Could Internal Imbalances Be the Key to Chronic Pain Relief?

September 27, 2024
Low Back Pain

A patient came to the clinic complaining of chronic lower back pain that had lasted for years. After examining their symptoms, it became clear that the pain wasn’t only due to physical strain but was also connected to internal imbalances. Let’s explore how internal health affects chronic pain and what we can do to address it.

1. Symptom: Chronic Lower Back Pain

The patient had been suffering from persistent lower back pain, which worsened after long periods of sitting or standing. The pain felt deep and dull, affecting their ability to move comfortably and perform daily activities.

2. Cause: Internal Imbalances

The root cause of the lower back pain was linked to internal imbalances in the body, specifically within the digestive system and circulatory system. Poor digestive health led to bloating and gas buildup, which increased pressure on the surrounding muscles and nerves. Additionally, compromised blood flow created tension in the muscles of the lower back, contributing to the chronic pain.

These internal issues resulted in nerve compression and muscle tightness, causing the lower back to bear the brunt of the imbalance.

3. Treatment Principles: Addressing Internal Health

The treatment focused on improving the internal systems responsible for digestion and circulation. By addressing the digestive imbalance and improving blood flow, we aimed to relieve pressure on the nerves and muscles that were causing the back pain.

  • Improving Digestion: Acupuncture was used to stimulate the digestive organs, helping to reduce gas buildup and alleviate the pressure in the abdomen, which radiated to the lower back.
  • Enhancing Blood Flow: By improving circulation, the treatment reduced muscle tension and relieved nerve compression, providing relief to the lower back area.

4. Treatment Methods: Acupuncture and Lifestyle Adjustments

The patient’s treatment plan combined acupuncture with lifestyle changes to support internal balance and relieve chronic pain:

  • Acupuncture: Needles were placed along the lower back and abdomen to target the nerves and muscles affected by poor digestion and circulation. The treatment helped reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow, addressing the root cause of the pain.
  • Dietary Changes: The patient was advised to make dietary adjustments to improve digestion and reduce bloating. Incorporating more fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water helped support healthy digestion, reducing the internal pressure that contributed to the pain.
  • Gentle Movement: The patient was also encouraged to practice gentle stretching and low-impact exercises to promote circulation and relieve tension in the lower back.

Conclusion: Internal Health Plays a Key Role in Pain Relief

This case highlights how internal imbalances, such as digestive issues and poor circulation, can significantly contribute to chronic pain. By addressing the root cause of the problem, we were able to help the patient find relief and improve their overall well-being.

If you’ve been struggling with chronic pain, it might be worth considering whether internal imbalances are contributing to your discomfort. Treating these underlying issues can provide long-term relief and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Olivia Choi, L.AC, DACM, VIVE Energy Medicine

Dr. Olivia Choi, L. AC, DACM

VIVE Energy Medicine
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