Quick answer: Acupuncture, chiropractic and massage all help people with back and neck pain, in different ways. Acupuncture uses hair-thin needles to increase blood flow and calm pain signalling, and is included in the American College of Physicians guideline as an option for chronic low back pain. Chiropractic spinal manipulation is included for acute and subacute low back pain, and massage for acute and subacute pain. Many people near Arvada combine them.
At a glance
| Acupuncture | Chiropractic | Massage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Hair-thin needles at specific points; cupping or gua sha may be added | Spinal manipulation: a controlled thrust to a joint of the spine | Hands-on work on muscle and soft tissue |
| Who provides it | Licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) | Doctor of chiropractic (DC) | Massage therapist |
| ACP guideline (low back pain) | An option for chronic low back pain | An option for acute or subacute low back pain | An option for acute or subacute low back pain; not recommended for chronic |
| Often chosen for | Chronic pain, pain with stress or poor sleep, headaches from a tight neck | Recent back pain, stiffness, joint restriction | Muscle tension, relaxation |
Guideline summaries are from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health’s low back pain fact sheet, which describes the American College of Physicians guideline.
What does the research say?
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that a 2017 review of 49 studies found acupuncture had a modest benefit for acute low back pain and a moderate benefit for chronic low back pain, and that serious complications of acupuncture are rare. It notes that massage may produce short-term improvements, and that the American College of Physicians includes spinal manipulation as an option for acute and subacute low back pain.
When acupuncture may be the better fit
- Your pain has been around for months and keeps coming back.
- Stress, tension or poor sleep are part of the picture. Pain and stress feed each other, and treating one usually helps the other.
- You get headaches that travel up from a tight neck and jaw.
- You want to try something before, or alongside, medication.
Hair-thin needles increase blood flow to the area, prompt the release of the body’s own pain-relieving hormones including endorphins, and calm the nervous system’s pain signalling. When the muscle is tight and not moving, Autumn may add cupping or gua sha.
Can you combine them?
Yes. Many people see a chiropractor or massage therapist and an acupuncturist, and acupuncture can be used alongside physical therapy and your doctor’s care. Tell each provider what else you are doing. See your doctor first if your pain follows a fall or accident, comes with numbness or weakness in your legs, or comes with fever or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Acupuncture for back and neck pain at Key Element
Autumn treats back, neck and shoulder pain, headaches and migraines, joint pain and injuries, and builds the plan around your pain and how long you have had it. Read more on the pain relief page and in acupuncture for back, neck and chronic pain near Arvada.
Every treatment is given by Autumn Jensen, L.Ac., MSOM: a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado, a Diplomate of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (NCCAOM), and a Nationally Certified Chinese Herbalist, with a Masters of Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College, more than 3,000 hours of education, and over 1,000 hours of clinical practice.
Where is Key Element Acupuncture?
Key Element Acupuncture is at 9035 Wadsworth Pkwy, Suite 3450, Westminster, CO 80021, inside the Silo Office Building at 90th and Wadsworth, less than half a mile north of the Arvada city line. Without traffic it is about 5 minutes from the Arvada Center, 8 minutes from Olde Town Arvada and 11 to 14 minutes from Ralston Valley, Candelas and Leyden Rock (drive times from Arvada). Hours are Monday 11:00am to 5:00pm, Tuesday 9:00am to 1:00pm, Wednesday 1:00pm to 6:00pm, and Thursday 11:00am to 4:00pm. Call (720) 443-2248 if you cannot find a time online.
Frequently asked questions
Is acupuncture or a chiropractor better for back pain?
They work differently, and neither is better for everyone. Acupuncture uses hair-thin needles and is included in the American College of Physicians guideline as an option for chronic low back pain. Chiropractic spinal manipulation is included as an option for acute and subacute low back pain. Many people use both.
Does research support acupuncture for back pain?
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, a 2017 review of 49 studies found acupuncture had a modest benefit for acute low back pain and a moderate benefit for chronic low back pain, and serious complications are rare.
Can I see an acupuncturist and a chiropractor at the same time?
Yes. Acupuncture can be used alongside chiropractic care, massage, physical therapy and your doctor’s care. Tell each provider what else you are doing.
How many acupuncture sessions for back pain?
It depends on how long you have had the pain. Chronic pain usually takes more sessions than a recent injury. At Key Element, Autumn often suggests 6 to 10 treatments and re-evaluates as you go.
Where can I get acupuncture for back pain near Arvada?
Key Element Acupuncture is in Westminster at 90th and Wadsworth, less than half a mile north of the Arvada city line. A first visit is $145 including the full intake; follow-ups are $95, or $110 with cupping.
This article is general educational information, not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by your own health care provider. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.