Sciatica and low back pain are two of the most common and debilitating conditions that affect millions of people around the world. It’s also  the number 1 reason people seek out acupuncture as a drug-free option for managing this painful condition.  Back pain can result from various causes, such as injury, overuse, poor posture, herniations, bulging discs, or degeneration. These conditions share a common factor: soft tissue dysfunction. Unfortunately, conventional approaches often overlook the importance of addressing soft tissue dysfunction, leading to ineffective treatment outcomes.    Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back and legs. It is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. Nearly 40% of Americans – typically between the ages of 30 + 50 – will experience sciatica at some point in their life. Low back pain is another common condition that affects the lower back and can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle strain, injury, or spinal disc problems.   Several studies have shown that Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for both sciatica and low back pain. A 2018 study published in the Journal Pain Medicine found that Acupuncture was effective for reducing pain and improving function in patients with sciatica.

How Does Acupuncture Help?

 Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, which can help reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and improve overall well-being. When the tiny needles are inserted into the skin, they stimulate the nerve endings, which sends signals to the brain to release natural painkillers, such as endorphins. Acupuncture also helps increase blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation. The effects of Acupuncture work to heal the root cause of sciatica and low back pain, while pain medications just mask the pain symptoms.   Acupuncture is an effective, drug-free treatment option for managing sciatica and low back pain. Acupuncture can help reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing.

How does acupuncture get the sciatic nerve to stop hurting?

Acupuncture increases the production of endorphins – natural pain killers which decrease nerve pain signals. Acupuncture also blocks the formation of inflammatory cytokines that also cause pain and create inflammation. Electroacupuncture, which feels similar to a TENs unit, plays an important role in the treatment of sciatica. Electroacupuncture restores strength and control of muscles that may have become weak due to damage of the sciatic nerve. It also speeds the healing and promotes the regeneration of the sciatic nerve. Degenerative changes in the spine cause shortening of the deep spinal muscles that connect to the vertebrae. This shortening pulls the vertebrae closer together which puts more pressure on the nerve root resulting in sciatic pain. Acupuncture at these shortened areas causes a lengthening of the muscle which takes pressure off the nerve and alleviates the sciatic pain.  

For chronic pain patients, acupuncture is often the last resort, yielding the best result.

Acupuncture is a time-tested, holistic medicine that has been used for thousands of years to decrease pain and restore function.  At Health Pointe Jacksonville, we have developed a proven and effective protocol for treating back pain & sciatica. Our tailored treatment plan combines acupuncture, neuromuscular therapy, and other holistic modalities to relieve pain and restore function. Life is meant to be celebrated. Why not live it to it’s highest potential?   Find out more by visiting our website