4 verified, licensed acupuncturists in San Francisco treating back pain. Featured practitioners are highlighted at the top.
Former physical therapist turned licensed acupuncturist. Specializes in musculoskeletal pain — particularly chronic low back pain, sciatica, and post-injury recovery. Pairs needling with electroacupuncture for pain cases. Coordinates regularly with local orthopedists and PTs.
10 years · Pain & women's health
Combines TCM and Korean-style acupuncture. Sees a lot of desk-worker back and neck pain in the SF tech crowd. Gentle technique, particularly good for needle-averse patients trying acupuncture for the first time.
Generalist TCM practice in the Mission District. Treats a broad range including back pain, headaches, sleep, and digestive issues.
Community-style acupuncture clinic — same licensed practitioners, lower cost, group treatment room. Good fit for budget-conscious patients or those who prefer multiple short sessions over fewer longer ones.
Chronic low back pain is one of the most-studied uses of acupuncture in modern medicine. Cochrane reviews have found acupuncture is more effective than no treatment, and at least as effective as several conventional therapies, for short-term pain relief in chronic low back pain. The American College of Physicians' clinical guidelines include acupuncture as a recommended non-pharmacologic option for chronic cases.
Medicare has covered acupuncture for chronic low back pain (defined as pain lasting 12+ weeks) since 2020 — up to 12 visits in 90 days, with another 8 visits if there's documented improvement.
Read the full evidence summary on our back pain page, or the broader state of the evidence.
Every practitioner above has been verified for active state licensure in California. Featured practitioners have completed extended profiles and are likely to respond fastest to inquiries.
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