Sciatica refers to the pain in the passage and distribution regions of the sciatic nerve. Its main symptom is the radiating pain of the lower back and legs, usually spreading to the outer lumbar regions, from the buttocks to the posterior side of the thigh, back of the knees, lateral side of the calf, and even to the heel of the foot. The sufferers often find it difficult bending over, lifting the legs, or doing light physical activities.

Instead of calling sciatica a disease, it would be more appropriate to label it as a symptom. It is mostly caused by the pathogenic changes of the lumbar intervertebral disk. Chinese medicine states that sciatica is caused by the deficiency of the kidney-essence, the wind-cold-damp arthralgia, and the stasis obstructing meridians. It belongs to the category of “arthralgia-syndrome”.

Acupuncture is a very effective method to treat sciatica because it promotes circulation, removes blood stasis, and clears away the obstructions in the channels to relieve the painful symptoms. Acupuncture also tones and replenishes the liver and kidney. It strengthens the muscles and bones while relaxing the joints, tendons and activating collaterals. Clinically, if the right acupoints and techniques are used, positive results could be guaranteed in a short amount of time.