Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation, inflammation, or compression of the Sciatic nerve.

The Sciatic nerve is a large and thick nerve bundle which branches from the pelvis to supply the leg. Sciatica is an extremely common condition; as many as 40% of adults experience sciatica at some point in their lives.

Sciatica pain can vary in intensity and spread. Some report local pain in the hip with little radiation while others may feel a sharp or burning sensation down the thigh, calf, and sometimes into the foot.

Sciatica can result from

• An injury to the back or glutes

• Dysfunction of the SI joint

• Muscle tension in the back and glutes – especially the QL and piriformis

• Overuse or improper form in athletes

• Sitting for prolonged periods of time

Living with Sciatica can keep us from being as active as we would like which hinders our health goals as well as our social needs and can undoubtedly wear on us mentally and physically over time.

Victoria Ansell, LAc., has seen many cases of sciatica in her clinical experience with great result. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for sciatica and combats sciatica pain and inflammation by

• Improving local circulation to promote tissue repair

• Decreasing muscle tension which may be impinging on the sciatic nerve

• Decreasing local inflammation which irritates the sciatic nerve

Sciatica is responsive to acupuncture as well as alternative modalities such as cupping, gua sha, and electrical stimulation. Schedule your free phone consult with Victoria to see how Chinese Medicine can improve your sciatic pain and give you back your freedom.