Essential oils for back pain could be a treatment option as long as they are used correctly. Although their popularity has grown, people are still divided regarding their effectiveness. The common questions that arise do these plant-based oils have the power to alleviate pain, or are they just a placebo?
Table of Contents
Oils
They are essentially chemicals extracted from various plants. They are aromatic, and as far as chemical compounds go, they can quickly enter the air allowing for inhalation. Doctors have been asked for their opinions on essential oils. And they agree that they can be effective. However, it is something that is difficult to prove scientifically. Currently, there is not much research to turn to prove that they work. One reason is that it’s challenging to do this type of study.
But there are some reliable studies. A study found that using essential oils as aromatherapy can significantly reduce pain. Another study found orange oil specifically to relieve pain. More research suggests that certain oils are applied as a topical agent to the low back, like wintergreen or peppermint; they act as an alternative pain reducer to traditional meds that cause side effects.
Definitely, more research needs to be done to become a standard form of care. And they can be; it just depends on what it’s for. For example, can they cure cancer? No. Can they help with the symptoms? Yes. Certain oils have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. Patients have reported aromatherapy and oils applied topically have helped them with their pain. But, just like anything, it is different for everybody.
When to use
Back pain/conditions that are appropriate for essential oils would be chronic, low-level pain. With numbness, weakness, bowel/bladder dysfunction, or severe, incapacitating pain, go to the hospital, emergency clinic, etc. If pain symptoms do not improve within three to five days, make an appointment with a doctor, chiropractor, or spine specialist.
Always check with a healthcare physician before starting an essential oil regimen. This is to make sure there are no adverse effects or complications. See a doctor or spine specialist to ensure a serious condition is not the cause of back pain. Severe conditions should not be treated with only essential oils. Oils are considered a small part of a larger integrative treatment plan. This includes:
- Allopathic therapies
- Physical therapy
- Mind-body
- Exercises
- Sleep
- Anti-inflammatory diet
Use for back pain
Once a doctor clears an individual to use essential oils, adding them to a back-care treatment plan can be done in two ways.
- Aromatherapy, with the use of a diffuser to release into the air, allowing for inhalation.
- Topical agent in the form of a salve, lotion, or cream, and massaged into the pain area
There are combined aromatic salves and lotions that appeal to patients. An example is aromatherapy combined with calming lavender oil. Oils that are used to alleviate back pain:
- Lavender is an excellent choice as an aromatherapy
- Orange
For a topical agent:
- Ginger
- Camphor
- Menthol
- Rosemary
- Wintergreen
- Mint
What to Know
Choosing the topical option means the oil needs to be diluted, as undiluted oil can cause a rash or other reactions. They can be diluted with a carrier. This can be almond, avocado, or coconut. Never ingest essential oil. They can be highly toxic if ingested and should not be used for small children. Used correctly, they could help with back pain issues; ask your doctor or chiropractor if they could be an option.
Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment
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The information herein on "Essential Oils Back Pain Guide" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
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Degree Granted. Master's in Family Practice, MSN Diploma (Cum Laude)
Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC*, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
(Board Certified: Family Practice Nurse Practitioner—Multistate)*
(Licensed Nurse Practitioner & Chiropractor - Multistate)*
Clinical Director
DC & FNP License (Review Above)
Digital Business Card
NPI: 1205907805
Dr. Maria Cardenas, MD
(Board Certified: Internal Medicine)
(Licensed Medical Doctor)
Medical Director, Clinical Director & Collaborative Physician
NPI # 1164426748
MD License #: J2933
Licenses and Board Certifications:
MD: Medical Doctor
DC: Doctor of Chiropractic
APRNP: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
FNP-BC: Family Practice Specialization (Multi-State Board Certified)
FNP-BC: Family Practice Across Life Span (Neonatal to Geriatrics)
RN: Registered Nurse (Multi-State Compact License)
CFMP: Certified Functional Medicine Provider
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CCST: Certified Chiropractic Spinal Trauma
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Family with Primary Care Focus (Family Nurse Practitioner or FNP)
- The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) promotes, maintains, and restores health for individuals and families across the lifespan. FNPs also identify health risks, promote wellness, and diagnose and manage acute and chronic illness.
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Memberships & Associations:
TCA: Texas Chiropractic Association: Member ID: 104311
TNA: Texas Nurse Association: Member ID: 06458222
TNP: Texas Nurse Practitioner Association ID: 2025091511
AANP: American Association of Nurse Practitioners: Member ID: 2198960
ANA: American Nurses Association: Member ID: 06458222 (District TX01)
| Primary Taxonomy | Selected Taxonomy | State | License Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| No | 111N00000X - Chiropractor | NM | DC2182 |
| Yes | 111N00000X - Chiropractor | TX | DC5807 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | TX | 1191402 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | FL | 11043890 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | CO | C-APN.0105610-C-NP |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | NY | N25929 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | NM |
90560 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | GA | GAA-NP005701 |
Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC*, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
(Board Certified: Family Practice Nurse Practitioner—Multistate)*
(Primary Care Across Lifespan—Neonatal / Pediatric / Adult / Geriatrics)
(Licensed Nurse Practitioner & Chiropractor - Multistate)*
Clinical Director
Digital Business Card
NPI: 1205907805
Dr. Maria Cardenas, MD
(Board Certified: Internal Medicine)*
(Licensed Medical Doctor)*
Medical Director, Clinical Director & Collaborative Physician
NPI # 1164426748
MD License #: J2933
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