Acupuncture can help people with chronic low back pain feel less bothered by their symptoms and function better in their daily activities, according to the largest U.S. randomized trial of its kind, published in the May 11, 2009 Archives of Internal Medicine. But the SPINE (Stimulating Points to Investigate Needling Efficacy) trial raises questions about how the ancient practice actually works.
Yoga appears to be more effective for low back pain than conventional exercise or getting a self-care book, according to a first-of-its kind study conducted by researchers at Group Health Center for Health Studies and published in the December 20, 2005 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine.
