Acupuncture for Sciatica

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is pain that travels down the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, traveling from the lower back through the hips and down both legs. The sciatic nerve ends at the knee, although several branches also run down the back of the legs to the feet.

Compression of the sciatic nerve can cause excruciating, radiating pain down the length of the nerve pathway.

There are many conditions that can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can include:

• Bulging Discs

• Osteoarthritis of the Spine

• Spinal Stenosis

• Inflammation or swelling of soft tissues

• Overly tight muscles (such as the piriformis muscle)

• Pregnancy (the weight of the baby can put additional pressure on the spine, causing nerve compression)

What’s the difference between Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome?

In Piriformis Syndrome, the pain is caused by a contracted Piriformis Muscle over the sciatic nerve.

In Sciatica, it is usually caused by spinal compression or a bulging disc.

The symptoms are the same: shooting pain down the pathway of the sciatic nerve.

What are the conventional treatment options for Sciatica?

Conventional treatment options for sciatica may include a combination of any of the following:

• Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs like ibuprofen)

• Topical Pain Relievers

• Cold or Hot Packs

• Physical Therapy

• Bed Rest

These measures can provide temporary relief, but they are not treating the underlying causes.

In severe cases, pain medications may be prescribed. These often come with uncomfortable side effects that can further reduce your quality of life.

Acupuncture is Extremely Effective for Sciatica

Acupuncture can successfully treat sciatica without the side effects of pain medications. It is a safe, effective, and non-surgical method of treatment.

Acupuncture works by improving blood circulation, relaxing muscles, reducing inflammation, regulating pain signaling in the brain, and releasing pain killing neurotransmitters.

This relieves the compression associated with sciatica, and regenerates and repairs peripheral nerves.

These mechanisms make acupuncture extremely effective in treating chronic pain – including sciatica.

A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience looked at 30 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 2,662 patients. It concluded that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for sciatica, and can be considered a suitable replacement for medication.

Another systematic review and meta-analysis from 2022 examined 28 randomized controlled trials involving 2,707 participants. It found that acupuncture was more effective in treating sciatica pain than medication and had fewer side effects.

Acupuncture for Sciatica

Acupuncture's ability to provide lasting pain relief make it an attractive option for people suffering with sciatic pain. It works without the potential drawbacks of pain medications or surgery. For those seeking a natural alternative to pills for sciatica, acupuncture is a top contender, backed by high quality research.

Medical Disclaimer

 The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It should not be interpreted as medical advice or a substitute for individualized care from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your licensed practitioner before making any changes to your health regimen.

About the Author

Dr. Joshua Park, DSOM, L.Ac

Dr. Park is a licensed acupuncturist with a doctorate in East Asian Medicine, specializing in pain management and neurological conditions. He is the clinical director of Empowered You Acupuncture in Orange County, California, and is an adjunct professor at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. His clinical approach combines classical Chinese herbal formulas with current research on neuroplasticity to help patients enjoy a better quality of life.