Acupuncture for sciatica is a non-pharmaceutical method of pain management which works wonders for some fortunate patients. While acupuncture is definitely a form of symptomatic treatment, it is still a good option for patients who need to find safe sciatica relief while they work towards a real permanent cure. Acupuncture is safe, effective and does not expose patients to the hazards of pharmaceutical forms of pain control.
This article will delve into the subject of using acupuncture to treat the symptoms of sciatica. We will explore the benefits of treatment, as well as its many limitations.
Acupuncture for Sciatica Explained
Acupuncture is an ancient healthcare treatment derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture works by balancing qi/chi flow throughout anatomical channels called meridians. Qi/Chi is the name for the vital life force which flows thorough our bodies, creating all the anatomical processes we come to expect from the human anatomy. Acupuncture uses ultra thin needles, and sometimes electric current, to stimulate specific points on the body which either need to have qi/chi added or drained.
Acupuncture treatment is usually painless and can be very effective for providing pain management when administered by a master practitioner. As long as proper hygiene practices are followed, there are virtually no significant risks of undergoing acupuncture therapy.
Acupuncture Drawbacks
As with any other form of symptomatic treatment, the therapy will not cure sciatica. It will simply make the condition more livable. As long as the patient is aware of this fact, there is nothing wrong with pursuing acupuncture for any variety of chronic pain management. However, if the care provider leads the patient into believing that there is hope for a cure from this practice, then there might be ethical problems.
Acupuncture is sometimes not covered by health insurance and can be expensive. This is another concern for patients who need relief, but can not afford ongoing sessions with a qualified acupuncturist. These patients typically resort to using sciatica drugs, since these are readily available and generally covered under most insurance plans, despite their risks and poisonous nature.
Acupuncture for Sciatica Considerations
I am a big fan of acupuncture for certain health conditions and as a system of holistic pain management. I am not a fan of some practitioners who claim that these treatments will cure almost any negative health condition in a matter of several treatments.
I was treated by one of these doctors who constantly kept saying that more treatments were needed. No matter how many I had, it was not enough. It did not take me long to realize that this guy was a thief and a liar and was certainly not representative of the typical ethical and caring acupuncturists I know now.
I recommend acupuncture as a good method of all natural pain relief. Just remember, this therapy modality is a temporary solution and a true cure is still preferred. Do not languish in symptomatic care for longer than you must, but instead always work diligently to provide yourself with a lasting solution.
