Sciatica

Sciatica: An Overview

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. It often causes sharp, burning, or shooting pain, numbness, or tingling sensations, typically affecting one side of the body.

Causes of Sciatica:

• Herniated or slipped disc: Compression of the sciatic nerve roots.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal causing nerve pressure.
• Piriformis syndrome: Tightness or spasm of the piriformis muscle irritating the sciatic nerve.
• Degenerative disc disease: Wear and tear of spinal discs.
• Injury or trauma: Accidents or falls affecting lower back or pelvis.
• Prolonged sitting or poor posture: Increasing pressure on the nerve.

Homeopathic Remedies for Sciatica:

• Rhus Toxicodendron: Sciatic pain worsens with rest, better with movement; stiffness and restlessness.
• Colocynthis: Sharp, cramping pain relieved by firm pressure or bending double.
• Magnesia Phosphorica: Neuralgic, spasmodic pain, better with warmth and pressure.
• Arnica Montana: Useful after injury or trauma causing sciatica with bruised soreness.
• Calcarea Carbonica: Sciatica with heaviness and weakness in the limbs.
• Hypericum Perforatum: For nerve pain shooting down the legs, especially if caused by injury.

Acupuncture Points for Sciatica Relief:

• GB30 (Huantiao): Main point for sciatic nerve pain, located on the buttock.
• BL40 (Weizhong): At the back of the knee, relieves pain and stiffness.
• BL23 (Shenshu): Strengthens lower back and kidney energy.
• GB34 (Yanglingquan): Benefits tendons and muscles, relieves leg pain.
• BL54 (Zhibian): Near the sacrum, for lower back and leg pain relief.

Disclaimer:

Do not self-prescribe homeopathic remedies. Although homeopathy is generally free of side effects, using the wrong remedy or incorrect potency can delay healing or aggravate symptoms. Always consult a qualified homeopathic doctor for an individualized prescription. Likewise, acupuncture should only be performed by trained professionals after a proper diagnosis.