Posts
SCIATICA
Definition
Sciatica,
also called sciatic neuritis, is a painful condition caused by
problems with the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and
thickest single nerve in the human body. It is composed of the fourth
and fifth lumbar nerves and the first three sacral nerves. It runs
from the lower back down the posterior of each leg. (See photo
below).
Symptoms
The
pain is usually described as burning or shooting pain in the lower
back, buttocks, or one or both legs. Numbness of the legs or even
muscular wasting may be observed in advanced cases.
Causes
Pressure
on the sciatic nerve can be caused by swollen or herniated discs,
protrusions on the spinal vertebra, or inflamed piriformis muscles.
Treatment
In
Western Medicine sciatica is generally treated with prescription
painkillers and bed rest. Surgery is considered a last resort because
the scarring can cause additional pressure and pain.
In
Traditional Chinese Medicine there are multiple approaches which are
most effective when used in combination. These include acupuncture,
moxibustion, herbal medicine, Tui Na or Chinese Massage, properly
balanced diet, exercise, and rest, Qi Gong breathing, and stress
management which can include meditation. The objective of the
Traditional Chinese Medicine approach is to restore the essential
flow of Qi and the proper balance of Yin and Yang within the body.
There are no contraindications for use of massage therapy in the
treatment of sciatica.
References
https://www.sustainhealth.com.au/blog/sciatica-treatment-chinese-medicine/
https://www.spineuniverse.com/treatments/alternative/care-your-low-back-according-traditional-chinese-medicine-tcm
No comments:
Post a Comment