A common problem I see in the clinic is sciatic pain. One of the most effective treatments that I have found to relieve the pain and tension is a treatment plan combining; acupuncture, massage (myofascial release or tuina), and a simple yoga plan to speed up recovery and most importantly, keep the pain away.
I am going to share with you:
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and legs. The pain is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body that runs from the lower back through the hips and down the legs. Sciatica can be caused by a variety of conditions and can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. We will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of sciatica, as well as ways to prevent it from happening.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down the legs. When the nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, legs, and feet.
There are several common causes of sciatica, including:
Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the outer layer. This can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica pain.
Spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause sciatica pain.
Degenerative disc disease: Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the spinal discs lose their elasticity and height, causing them to bulge or herniate. This can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica pain.
Spinal tumors: Tumors that form on or near the spine can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica pain.
Piriformis syndrome: This is a condition caused by inflammation of the piriformis muscle located in the buttocks. The muscle causes pressure on the sciatic nerve and causes sciatica pain
Trauma: Trauma to the spine can also cause sciatica pain.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica can manifest itself in a variety of ways, but the most common symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment of Sciatica
Sciatica is usually diagnosed through a physical exam and an imaging study such as an MRI or CT scan. Once the underlying cause is determined, treatment options can include:
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the herniated disc or relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve
Causes of Sciatica According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different perspective on the causes of sciatica compared to Western medicine. According to TCM, the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica is caused by an imbalance or blockage in the flow of energy, or “qi,” throughout the body. There are several different ways in which this imbalance or blockage can occur, including:
In TCM, the diagnosis and treatment of sciatica will depend on the specific pattern of imbalances and blockages that are identified in each individual case. This can include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary changes, and lifestyle recommendations to balance and restore the flow of energy throughout the body and alleviate the symptoms of sciatica.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of health conditions, including sciatica. Research has shown that acupuncture is effective in reducing sciatica pain and improving function in patients with chronic sciatica. In this section, we will explore how acupuncture can help alleviate sciatica symptoms
A study published in the Journal of Pain Research in 2015 found that acupuncture was more effective than conventional medical treatment in reducing sciatica pain. Another study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery in 2018 found that acupuncture was effective in reducing sciatica pain and improving function in patients with chronic sciatica.
Acupuncture and Yoga for Sciatica a match made in heaven.
Yoga is another complementary therapy that can be used to alleviate pain and improve function in people with sciatica. Yoga can help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance, which are all important for reducing the risk of sciatica flare-ups. A 2020 systematic review found that Yoga is effective for chronic low back pain which include sciatica by improving function and reducing pain. It also reduces the usage of pain medications.
Yoga therapy, which is specifically tailored to address chronic pain conditions, as well as beginners yoga classes can be a great way to get started, as they are designed for people who are new to yoga and are typically slower-paced and less demanding than more advanced classes. Yoga therapy classes can help to alleviate pain, increase mobility, and promote relaxation, it also has an element of breathing meditation which can be helpful to manage pain.
Other Therapies of Chinese Medicine for Pain
While acupuncture is a commonly used treatment for sciatica, other therapies of Chinese medicine can also be effective in reducing sciatica pain. In this section, we will explore how tuina massage, cupping, moxibustion, herbal medicine, and myofascial release can help alleviate sciatica symptoms.
Combining Therapies for Greater Effectiveness
These therapies can be combined with acupuncture to be more effective in reducing sciatica pain. Combining different therapies can help to target the root cause of the pain and provide a more comprehensive treatment approach. A healthcare professional can help to determine the most appropriate treatment plan and which combination of therapies will work best for the individual case.
While there is no sure way to prevent sciatica, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the lower back and increase the risk of developing sciatica. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, particularly low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help to strengthen the muscles in the lower back and reduce the risk of developing sciatica.
Good posture: Maintaining good posture can help to reduce the stress on the lower back and reduce the risk of developing sciatica. Sitting with good posture, and standing up straight can help to reduce the risk.
Proper lifting techniques: Lifting heavy objects incorrectly can put extra stress on the lower back and increase the risk of developing sciatica. Using proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight, can help to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Avoid smoking: Smoking can negatively affect the blood flow to the lower back, increasing the risk of developing sciatica.
Maintaining a good sleeping posture: Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees can help to reduce the stress on the lower back and reduce the risk of developing sciatica.
It’s important to note that even with these preventative measures, some people may still develop sciatica due to a variety of causes such as aging, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
While it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, there are also some home remedies that can help alleviate sciatica symptoms.
Hot Compress: Hot pack, wheat bag or hot water bottle for 15-20 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day.
Gentle beginners yoga Stretches: Gentle stretches can help to relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation in the affected area. Stretches such as the hamstring stretch and the piriformis stretch can be helpful.
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce pain.
Maintaining Good Posture: Maintaining good posture when sitting, standing, and walking can help to reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve and prevent sciatica pain.
Massaging: Massaging the affected area can help to relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation using special herbal medicien linaments or oils.
Exercise: Regular low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help to keep the muscles in the back and legs strong and flexible.
It is important to note that these remedies may alleviate symptoms temporarily, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of the sciatica and develop a more comprehensive treatment plan.
In conclusion, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for sciatica, a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, legs, and feet. Acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms, improve circulation, and balance the body’s energy. Research has shown that acupuncture is more effective than conventional medical treatment in reducing sciatica pain and improving function in patients with chronic sciatica. Additionally, acupuncture can be combined with other therapies of Chinese medicine such as cupping, moxibustion, herbal medicine, and myofascial release to provide a more comprehensive treatment approach. If you are experiencing sciatica pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Acupuncture may be an effective option for managing your sciatica pain and improving your overall well-being.
Dean, holding a Bachelor of Health Science, is registered in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Tuina Massage with the Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand. With over 20 years of experience in yoga, he has earned a 1200-hour diploma in yoga and is a certified instructor of Yantra Yoga and the Tibetan Yoga of Movement.
Committed to natural health and healing, Dean takes a holistic approach in his practice, incorporating a wide range of therapeutic methods. His offerings include acupuncture, massage, dietary advice, myofascial release, herbal medicine, moxibustion, cupping, qigong, yoga, and meditation. He practices from his clinic in Auckland, New Zealand, dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to the individual needs of his clients