Sciatica

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. Sciatica usually affects only one side of the body and can range from mild discomfort to sharp, burning pain. It is often caused by compression of the sciatic nerve due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis).

Sciatica can disrupt daily activities, making it difficult to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods.

Signs and Symptoms of Sciatica

- Pain that radiates from the lower back down to the buttock and leg

- Numbness or weakness in the affected leg or foot

- Sharp, shooting pain when standing or sitting for long periods

- Tingling or "pins and needles" sensation along the nerve pathway

- Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Sciatica

In TCM, sciatica is considered to be caused by blockages in the flow of Qi and blood, often due to external pathogenic factors such as wind, cold, dampness, or internal imbalances in the kidney or liver systems. Sciatica is categorized as a type of "Bi Syndrome" (painful obstruction), where the flow of energy and blood in the meridians is disrupted, leading to pain and discomfort.

TCM Diagnosis and Approaches:

- Cold-Damp Obstruction: Exposure to cold and damp conditions can lead to Qi and blood stagnation, causing stiffness, pain, and heaviness in the lower back and legs.

- Herbs: Herbal formulas like Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica and Loranthus Decoction) are used to dispel wind, cold, and dampness while tonifying the kidneys and liver. Key herbs include Du Huo (Angelica Root), Sang Ji Sheng (Mistletoe), and Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Root).

- Kidney Deficiency: The kidneys in TCM are responsible for nourishing the bones and supporting the lower back. Kidney deficiency can lead to weak or aching lower back pain, which can exacerbate sciatica.

- Acupuncture: Points such as Bladder 23 (Shen Shu), Kidney 3 (Tai Xi), and Gallbladder 30 (Huan Tiao) are commonly used to relieve sciatic pain, tonify kidney Qi, and reduce inflammation.

- Blood Stasis: In some cases, sciatica may involve blood stasis, where poor circulation leads to sharp, stabbing pain. 

- Moxibustion Therapy: Moxibustion, a heat therapy using burning mugwort, can be applied to warm the meridians and alleviate pain due to cold or dampness.

Lifestyle Recommendations

- Stretching and Exercise: Gentle exercises, such as yoga or tai chi, can help improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles supporting the lower back, and relieve sciatic pain.

- Dietary Therapy: Consuming warming and invigorating foods, such as ginger, garlic, and cinnamon, can help alleviate cold dampness and improve circulation.