Sciatica is a common condition that can have a significant impact on day-to-day life and bring about unwanted aches and pains. At AcuHealth Therapies we utilise cupping therapy for sciatica as a treatment that can be complementary to both acupuncture and modern western treatments.
Sciatica occurs when pressure is placed on the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down both legs. Sciatica can be brought upon by other conditions such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or muscle tension.
Symptoms of sciatica can include:
The severity of sciatica pain can vary from sharp pain to mild aches and sitting for prolonged periods can exacerbate symptoms. Sciatica pain is generally present on one side of the body.
Cupping therapy is a key pillar of Traditional Chinese Medicine where local suction is applied to the skin and muscles by placing heated cups (usually made of glass) onto specific areas of the body
Cupping therapy philosophy is based on the understanding that creating a suction effect on specific areas of the body can maximise blood flow, boost immune function, help to remove toxins from the body and assist with pain reduction.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine beliefs, cupping therapy helps to facilitate the flow of qi (pronounced chi) throughout the body, remove obstructions and restore balance. Qi is regarded as the energy force that flows within the body.
Cupping therapy may assist to reduce symptoms related to sciatica through:
Pain relief – the suction effect from the cups can help to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve by releasing muscle tension and maximising blood flow.
Promoting increased circulation – cupping therapy may enhance blood flow to affected areas, supporting tissue repair and reducing inflammation along the sciatic nerve path.
Reducing muscle tension – by relaxing muscles that surround the sciatic nerve such as the piriformis and glutes, this may reduce compression on the sciatic nerve.
Cupping therapy for sciatica has some specific benefits that make it appealing for people who are looking for a natural and non-invasive approach to treatment.
Natural therapy – cupping therapy does not involve any medication.
Non-invasive – cupping therapy is not an invasive procedure.
Complementary treatment – cupping therapy can be implemented alongside other treatments such as acupuncture or modern western treatments.
Customisable and personalised – a therapy plan can be tailored for each individual over the long term and can also address any underlying issues.
After a cupping therapy session it is common for your skin to turn red and for light bruising marks to appear on the body where the cups were placed. These cupping marks are from the suction effect as the cupping technique creates a vacuum that draws blood to the skin’s surface. Cupping marks should fade within 1-2 weeks and are generally painless.
Cupping therapy is considered safe but should always be administered by a registered Chinese Medicine practitioner.
A 2024 study concluded that “High- to moderate-quality evidence indicates that cupping significantly improves pain and disability. Cupping demonstrated a superior and sustained effect on pain reduction compared with medication and usual care.”
If you are experiencing pain related to sciatica, cupping therapy is a natural treatment that you may consider to complement your current treatment plan.
To find out more about Cupping Therapy for Sciatica call us at the clinic:
