Acupuncture for Sciatica
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a specific type of pain that affects the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the largest one in the body. It begins in the lower back, extends through the hips and buttocks, and travels down each leg. Sciatica is often called a condition, while it’s actually more of a symptom of an underlying problem, rather than the problem itself. To effectively treat sciatica, it is important not only to target the pain here and now, but also the cause of the pain. While some options may provide temporary relief and improve quality of life, in many cases, the pain is likely to return over time.

What Causes Sciatica?
Sitting or standing with incorrect alignment puts unnecessary strain on the back muscles and spine.
Overuse or sudden movements can lead to strained or pulled back muscles.
When the soft tissue between spinal vertebrae bulges or ruptures, it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain.
Conditions like osteoarthritis can affect the spine, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
Falls, accidents, or sports-related injuries can damage the spine or surrounding tissues.
Lack of regular physical activity weakens the muscles that support the spine. Weakened muscles can’t fully support your spine which can cause pain.
Symptoms of Sciatica

- Radiating Pain. Pain often starts in the lower back and travels through the hips, buttocks, and down one leg, following the path of the sciatic nerve.
- Sharp or Burning Sensations. The pain may feel like a sudden jolt or a persistent, intense burn.
- Pain Worsens With Activities. Prolonged sitting, coughing, or sudden movements can exacerbate symptoms.
- Tingling or Numbness. Many people experience a pins-and-needles sensation in the leg or foot.
- Muscle Weakness. Weakness in the affected leg can make standing, walking, or climbing stairs difficult.
- Limited Mobility. Pain and discomfort can restrict movement and make daily tasks challenging.
Acupuncture Points for Sciatica
Acupuncture for sciatica stimulates specific points along the body’s meridians to ease pain, reduce inflammation, and restore balance. Some of the most effective acupuncture points for sciatica include:
- GB30 (Huantiao). This acupuncture point for sciatica pain is located in the hip area, this point helps ease hip and lower back pain.
- UB40 (Weizhong). Located behind the knee, this point is effective for leg pain and stiffness.
- UB23 (Shenshu). Found near the lower back, this point eases back pain and helps you feel more energized.
- LV3 (Taichong). Located on the foot, this point reduces pain along the sciatic nerve.
- ST36 (Zusanli). Positioned near the knee, this point boosts circulation and eases discomfort in the legs.

Does Acupuncture Work for Sciatica?
- Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture for sciatica can reduce pain, inflammation, and nerve irritation by stimulating certain points on the body. It can also trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and improve blood circulation, helping with healing.
- Electroacupuncture may prove even more effective in treating sciatica. It uses low-frequency electrical pulses passed through the acupuncture needles. These pulses help treat nerve-related pain and boost the benefits of acupuncture for sciatica pain. Electrical stimulation provides a deeper and more targeted treatment which is especially good for sciatica pain.

Schedule a consultation here to find out!
Acupuncture for Sciatica at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL
- At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we offer effective and holistic acupuncture treatment for sciatica. Our integrative health clinic specializes in providing fully personalized treatments to ease pain, reduce discomfort, and inflammation. We use both traditional techniques like acupuncture for sciatica nerve pain and herbal medicine as well as modern variations like electroacupuncture and physical therapy to help you feel better.


- Our practitioners create personalized acupuncture therapy for sciatica treatment plans based on your unique health parameters and sciatica pain causes. We avoid one-size-fits-all solutions as we understand that they may make your condition even worse. At Copper Wellness you and your pain relief are our priority.
- Are you ready to feel your best and make your life more comfortable? Contact us today to see how our holistic healthcare solutions can help you!
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