The sciatic nerve is often susceptible to irritation in two places:
1. At the nerve roots that exit the spine in the lower back before they bundle together to form the sciatic nerve, and
2. In the hip region where the sciatic nerve passes through a key structural balance point.
Inflammation can result from deep spinal structures in the lower back pinching the nerve roots, or from deep rotator muscles of the hip (often the piriformis) which squeeze on the nerve itself & result in symptoms that can arise all the way down the length of the nerve pathway, from hip to foot.
Acupuncture is effective in releasing the physical restrictions of tight muscular patterns while simultaneously reducing inflammatory agents. Over a course of treatments this translates to less pain, & improved mobility. Not only that, its even safe & recommended to use during pregnancy!
