Sciatica is a common condition seen in my acupuncture practice. The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body can be irritated by a muscle spasm in the area or a slipped spinal disc. Symptoms include radiating pain, usually starting around the low back and hip area and radiating down the leg, and sometimes to the foot and toes. It is also common to experience numbness and tingling in the affected areas.
It is recommended to have the symptoms checked out by a doctor who will be able to rule out any serious conditions. Once this is done, acupuncture is an excellent way to provide safe and long-term relief from often painful and disruptive symptoms.
Chinese medicine treats both the symptoms as well as the underlying condition (why your body was susceptible in the first place). This provides more long-term relief, and lessens the likelihood that the condition will return after treatment.
A series of treatments, usually 1-2 times a week for a couple of months is recommended initially. Certain lifestyle, stretching and massage techniques may also be recommended during this time.
When people stick with the treatment plan, they are usually able to get back to their usual activities with much less pain and discomfort.
