Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 2/7/2005

Question
I receive accupuncture treatments for a back injury.   How effective are these treatments long term?  

Also, I am thinking of buying a temperapedic bed/mattress.  Do you think this is useful?

I used to be very active, but am now afraid of re-injuring myself so I ask people to help me lift and carry.  I have no problems lifting items that are at my waist level.  I'm worried that I will have to depend on others more and more as I get older.  Can you recommend a way so that I don't have to depend so much on others?

Thanks,
Mary

Answer
Hello Mary,

   Accupuncture treatments can be effective long term(as long as you feel benefit from the treatments).  Tempurpedic makes great beds for alleviating pressure points  on the body when you are sleeping/lying down.  Depending on your injury ie: how it happened, what was injured, what your normal biomechanics are, and how the injury will affect you in the future!  

   You may want to see a doctor of chiropractic.  Chiropractors are the biomechanic experts of the spine and any joint in the body.  A exam and possibly x-rays or MRI will reveal what kind of injury you have and what kind of treatment/s will improve your condition.

Have a great day,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.