It’s been a long tradition to rely on conventional medicine to interpret and treat illnesses. Doctors investigated medical procedures that used unusual treatments such as blood-sucking leeches to rid the body of impure blood before allopathy emerged. Others included using cow dung, herbs, and other natural materials.
Acupuncture stands out and is still considered a reliable procedure. It is a form of comprehensive therapy that treats a variety of disorders, both psychological and physiological.
Acupuncture, which was once considered a part of traditional Chinese medicine, has now gained popularity, and you will now find licensed acupuncturists practising it all over the world. A certified acupuncturist in Mumbai Central may help heal sciatica faster by offering integrative therapy of acupuncture spinal care for the root problem causing sciatic nerve discomfort.
This blog explores the direct connection between sciatica and acupuncture, as well as the advantages of acupuncture.
First, let’s understand,
What is Sciatica, and How does it affect you?
Sciatica is a term that describes discomfort or numbness that runs from the lower back to the buttocks and finally the legs around the sciatic nerve. Sciatica typically affects just one side of the body. Lumbar radiculopathy is the diagnostic name for this condition. Sciatic nerve pain is much more frequent than you would expect, and it can be excruciating for those who suffer from it. The pain begins along the nerve pathway, especially in the lower back, buttock, and back of the thigh and calf.
Pain can vary in intensity, from a minor ache to a painful burning feeling or unbearable, uncontrollable pain. It feels like a jolt or an electric shock to some patients, and it can get a lot worse if you sneeze or cough for a long time.
Let’s know,
What Causes Sciatica?
Degenerative condition:
One of the most common causes of sciatica pain is a degenerative condition in which the discs that create a cushion between the vertebrae break down.
Fracture:
A fracture causes the vertebrae’s wing-shaped portion to slip forward and over another vertebra.
Pregnancy:
As a result of the extra weight on their lumbar spine, many pregnant women can also experience sciatica.
Herniated disc:
A herniated lumbar disc that is a fractured disc in which the cushion between the vertebrae is pushed to the outer portion of the spine may also cause sciatic pain.
Now, let’s discuss,
How Acupuncture for Sciatica Works?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the human body has over 2000 locations where thin needles can be inserted. Pathways or meridians bind them, creating a flow of energy known as Qi.
The relaxation of these points helps to fix energy imbalances and increase energy flow. The aim is to alleviate pain and improve well-being. Acupuncture works by relaxing the central nervous system, releasing hormones into the muscles, brain, and spinal cord.
Your acupuncturist in Mumbai Central will insert acupuncture needles into the pressure points on your body that were discussed before, stimulating the nervous system. It activates endorphins, which reduces the severity of your body pain. Besides, it is said to modify the body’s response to pain in the long run.
Although various acupuncturists can use different procedures depending on their experience and the patient’s condition, here are several points to consider puncturing with needles.
- Within the lower calf/ankle
- Around the wrist/forearm area
This form of needling is termed distal needling, whereas local needling is more commonly known. The pressure points may be at various places or a distance from the source of the pain. The aim is to use the connections between different parts of the body to deliver blood to areas that require it to heal sciatic nerve pain.
Besides, you may also do acupressure at home after a detailed discussion with your acupuncturist in Mumbai Central. It entails applying sustained pressure to acupoints with your finger, activating the nervous system without using needles.
Let’s know the,
Benefits of Acupuncture for Sciatica
- Reduces inflammation
- Stimulates the nerves
- Increases the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline that help reduce pain and speeds up nerve repair
- Improves muscle stiffness and joint mobility
- Increases microcirculation
- Reduces swelling
- Triggers the release of natural opioids that reduce pain and promote sleep
Since clinical research has repeatedly shown the effectiveness of acupuncture for sciatica treatment, it is suggested to consult a certified and experienced acupuncturist in Mumbai Central who will work with you to ease the pain and improve your mobility.
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