How does acupuncture and dry needling treat sciatica?

Treatment of Sciatica with Acupuncture in a Marathon Runner.

​Acupuncture and dry needling of sciatica treatments depend on where the compression of the sciatic nerve is.
​Is it in the low back? In the butt? Hamstrings? Is it due to core weakness? A misaligned hip? 

If the compression is in the low back, such as in the case of a herniated / bulging disc pressing on the sciatic nerve: 

• the acupuncture needle is able to provide symptom relief by needling directly into the low back, loosening the muscle and surrounding tissue that is tight. This is safe, the needle goes into the muscle, never into the spine or spinal cord itself. ​Freeing up the tissue in the low back allows the sciatic nerve to glide better, providing much needed symptom relief.
• besides loosening the tight tissue, acupuncture and dry needling also cause a micro trauma in the muscle; the body reacts to this by bringing fresh blood (improved circulation), nutrients, and the healing cells of inflammation to the area.
• repeated acupuncture and dry needling treatments allow the herniated / bulging disc to heal over time. 

If the compression is in the butt (tight piriformis?) or in the hamstrings (tight hamstrings?) causing the sciatic nerve to be trapped:

• the acupuncture needle is used to free up the tissue in the tight area, allowing the sciatic nerve to glide freely, providing symptom and pain relief.

If the compression is in the low back due to spinal stenosis or in the hips due to a misaligned hip: 

• acupuncture and dry needling help to loosen up the tissue, allowing the structures to return to their original position.
• this is usually the most difficult to treat, but with the combination of acupuncture, dry needling and specific exercises it is not impossible, just takes time.. 

Should you just get acupuncture? Or combine the sessions with physical therapy?

• In my experience, it is best to address sciatica with a combination of acupuncture, dry needling and physical therapy.
• Acupuncture, by the very nature of needling into the tissue, allows for faster pain / symptom relief.
• Physical therapy is invaluable to build a strong, flexible, and functional body, preventing the symptoms from reappearing. 

How many sessions will you need?

• The amount of acupuncture or dry needling sessions one needs depends on whether the cause of sciatica is a herniated / bulging disc, a misaligned hip, or “just” tightness.
• “Just” tightness is an easier fix than someone suffering from poor core control and a misaligned hip. 
• Healing also depends on the fitness level of the individual as building proper strength and flexibility takes time. ​

​
CLICK HERE to book your appointment today if you experience sciatica.
​With proper evaluation and treatment, healing is very much possible.