Sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, is a very common source of debilitating leg pain. Caused by irritation, compression, or inflammation to the sciatic nerve, this condition is characterized by discomfort and numbness that stretches up into the back, buttock, and down the side of the leg. People often describe “a constant burning sensation” or “sharp shooting pains” through the area.
The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the body, originating from 5 separate nerve roots in the spine and running all the way down to the foot. As such, it is highly susceptible to injury and irritation, especially as we age. Indeed, between 10-40% of the population suffers from sciatica at some point in time, the average age being 40 years old. The toll of certain jobs, such as truck driving and machine operating also increases the risk of sciatic pain. Some common causes of sciatic pain also include herniated discs, bulging discs, lumbar spinal stenosis, bone spurs, prolonged sitting, Spondylolisthesis, and obesity.
Treating Sciatic Pain
To treat sciatic pain, people are usually advised to rest from activity and take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Advil or Ibuprofen. They also may be advised to participate in physical therapy, stretching exercises, and ice the injury. The hope is that if caught early, sciatica can heal itself, without surgery, in a matter of weeks.
However, some people experience chronic sciatic pain that isn’t resolved with conventional treatment methods. If your sciatica is especially severe, or lingers for months, your doctor may advise you to think about undergoing surgery.
Before trying surgery, consider acupuncture. Acupuncture has been proven to be highly effective at treating sciatica. In fact, a 2015 study found that acupuncture was more successful than conventional Western medicine (CWM) in effectiveness of outcomes, pain intensity, and pain threshold! Research has repeatedly proven that acupuncture is a highly effective option for treating sciatic pain.
How Does Acupuncture For Sciatica Work?
There are several key acupressure points that are associated with treating sciatica. These points run along the length of the sciatic nerve. Applying pressure to these points stimulates sensory receptors which release neurotransmitters like dopamine in the brain. This also reduces the amount of inflammatory cytokines and levels of inflammation, relieving pain, numbness, tingling, and other sensations associated with sciatica.
Acupuncture is also a great option for treating sciatica due to its safety. Being minimally invasive, virtually pain-free, and requiring no recovery time, acupuncture is far less dangerous than conventional surgery. If you are suffering from sciatic pain, consider reaching out today.
If you are seeking a licensed, experienced acupuncturist in the Louisville, Kentucky area, consider contacting River City Wellness. At River City Wellness, authentic, compassionate service is our greatest priority. We offer acupuncture, herbal therapy, moxabustion, cupping, and much more. You can schedule an appointment online or call (502) 822-0626 for details.