Acupuncture has a positive effect on the level of back pain suffered by many people, it has been contended.

Doctor JD Bartleson of the Mayo Clinic has stated in answer to a query on the subject that studies have shown the technique to be effective for many people, although scientists have not been able to establish just why it reduces pain.

Acupuncture has been practiced by the Chinese for thousands of years.

However, he added: "Acupuncture isn't a cure and not everyone responds to acupuncture for back pain."

Those looking for other ways to treat back pain may find that using cheap ultrasound machines is a good way of easing discomfort, with the waves helping to disperse the pain.

Last week, claims emerged from the University of Newcastle in Australia that the effects of back pain could be countered with an injection of methylene blue, which is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect by stimulating nitric oxide.