Can Dry Needling Help Relieve Sciatica?

Depending on cause and severity, dry needling is a safe option prior to expensive imaging or procedures. This relatively new treatment option has been very beneficial in relieving many types of muscular or joint issues. Before we go any further, let’s clarify a few points.

What is sciatica and how do I know I have it?

Sciatica is a term used to describe back pain which radiates into or down the side or back of a leg. The distance down the leg and the type of pain can vary. The pain may only travel to the top of the buttock, or all the way down the the foot. The symptoms may range from a dull achy feeling, to a sharp, burning, or stabbing pain.

Sciatica is not a hard diagnosis to render, but the cause is often difficult to determine. A common cause is a herniated disc. The intervertebral disc is a cushion which separates one vertebrae from another. The nerves exit the spine in the space created by the disc. If the wall of the disc ruptures or bulges, it can press against the exiting nerve. In this case, the sciatic nerve. The herniation of the disc can be the result of a lifting injury, degenerative condition, or simply the added weight of obesity or pregnancy. A definitive diagnosis may require a MRI.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a specific technique of inserting a tiny needle thru the skin and into a muscle or trigger point. The needles used are the same as those utilized with acupuncture and are not hollow like those used for injections. Once the needle is inserted, it is moved in and out or in a specific pattern, dependent on what the desired outcome is.

How does Dry Needling help sciatica?

Dry needling will often cause a decrease in muscle spasm or tightness. Often times, when the muscle is relaxed, the pressure around the sciatic nerve is decreased. After the compression of the nerve is released, the end result is less pain. This is the main reason dry needling is a cost effective option prior to the more expensive tests and procedures.

Who does dry needling near me?

A healthcare practitioner who is trained and licensed in the technique of acupuncture is preferred. Some providers have training in dry needling only, but we have found the combination of dry needling and acupuncture to be a good tandem for treating sciatica.

Dr Greg Gruba is a board certified chiropractor and acupuncturist. He also has advanced training in dry needling technique. His office is located in Rapid City, SD.

To Your Health,

RapidCityChiropractor.org