Vitality Health & Wellness Center of WI Offers Acupuncture for Sciatica
Acupuncture is an ancient Asian method has been used for hundreds of years for relief of pain. It involves the use of very thin needles inserted at specific points in the body to block the transmission of pain signals and to induce the production of natural pain-relieving chemicals. Current research indicates that acupuncture can often be more effective than pharmaceutical measures for common conditions such as sciatica. Vitality Health & Wellness Center can provide acupuncture treatment for sciatica and other painful problems.
Understanding Sciatica Pain
The term “sciatica” refers to inflammation and pain caused by the sciatic nerve that runs from the lower spine, through the buttocks and down the backs of the legs. The nerve also branches out to other parts of the legs. Lower back pain and hip pain are common symptoms of sciatica. Individuals may also experience shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up. Compression within the discs of the spine can lead to irritation of the nerve, which can cause radiated pain, tingling, numbness or burning at any point along its path. Generally, sciatica affects only one side of the body. The discomfort can be intermittent or chronic, and it can severely impact the individual’s ability to engage in normal activities. Sciatica can often begin during pregnancy when increased weight puts pressure on back structures. Obesity can also put individuals at higher risk for sciatica. Wearing high heels or sleeping on a bad mattress can also cause back and nerve pressure that leads to sciatica.
Acupuncture For Sciatica
Because the pain of sciatica can be debilitating, preventing individuals from normal engagement in their work tasks and recreational activities, effective pain management is an important consideration. Conventional medicine often prescribes strong pain relievers, but these can pose a number of problems with side effects and the risk of addiction. Acupuncture is a drug-free method of relieving pain that can be safely used on a regular basis. The insertion of the fine needles at meridian points in the body block nerves from transmitting pain signals. In addition, the needles also cause the release of natural chemicals the serve as an analgesic, soothing pain along the nerve pathways.
Make Vitality Health & Wellness Center Your Milwaukee Acupuncturist
Dr. Arthur Rapkin is a licensed acupuncturist with years of experience providing care for patients in Elm Grove, Milwaukee, and nearby communities. We offer a drug-free option for dealing with painful conditions that are highly effective and does not involve long periods of recovery from surgical intervention. Call Vitality Health & Wellness Center today at (262) 827-4000 for an appointment to learn more about how acupuncture can relieve your sciatica discomfort.