What is Sciatica?
Of all the musculo-skeletal complaints, sciatica is very common. It is a condition where the pain radiates to the leg from the back.
Sciatica involves entrapment of nerve roots due to vertebrae disc herniation, lower lumbar ligamentous strain, spondylosis, or spinal osteoarthritis. In cases of sciatica, the patient usually complains of pain, numbness, weakness or tingling sensation radiating down the leg (usually one leg) front or back, even to the feet or toes.
Sciatica causes include:
- – Excessive physical work
- – Lifting heavy weights
- – Excessive sexual activity
- – Pregnancy and childbirth
- – Invasion of cold and dampness
- – Inadequate exercise
- – Lack of exercise
- – Obesity
- – Emotional trauma
- – Physical or emotional stress
The patient’s description of the pain and a positive straight-leg test helps us differentiate sciatica from back pain.
Acupuncture Treatment for Sciatica
How Does Acupuncture Work for Sciatica?
Whether it is acute or chronic sciatica, acupuncture has proved to be very effective on the treatment of this condition. Although the root cause of sciatica is kidney deficiency; in most common cases, the causes of the sciatica pain are either Qi (energy) and blood stagnation or an invasion of the damp-cold pathogen. A blockage in the flow of Qi will inhibit the amount of nourishment that reaches our cells, tissues, muscles, and organs.
Acupuncture involves insertion of hair-thin stainless steel single-use needles at specific points on the body called acupoints. Stimulating these points help remove the obstruction in the meridians, ensure smooth movement of Qi and blood in the meridians to eliminate damp-cold. Depending whether it is acute or chronic sciatica, we may combine acupuncture treatment with cupping or blood-letting to help improve the circulation of Qi and blood to the affected areas.
We also recommend adjunct therapies to enhance sciatica treatment and speed healing, such as stretching, herbal supplements and dietary changes.
Is Acupuncture Good for Sciatica?
At Zahra Acupuncture, we have seen lots of patients with sciatica and in most acute cases they have seen 50% to 70% improvement with only one session of acupuncture.
If you are suffering from sciatica pain, remember to try acupuncture treatment before considering any surgeries. At times, surgery might make sense, but it could be risky and there is no guarantee that it will be effective. In terms of medications, they may cause unwanted side effects and further compromise your health.
Downtown Vancouver Acupuncture Clinic
If you would like to learn more about sciatic treatment and sciatica pain relief through acupuncture, Dr. Zahra Mazanderani will be happy to assist you. Book a consultation now to learn whether acupuncture treatment can help your condition.
Our Downtown Vancouver acupuncture clinic is conveniently located and our acupuncture treatments are covered by extended health benefits.
>> Call us at 778-847-2026 or use our online form to book a consultation!
