A Theoretical Exploration of Acupuncture for Non-Specific Low Back Pain Based on the Jingjin Theory

Abstract

Non-specific low back pain (NLBP) is a common soft tissue injury in clinical practice, characterized by varying degrees of pain and discomfort in the lower back. Its etiology often lacks clear specificity. Patients exhibit dysfunction of the sinew channels, often accompanied by muscle stiffness, restricted mobility, and impaired quality of life. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, NLBP is classified as "sinew impediment" (Jin Bi), with its pathogenesis attributed to sinew channel dysregulation and impaired circulation of qi and blood. Sinew channels are responsible for "binding the bones and facilitating the joints," playing a crucial role in maintaining skeletal stability, joint mobility, and overall movement coordination. The sinew channels in the lower back are closely related to the six-foot meridians, providing a significant theoretical foundation for diagnosis and treatment. Guided by sinew channel theory, palpation techniques are used to precisely locate lesion points, primarily focusing on "sinew knots" along the sinew channel pathways. Sinew knots are typically characterized by localized tissue tension, hard nodules, or tender points. During diagnosis, analyzing the distribution characteristics and depth of lesion points helps define the extent and severity of the condition, laying the groundwork for developing personalized treatment plans. Acupuncture is one of the primary TCM interventions. By needling lesion points to stimulate sinew channels, it can unblock meridians, regulate qi and blood, and alleviate the "sinew impediment" condition. Precision is central to acupuncture practice, with careful adjustments to needle depth and angle to target the affected tissues effectively, thereby relieving pain and restoring function. The application of sinew channel theory not only provides a reliable basis for the diagnosis and treatment of NLBP but also offers new perspectives for addressing other sinew-related conditions. Clinical practice of precision acupuncture further validates the effectiveness of this theory, offering scientific support for advancing traditional TCM techniques and integrating them with modern medical approaches.