We see many people in clinic that are often unsure whether they have sciatica or simple back pain.
What is true sciatic pain?
People with sciatica may experience muscle pain and nerve-related symptoms along the sciatic nerve pathway so the pain can be from the back to the hip, or even all the way down to the toes, depending on which branches of nerves are being compressed or irritated.
Muscle pain can be in the form of pressure pain, sharp pain, muscle tenderness, or even muscle spasm and nerve related symptoms includes pin-and-needle sensations, burning sensations, numbness, or even the weakness of a certain group of muscles.
Cause of sciatica
The cause of sciatica can be very broad. Any structural problems affecting the sciatic nerve can induce sciatica, for instance, herniated disc, Piriformis syndrome, and also a sacrum injury can cause sciatica. Clinically, all these problems are potential causes for inflammation which give us pain. Clinically, we need to examine the patient suffering before we decide on appropriate treatments for them.
How does acupuncture actually help with sciatica?
Acupuncturists can deal with sciatica in four ways.
Firstly, acupuncturists can promote the local blood circulation around the sciatic area and help to reduce the inflammation by carrying away the inflammatory substance. What’s more, acupuncture can induce the production of cortisol which is a hormone that can reduce pain and inflammation.
Second, acupuncture can loosen up the tighter muscles by inserting a needle right into the knots and let them begin to relax.
Thirdly, acupuncturists can help you to inhibit the pain signal so it can relieve the pain right away, immediately.
Lastly, acupuncture can help you to desensitise the sciatic nerve by rebalancing the irritated nerve and nervous system or even the disrupted neuron transmitter.
Our clinicians will see that the correct length of needles depends on the individual’s conditions and the needles we use are all disposable and sterilised. The needles are extremely fine so you can rest assured that acupuncture is safe and effective for you.
Watch the video below for a demonstration of acupuncture. Message us to book a consultation in today!
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This article was written by our team of specialist therapists at Perfect Balance Clinic. If you would like more specific advice about how our team can help you with this condition or symptoms you may be having, please complete the contact form below and one of the team will get back to you shortly.
