Neck Pain

Acupuncture for Neck Pain in Denver

Neck pain may arise from muscles, joints, discs, arthritis, prolonged posture, repetitive loading or irritation of cervical nerves.

Often several factors are present at the same time—which is why simply treating the most tender muscle does not always produce lasting relief.

Why Neck Pain Can Persist

Pain may begin after an injury or prolonged strain and then continue because movement becomes restricted, muscles remain guarded and normal load is distributed poorly through the neck, shoulders and upper back.

Longstanding pain can also become increasingly influenced by the nervous system's processing of pain.

What Does the Research Say?

Acupuncture has substantial evidence for chronic neck pain.

NCCIH reports that large analyses have found acupuncture more effective for back and neck pain than both no treatment and sham acupuncture.

A 2024 systematic review examining durability found that acupuncture used as an adjunct treatment could provide pain relief lasting at least three months after treatment ended.

Typical Course of Care

A typical starting course is weekly treatment for approximately 6–8 visits, with reassessment as pain and movement improve.

We may assess not just the neck but also:

• Upper-back mobility

• Shoulder position and movement

• Jaw tension

• Headache patterns

• Arm symptoms

• Work and computer ergonomics

Depending on the examination, acupuncture may be supplemented with electroacupuncture, dry needling, cupping or gua sha.

Acupuncture and Other Treatment

Acupuncture is often particularly useful alongside physical therapy or progressive strengthening when weakness, restricted movement or poor load tolerance contributes to the problem.

Persistent arm weakness or numbness, major trauma, or symptoms suggestive of spinal-cord involvement should be medically evaluated.

Schedule an evaluation online at Backupuncture of Denver 950 S Cherry St, Suite 1675, Denver, CO 80246 or call (720)370-2711 for chronic or recurring neck pain.