The painful condition called sciatica is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. A herniated disc, also called a slipped disc, is a common cause of sciatic nerve pain that is felt in the lower back and radiates down one leg. Other causes include osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Mild sciatica usually goes away on its own, but more severe sciatic nerve pain requires treatment. Such treatments include OTC or prescription medications, physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, surgery and acupuncture.
Can Acupuncture Help
For 5,000 years, practitioners have used acupuncture for relief of pain.
Acupuncture originated in China but it has become popular in the United States. Scientists don't totally understand how acupuncture works, but it has proved effective in treating pain and even reducing nausea in chemotherapy patients.
Acupuncture is based on the theory that an intelligent energy, qi (pronounced "chee") influences our health. Qi is believed to flow in meridians connecting specific organs and glands, and a blockage of those meridians manifests itself in symptoms and ultimately pain and ill health. More than 350 acupuncture points on the body provide access to the meridians and the qi. The acupuncturist inserts needles into appropriate points to free the energy flow.
What Happens During Acupuncture
Acupuncture treatment may be needed once or twice a week for a total of eight to 10 weeks.
Treatment customarily begins with an interview in which the acupuncturist checks your pulse at different positions on the wrist; observes your appearance for clues to your health; asks about your past medical history and present state of health; and palpates specific acupuncture points.
For treatment of sciatica or other back pain, the acupuncturist inserts thin needles into your skin at specific points on your body. The procedure is not painful although you may feel a brief sting with the needle is inserted. Up to a dozen needles may be placed in various points on the body, not just in the area of the sciatic nerve pain. After the needles are placed, they may be moved or stimulated with heat. The treatment typically lasts about 20 minutes.
Acupuncture Safety
Acupuncture is safe when performed properly, and it has few side effects. To find a qualified, certified practitioner, ask people you trust for recommendations, if you know anyone who has had acupuncture. An Internet search can also lead you to qualified practitioners in your area.
Check the practitioner's training and credentials. In most states non-physician acupuncturists must pass an exam conducted by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
Interview an acupuncturist before committing. Ask what the treatment involves and whether it is likely to help your sciatic nerve pain; what is involved in the treatment; and how much it will cost. Check to see if the expense is covered by your insurance; it may not be covered by Medicare.
Tell your doctor if you are planning acupuncture. He may be able to recommend a practitioner.
Why Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with other treatments for your sciatic nerve pain and it can prove useful in controlling or alleviating that pain. It is worth trying if pain medications aren't helping you, or if you are simply concerned about the long-term use and side effects of such medications.
Tags: nerve pain, sciatic nerve, sciatic nerve pain, acupuncture points, acupuncturist inserts