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What is Sciatica?

Gina’s Advice

At Acupuncture of Columbia, our passion is helping you rediscover the joys of a life free from chronic pain or illness. With our expert practitioners and individualized treatment plans, we’re dedicated to guiding you on your journey towards holistic healing. If you’re ready to take the first step in addressing your pain or chronic condition, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us. Experience the transformative power of acupuncture and let us help you reclaim your health and wellbeing. Together, we can chart a course towards a pain-free, healthier life.

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UNDERSTANDING Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. It occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated, often as a result of a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Sciatica can cause sharp, shooting pain, numbness, and tingling sensations, making it difficult to perform daily activities and affecting overall quality of life.

SYMPTOMS of sciatica

If you have sciatica, you may encounter one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of one leg
  • Sharp, shooting pain that worsens with movement, particularly when sitting or standing for long periods
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg or foot
  • Difficulty walking or standing up straight due to pain and discomfort
  • A burning or electric shock-like sensation along the path of the sciatic nerve

ACUPUNCTURE FOR sciatica

Acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy for managing sciatica and providing relief from pain and discomfort. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it aims to alleviate inflammation, reduce muscle tension, and promote the body’s natural healing processes. Benefits of acupuncture for sciatica include:

Acupuncture has been shown to effectively reduce pain associated with sciatica, providing a non-pharmacological approach to pain management.

Acupuncture can help decrease inflammation around the sciatic nerve, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing.

Acupuncture sessions may help relax tight muscles and reduce muscle spasms that can contribute to sciatic nerve compression.

Acupuncture promotes blood flow to the affected area, supporting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients for optimal healing and tissue repair.

Acupuncture can help stimulate nerve regeneration and improve nerve conduction, potentially reducing numbness and tingling sensations.