Pain Syndromes of the vertebral column

and its treatment by acupuncture:

By: David S. White

M.App.Sc.(Acupuncture), D.TCM, C.Int.Med.(China), C.Aur.Acu

Member: AACMA, P.H.A.S.

 

Introduction:

Pain and discomfort of the vertebral column and associated regions are rated among the most common clinical presentations today. Pain can present both along the vertebral column itself and within the many muscle groups that surround it. This article will be a general introduction on how acupuncture can assist patients afflicted with conditions of the vertebral column.

 

In an adult the vertebral column consists of thirty three vertebrae, that is, seven cervical, twelve thoracic, five lumbar, five sacral, and four coccygeal vertebrae. Each vertebral section will differ in size and shape according to their location (cervical, thoracic etc). However, clinically, from a functional and structural perspective, these thirty three vertebrae form one complete unit. The spinal cord is a long cylindrical structure situated within the vertebral column and is considered one of the most vital organs of the body. All nerves (spinal and cranial) derive themselves from the spinal cord to extend to the trunk and upper and lower extremities. The spinal cord is also a communications centre for messages from the rest of the body to and from the brain.

 

Most pain syndromes are a result of direct or indirect dysfunction of the spinal cord and/or vertebral column. Every time we use any part of our body we are utilising the functions of the spine (these include twisting, supporting, stretching etc.). The most common pain syndromes associated with the vertebral column actually lie along the column itself (such as lower back pain or neck pain), however, pain of the extremities, head, abdomen, etc., can also manifest.

Poor posture, long hours of work, stress and trauma are considered the major contributors to pain syndromes of the vertebral column. Muscular tension can lead to vertebral pressure and hence compression of the spinal and / or cranial nerves. When there is nerve compression patients will often complain of radiating or burning pain in referred areas of the body (one very common example of this is Sciatica). If structural changes are present (such as a tumour or prolapsed intervertebral disc) there will often be spinal lesions as well.

 

Treatment Methodology:

Traditional acupuncture treatment will focus on the circulation of Qi (pronounced "Chee") through-out the meridians of the body. By the insertion of fine needles the practitioner is able to have a direct and indirect effect on the various muscle groups and internal organ systems that may be related to the weakness and/or pain of the vertebral column.

 

Modern acupuncturists, however, will not only select traditional points for pain relief but will often combine Chinese medical sciences with western methodology and knowledge. In this manner specific nerves can be re-activated and / or decompressed and muscular adhesion between the skin / fascia / muscle / and bone can be released. Often this last aspect - adhesion - is most troubling and will often re-occur too. When muscles are tense or held in poor positions for long periods of time (e.g. in front of a computer) the tendinous and ligamentous attachments will adhere to surrounding tissue and bone causing tightness and pain in the region. Often, in conjunction with Acupuncture, gentle stretching and breathing exercises to allow controlled relaxation of the muscles will equal a more prompt and longer lasting result.

 

When a patient has been affected with a condition of the vertebral column and spinal cord it is often advisable, when intense pain presents, to consult a medical practitioner as well as your acupuncturist. X-rays, CT Scans and other modern diagnostic tests can prove to be very valuable to both acupuncture physicians and medical physicians alike.

 

Finding a qualified practitioner:

Primarily it is preferable that the treating Acupuncturist is knowledgeable in both traditional acupuncture techniques and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and has an in-depth understanding of neuro-anatomy. Finding a qualified practitioner is therefore essential, so avoiding "acupuncturists" with 6 week diplomas from un-recognised institutions is recommended. One definite way of determining whether your practitioner is qualified is if they are accredited with the Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).

 

About the author:

 

David S. White M.App.Sc.(Acupuncture), G.D.(Acupuncture), D.TCM (Sydney, China), C.Int.Med.(China), C.Aur.Acu. Member: AACMA, P.H.A.S is the clinical director and practitioner of the Macquarie St. Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine in Sydney's CBD. He is the president of the Paraplegia & Hemiplegia Acupuncture Society (P.H.A.S.) and lecturer in Acupuncture at the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SITCM). David focuses his treatment on pain (acute, chronic, and sports), neurological conditions (such as migraine, paralysis etc), and general practice.