Sciatica, a condition characterized by persistent pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, can be a formidable obstacle in one’s quest for a pain-free life. While conventional treatments such as medications and physical therapy offer relief for some, many individuals seek alternative approaches to complement or replace traditional methods. In recent years, acupuncture has emerged as a compelling option for managing sciatica, drawing attention for its holistic and non-invasive nature.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient medical treatment for back pain and sciatica. The practice of acupuncture in China dates back at least 3000 years. It is based on the belief that good health requires a balance between yin and yang that depends on a subtle energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”) that circulates through the body along channels called meridians. The medical practitioner can palpate Qi as it flows through the meridians and diagnose medical disorders.
Treatment of abnormalities in the flow of Qi can be achieved with diet, exercise, massage, and insertion of thin metal needles at control points along the meridians. Terms such as dampness, wind, fire, dryness, cold and earth describe a person’s state of health.
The origin of acupuncture is unclear but it may have been related to early bamboo or bone needles used for blood letting or providing an exit for evil spirits. Similarly there is little information on how the acupuncture points were originally identified but the anatomical locations of these points can be traced back to the stone age.
French missionaries introduced Oriental medicine to Europe in the eighteenth century. Doctors picked up the technique of acupuncture and used it along with homeopathy that was popular at the time.
An article published in the New York Times in 1972 by the journalist, James Reston stimulated American interest in acupuncture. He described how acupuncture relieved his pain during an emergency appendectomy that he underwent while accompanying President Nixon to China. Reston described how he watched patients undergoing surgery with only acupuncture for anaesthesia. The patients talked throughout the procedure and when the surgery was over, they got up and walked back to their room.
Acupuncture for Sciatica: How It Works
Nervous System Modulation
Acupuncture has been effectively used in various autonomic nerve-related disorders, such as cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, anxiety and nervousness, circadian rhythm disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and subfertility. [1] Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system. This, in turn, releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being. [2]
Release of Endorphins and Other Neurotransmitters
Stimulation of specific acupuncture points triggers the release of endorphins. [3] If acupuncture stimulation generates a nerve signal to the brain resulting in the secretion of endorphin, it may also result in the activation of other neural pathways as well as the secretion of other neurotransmitters. This is likely to have an analgesic (pain relieving) effect for patients of sciatica.
Blood Flow Improvement
Acupuncture needle stimulates the nerves in the local tissues. This causes the release of neuropeptides resulting in vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels) and increased blood circulation locally. The increased circulation of blood ensures enhanced delivery of oxygen and nutrients to promote tissue healing and causes a reduction in inflammation and swelling.
Efficacy of Acupuncture for Sciatica: A Review of Scientific Evidence
Acupuncture manipulations for treatment of sciatica have been evaluated in multiple placebo controlled treatment trials over the past several decades. The evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture in relieving lower back pain is mounting, and universally accepted. [4]
Some studies have found a significant benefit for acupuncture and chiropractic manipulations compared to placebo. There are, however, concerns that a study design may not be able to perfectly mask a sham placebo acupuncture procedure from its recipient as it is difficult to fake, therefore introducing bias to the experiment. Nonetheless, the scientific evidence in support of acupuncture for sciatica is significant and patients should not forego the therapy in an effort to reduce inflammation of the sciatic nerve to relieve pain. [5]
Best Acupuncture Points for Sciatica
Acupuncture points, also known as acupoints or meridians, are specific locations on the body where the needles are inserted. There are over 300 commonly used acupuncture points, and they are situated along pathways called meridians. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ system and has its own set of acupuncture points.
For patients of Sciatica, the Ashi points are considered to the best and most effective at relieving pain and tension of the sciatic nerve. The Ashi points, also referred to as Ah Shi or Ashi acupuncture, are not fixed points with predetermined locations. Instead, they are found by palpating the body for tender or sensitive areas. “Ashi” in Chinese means “that’s it” or “oh yes,” indicating the discovery of a point that is particularly responsive or painful upon touch.
Typically, for sciatica, acupuncturists may target acupoints along the following meridians:
- Bladder Meridian (BL): The Bladder meridian runs along the back of the body. Points along this meridian, especially those near the lower back and hip region, may be targeted to address sciatic pain.
- Gallbladder Meridian (GB): The Gallbladder meridian travels along the sides of the body, including the hip area. Acupoints along this meridian may be used to address sciatica-related discomfort.
- Kidney Meridian (KD): The Kidney meridian is associated with the lower back. Points along this meridian may be utilized to address underlying imbalances contributing to sciatic pain.
- Urinary Bladder Meridian (UB): The Urinary Bladder meridian runs along the back, and acupoints along this pathway may be targeted to alleviate sciatica symptoms.
Conclusion:
This ancient practice holds promise as a viable avenue for relief. The intricate web of meridians and energy flow, central to acupuncture’s philosophy, intertwines with contemporary scientific studies and patient testimonials, creating a compelling case of potential benefits for those grappling with sciatic nerve pain.
While acknowledging the diverse range of treatments available for sciatica, acupuncture stands out as a non-invasive, holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of the body. The ancient wisdom encapsulated in the art of acupuncture may offer a unique perspective and supplementary relief for individuals seeking alternatives or complementing conventional therapies.