Acupuncture has become one of the best natural health therapies to combat and treat the effects of sciatic nerve pain. Sciatica, also known as sciatic nerve pain, is a medical condition that is developed from sciatic nerve irritation. A herniated disc is the most frequent cause that attributes to debilitating sciatic nerve pain, often felt in the lower back. Other main causes for sciatic nerve pain include osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Acupuncture for sciatic nerve pain is a very effective treatment that can offer many healing benefits to you.
Acupuncture Characteristics
For more than 5,000 years, practitioners have utilized the healing properties of acupuncture for sciatic nerve pain relief. Originating in China, acupuncture has now become well-known in the United States. The theory of acupuncture is based upon the belief that an intelligent energy called qi (pronounced “chee”) can influence our health. This energy is thought to flow within various meridians in the body which connects specific organs and glands. Blockages found in these meridians usually manifest into various symptoms, which can cause ill-health.
Over 350 acupuncture points located on the body can provide direct access to the meridians and qi. An acupuncturist inserts needles into the skin at strategic locations on the body to free the flow of healing energy.
An Acupuncture Session
An acupuncture session may be required once or twice a week, for a total of eight to 10 weeks, depending on the severity of your sciatic nerve pain. A session usually begins with an interview, where the acupuncturist will check your pulse at various points on your wrist, while asking specific questions about your past medical history and present state of health.
Acupuncture for sciatic nerve pain is not a painful procedure; however, you might feel a short sting when the needles are inserted into the skin. Usually a dozen needles or more can be placed at various locations on your body, and not just within the sciatic nerve region. After the needles are placed into your skin, they may be stimulated and manipulated with slight heat. The overall treatment usually lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.
How Can You Find the Right Acupuncturist?
Acupuncture for sciatic nerve pain relief is very safe when performed properly, but can have a few side effects. To locate a qualified and certified practitioner, you should ask people you know who have had acupuncture sessions before for recommendations. An Internet search can also provide you with qualified practitioners that are located within your area as well.
After locating a practitioner, it is very important that you verify their training and credentials. In most states, acupuncturists must successfully pass the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exam. This ensures that an acupuncturist is certified and properly trained to administer acupuncture treatments.
Additionally, you should also interview the acupuncturist before scheduling an appointment. Ask all the questions that you need answers to. Currently, there are some health insurance providers that cover the expense for acupuncture treatments, and you should check to see if your health insurance does.
Acupuncture for sciatic nerve pain relief will undoubtedly continue to draw people from around the world. This very effective, natural health therapy can offer its benefits to you in your fight to combat and treat the effects of sciatic nerve pain.