RCT Study on Acupuncture Treatment for Sciatica
Acupuncture has been widely used to treat chronic sciatica, particularly when caused by a herniated disc, but its efficacy remained debatable. A recent randomized clinical trial sheds light on this issue, comparing real acupuncture to sham acupuncture. Conducted across six Chinese hospitals, the study found significant improvements in pain reduction and functional ability in patients receiving true acupuncture. Over four weeks, patients experienced greater pain relief and enhanced mobility, benefits that persisted for 52 weeks. This study supports acupuncture as a viable treatment for sciatica sufferers.
Read more on the study
Tu J, Shi G, Yan S, et al. Acupuncture vs Sham Acupuncture for Chronic Sciatica From Herniated Disk: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med. Published online October 14, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.5463
Background on Acupuncture for Sciatica Pain
Acupuncture,involves inserting fine needles into specific body points to stimulate healing. It has gained recognition as a complementary treatment for various conditions, including sciatica. Sciatica often arises from a herniated disc pressing on the sciatic nerve, causing severe leg pain, weakness, and numbness. While conventional treatments like painkillers, physical therapy, and surgery are available, many patients seek alternative methods, including acupuncture, to manage their pain and avoid invasive procedures.
Blausen.com staff (2014). “Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014“. WikiJournal of Medicine 1 (2). DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 2002-4436.