Sciatica feels like shooting, burning or electric pain down one leg, sometimes with tingling or numbness. Most cases improve within weeks to a few months.
Pain & recovery concern
Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg along the sciatic nerve, often from a disc or tight muscles pressing on the nerve. At Flourish TCM Clinic in Yaletown, Vancouver, TuiNa & DDS Acupressure Massage is bookable now; acupuncture is on the waitlist.
TCM describes sciatica as blocked Qi and blood along the channels of the leg, often with cold, damp or Kidney deficiency. Treatment follows the path of the pain.
Treatments that may help
Body Wellness
TuiNa & DDS Acupressure Massage
Acupressure along the back, hip and leg (bookable). Tabi's own story with DDS is told on her team page
Body Wellness
DDS + Laser Acupoint Therapy
Bio-current massage with low-level laser on points, needle-free (bookable)
What to expect
A short course of treatment is typical, alongside staying gently active. We don't promise that sciatica will resolve; responses vary.
Terms to know
Full glossaryGlossary
Acupoints
TCMAcupoints are specific points on the body, mostly along the meridians, that are stimulated with needles, finger pressure or low-level laser.
Glossary
Meridians
TCMMeridians are the channels through which, in TCM, Qi and blood are understood to flow, connecting the body's surface with its organ systems.
Glossary
Qi
TCMIn TCM, Qi (pronounced "chee") is the vital energy understood to flow through the body and sustain life and function.
Frequently asked questions
Can TCM help sciatica?
Many people use bodywork and acupuncture as part of their recovery. Results vary.
Should I stretch?
Gentle movement usually helps. Avoid anything that sharply increases leg pain.
Is sciatica serious?
Usually not, but the warning signs above need urgent care.
Can I book acupuncture?
It's on a waitlist; TuiNa & DDS is bookable now.