COMMON CONDITIONS

                                                SCIATICA

 

Understanding Sciatica Pain

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Sciatica can be a debilitating condition that refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. This can happen when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms that feel like sharp or burning pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg.  This pain can come and go or can be chronic and constant and can greatly interrupt and effect the quality of someones life.

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How we use Electroacupuncture for Sciatica Pain at FPCA

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Electroacupuncture is a safe and effective form of acupuncture that can provide relief for sciatica pain. During electroacupuncture, thin and tiny  needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points along the affected meridians. These needles are then stimulated with a mild electric current, that feels like mild pulsing, which enhances the therapeutic effects of the treatment.

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Here are ways electroacupuncture can help with sciatica pain:

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1. Pain Relief: Electroacupuncture helps stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can provide immediate relief from sciatic pain. Also- beta-endorphins are released within 12 to 16 hours of the treatment which interrupt pain pathways in the brain. Beta- endorphins are 13 to 33 times stronger than morphine! Amazing right! 

2. Reducing Inflammation: Electroacupuncture reduces inflammation around the compressed sciatic nerve, as well as systemically, which contributes to pain and discomfort.

3. Improving Nerve Function: By stimulating specific acupuncture points, electroacupuncture can help improve and restore nerve function that promote healing of the sciatic nerve.

4. Muscle Relaxation: Electroacupuncture helps relax tight muscles around the lower back and hips, which can alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve- including the entire current pain pathway that can often go all the way down to the feet. 

5. Enhancing Blood Circulation: Improved blood flow to the affected area can facilitate healing and reduce pain associated with sciatica.  Acupuncture is masterful at moving blood! 

 

You don’t have to live with pain! Electroacupuncture offers a holistic, safe and non-invasive approach to managing sciatica pain. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies like cupping to effectively treat sciatica and improve overall quality of life.