A herniated disc can cause severe neck and back pain. It can also cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs. If you have a herniated disc and are considering surgery to remove it, you might want to explore conservative treatment options, such as acupuncture. Acupuncture is a part of traditional Chinese medicine. This technique relies upon the theory that an energy imbalance in the body produces pain and other symptoms.

Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into different acupoints. Acupuncture helps with a herniated disc by stimulating the nervous system and improving blood flow. Additionally, it encourages the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals. Acupuncture does not repair the damaged disc. However, it may reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and support overall recovery. For safe acupuncture services, you should consult an experienced acupuncturist.

Some of the ways through which acupuncture helps with herniated disc symptoms include:

Acupuncture Triggers Endorphin Release

The pain from a herniated disc can make it difficult for you to perform daily tasks. Pain relief is a common benefit offered by acupuncture in this case. Acupuncture helps with herniated disc pain by stimulating the body to release natural chemicals. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. These chemicals reduce the brain's perception of pain.

The acupuncturist's insertion of fine needles into different points elicits sensory nerve signals that travel to the spinal cord and brain. In return, the brain releases endorphins and enkephalins. These chemicals block pain signals. Acupuncture also affects other neurotransmitters, such as GABA, which calms overactive nerve pathways.

The pain from a herniated disc arises from nerve irritation and muscle tension. Therefore, these chemicals ease the pain and discomfort. Regular acupuncture sessions can strengthen the body’s natural pain regulation. Patients frequently report the following after acupuncture treatment:

  • Less sharp or burning pain

  • More comfort during movement

  • Better sleep at night

Acupuncture Relaxes Muscle Spasms

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, pain is linked to blocked energy and poor circulation along specific meridians. A bulging or herniated disc can compress nerves, leading to inflammation, muscle contraction, and referred pain. Muscle contractions are the body's natural response to injury. Acupuncture helps relieve tension in tight or spasming muscles by:

  • Direct muscle stimulation. When thin needles are inserted into tight areas, they signal the muscle to release tension.

  • Improved blood flow. When muscles are relaxed, they allow better circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the tissue.

  • Nervous system regulation. Acupuncture reduces overactive nerve signals that trigger spasms.

Relaxed muscles reduce pressure on the spine. Also, they improve the range of motion. After several acupuncture sessions, you will experience less discomfort and pain when bending or moving around. Tight muscles can pull on the spine or other areas, causing additional discomfort. By addressing spasms, acupuncture stops this cycle.

The impact of acupuncture for a herniated disc is cumulative. It means that you achieve better results with regular sessions. Sometimes, your acupuncturist may recommend that you combine the needling with exercise.

Acupuncture Improves Blood Flow to Injured Areas

The tissues surrounding a herniated disc often suffer from poor circulation. This may be due to muscle tightness and inflammation. Reduced circulation slows the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and also delays the removal of waste products. Acupuncture helps restore proper circulation by stimulating muscles and tissues with needles, which helps relax tight areas.

Improved blood circulation allows the injured tissues to receive more oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, it supports the body’s natural healing process. This improved circulation supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation around the affected disc. After an acupuncture session, you may notice gradual healing. The effect of acupuncture on blood flow offers more benefits when you combine it with other treatments.

By promoting circulation, acupuncture helps the body heal efficiently. Additionally, it supports long-term relief from herniated disc symptoms.

Acupuncture Reduces Nerve Irritation

Herniated discs cause pain by irritating nearby nerves. When the inner disc material pushes out, it can press on nearby nerves. This pressure triggers sharp or burning sensations around the affected area. Also, it can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs. Acupuncture helps reduce nerve irritation by stimulating the nervous system.

It sends signals to the spinal cord and brain. The body then releases its own pain-relieving chemicals. Effects of acupuncture on nerve irritation:

  • Nerve signal modulation. Acupuncture can slow down overactive nerve signals. This technique decreases sharp or radiating pain.

  • Improved nerve sensitivity. After several acupuncture sessions, the nervous system becomes less reactive to minor triggers.

The pain from a herniated disc arises from nerve compression rather than the disc itself. By calming the nerves, acupuncture can reduce the local pain and radiating discomfort. Patients often notice a decrease in symptoms after a few sessions. Acupuncture helps the nervous system handle the pressure and inflammation. Reduced inflammation allows you to move more freely and engage in other therapies safely.

Acupuncture Improves Mobility

Herniated discs can limit movement, making bending, walking, or sitting difficult. Acupuncture improves mobility by:

  • Reducing pain. Acupuncture calms irritated nerves and reduces pain signals. Less pain allows you to move more comfortably.

  • Relaxing the muscles. Tight muscles surrounding your spine can limit your range of motion. Acupuncture can relax these muscles and restore your flexibility when combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy.

  • Increasing blood flow. Better circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues.

  • Regulating nerves. Chronic pain can make the nervous system overly sensitive. Acupuncture helps calm these signals, which makes the movement easier.

Increased mobility allows you to perform physical therapy exercises more effectively, reducing strain on your spine. Regular acupuncture treatments can prevent the development of chronic pain patterns. By improving mobility, acupuncture reduces discomfort and supports long-term spinal health.

Acupuncture Decreases Dependence on Pain Medication

The pain from a herniated disc is managed using the following medication:

  • Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)

  • Muscle relaxants

  • Prescription painkillers, including opioids

Although medications offer temporary relief for the pain and discomfort from the herniated disc, they can have side effects. Long-term use may affect the stomach, liver, or kidneys. Acupuncture offers a drug-free alternative for managing pain caused by a herniated disc. The stimulation from the needles calms the nerves and reduces inflammation.

With several acupuncture treatments, most patients notice that they can reduce their medication dose. Some patients can stop taking medication for mild to moderate pain. Acupuncture is most effective when used in combination with other therapies. Regular sessions make daily movement easier and more comfortable.

Acupuncture Supports Long-Term Pain Management

Herniated discs take time to heal. The pain may persist for weeks or months. Treatment with acupuncture leads to sustained recovery from pain by addressing the root causes of pain:

  • Relaxing tight back muscles

  • Subduing nerve irritation and inflammation

  • Stimulating the release of endorphins to fight pain naturally

Regular acupuncture treatments prevent the development of chronic pain patterns. Chronic pain can cause hypersensitivity in the nervous system. Even slight movement can cause excruciating pain.

Acupuncture regulates the nerve impulses and reduces flare-ups. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may need regular acupuncture treatments. Periodic acupuncture treatments can help prevent flare-ups even after your symptoms have improved.

Acupuncture Points for Herniated Disc

An acupuncture point is a specific site on the body used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A trained acupuncturist can use these points to stimulate the body and alleviate pain, which promotes healing. The commonly used acupoints for herniated discs include:

BL23 (Shenshu)

BL23 is located on the lower back, about two finger widths from the spine at the level of the second lumbar vertebra. It is a primary point for strengthening the lower back. Practitioners use it for:

  • Chronic lumbar pain

  • Weakness

  • Stiffness

Stimulating this point improves circulation in the deep spinal muscles. Also, it may reduce inflammation around the affected disc. Acupuncturists combine BL23 with points on the nearby bladder meridian.

BL25 (Dachangshu)

BL25 lies near the fourth lumbar vertebra. Acupuncturists use the point for lower back pain that worsens with movement. Stimulation of this point will alleviate lumbar muscle spasms and nerve compression. BL25 is commonly used when lower back tenderness is associated with a herniated disc. Acupuncturists often combine BL25 with BL23.

GB30 (Huantiao)

GB30 is located in the buttocks, near the hip joint. When a herniated disc presses on the sciatic nerve, the pain may radiate down the leg. GB30 helps relax deep hip muscles and relieve nerve irritation.

BL40 (Weizhong)

BL40 is found at the midpoint of the crease behind the knee. It is an important point for treating back pain on the bladder meridian. This point has a significant effect on disc pain. It relieves stiffness, inflammation, and radiating pain. Practitioners use BL40 for acute disc flare-ups.

LI4 (Hegu)

LI4 is located on the hand between the thumb and index finger. It is widely known for its pain-relieving properties. Although this point is located far from the spine, it regulates the body's response to pain. LI4 helps regulate the body's pain response and may stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins.

Ashii Points

Ashii points are tender spots located directly around the painful area. These are not fixed anatomical points. The acupuncturist identifies the points through palpation. Ashii points to the target muscle knots near the herniated disc.

Safety Considerations When Seeking Acupuncture for Herniated Discs

Acupuncture is safe when performed by a licensed and trained professional. Herniated discs involve delicate structures in the spine. Because of this, extra care is important. Choosing the right practitioner ensures the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Safety considerations to keep in mind include:

Consult a Licensed and Experienced Practitioner

A licensed acupuncturist is trained to insert acupuncture needles safely in this area. They can locate the proper acupoints and control the depth of the needles. Acupuncturists will use sterile, disposable needles to perform acupuncture. This practice prevents infection and other complications.

  • Look Out for Mild Side Effects

Most patients only experience minor side effects after an acupuncture session. These side effects include soreness and minor bruising. Some patients feel slightly tired or relaxed after a session. These effects are temporary and do not affect daily activities. Proper technique reduces the chance of these reactions.

  • Rare but Serious Risks

Serious complications are very rare when an experienced professional performs acupuncture. Improper needle placement could irritate nerves or soft tissue near the spine. This might increase pain or cause additional discomfort. During and after the treatment, you should report any unusual sensations.

  • Medical History and Medications

Before an acupuncture session, you should share your full medical history with the acupuncturist. Be sure to notify your acupuncturist if you have any bleeding disorders or if you take any blood-thinning medications. This will enable the practitioners to take necessary precautions to avoid bruising or minor bleeding.

  • Red Flags and Emergency Care

You should not delay emergency treatment to receive acupuncture. If your numbness worsens or muscle strength decreases progressively, you should seek emergency treatment. These symptoms indicate that you may have a nerve compression problem or other serious problems.

  • Special Considerations

Pregnant patients should inform the practitioner before moving forward with acupuncture. In this case, the acupuncturist may avoid certain positions. You may need a modified treatment plan if you have severe nerve damage. Communication ensures therapy is safe while still effective.

With proper screening, communication, and technique, acupuncture is a low-risk option. It can provide meaningful pain relief and support recovery for patients with herniated discs.

Find Expert Acupuncture Services Near Me

A herniated disc can cause chronic pain and discomfort. This makes it challenging to perform everyday functions. Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for herniated discs. Your doctor can recommend this type of treatment before resorting to spine surgery. To perform acupuncture, your acupuncturist will locate multiple acupoints and stimulate them.

The stimulation of these acupuncture needles will calm your nerves, reduce inflammation, relax tight muscles, and promote healing. Acupuncture eases muscle tightness and reduces disc inflammation. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture eases the symptoms of a herniated disc and promotes the body's natural healing.

Consider incorporating acupuncture into your recuperation strategy if you are suffering from a herniated disc. An acupuncturist will evaluate your symptoms and develop a treatment strategy. At the Art of Chinese Healing, we offer safe, reliable services to our clients. Call us at 310-405-1610 from Los Angeles, CA, to book an appointment.