Alternative Treatments for Sciatica: Acupuncture, Acupressure, Biofeedback, and Yoga

Sciatica affects as many as four people out of ten. This is a form of pain that affects the sciatic nerve, a nerve that runs from the lower back to the back of the legs. The condition is characterized by lower back pain, hip pain, burning and tingling down the leg, weakness, numbness, shooting pain at the back of the leg, a pain in the rear and leg that makes sitting difficult, and difficulties moving the leg.

While over the counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants can help ease the pain, a doctor might prescribe alternative treatments for sciatica such as acupuncture therapy near LAX. These alternative treatments include:

Acupuncture

Originally, acupuncture is an oriental practice. The practice restores a healthy flow of Chi (an energy force believed to keep the body in balance). During acupuncture near LAX, the practitioner inserts very fine needles into specific points in the body called meridians. The acupuncture points are at the surface of the skin so the needles do not penetrate deep into the tissue.

If you seek LAX acupuncture for back pain, the acupuncturist determines the meridians and may even heat some of the needles. The experience is painless and might help you relieve sciatica pain.

Acupressure

Acupressure works almost the same as acupuncture for chronic pain near LAX. However, this is a non-invasive method that also restores the flow of Chi. Instead of needles as used in acupuncture near LAX, the practitioner uses their fingers or elbow to apply pressure on the meridians. The practice involves applying consistent pressure on one or more acupressure points and briskly rubbing them to stimulate them.  

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a way of using your mind to calm the paining part of the body. It is a way of teaching the body to react to pain differently. While you cannot wish your pain away, the process uses special equipment that measure the psychological reactions of a patient and then provide feedback. The equipment considers your responses to muscle tension, pain, and stress.

From the feedback, the practitioner can guide the patient through deep breathing techniques, physical and mental exercises, and visualizations that help control stress. When you control your reactions to muscle tension that may cause sciatica, you can manage the pain.

Yoga

Yoga has as many benefits as acupuncture therapy near LAX. The use of yoga stretches in sciatica treatment is only possible when the condition is caused by piriformis syndrome. Piriformis is a muscle that facilitates the rotation of the hips. When the muscle is gently stretched during yoga, it might relieve sciatica pain.

However, not all yoga poses are beneficial, as some might irritate the sciatic nerve. Avoid any stretches that involve the back of the legs as these can irritate the sciatic nerve.

Conclusion

LAX acupuncture for back pain can work as effectively as surgery and medication, but you need a professional to do it. If done right, acupuncture for chronic pain near LAX, acupressure, yoga, and biofeedback can help alleviate pain associated with sciatica. Contact our chiropractor near LAX today!