EFFICACY OF ACUPUNCTURE IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN

Abstract

Chronic low back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by persistent lower back pain and associated with functional limitations, reduced participation in daily activities, and impairments in quality of life. Due to its multifactorial nature, its management may require therapeutic strategies that address physical, functional, and psychosocial aspects. In this context, Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (PICS) encompass various therapeutic modalities—including acupuncture—which can serve as a complementary approach to healthcare (Brazil, 2022). This project aims to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in treating chronic low back pain, considering its potential effects on pain intensity, functional capacity, and quality of life. This study is an integrative literature review involving searches in the SciELO, PEDro, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, covering studies published between 2018 and 2024. Priority will be given to clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses investigating the use of acupuncture in adults with chronic low back pain. Available evidence indicates favorable outcomes across various measures, although limitations persist regarding protocol heterogeneity and the methodological quality of some studies. Thus, the study seeks to synthesize and analyze existing evidence on the use of acupuncture as a complementary resource in the management of chronic low back pain.