Avenue Acupuncture FAQs

Treatment first identifies which underlying cause is responsible. For spinal problems, needles are placed just off the spine to stimulate surrounding tissue and help correct misalignment. For muscular causes, needles may be inserted into the piriformis muscle or placed in the ankles and wrists to restore normal function distally.

Sciatica is always a symptom of a deeper issue, commonly a herniated or slipped disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome (where the piriformis muscle pinches the sciatic nerve), or pregnancy, where the uterus or baby puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica is pain in the back or side of the leg due to irritation of the sciatic nerve, felt in a line from the lower back to the buttock, thigh, calf, and possibly down to the foot. It can range from a leg cramp to excruciating, shooting pain and may also cause numbness or tingling.