupuncture, Traditional or Not, Helps Lower Back Pain

Of all my years in practicing a healthier lifestyle through exercise, alternative medicine and a healthy diet, I have never heard any thing negative about acupuncture. I am all for it. I just wish my insurance covered it like chiropractic care.

I had actually read about this study. I wouldn't necessarily put it in the "negative about acupuncture" category. It could be that the placebo effect of the "sham"needles was so profound that the benefits of proper acupuncture ended up being the same. Both sets of patients had improvement, so in the long run I don't think they probably cared if they were in the placebo group or not. I know I wouldn't. Better is better. :)

I have been a practicing acupuncturist for 6 1/2 years and have had countless great experiences treating back pain. I was taught by both my Korean and Chinese instructors that the acupuncture points are actually more like zones. Your acupuncturist may needle approximately 1/4 inch higher or lower at the lumbar points and the patient will receive the same effect as if the acupuncturist was to needle at the exact point. There is also something in Chinese medicine called the "ashi" points. Simply needle the place that hurts for relief. Use "ashi" points at a minimum though. Two ashi points is plenty in combination with needling into actual acupuncture points. I use these two methods when I'm treating back pain with great success. Thank you.

I don't think there has been much research that has shown "negative" effects from acupuncture.  There have been many that have shown no effect either way with acupuncture.  That doesn't make it a bad option, though.

In regards to the German study specifically. There are some very important things to know about the study population:

1.  Average length of back pain was ~8 years!

2.  Had already failed "standard" or "traditional" treatments.

3.  NO DIFFERENCE in gains between the SHAM and "REAL" acupuncture groups.

This is not surprising as when a sham group is used, many studies have found that the sham and "real" acupuncture do just as well.  And, as this recent study demonstrated,  sometimes the sham does better. 

So whether the simple act of sticking needles in someone - irregardless where - or a strong placebo effect, those with chronic LBP greater than 8 years that have failed "traditional" treatment - Physical Therapy, Medication, Chiropractic, etc - a trial of acupuncture could potentially be a helpful modality.