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Acupuncture For Sciatica

acupuncture for sciatica

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:

  • The causes of Sciatica 
  • How acupuncture works to get rid of the pain.
  • Things you can do for yourself that can help relieve sciatic pain.
  • Tips to prevent sciatica.

Sciatica: Understanding the Causes and Symptoms

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.

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Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica can manifest itself in a variety of ways, but the most common symptoms include:

  • Low back pain
  • Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting
  • Burning or tingling down the leg
  • Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the leg or foot
  • A constant pain on one side of the rear
  • A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up.

 

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:

  • Physical therapy: exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the spine
  • Medications: anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants to alleviate pain and inflammation
  • Acupuncture: A Traditional Chinese Medicine approach involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body
  • Chiropractic care: manual manipulation of the spine to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve

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)

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:

  • Qi and Blood Stagnation: According to TCM, sciatica is often caused by stagnation of qi and blood in the lower back and legs. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as injury, poor diet, lack of exercise, or emotional stress.
  • Kidney Deficiency: According to TCM, the kidneys are responsible for the health of the bones, joints, and lower back. A deficiency of kidney energy can cause pain and weakness in these areas, leading to sciatica.
  • Qi and Blood Deficiency: According to TCM, a deficiency of qi and blood in the lower back and legs can lead to pain and weakness, as well as an increased risk of injury or inflammation.
  • Cold Invasion: According to TCM, exposure to cold and dampness can lead to a blockage of energy in the lower back and legs, resulting in pain and weakness.

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 for sciatica

Acupuncture for Sciatica: How it Can Help

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

  • Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation in the affected area. The insertion of needles into specific acupoints stimulates the production of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Relieving Muscle: Spasms Acupuncture can also help to relieve muscle spasms in the affected area. The needles stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. This can help to relax the muscles and reduce pain.
  • Improving Circulation: Acupuncture can improve circulation in the affected area. The needles stimulate the flow of blood and oxygen to the area, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Balancing the Body’s Energy: Acupuncture can help to balance the body’s energy, promoting healing and reducing pain. The needles stimulate the flow of energy (Qi) in the body, which can help to restore balance and reduce pain.

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.

Acupunture and Yoga for 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

Other TCM Therapies That Help Sciatica

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.

  • Tuina Massage: Tuina massage is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves the use of massage techniques to stimulate acupoints and alleviate pain. Tuina massage can help to reduce muscle spasms, improve circulation, and relieve pain in the affected area.
  • Cupping: Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves the use of small glass cups to create suction on the skin. The cups are placed on specific acupoints or areas of pain and left in place for several minutes. Cupping can help to reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms, and improve circulation in the affected area.
  • Moxibustion: Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves the use of heat to stimulate acupoints. The heat is applied using a smoldering herb called mugwort (moxa). Moxibustion can help to reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms, and improve circulation in the affected area.
  • Herbal Medicine: Herbal medicine is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves the use of herbs to treat a wide range of health conditions, including sciatica. Herbs can be used to reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms, and improve circulation in the affected area.
  • Myofascial Release: Myofascial release is a manual therapy that involves the application of gentle sustained pressure to the connective tissue (fascia) to release tension and pain. It can help to reduce muscle spasms, improve circulation, and relieve pain in the affected area.

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.

Prevention of Sciatica

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.

  • Regular yoga: Practicing regular yoga can help to prevent sciatica by strengthening the muscles in the back and legs, improving flexibility and posture, and reducing stress. Additionally, incorporating breathing and meditation techniques into one’s yoga practice can also help to reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to the development of 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.

Home Remedies for sciatica

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.

  1. Hot Compress:  Hot pack, wheat bag or hot water bottle for 15-20 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day.

  2. 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.

  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce pain.

  4. 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.

  5. Massaging: Massaging the affected area can help to relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation using special herbal medicien linaments or oils.

  6. 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.

Conclusion

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.

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Dean Wickenden

Dean Wickenden

Dean is a qualified acupuncturist and yoga instructor and has over 20 years of yoga experience he is a qualified instructor in both Yantra yoga the Tibetan yoga of movement and Hatha yoga.

Dean has a 1200hr diploma in yoga and a diploma in Yantra Yoga the Tibetan yoga of movement which is one of the oldest and most profound systems of yoga. Dean has a Bachelor of health science and is a qualified acupuncturist and traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

He practices from his acupuncture clinic and yoga studio in Albany, North Shore, Auckland