INTEGRATING ACUPUNCTURE AND LIFESTYLE EDUCATION FOR WOMEN WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: A PEDAGOGICAL AND COMMUNITYCENTERED APPROACH.

Abstract

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, deeply affecting physical functioning, psychological well-being, and social participation. Traditional medical interventions often emphasise pharmacological management; however, nonpharmacological interventions such as acupuncture-based rehabilitation and lifestyle modification have shown considerable promise. This article synthesises contemporary and historical evidence on these interventions, examines their functional outcomes, and proposes an integrated pedagogical framework for enhancing adherence, community awareness, and sustainable behaviour change. By reframing CLBP management through educational and community lenses, this article suggests that combining multimodal rehabilitation with targeted educational initiatives can significantly improve functional outcomes and quality of life for women living with CLBP. Gaps in existing literature are particularly gender specific and comparative studies and context relevant research in low- and middle-income settings are identified. Implications for educators, community health practitioners, and policymakers are discussed.