Acupuncture is an ancient practice used for a variety of purposes, including weight loss, addiction therapy, infertility, and pain relief, just to name a few. Chronic back pain sufferers often find that acupuncture is a cure for sciatica and other spinal ailments. What is acupuncture and will it relieve pain in the sciatic nerve?
Acupuncture is an alternative to traditional western medicine, dating back to approximately 200 BCE. Most commonly, acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the body in order to support a person's chi, or life force. These needles are manipulated and twirled for prescribed amounts of time. Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture also incorporates herbal remedies. Some modern acupuncturists added electric pulses to the needles and even created needle-less acupuncture and auricular therapy, which builds on the ideas of traditional pressure points.
Sciatica and other persistent back pain are the most common reasons why Americans visit an acupuncturist.
5 Keys for Using Acupuncture as a Cure for Sciatica:
1. Persistence matters. Although results vary, most pain suffers find that they need several acupuncture sessions to relieve sciatica pain. After the initial series of treatments, maintenance plans will include less frequent acupuncture appointments.
2. Be sure to see a certified practitioner. Acupuncturists should have a valid license in the state of practice. Physicians with medical degrees can also seek certification from the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA). Certified practitioners have training to increase effectiveness and decrease risks of infection or other side effects.
3. Follow the continued care instructions. Since acupuncture works to align your chi, your practitioner may recommend holistic lifestyle changes that will support the work of the needles. You may be asked to eat specific anti-inflammatory foods or take vitamin and mineral supplements to support muscle balance created in the treatment sessions. You may also be encouraged to stretch, exercise, or use relaxation techniques. Following these instructions will support the speed and effectiveness of your recovery.
4. Consider discussing all medical issues with your acupuncturist. Because of the nature of the central nervous system and your body's meridians, there may be links between the different medical problems you experience. For example, sciatica pain may be related to headaches or even digestion problems. A certified acupuncturist can use all of your symptoms to tailor a program that will be most beneficial for you. While you are seeing an acupuncturist for pain management, you may also find other valuable therapies, such as that for smoking cessation or weight management.
5. Expect Results. A 2005 study at the University of Maryland reported that people who used acupuncture to relieve lower back pain showed considerable improvement in long-term and short-term relief.
Acupuncture has many benefits. As a cure for sciatica pain, it allows sufferers to avoid the risks of over-medicating or invasive surgery. This fact, combined with proven effectiveness, makes acupuncture a popular strategy for pain management.
Mike Sutherland is a sciatica relief expert. To find out about more alternative remedies that are a cure for sciatica pain, please visit http://www.PainInMySciatica.com.
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