Introduction
Acute lumbar sprain is usually caused by improper posture, or excessive exertion or falling and contusion that impair the lumbar muscles, fascia and ligaments. The clinical manifestations are sudden lumbago and limited movement of the waist. TCM holds that lumbago is caused by improper exertion or falling and contusion that lead to impairment of the lumbar tendons and meridians as well as stagnation of qi and blood.

Syndrome Differentiation
Sudden onset of lumbago, aggravation in movement, limited movement of the waist, inability of the waist to straighten, difficulty in pronation and turning of the body or even standing, frequent supporting of the waist with the hands; or spasm of the local muscles on the lower limbs, obvious tenderness and evident sprain history.

Treatment
1. Body Acupuncture
Prescription: Shuigou (GV 26), Houxi (SI 3), Weizhong (BL 40), Yaoyangguan (GV 3), Dachangshu (BL 25) and Ashi Acupoints.
Performance: Each time 2 - 4 acupoints are selected and needled with reducing needling technique. Shuigou (GV 26) or Houxi (SI 3) is needled first. Shuigou (GV 26) is needled obliquely upward with rotating manipulation of the needle. The patient is asked to move the waist during the retention of the needle. Weizhong (BL 40) is punctured to let blood with a three edged needle. The acupoints on the waist can also be moxibusted or treated with cupping. The needles are retained for 20 - 30 minutes and manipulated at intervals.

2. Ear acupuncture
Prescription:
Lumbosacral Vertebrae (AH9), reaction points, Ear Shenmen (TF4) and Subcortical (AT4).

Performance:
Strong stimulation, 30- 60 minutes of needle retention and manipulation of needles at intervals. Or Wangbuliuxingzi (Semen Vaccariae) is used for ear acupressure.