Sciatica Relief in Calgary
Sciatica can feel like a hot, shooting or electric pain that travels from the low back or buttock down the leg. It can make sitting, walking and sleeping difficult.
At Drift Acupuncture & Wellness in South West Calgary, we combine Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Massage Therapy to calm irritated nerves, release tight hip and glute muscles and ease pain along the leg.
Common Sciatica Concerns
We frequently see clients experiencing:
- Shooting pain from the buttock down the back of the leg
- Tingling, numbness or pins and needles in the leg or foot
- Pain that is worse with sitting or bending
- Tight glutes and piriformis muscles
- Sciatica linked to disc bulges or herniations
Our Approach
Our Calgary clinic works out where the nerve is being irritated and treats the low back, hips and the length of the leg, so the whole pathway can settle.
1. Benefits
Acupuncture and massage therapy may help sciatica by:
- Calming Nerve Pain: Acupuncture may help reduce pain intensity and sensitivity along the sciatic nerve.
- Releasing the Hips: Needling and massage of the glutes and piriformis can take pressure off the nerve.
- Improving Circulation: Better blood flow supports the healing of irritated tissue.
2. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective
In TCM, sciatica follows the Bladder and Gallbladder channels down the back and side of the leg.
- Channel Obstruction: Pain, numbness and heaviness point to blocked Qi and Blood in these channels, sometimes made worse by cold and damp.
- Restoring Flow: Treatment clears the channels, warms stiff areas and strengthens the low back.
During Your Treatment
Points are placed along the low back, hip and leg. Electro-acupuncture is often used to help settle nerve pain. Many clients leave feeling looser through the hips.
Treatments at our Calgary clinic may incorporate:
- Acupuncture & Electro-Acupuncture
- Motor / Trigger Point Needling
- Cupping & Gua Sha
- Therapeutic Massage Therapy
- Home Care & Movement Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture help sciatica?
Research suggests acupuncture may reduce sciatica pain and improve function for some people. We'll assess your symptoms at your first visit.
When should I see a doctor first?
If you have leg weakness, numbness in the groin area or changes in bladder or bowel control, see a doctor or go to emergency right away.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone responds differently. Many clients start with weekly sessions for several weeks, then space them out as things improve. Your practitioner will recommend a plan after your initial assessment.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and most people feel very little — often a dull ache, warmth or heaviness at the point that settles quickly. Many clients find sessions deeply relaxing.
Acupuncture and massage therapy are complementary therapies and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. Results vary from person to person. Please continue any care prescribed by your medical provider.