Back pain commonly challenges serious athletes, and runners are especially prone to it as mileage builds during training. If you’re looking for a broader overview of how acupuncture helps runners with injuries like this, see my full guide here — but I wanted to share this specific case in detail, since real treatment protocols and outcomes can be more useful than general advice alone.
This patient came to me after developing back pain while training for the New York Marathon. He was building up strength and running time when he developed pain in the lower back on the right side. The pain was most intense after running and sometimes traveled down through the buttock. Back stiffness and spasms were also a problem.
After a visit to his orthopedist and an MRI, he was diagnosed with sciatica from a bulging disc.
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Acupuncture treatment for Lower Back Pain and Sciatica
We began with treatments once a week. This patient had more stagnation than deficiency, so I focused on creating circulation by using more needles and electroacupuncture. But in athletes it’s also important to boost the underlying energy that supports training.
The acupuncture points I used were UB 23, UB 32, Yao Yan, GB 30, and UB 40, with electroacupuncture at 2Hz/30Hz. KI 3 and KI 7 on the inside ankle were also used to help boost the Qi.
I also looked for tender areas on the right side — traditionally called “ouch points,” but today referred to as trigger points. There were a number of these along the upper part of the pelvis. At the end of each session, I performed tui na to help relax the muscles and increase circulation.
The Acupuncture Results
After the first visit, the patient began to feel better. His back was less stiff, and he experienced less pain after running. We continued with weekly sessions throughout his training. At times, when he increased his mileage, his back pain was somewhat exacerbated — but after the following session, the pain was generally relieved and he could continue.
By the time the marathon rolled around, his back pain was under control and muscle stiffness was virtually gone. He was able to successfully complete the New York City Marathon.
If you’re dealing with back pain or sciatica from running or training, learn more about how acupuncture helps runners, or schedule a visit to discuss your specific situation.
