Overview
This condition, which is characterized by nervy and gnawing pain that radiates from the low back down one or both legs, can be debilitating and frustrating. Many patients have tried conventional therapies but still struggle with the condition.
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, pain is believed to be due to stuck energy and blood in the body. It is always a result of impeded circulation, which can lead to inflammation or degeneration. In the case of sciatica, the gall bladder meridian is typically in need of energetic balancing. This meridian runs from the piriformus muscle in the buttocks down the lateral side of the legs, which is the pathway of the sciatic nerve. Qi stagnation (stuck energy) occurs in this meridian due to suppressed anger and stress. Because of this, a common dynamic amongst sciatica patients is that they tend to hold onto anger or express it inappropriately.
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine can play an important role in treating this condition. The following herbal formulas have all been proven to be useful in the treatment of sciatica:
- du huo ji sheng tang: One of the main formulas for treating pain and spasm from the waist down
- you gui wan: A kidney tonic formula that treats low back pain due to internal cold and deficiency
- yao tong pian: One of the main formulas for all kinds of low back pain
Supplements
These have been found to be helpful for sciatica:
- Bromelain: anti-inflammatory enzyme
- Fish oil: (3,000 mg daily)
- 5HTP: (a natural precursor to serotonin; many people with chronic pain are serotonin deficient)
Yoga Postures
There are also specific yoga postures that are helpful for both prevention and for active flare ups. These poses are best learned from a yoga instructor, as it is fairly easy to exacerbate this condition with stretching.
With the right combination of therapies, sciatica typically responds very well to alternative treatment.
Source: Kevin S. Doherty, LAc., Dipl.Ac., MSOM
