Sciatica Detail
figure 1
Back Pain and Sciatica
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is characterised by a pattern of pain,
tingling, burning or just plain discomfort which follows a distinctive pathway
down the leg. The most common presentation is problems down the posterior
aspect of the leg. This may vary from discomfort beginning at the lower back
and extending all the way to the feet and toes, or may occur at any stage along
this pathway. The pathway represents the course of the effected spinal nerve
root.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is usually caused by pressure on a spinal nerve root by a herniated vertebral disc (see figure 1 Herniated disc pressing on spinal nerve). This then causes the tell-tale symptoms of sciatica. Disc problems can arise as a result of lifting, poor posture, illness or general wear and tear. There are other causes of sciatica, such as arthritis and degeneration or the involvement of the piriformis muscle.
How Can Acupuncture Help?
When a disc has been damaged and is pressing on your
spinal nerve, your body will react by protecting the vertebral section
involved. As a result you will probably get back spasms, where the large muscles
of your back seize up. Acupuncture helps by relaxing these muscles.
However, to get lasting improvement it is the smaller muscles of the vertebral column that need to be addressed. These muscles are usually in a state of constant spasm, so that the relevant vertebral structure cannot move. These muscles must be relaxed, so that the disc pressure on the spinal nerve can be relieved.
Acupuncture may help relax these
deep muscles. Even the most intense and deep massage technique will not be able
to effect these muscles.
I use a combination of relaxing massage and then acupuncture to get the results people need to get back to doing the things they love.
Click here for an example of a case history where acupuncture has alleviated the need for surgery.
Natural non-surgical relief for sciatica is something that should be considered by all sufferers. Bookings are available at our Elsternwick and Hawthorn locations.
Dr Nathan Burns BHSc (Acupuncture).
Call 0404 427 510 today for help.