BACK PAIN RELIEF IN METAIRIE – BIG EASY ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBAL MEDICINE

Does acupuncture help with back pain?

Yes, acupuncture can relieve back pain by relaxing tight muscles, improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and restoring mobility.

 

BACK PAIN HOLDINGYOU BACK? FIND RELIEF WITH ACUPUNCTURE

Does your back ache after sitting too long or standing at work?
Do you get shooting pains down your leg or stiffness in the morning?

Back pain can interfere with even the simplest parts of life — tying your shoes, picking up your kids, sleeping well, or making it through a workday. For many people, it’s more than discomfort. It can affect sleep, reduce energy, and even limit independence.

Acupuncture offers safe, natural, and drug-free relief that addresses the root cause of your pain.

 

WHAT CAUSES BACK PAIN?

Back pain is one of the leading reasons people visit doctors worldwide. It can come from everyday strain or more complex conditions. Common causes include:

• Everyday Strain & Overuse
  Heavy lifting, repetitive bending, twisting, or long hours on your feet.
• Poor Posture & Core Weakness
  Slouching at a desk, weak abdominal support, or prolonged sitting.
• Injuries & Accidents
  Sports injuries, falls, or sudden awkward movements leading to sprains or herniated discs.
• Nerve Irritation
  Sciatica, pinched nerves, or spinal stenosis causing radiating pain to the legs.
• Age-Related Changes
  Arthritis, osteoporosis, degenerative disc disease, and reduced disc cushioning.
• Scar Tissue, Bone Spurs, Masses, Tumors
  Internal changes that press on nerves or limit movement.
• Lifestyle Factors
  Smoking (slows healing), stress (tightens muscles), seasonal cold/damp weather can all trigger pain, or feeling tight muscles when sick.

HOW PEOPLE EXPERIENCE BACK PAIN

• Physically – Pain may be dull, aching, or sharp. It may radiate down one or both legs (sciatica), cause stiffness, or lead to spasms that make it hard to move.
  
• Mentally – Chronic back pain often brings frustration, irritability, or depression due to ongoing limitations.
  
• Time Frame – Some cases resolve with rest and lifestyle changes; others become persistent or recurring, lasting months or years.

 

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK FOR BACK PAIN?

Acupuncture is effective because it targets both the muscles and nerve pathways involved in pain.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is well known to provide a natural, anatomy based, researched, and safe approach to treating back pain.

Thin sterile needles are inserted at specific points either locally or along distant areas of the body that connect to the same pathways to manipulate the body, reduce pain, and calm the nervous system. Pain can come from nerves being elongated, shortened, or compressed. Nerve compression and muscular tensions lead to areas of the body not being able to fire actions like a misfire in a car or perform as intended because the area could be shut off. 

Western Medical Perspective:

• Triggers release of endorphins (your body’s natural pain relievers)
• Relaxes tight muscles and reduces spasms
• Improves blood circulation for faster healing
• Decreases inflammation in irritated joints and discs
• Restores proper nerve signaling to reduce radiating pain
• Calms the nervous system, helping the body “reset” from chronic tension

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective:

• Clears blockages in meridians that cause pain and stiffness
• Restores balance of Qi, blood, and body fluids
• Reduces stress and tension that worsen back problems

The result: Less pain, improved mobility, stronger posture, and better quality of life.

 

RESEARCH ON ACUPUNCTURE FOR BACK PAIN

Modern research continues to confirm the benefits of acupuncture for people living with back pain:

• A large randomized trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients receiving acupuncture — whether individualized or standardized — experienced greater improvements in function and symptoms compared to usual care. Read the study ›
• A systematic review and meta-analysis in Pain Medicine concluded that acupuncture was generally more effective than control treatments for various neuropathic pain conditions, improving both pain and nerve function. Read the study ›

What this means for you: Acupuncture is not only safe, but it has strong scientific support as a natural, effective treatment for back pain — helping reduce symptoms, restore mobility, and improve quality of life.

 

TYPES OF TECHNIQUES USED FOR BACK PAIN

• Traditional Acupuncture – Needling along Bladder, Kidney, and Du channels, especially points along the lumbar spine. These meridians are pathways of action utilized to treat your condition.
• Sports Medicine Acupuncture – Targeting motor points to restore muscle balance, relieve nerve compression, and restore function to nerve pathway of action. These pathways are part of a larger network of nerve branches that showcase the pathways of action of the body.
  
• Electrostimulation (Electroacupuncture) – Gentle electrical current to reduce inflammation and improve nerve function. Electrostimulation can provide deeper stimulation for a period of time without the need to manually stimulate each needle.
  
• Cupping Therapy – Cups are placed onto the skin to create suction. This increases blood flow to surface level tissues and loosens muscles/tendons

 

IMAGING AND RED FLAGS

Imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) may be recommended if:

• Pain follows an accident, fall, heavy trauma, or major injury
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness travels into one or both legs
• Pain is severe, persistent, or worsening even with care
• Sudden changes in bladder or bowel control occur
• Unexplained weight loss, fever, or other systemic symptoms appear
  

Imaging can reveal issues such as disc herniation, fractures, or spinal narrowing that may guide treatment.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST ACUPUNCTURE VISIT

When you visit Big Easy Acupuncture in Metairie, we start by discussing the reason for your visit, history of complaint, and checking your mobility and muscle strength. Then we create a plan just for you.

• Consultation & Assessment – We’ll discuss your pain history, lifestyle factors, and perform orthopedic mobility and strength testing to determine your personalized treatment plan.
  
• Treatment – Gentle acupuncture targeting back pain pathways, with needles retained for ~20 minutes.
  
• What You May Feel – A sense of release in the muscles, reduced pain, improved movement, and deep relaxation.
  
• Complementary Care – Cupping, electroacupuncture, or manual therapy may be used to boost results.
  
• Lifestyle Support – Core-strengthening exercises, lifting technique adjustments, and posture tips.

Big Easy Acupuncture treatments utilize a combination of Sports Medicine Acupuncture along with Traditional Chinese Medicine to bring you the best of both this ancient healing system along with modern treatment methods.

 

BENEFITS OUR PATIENTS NOTICE

• Relief from neck pain and stiffness
• Reduced radiating pain from back pain (Sciatica)
• Better posture, range of motion, and strength
• Better sleep and lower stress levels
• Reduced reliance on pain medications
• More energy for daily life

Many patients feel relief within the first or first few visits. For chronic or recurring cases, a short treatment series helps retrain the body for long-term results.

 

AFTERCARE (POST TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS)

• Drink water to support recovery
• Avoid heavy lifting immediately after treatment
• Practice gentle stretches or core engagement exercises as recommended
• Pay attention to ergonomic adjustments (chair support, lifting mechanics)
• Some patients may have temporary soreness at needling sites as the body processes treatment. This can be normal for some and resolves normally within 24-48 hours.
• Pain reduction is not the only progress people make on their journey to reduce and remove their pains. Pay attention to changes in mobility, strength, sleep, medications used, and overall comfort level. 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How many acupuncture sessions do I need for back pain?
  Many patients notice improvement quickly, but for chronic low back pain, 6–8 visits help retrain the body for lasting relief.
• Is acupuncture safe for chronic back pain?
  Yes. Acupuncture is a safe, non-drug treatment that supports both acute and chronic back pain management.
• Can acupuncture help with sciatica?
  Absolutely. By reducing nerve irritation and relaxing tight muscles, acupuncture often reduces radiating pain into the legs.
• Do you accept insurance for acupuncture?
  Big Easy Acupuncture is a cash-based clinic. We can provide itemized receipts for patients who want to seek out-of-network reimbursement upon request. 

 

Unlike pain medications that only mask symptoms, acupuncture helps your body heal. It’s safe, natural, and effective — and it’s trusted by people all over the world.

🌿 Ready to Find Relief from Back Pain?

📍 Big Easy Acupuncture | Metairie, LA
📞 504-650-0027

FEEL RIGHT. MOVE FREE. LIVE EASY.

 

References

1. Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Avins, A. L., Erro, J. H., Ichikawa, L., Barlow, W. E., … & Deyo, R. A. (2009). A randomized trial comparing acupuncture, simulated acupuncture, and usual care for chronic low back pain. Archives of Internal Medicine, 169(9), 858–866. View Article ›
2. Vickers, A. J., Vertosick, E. A., Lewith, G., MacPherson, H., Foster, N. E., Sherman, K. J., … & Linde, K. (2012). Acupuncture for chronic pain: individual patient data meta-analysis. Pain Medicine, 18(3), 356–374. PubMed ›

Lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Crohn’s disease…You may have heard of these conditions, but do you know what they have in common? They are all types of autoimmune disease and they are all lifelong conditions.

Approximately 50 million Americans are living with an autoimmune disease. If you are facing one of these conditions, you know how crucial it is to have a treatment plan in place to help you manage your symptoms and live the healthiest, most active life possible.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in living with an autoimmune disease. They can help:

• Strengthen your immune system
• Relieve painful symptoms
• Reduce your stress, and
• Bolster your overall health

Perhaps most importantly, your practitioner will focus on YOU as an individual. Your care will be tailored to your specific needs and symptoms, so you won’t ever receive a “one-size-fits-all” treatment.

When the immune response goes wrong

To understand autoimmune disease, we must first understand how the immune system works. The immune system generally acts as the body’s protection against foreign substances and microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. When the immune system is working properly, it can tell the difference between the body’s own tissues and outside organisms.

In the case of autoimmune diseases the immune system stops being able to differentiate, and begins to attack the body’s own cells, tissues, and organs. This immune response causes harmful inflammation that eventually leads to an autoimmune condition. There are about 80 recognized autoimmune diseases, and several other conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and fibromyalgia that are currently believed to have an autoimmune component.

Autoimmune conditions are often difficult to diagnose and treat because their symptoms and progression can vary from person to person. These conditions may either affect many organs or target one specific part of the body. The symptoms may be persistent, get progressively worse, or go into remission with occasional “flare-ups,” and can range from being mild to so severe that they become disabling.

The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are unknown, but since many conditions run in families, it’s believed there is a genetic relationship. Since women are at a much higher risk for many autoimmune diseases, hormones may also play a part.

Treatments generally rely upon a variety of medications, which can help to relieve symptoms, but may have uncomfortable side effects.

How acupuncture can help

Acupuncture and TCM take a holistic, or whole body approach to healing based on the idea of Qi, or vital energy. Qi flows through pathways called meridians to nourish all of the body’s organs, protect us from illness and keep us healthy. When the flow of Qi becomes diminished or blocked, disease can result.

The goal of treatment will be to find and treat the underlying imbalances that are affecting the flow of Qi. By addressing the root cause of the disease, TCM can help your body regain balance and help improve your overall health. Acupuncture and TCM can also help reduce inflammation, soothe uncomfortable symptoms, relieve side effects from medication, and increase your energy levels.

During treatment, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific points along the meridians in order to unblock any obstruction and allow Qi to flow freely. Your practitioner may also help improve your nutrition, reduce your stress, or start you on an exercise program.

In addition, your practitioner may recommend herbal remedies and supplements designed to support your health and boost your immune system. It’s important to communicate with all of your health providers in order to maximize your healing potential.

Acupuncture and TCM have proven effective against a wide variety of health concerns. By incorporating these powerful tools into your treatment program, you’re making the decision to support and nourish your body and take control of your autoimmune condition.

References:
Autoimmune diseases: overview. The National Women’s Health Information Center. Link
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. WebMD. May 17, 2007. Link

Acupuncture for Arthritis Relief in Metairie, LA

Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine

Does acupuncture help with arthritis?

Yes, acupuncture can relieve arthritis pain by releasing tight muscles, improving blood flow and oxygen to affected joints, reducing inflammation, and restoring mobility.

 

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term referring to inflammation and/or degeneration of joints. Arthritis causes joint damage, pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
There are many different types of arthritis.
Some of the most common include:

• Osteoarthritis: The cushioning between your bones (cartilage) wears down and is often part of the aging process
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Your immune system attacks your own joints and causes inflammation.
• Other types: gout, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis. 

Auto-immune arthritis types: Tends to have pain come and go when pain flares up 

Degenerative arthritis types: Tends to have pain worsen over time as the body goes through wear and tear

No matter the type, the result is similar – pain, stiffness, and loss of movement

 

Symptoms & Signs

Arthritis is a family of conditions with these most common arthritis symptoms and signs:

• Joint pain or tenderness
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Swelling or warmth around joints (Inflammation)
• Muscular tightness or pain near joints
• Pain that is worse in the morning or after being still for too long

 

What is Happening Inside Your Joints?

Healthy joints normally have soft tissue and fluid to have your bones glide easily.

Arthritis changes local joints but also affects the surrounding tissues over time.

• The joint becomes irritated and inflamed
• Blood flow diminishes around the area
• Muscles tighten to protect the area. 
• Nerves in the area can become irritated or compressed, sending stronger pain signals to the brain.
• Movement in general becomes harder and more painful. 
• Immune system attacking joints and causing inflammation for some types

Who is at higher risk?

What factors increase risk of dealing with arthritis issues?

Arthritis often develops from a mix of joint stress, inflammation, systemic factors, and natural wear over time.

You are more likely to develop arthritis if you:

• • Are Older (Normal wear and tear over time)
  • Are Female (Some types are more common in women)
  • Carry Extra Weight or Obesity (Puts pressure on joints)
  • Repetitive Motions or heavy physical labor
  • Smoking (Reduces blood flow and healing)
  • Family History (Genetics)

 

When to See a Doctor or Acupuncturist

See your healthcare provider or acupuncturist if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, feels swollen or warm, or limits your daily movement. 

Early treatment prevents long-term damage.

 

Diagnosis & Tests

Diagnosis of arthritis involves a combination of clinical exam, imaging, and sometimes lab tests. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to avoid joint destruction. 

• Physical exam: check joints for swelling, redness, warmth, range of motion, resistance strength, and pain.
• Imaging: X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT may be used to assess joint damage or rule out other causes.
• Laboratory/blood tests: especially when autoimmune arthritis is suspected (eg rheumatoid arthritis). Checking for markers like ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor.

How Acupuncture and Dry Needling Helps Arthritis

Acupuncture uses thin, sterile needles to help your body heal itself.

It improves blood and oxygen flow to the joints, calms the nervous system, and releases natural pain-relief chemicals.

Regular treatments can help reduce pain, ease swelling, and keep muscles relaxed so your joints move better.

Acupuncture leads to:

• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Improved blood and oxygen flow to joints
• Calmer nervous system so the pain signals quiet down
• Fewer flare ups
• Relaxed tight muscles that press on nerves and send signals of pain to the brain
• Support of joint movement, stability, and flexibility 
• Release of natural pain-relief chemicals in the brain
• Release of pain relieving and feel good chemicals that exist naturally to assist in pain reduction

What to Expect at Big Easy Acupuncture

Initial Visit:

• Starting pain map sheet to track original pain levels and areas affected
• Discussion of your health history, underlying conditions, and goals
• Mobility and strength testing to understand the initial range of motion, strength, and pain affecting certain muscle movement

Initial and Follow-Up Visits include a combination of the following: 

• • Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Acupuncture for pain, movement, and strength testing
  • Electro-acupuncture / Acupuncture for nerve and circulation support
  • Manual therapy to loosen tight muscles
  • Exercises / Lifestyle Advice for helping reduce inflammation from lifestyle choices
  • Herbal medicine when needed for support between visits or as a standalone treatment

 

How Many Visits will you need? 

Most patients feel improvement in their recovery within 4–6 treatments.
Chronic arthritis (that’s been around for years) often takes a few months for long-term change with maintenance suggested to support the aging process.
You may start with 1–2 visits per week, then spread out as your body improves.

Regular sessions help maintain these results. Most people notice significant improvement after the first few visits with results improving past that for recovery and maintenance. 

 

Post Treatment

You may feel mild soreness—similar to a light workout—but this fades within a day or two.
Most patients report:

• Less pain
• Easier movement
• Better strength
• Fewer flare-ups

 

Lifestyle tips for managing arthritis

To keep joints healthy between treatments:

• Stay active with gentle movement like walking, stretching, or swimming.
• Use heat for stiffness and ice for swelling.
• Keep a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure.
• Manage stress and get enough sleep to calm inflammation.
• Follow your doctor’s plan and use acupuncture as part of your total care.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Acupuncture Safe? 

Yes! Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. Side effects are rare and usually mild—such as small bruises or slight soreness. There’s no downtime, and most people return to normal activity right after their session.

Will I still need my arthritis medicine?
Yes. Acupuncture works best as part of your full care plan. You can use it safely along with your prescribed medicine for combined best effectiveness. 

How soon will I feel the results?
Some people notice change after the first visit. Most feel clear improvement within a few weeks.

Can acupuncture reduce swelling?
Yes. By improving circulation and calming the nervous system, acupuncture can help joints feel less swollen and stiff.

Is it safe for older adults?
Absolutely. Acupuncture is gentle, safe, and a great option for people who can’t take certain pain medicines.

 

Why Patients Choose Big Easy Acupuncture

At Big Easy Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, we take a hands-on approach that looks at your whole body — not just the sore joint.
We blend:

• Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Acupuncture
• Manual therapy / Bodywork to ease tight muscles
• Electro-acupuncture for nerve and circulation support
• Custom herbal medicine when needed

Our mission is simple:

👉 Feel Right. Move Free. Live Easy.

We treat the root cause, not just the symptoms, so you can enjoy life with less pain and more freedom of movement.

Serving patients in Metairie, New Orleans, and surrounding Louisiana communities.

Discover how acupuncture can help relieve arthritis pain naturally.

 

General Arthritis Information

1. Cleveland Clinic. Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Types, and Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12061-arthritis
2. Mayo Clinic. Arthritis: Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
3. Mayo Clinic. Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350777
4. National Health Service (NHS). Rheumatoid Arthritis – Treatment. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/treatment/

Acupuncture and Arthritis Research
5. Lu W, et al. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pain Medicine. 2022;23(6):1068–1080. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35496051
6. Zhang R, et al. Effect of acupuncture on pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review. Pain Medicine. 2024;25(3):541–553.
7. Zhou W, et al. The role of acupuncture in regulating inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Frontiers in Immunology. 2022;13:829409. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.829409/full
8. Liu C, et al. Acupuncture combined with standard therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2020;2020:1–12.