You know that feeling– the dull ache in your back that flares up and persists all day. Back pain can interrupt your daily routine and affect your quality of life.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a history of effectively treating back pain (and other pains) for thousands of years. TCM looks at back pain differently from Western medicine, seeing it as a result of blocked energy flow or health imbalances in your body.
TCM treatments such as acupuncture, massage and herbal medication can work together to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation and restore balance. Read on to learn about back pain from a TCM perspective and how treatments such as acupuncture to tuina can provide the back pain relief that you have been looking for.
Which Back Pain Do You Have?
Lower Back Pain
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is the most common type and affects the lumbar region of your spine.
It is often caused by muscle strain from lifting heavy objects, excess weight or injury. Lower back pain can range from mild to severe and may last a few days or become chronic.
Middle Back Pain
Middle Back Pain
Pain in the thoracic spine or mid-back is usually caused by poor posture, injury or muscle strain.
Hunched shoulders, slouching and rounded upper back are common postures that can lead to middle back pain over time.
Upper Back Pain
Upper Back Pain
Your upper back includes the cervical spine and shoulders.
Neck strain, injury, poor posture and stress are frequent causes of upper back pain, as well as looking down at devices for long periods, hunching over workstations, and tensing your shoulders.
Causes of Back Pain from a TCM Perspective
Improper Posture of Strain
Improper Posture of Strain
Maintaining poor posture for long periods or improper lifting techniques can strain the back muscles and spine. `, resulting in back pain.
Qi and Blood Stasis
Qi and Blood Stasis
Qi (vital energy) and blood are vital bodily substances that flow through the body along meridians. When the flow of Qi and blood is disrupted, it can lead to pain. Factors like emotional stress, physical trauma or injury can cause Qi and blood to stagnate, resulting in dull aching pain.
Kidney Deficiency
Kidney Deficiency
As the kidney meridian travels along the back, blockages or imbalances in the kidneys can lead to back pain. Thus back pain can be a sign of a ‘kidney deficiency’. This is often characterised by a dull ache in the lower back that gets worse with fatigue. Kidney deficiency can be caused by ageing, lack of exercise or constitutional weakness.
Liver Qi Stagnation & Emotional Imbalances
Liver Qi Stagnation & Emotional Imbalances
The Liver in TCM is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. TCM also views emotional and physical health as closely tied. When the Liver Qi becomes stagnant due to stress, frustration or unresolved emotions, it can lead to back pain, especially in the area of the lower back.
Dampness and Phlegm
Dampness and Phlegm
Dampness and Phlegm are considered pathogenic factors in TCM. When these accumulate in the body, they can lead to a heavy, swollen sensation in the back, often accompanied by a feeling of stiffness.
TCM Treatments for Back Pain
Consultation & Assessment
As each individual’s back pain and root causes are unique, a proper assessment by a TCM physician is essential to diagnose the root cause of each patient’s back pain and to tailor the treatments accordingly.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses thin needles inserted to different points in the body to clear blockages, restore the flow of Qi and Blood, and to address various organ deficiencies.
Acupuncture can also stimulate the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and the brain that helps to naturally relieve pain and stimulate the body’s healing processes.
Acupuncture is an especially effective pain reliever. Many patients experience noticeable relief from just one or two visits.
Tui Na
Tui Na
Tuina uses rhythmic pressing and kneading techniques to relax tight muscles and break up blockages associated with back pain. It also targets acupressure points to restore balance and flow of Qi.
Cupping
Cupping
Cupping therapy is also another effective approach for back pain. It involves the application of suction cups at an acupoint or area of pain to improve circulation in the region.
A 2024 research review concluded that cupping demonstrates superior and sustained effect on pain reduction compared with standard painkillers and usual care.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal Medicine
When relevant based on the diagnosis, herbal medication can also be prescribed. Chinese herbal medication has also been supported by research as effective in relieving neck and low back pain.
PULSE TCM for Back Pain
With the right diagnosis and a customised treatment plan, TCM can help to effectively relieve your back pain and also address other underlying health issues. If you would like to discover natural back pain relief through Chinese medicine, we can help. Book your appointment with a PULSE TCM physician today.
Note: In severe cases where you experience pain or increasing weakness in the arm, please seek immediate medical attention first. Our physicians will also refer you to the appropriate medical specialist whenever necessary.
Article Reviewed by PULSE TCM Physician Dr. Wayne Lim
