Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis using acupuncture

The musculoskeletal system (MSA) is the basis of the human body. It is a single complex consisting of muscles, bones, ligaments, joints, and nerve endings. ODA provides support for the body and gives the body shape. It provides the ability to move and take poses, protects internal organs, and is also responsible for the motor activity of every part of the body.

Contraindications and side effects

Acupuncture is used in the treatment of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, not only in the neck area. The procedure is recommended if you suspect the development of osteochondrosis or diagnose any of its stages. A visit to a specialist will also give excellent results in the following cases:

• Acute pain syndrome due to muscle spasms or bone deformation.
• Formation of protrusion or hernia.
• Increasing swelling as a result of inflammation in the tissues.
• Reduced neck mobility, blocks.
• Vertebral artery syndrome, manifested by headaches.

Acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis is prescribed to the patient with caution, provided that he does not have chronic pathologies or acute conditions. The main indicators for refusal to carry out the procedure are:

• During pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Infectious processes in the body.
• Cold or fever.
• Pathologies of the cardiovascular system.
• Malignant formations of different localization.
• Allergic reactions.
• Problems with blood clotting.
• Severe exhaustion or intoxication of the body.
• The presence of large moles or keloid scars at the site of exposure.
• Numerous hematomas throughout the body.
• Old age or under 14 years of age.
• Hives or rash all over the body.
• Open injuries or those that have not yet healed well.

If the patient has at least one of the listed conditions, the acupuncture procedure will only cause harm. Therefore, it should be abandoned.

It is also important to calm down before the session, since if the patient is afraid, very tense, or has a weak nervous system, this can cause side effects.

The main ones are:

• Cardiopalmus.
• Darkening in the eyes.
• Increased sweating.
• The appearance of bruises at the injection sites.
• Fall in blood pressure.
• Formation of bleeding.

An experienced specialist can quickly stop the occurrence of side effects, so they do not lead to complications. But if severe pain is also present in the process, then this indicates that inappropriate points of influence were chosen, or the specialist does not have the required level of qualifications to treat cervical osteochondrosis.

The procedure is carried out using special needles, without sharp ends.

What is osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

The name osteochondrosis was first proposed by the German physician Hildenbrandt in the 30s of the 20th century to generally describe age-related damage to the musculoskeletal system. In Russia, it was popularized by neuropathologist Dr. Papelyansky in the mid-20th century and has since become firmly established in the vocabulary of doctors and people suffering from back pain. Unfortunately, due to its wide application, this term is often used incorrectly. What is cervical osteochondrosis, and can it be treated? - this article is dedicated to this.

Operating principle

The method is based on the Chinese teaching about the vital energy Qi, which circulates in the human body through certain channels - meridians. These channels have access to the surface of the skin. Vital energy passes through all organs and normalizes their functioning. If the movement of Qi is disrupted, then disease develops.

In the human body there are more than a thousand biologically active points that are associated with the functioning of certain organs and systems. Impact on the points with the help of special needles helps restore the movement of vital energy. In this case, the skin is not pierced, but gently moved apart, which allows the needles to remain in one place for a long time without causing pain.

Main effects of acupuncture:

• the formation of endogenous opiates - endorphins and enkephalins - which have a powerful analgesic effect;
• release of glucocorticoids into the blood - hormones that reduce the activity of the inflammatory process and reduce pain;
• improving blood circulation, reducing swelling and activating restoration processes in tissues, including cartilage;
• relaxation of the muscles of the cervical-collar area;
• sedative effect.

This treatment is quite effective, safe and well tolerated. Does not cause allergic reactions. The body recovers naturally. A special feature of the method is its individual approach.

Indications for use ↑

Many people suffering from constant pain due to the development of osteochondrosis doubt whether it is worth resorting to such an exotic and unknown method of combating osteochondrosis as acupuncture.

It is necessary to carry out the procedure for the following symptoms:

• The initial stage of development of osteochondrosis. Timely initiation of treatment for any disease is the key to a speedy recovery without complications. Therefore, at the first symptoms of osteochondrosis, you should immediately consult a doctor, who will most likely refer you to this procedure.
• Acute pain. This is an acute stage of osteochondrosis, which is a consequence of deformation of cartilage, joints and biological tissues. Often, the intense pain that the patient inevitably experiences during changes in tissue structure can be relieved with the help of acupuncture.
• Poor mobility of the vertebrae. Since osteochondrosis is characterized by changes in the vertebrae, problems with their mobility in this disease are not uncommon. Poor mobility of the vertebrae can be eliminated by applying pressure to the desired point with a needle. Thus, the impaired blood circulation is normalized, and the patient will be able to move normally again.

What effect does acupuncture have on osteochondrosis? ↑

The first thing worth mentioning is the extraordinary effect of such therapy on the entire human body.

To dispel all doubts about the need for this procedure for various types of osteochondrosis, we present the results of doctors regarding the effect that acupuncture has on the patient.

Impact on the cervical spine

People who lead a sedentary lifestyle are no strangers to aching pain in the cervical spine.

Acupuncture successfully copes with the elimination of this disease.

Already after the first session, blood circulation in the cervical spine increases.

This reduces pain and makes the cervical vertebrae more mobile.

This allows you to forget about neck pain for a long time.

Impact on the thoracic region

Correct exposure of the thoracic region with very thin needles allows for rapid elimination of the pain symptom, which is inevitable when the cartilage and joints of this region are deformed.

Such measures ensure the complete restoration of human health.

Impact on the lumbar region

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region develops due to pinching of the hypersensitive nerve.

Its damage can be caused by a number of reasons:

• lifting excessive weight;
• excess weight;
• colds, etc.

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But the disease is always accompanied by pain in the sacrum or lower back.

Also, with the help of acupuncture, blood circulation in the lumbar region is normalized, and metabolism is restored in the tissues.

Impact on the necessary points activates the body’s energy to fight the disease and maintain the effect of treatment.

Thus, the effect of acupuncture is striking in its duration and durability.

In what cases is acupuncture contraindicated for cervical osteochondrosis?

Treatment of osteochondrosis using acupuncture should only be carried out as prescribed by a doctor. He, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s body and health, will prescribe the optimal treatment regimen.

Like any other medical procedure, acupuncture has a number of contraindications:

• heat;
• high blood pressure;
• neoplasms (benign or malignant);
• skin diseases;
• presence of infections;
• chronic diseases in the acute stage;
• pregnancy;
• drug or alcohol intoxication;
• age less than 3 and more than 75 years;
• severe respiratory, renal or cardiovascular failure;
• poor blood clotting;
• exhaustion of the body.

Many people wonder if it hurts and what sensations may occur during an acupuncture session? It should be noted that the special needles intended for this procedure are very thin and non-traumatic, they have a rounded end, which allows to minimize any unpleasant sensations. But each person has an individual pain threshold, so some report slight pain when inserting the needle. Others talk about slight itching, a feeling of heaviness, and numbness in the injection area.

Side effects may also occur, in which case you should stop the session immediately:

• dizziness;
• feeling cold or hot;
• nausea and vomiting.

Sometimes it is possible that the pain at the site of treatment may increase, which indicates that the acupuncture session was performed incorrectly. If the procedure is performed by an experienced specialist, then it is as painless as possible and gives a tangible result.

Main points of influence

There are about one and a half dozen points that are effective for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. However, specialists usually use no more than 8–10 in one session. The most common points include:

1. Qi-mai.
2. Ya-men.
3. Chuntu.
4. Feng fu.
5. Feng chi.

Qi-mai

It is located on the head, in the area of ​​the mastoid process (behind the ear canal). A needle inserted into this point helps relieve muscle tension and relieve pain.

Injection technique: the needle is inserted obliquely, the penetration depth is 3 mm, which necessarily causes slight bleeding from the wound. The exposure time for BAP is no more than 5 minutes.

Impact on the point effectively relieves headaches due to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, improves hearing and vision.

Ya-men

It is located just above the scalp, between the spinous processes of the 1st and 2nd cervical vertebrae. The puncture depth ranges from 1.2 to 3 cm and depends on the purpose of therapy. The needle is inserted vertically; it cannot be deflected or injected deeper.

Impact on this point allows you to restore hearing, relieve headaches, mental illness, and cerebral palsy.

Chuntu and Feng Fu

The location of Chuntu is the midline of the spine, between the 6th and 7th vertebrae. Exposure to it with a needle removes swelling from the paravertebral tissues, improves blood circulation and venous outflow.

The Feng Fu point is located above the most vulnerable part of the human body. Below it is direct access to the brain. There is no protective bone here, but there is a thick layer of subcutaneous fat that compensates to some extent for the vulnerability.

Directly below the Feng Fu point is the medulla oblongata, and below it the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. The medulla oblongata is responsible for reflex actions - salivation, breathing, swallowing, and blood pressure is also regulated here. The pituitary gland and hypothalamus protect the body from early aging, atherosclerosis, diabetes, cancer, and chronic fatigue syndrome. A malfunction provokes the body to use alcohol and drugs, leading to disturbances in various systems.

The effect on Feng Fu is carried out with a long needle, which is immersed under the skin to a depth of 1 cm. Additionally, cauterization is recommended. In addition to significantly improving the condition of patients with cervical osteochondrosis, applying pressure to the point helps:

• Restore the body after a cerebral hemorrhage.
• Rejuvenate.
• Improve the condition of the spine and joints.

Feng chi

It is located below the mastoid process, in the cavity where the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles are attached. Topographically, a triangle formed by muscles is felt under the fingers, which is approximately 2.5 cm above the hair growth line.

The puncture is carried out at an angle of 45° to a depth of 1.2 cm. In this case, the end of the needle is directed towards the eye. Exposure time is 20 minutes. Cauterization gives excellent results. The course of acupuncture with this BAT is at least 2 weeks.

Exposure to Feng Chi relieves headaches/migraines due to cervical osteochondrosis, relieves neck pain, relieves lower back pain due to radiculitis.

Additional points of influence

These BATs are located far from the neck - on the arms, shoulders and on the back (paired). They are called he-gu, jui-gu and jian-zhen.

Point He-gu. Located on the hand, at the base of the thumb. Exposure to it helps with pinched cervical nerves and pain in the arms.

Jui-gu point. Located at the junction of the collarbone and scapula. The effect on it is effective for severe spasms of the neck muscles.

Jian-zhen. Located above the axillary fold, back and down from the shoulder joint. The point is pierced to a depth of 0.5–1 cun, vertically. Exposure from 5 to 15 minutes. Effectively combined with cauterization. Impact on the jian zhen in combination with some other points helps relieve pain from the shoulder girdle and relax tense muscles. Individual effects on BAP help with pain in the shoulder blades, shoulder joints, and tinnitus.

What can be achieved with acupuncture

If, following the doctor's instructions, the patient regularly undergoes acupuncture, he will be able to achieve a large number of improvements. After the first session, the patient’s general well-being improves and his performance is normalized. That is, the patient completely disappears from weakness, pain in the affected area and malaise. Accordingly, this helps to normalize sleep, and the person feels fresh and rested.

Healthy sleep is the key to health

In addition to all of the above, acupuncture reduces swelling in tissues, restores disrupted processes in cells, and also stabilizes all components in the blood, especially hormones. And, of course, it should be noted that acupuncture is the best way for a patient with cervical osteochondrosis to relax and unwind.

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Limitations of Acupuncture

Despite the fact that acupuncture is an absolutely harmless procedure, there are still certain limitations. For example, this procedure is not recommended for patients who experience acute inflammatory processes accompanied by fever. Pregnant women should also not undergo acupuncture as it may affect the fetus.

Another contraindication for such a procedure can be considered disorders associated with blood clotting. Acupuncture can also have a negative impact on patients with chronic diseases of the internal organs.

As you can see, acupuncture does not have many restrictions, but even if a person does not fall into the above category of people, this procedure can only be performed after a medical examination. This is due to the fact that the effectiveness of acupuncture depends on a correct diagnosis.

This is especially true for patients with osteochondrosis, since this disease can develop in different parts of the spine, and the specialist must know exactly which area needs to be affected. For example, for cervical osteochondrosis, acupuncture should be performed in the neck and forearms.

Acupuncture in the neck area

In addition, it is very important that acupuncture is performed exclusively by highly qualified specialists. This is due to the fact that inexperienced manipulations may not only fail to bring the desired result, but also worsen the patient’s condition.

Causes of lumbar osteochondrosis

Improper load on the spine and lack of physical activity are the main causes of osteochondrosis. That is why, in addition to the above, people who are overweight are at risk. Other reasons can provoke this disease:

• Falls on the back, injuries sustained
• Infectious diseases
• Presence of congenital spinal defects
• Frequent stress also often causes osteochondrosis, undermining the immune system
• Genetic predisposition

Contraindications and side effects

Not a single treatment procedure, even the safest one, can be considered absolutely universal, and acupuncture is no exception in this regard. In some cases, the additional stimulation of blood circulation on which this method is based can have an effect on other body systems. For this reason, before starting therapy, regardless of whether the neck or lower back is affected by osteochondrosis, each patient must be examined by a doctor and receive an opinion on whether he is allowed to be treated with acupuncture.

The main contraindications to acupuncture are:

pregnancy, especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, due to the high probability of miscarriage (in the 1st trimester such treatment is allowed with extreme caution); benign or cancerous tumors, the growth of which can be significantly accelerated under the influence of this procedure; infectious diseases, during which the acupuncture procedure can cause an exacerbation of the inflammatory process; infant (under 3 years) and elderly (over 75 years) age of patients; diseases of the skin and blood of various etiologies, in which violations of the rules of disinfection when inserting needles can provoke a sharp deterioration in the patient’s condition; mental disorders.

We also must not forget that acupuncture is, first of all, an effect on the human nervous system, therefore, during the procedure, in rare cases, patients may experience uncontrolled reactions:

• nausea;
• vomiting reflex;
• dizziness;
• trembling, chills;
• increased sweating.

If the patient exhibits such side effects, the session should be stopped immediately.

In addition, some side effects may be caused by the unprofessionalism of the chiropractor who performed acupuncture. These include, first of all, severe pain at the time of needle insertion, the formation of hematomas at the site of skin puncture and tissue infection due to violation of the rules for disinfecting needles.

For this reason, it is extremely important to seek help only from qualified specialists who you can safely trust to take care of your health.

And, of course, it should be understood that treatment of osteochondrosis with acupuncture, even with all the effectiveness of this method, requires a systematic approach, and a one-time visit to a specialist is unlikely to give the desired result. On average, a standard course includes 10–15 daily sessions lasting from 10 to 30 minutes, but if necessary, treatment can be resumed after a two-week break. In general, the number and duration of courses is determined by the attending physician individually for each patient.

What will happen during an acupuncture session?

Treatment with a reflexologist always begins with a conversation and examination. Do you think that since the diagnosis is already known, why ask so many questions, just take it and treat it?

A good acupuncturist does not act according to a template. He owns the technique and applies it to each patient separately. This picture shows how many factors influence the choice of points and methods of influence.

That is why the acupuncturist needs himself , form his own opinion about what is happening, see how your disease progresses, which symptom is more pronounced than others. Only after this will he be able to correctly draw up a treatment program. And the actual acupuncture procedure begins. Which, by the way, is nothing to worry about.

The needles are always disposable. The package is opened in front of you, so you can see for yourself.

Before starting work, sometimes they do a small massage of the area where work is to be done.

You most likely will not feel the moment the needle is inserted at all. Pain is possible (for example, due to your body overreacting), but the doctor knows how to manage it. It will also warn you about other sensations. It can be warmth, fullness, or vice versa, complete relaxation. Feel free to ask questions!

Preparing for the session

The specialist uses only disposable needles, which he throws away after the procedure. You cannot eat before the session; at least half an hour must pass after eating, and after acupuncture is completed, you can eat only 30 minutes later. The method is in no way compatible with going to the bathhouse or sauna.

When a person takes a comfortable position, the acupuncture session begins. In this case, the specialist independently determines acupuncture points based on the patient’s complaints.

The tip of the needle is slightly rounded, which allows it to push tissue apart without causing pain. At this time, some patients report the following sensations:

1. Feeling of tissue swelling.
2. Slight numbness.
3. Mild tingling or burning sensation.
4. Itching at the site of needle insertion.

If the cause of acupuncture is osteochondrosis, then needles are usually placed on the area of ​​the shoulder blades. The needle is inserted to a depth of approximately 2 cm, the average waiting time is 30 minutes.

A competent specialist should understand the following issues of acupuncture:

1. Must be experienced.
2. Have the ability to diagnose the disease.
3. Have knowledge of acupuncture points without having an atlas or diagram.

IMPORTANT! An experienced master must rely in his work on the individual qualities of a person and fully control the acupuncture process. Certificates and diplomas of completion of special courses should be confirmation of his skill.

To perform acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis, special needles, sharp and thin, are used

To obtain the maximum therapeutic effect, you must adhere to certain rules:

1. The acupuncture procedure is prohibited after serious physical exertion or gymnastic exercises. The technique is not performed on patients who have recently undergone intravenous injections.
2. You should not come for acupuncture on an empty stomach. However, breakfast does not have to be heavy. Eating food and water should be at least an hour after the start of treatment.
3. Before starting the procedure, the patient must empty the bladder and, if possible, the intestines.
4. Before the treatment session, you need to remove metal jewelry.
5. The patient takes a comfortable position that helps him relax as much as possible.
6. Next, the specialist determines biologically active points on the patient’s body and the characteristics of their stimulation. The initial examination may last about an hour.
7. Next, thin, long, disposable needles are inserted into the patient’s body. Their quantity and depth of introduction are determined individually. As a rule, treatment of osteochondrosis, which is in the initial stage, is carried out within half an hour. If the disease is advanced, then the session can last an hour or more.

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The duration of treatment required for cure is determined by a specialist. Usually this is 10, maximum 15 sessions.

In addition to performing acupuncture for lumbar osteochondrosis, the specialist can give the patient some recommendations regarding proper nutrition, which is also important for a speedy recovery.

Since osteochondrosis can spread to various parts of the spine, acupuncture may involve impact on the following areas:

• chest;
• cervical;
• lumbar

When installing needles, the doctor adheres to the following rules:

1. If the disease affects the cervical region, then needles are inserted along the inner edge of the shoulder blades, as well as around them. The penetration into the skin is about 2 cm, and the recommended number of needles is 8 pieces.
2. If we are talking about thoracic osteochondrosis, then needles are inserted along the entire thoracic spine. The depth of needle insertion is 1.5 cm.
3. If the lumbar region is affected, treatment of osteochondrosis with acupuncture involves installing needles at 5 points.

Acupuncture works well in combination with other techniques. This procedure should not be overused, since with frequent use it loses its effectiveness.

Modern methods of acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis may include two options for influencing points:

1. To obtain a pronounced sedative effect, the acupuncturist inserts the needles deeply, leaving them in this position for half an hour.
2. To ensure a stimulating and tonic effect, the needles are left in the body for no more than 4 minutes. The penetration depth is 1 cm.

The essence of acupuncture

The technique has been known to mankind for more than two thousand years. Its essence lies in irritating certain points on the body with needles. For each internal organ on the human body there was a projection in the form of a point; if you act on it with special needles, you can control the functioning of the body.

There are thousands of points on our body that are directly connected to the human internal system. The impact of therapeutic needles on active points returns the cervical, shoulder, lumbar or other region to function. Thanks to this, painful sensations decrease, relaxation appears and the body begins to work towards healing.

This therapy has several advantages that affect osteochondrosis:

• no allergic reaction;
• acupuncture can be performed at any age;
• improvements already from the first session;
• no skin trauma.

After the first session, patients experience increased functionality, reduction of edema, normalization of sleep, gradually passing drowsiness, strengthening of the immune system, etc. In general, acupuncture as a therapeutic procedure is suitable for almost everyone, but it is not recommended for blood and skin diseases, pregnancy, late-stage tumors and a number of infectious diseases.

Good to know! Reflexologists use atlases (maps) of all acupunctures to accurately determine the location and achieve maximum effect.

For a person without medical training, the benefits of acupuncture include feeling good and reducing pain. If we consider the procedure from a professional point of view, its effect on the body will be more significant and complex.

• As a result of irritation of the points, the body produces an endogenous opiate - a substance that can block pain, as well as serotonin - a hormone that controls mood.
• Acupuncture activates the synthesis of cortisol, a substance that blocks inflammatory processes.
• Acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis helps normalize blood flow, as a result - swelling disappears and restorative functions are activated.
• Acupuncture is a catalyst for drug therapy because needles enhance the effectiveness of medications.
• A decrease in muscle tone and tension in the spinal muscles occurs after the first session.

Good to know! Pain is usually triggered by muscle contractions. Acupuncture eliminates compression and restores muscle balance - spasmodic muscle fibers relax, and too relaxed muscle fibers become toned.

The acupuncture technique for osteochondrosis is used when the patient is contraindicated in physical therapy and massage, and is also allergic to medications.

Needles and spine

There is a medical opinion (regardless of the factually unproven existence of vital energy and its passage through the organs) that the influence of needles is used to irritate nerve nodes.

Their stimulation accelerates metabolic processes and improves blood circulation, which is especially important for the cervical spinal zone, which connects the torso to the head.

Patients note rapid improvement in their condition after the procedures.

There is also a scientific medical explanation for the effectiveness of needles in treating neck pain, because with osteochondrosis, it is pain that causes the patient the most trouble.

1. The needles stimulate the cervical spine, increasing the release of endogenous opiates.
2. The pain-relieving effect comes from the release of serotonin.
3. Blood circulation improves, which promotes increased production of cortisol.
4. A relaxing effect occurs, which helps to more effectively perceive concurrent drug therapy.

Indications for the procedure

Osteochondrosis of the neck can be an indication for treatment with needles at various stages of severity. The method is used both at the initial stage and in cases of acute pain or impaired mobility. The undoubted advantage of manipulation is that it is not capable of causing allergic reactions.

Acupuncture for medical purposes is recommended:

• at initial manifestations of osteochondrosis to slow down its progression;
• in the process of increasing or acute pain syndrome, which arose due to degenerative changes in hard tissues or muscle spasm;
• with the formation of protrusion or growth of a hernia;
• during the increase in edema associated with tissue inflammation;
• with decreased neck mobility associated with pain;
• in the presence of vertebral artery syndrome, which manifests itself as pain in the head.

Table. Action and effects of acupuncture.

List of contraindications

Despite the absence of allergic reactions and the safety of the method, there are many contraindications to acupuncture.

1. The procedure is not performed for pregnant women, since the mechanism of the process has not yet been scientifically determined, and can provoke premature birth or negatively affect the child’s body.
2. Acupuncture should not be performed on a person during an infectious disease, since any injury to the skin gives an additional chance of the infection becoming more acute and expanding the area of ​​infection.
3. Acupuncture sessions are strictly not recommended for patients with cancer, as they can accelerate the growth of cells, both healthy and tumor tissues.
4. Sessions are not provided for children under three years of age.
5. The impact of needles on the body of elderly people over 75 years of age is also not recommended.
6. Do not injure the patient’s skin if there are skin diseases.
7. Exposure to needles is not recommended for any mental disorder.
8. Due to stimulation of blood flow, acupuncture is prohibited for vascular and blood diseases.
9. The procedure is not performed if the patient is malnourished.

Absolute contraindications to acupuncture procedures

Possible side effects

As with any effect on the body, side effects exist. Each person is individual, and each body perceives the influence of needles differently. Possible undesirable and negative effects include the following.

1. Painful insertion of needles and prolonged pain during the procedure.
2. Formation of hematomas, subcutaneous local bleeding at the injection point.
3. Infection of tissues due to non-compliance with sterility.
4. Temporary increase in pain amplitude.
5. Decreased blood pressure, accompanied by tinnitus and dizziness.
6. Nausea and feeling of chills.
7. Excessive short-term sweating.

There are a number of signs and symptoms that should cause the procedure to be stopped.

1. The onset of dizziness.
2. The appearance of the urge to vomit.
3. If the pain at the needle insertion site is severe.
4. If the needle is bent or broken.

Acupuncture needles

Patient reviews

Acupuncture has many good reviews from people with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Most patients note that acupuncture sessions in combination with basic therapy helped them quickly and effectively improve their well-being , reduce pain, relax muscles, eliminate dizziness and headaches.

For many, the procedure seemed quite painless ; during the procedure, only itching, slight tingling and warmth were felt. Most patients tolerated acupuncture sessions well and did not experience any side effects.

Rare patients experienced a feeling of numbness, heaviness, decreased blood pressure , tinnitus, a feeling of nausea and other unpleasant conditions. A few complained of a temporary increase in pain, which subsided after some time.

Are there any possible side effects?

Treatment for thoracic osteochondrosis is rare, but can still cause unwanted reactions in the body. They often appear in those patients who do not follow preparatory measures before acupuncture or perform the procedure while intoxicated. The procedure can also cause adverse reactions if it is not performed by a professional reflexologist or if the specialist does the job poorly. In this case, the patient may experience low blood pressure, dizziness, and blurred vision. And also against the background of acupuncture, hematomas often occur or bleeding occurs. If negative symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor. In this case, the procedures are canceled or adjustments are made to the treatment.

Prevention of lumbar osteochondrosis

Taking care of the spine is necessary not only for those diagnosed with lumbar osteochondrosis, but also for everyone who wants to maintain health. The following rules will help reduce the risk of developing the disease:

• watch your posture, do not stay in one position for a long time;
• engage in water sports and be physically active;
• prevent hypothermia of the body;
• correctly distribute the load when carrying heavy objects;
• carefully organize a comfortable place to sleep;
• Do not wear high-heeled shoes for a long time.