Understanding and Managing Low Back Pain with Eastern Medicine

Low back pain, often referred to as LBP, is a widespread condition affecting around 80% of individuals at some point in their lives. It tends to become more prevalent with age, with the highest occurrence observed among those in their 50s and 60s. The increasing dependence on electronic devices such as computers and smartphones has contributed to the rise in various spinal disorders, including issues related to the neck and low back discs, as well as conditions like spinal stenosis. These changes in lifestyle and posture are closely linked to technological advancements and the widespread use of electronic gadgets.

One notable trend accompanying the surge in spinal disorders is the growing preference for non-surgical treatments rooted in Eastern medicine. This preference stems from apprehension and reluctance towards surgery and its potential post-operative complications. Furthermore, Eastern medicine is valued not only for its pain-relieving capabilities but also for its holistic approach to addressing overall bodily issues and restoring physical balance.

Low back pain typically manifests in the lower back region, and in some instances, it can be accompanied by leg pain, muscle weakness, and sensory disturbances. In Eastern medicine, the back is considered the root of the body, akin to the roots of a tree, serving as the central support for the skeleton and a source of strength.

When issues arise in this area, it signifies damage to critical components like muscles, tendons, and ligaments—the foundation of bodily strength. Additionally, it can indicate weaknesses in internal organs, especially the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to the development of chronic conditions. While external symptoms often point to disc-related damage, at its core, low back pain signifies a weakening of the body's foundational strength.

Low back pain is primarily attributed to kidney deficiency, considered the primary cause of the body's fundamental weakness. Factors such as exposure to cold and damp environmental conditions, psychological stress, physical strain, dietary habits, and constitutional factors can exacerbate low back pain, resulting in various forms, depending on the underlying causes (kidney deficiency low back pain, gallbladder dampness low back pain, food retention low back pain, spleen deficiency low back pain, blood stasis low back pain, wind-cold low back pain, cold dampness low back pain, damp-heat low back pain, and Qi deficiency low back pain).

Traditional Eastern medicine classifies low back pain into these ten categories based on various medical criteria, tailoring treatment to regulate surface meridian function while addressing underlying organ function to improve overall health.

In Eastern medicine, treatment for low back pain involves acupuncture to facilitate smooth circulation of Qi and blood in the body, effectively reducing pain. Additionally, herbal remedies are used to address the root causes of low back pain and promote healing.