Anywhere from five to ten percent of individuals with lower back pain have a condition known as sciatica. This issue is defined by pain that radiates down the path of the sciatic nerve. It begins in the lower back and continues through the hips and buttocks down to the legs. If you’re looking for a natural treatment for this condition, here’s what you should know about sciatica and how acupuncture can provide relief. 

What Are the Causes & Symptoms of Sciatica?

Sciatica is when the sciatic nerve is pinched by a bone spur or a herniated disc in the spine. This can be caused by several conditions, including spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and pregnancy. Risk factors for sciatica include age and obesity, as it creates additional strain on the lower back, a sedentary lifestyle, jobs that require carrying heavy loads or twisting your back, and diabetes. Symptoms indicating you may have sciatica can range from pain radiating from your lumbar spine, numbness and tingling in one leg or foot, or general muscle weakness that generates from the lower back and continues down to your lower extremities on one side.  

How Can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture is a holistic and natural treatment option for sciatica. An acupuncturist will use thin needles and insert them into specific pressure points. The goal of acupuncture is to trigger your body’s natural ability to heal itself. When needles are inserted in and around the sciatic nerve, the nervous system as a whole responds by releasing your body’s natural painkillers, like endorphins, and increasing blood flow to the area which can relax neighboring muscle groups. Studies have shown that acupuncture can be more effective than conventional medicine in relieving discomfort. 

If you’re dealing with on-going lower back pain and leg pain due to sciatica and you’re hoping to find holistic relief, Marie Gonzales, L.Ac. can help. Located in the heart of Nyack, NY, this health and wellness practice has been providing acupuncture treatment to residents throughout Rockland County for over 20 years. Call today at (845) 398-1312 to schedule an appointment and visit this licensed acupuncturist online to learn more about their services.