From Ronald's writing · July 9, 2022
What Causes the Scourge of Back Pain? Can Acupuncture Help?
Ronald's personal account of severe neck and low-back pain, the many layers he found behind it, and how that experience shaped the way he works with patients.
Back pain can be debilitating and life-changing. Its causes and the choices among acupuncture, chiropractic care, medication, rehabilitation, and surgery can feel confusing and overwhelming. I have been there.
More than 20 years ago, I had excruciating low-back and neck pain. It repeatedly put me flat on my back and unable to work for days. It was worsening while I was still in my twenties. I went to multiple chiropractors and eventually landed in an emergency room, where the answer offered was pain medication and muscle relaxers.
That frustrating experience helped push me toward understanding and treating the causes of my pain. I eventually attended acupuncture school and independently studied with medical doctors, acupuncturists, chiropractors, psychologists, and other practitioners.
My pain was a layered puzzle
My back and neck pain involved old sports injuries, car accidents, mineral and nutritional deficiencies, digestive issues, dental issues, and unresolved emotional stress. These problems created layers of inflammation, weakness, and tension that affected both my body and outlook.
Having to understand each piece gave me a deeper appreciation for why pain can persist and why simply masking it is not always enough. That personal education now helps me listen for the details in each patient's situation.
Root and branch
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine were central parts of my recovery. Acupuncture theory teaches us to track the “root” of pain while also addressing the “branch,” meaning the symptoms and pain itself. In modern terms, treatment may focus on nervous-system signaling, circulation, soft tissue, and the broader factors affecting recovery.
In my case, careful nutritional and detoxification work also became part of the process. I improved gradually as I understood and addressed each layer. More than 20 years later, I am grateful that my neck and low back are active and functional. I deadlift, swing kettlebells, hike, and deep squat with ease.
Do not ignore the signal
Pain is information that something needs attention. It should not be dismissed as merely part of life or aging. Acupuncture and complementary care may be useful parts of a plan, but new, severe, unexplained, or worsening pain requires appropriate medical evaluation. Treatment choices depend on the person, diagnosis, risks, and goals.
This article preserves Ronald's personal story and central message from his original website, with medical claims edited for clarity and responsible expectations. It is general information, not medical advice, and results vary.