The Use of Acupuncture to Address Health Disparities in the Treatment of Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability, and treatment often involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies. Acupuncture is a medical treatment and ideology rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that utilizes applying small needles or pressure to specific points in the body. Utilized as an adjunct to supplement standard medical care, acupuncture is a procedure that can be done in a primary care setting. Multiple studies have shown efficacy in treating acute or chronic back pain, with up to 1.5% of the US population having used acupuncture at one point. In the pursuit of holistic health, well-documented barriers to care that create health disparities must be addressed, such as the shortage of pain care clinicians, the cost of treatment, and limited insurance coverage for certain treatment modalities. Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations have a high prevalence of chronic pain that is often exacerbated by social isolation, intersectional stigma, and barriers to treatment. Perceived cost, lack of familiarity, and limited connections with providers are some factors preventing patients from seeking alternative care. This literature review focuses on addressing these disparities in the treatment of low back pain and offers acupuncture as a valuable alternative treatment option with an overall positive patient response, limited side effect profile, and insurance coverage options to help provide care to some of our most vulnerable populations.