As chronic back pain continues to affect nearly one in four U.S. adults, researchers are finding that ancient techniques may offer modern relief. A new study found that acupuncture significantly reduces pain and disability among older adults with chronic low back pain. The study compared standard medical to the same care plus regular acupuncture sessions and found that both acupuncture groups reported greater and longer-lasting improvements than those receiving usual treatment alone.
The clinical trial followed 800 adults aged 65 and older who had experienced persistent back pain for at least three months. Participants who received up to 15 or 21 acupuncture treatments over several months showed better physical function, lower pain intensity, and fewer anxiety symptoms after six and twelve months. Experts say acupuncture’s noninvasive nature and strong safety record make it an appealing option for seniors looking to avoid medications or surgery.
Acupuncture, a practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting fine needles at precise points on the body to restore balance and reduce pain. Its popularity in the U.S. has more than doubled over the past 20 years, with more than 72% of users turning to it specifically for pain management. This new research suggests that acupuncture could play a growing role in chronic pain care, offering gentle, sustained relief without the side effects of drugs.
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