Acupuncture is known to be effective in treating sciatica, but let’s look at the mechanism behind it and its benefits.
Acupuncturists target specific points on the body connected to the sciatic nerve, therefore increasing the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline, which helps reduce the pain and speeds up nerve repair.
Some of the other benefits include improvement of blood circulation, which helps disperse the swelling, reducing muscle stiffness, increasing joint mobility and regulating the nervous system.
If you are experiencing acute sciatica, you may find relief within two to three acupuncture sessions. On the other hand, patients with chronic sciatica usually require about eight to twelve treatments depending on what caused the problem (e.g. disc herniation, stenosis, bone spurs).
Don't forget that heat (steam, sauna, heat patches, etc.), gentle stretches, nerve flossing, and decompression of the lower back vertebrae will help with recovery and that strengthening your core muscles will prevent sciatica from reoccurring.
