Lower back pain and sciatica are common conditions affecting many individuals, often disrupting work and daily life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture offers a gentle yet effective solution, helping countless patients manage their pain. In this article, Dr. ChangHsin Pai shares his expert insights along with simple at-home care techniques to support recovery. The Science Behind Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain and Sciatica According to TCM, lower back pain and sciatica are often linked to deficiencies in the liver and kidneys, cold-damp stagnation, or blood and qi stasis. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific acupoints to regulate organ function, unblock meridians, and restore balance—ultimately alleviating pain. Modern research has also demonstrated that acupuncture can relieve pain through the following mechanisms: 1. Neurological Regulation – Acupuncture activates the central nervous system’s descending pain inhibition pathways, reducing pain signal transmission. 2. Anti-inflammatory Effects – It lowers local inflammatory markers, easing inflammation around the affected nerves. 3. Improved Microcirculation – By enhancing blood flow, acupuncture helps relax muscle spasms and reduce tissue hypoxia. 4. Endogenous Pain Relief – Acupuncture promotes the release of natural painkillers such as endorphins and enkephalins. Dr. Pai explains: “Effective acupuncture treatment depends on precise diagnosis. For instance, cold-damp lower back pain is characterised by a deep, aching sensation that worsens in cold weather. In such cases, warming and circulation-boosting acupoints like Mingmen and Yaoyangguan are used. Conversely, blood stasis-related pain, which manifests as sharp and stabbing discomfort, requires acupoints that invigorate blood circulation, such as Geshu and Xuehai.” Clinical Acupuncture Approach Based on Dr. Pai’s clinical experience, acupuncture treatment for lower back pain and sciatica typically follows these steps: 1. Diagnosis & Differentiation – Assessing the patient through inquiry, tongue diagnosis, and pulse examination. 2. Acupoint Selection: • For lower back pain: Shenshu, Dachangshu, Weizhong, Yaoyangguan, Mingmen. • For sciatica: Huantiao, Yanglingquan, Kunlun, Chengshan, Xuanzhong. 3. Treatment Frequency – Recommended at 2–3 sessions per week, with 4–6 weeks per treatment course. 4. Adjunct Therapies – Combining acupuncture with moxibustion, cupping, or Tui Na (therapeutic massage) for enhanced results. “Chronic pain sufferers may benefit from integrating acupuncture with herbal medicine for a more comprehensive and lasting therapeutic effect,” Dr. Pai advises. Expert-Recommended At-Home Care for Pain Relief In addition to professional treatment, at-home care plays a crucial role in pain management. Dr. Paisuggests the following strategies: 1. TCM Exercises & Stretches • Baduanjin Qigong – Particularly the movement “Holding the Toes to Strengthen the Kidneys” to stretch the lower back and enhance kidney energy. • Tai Chi – Slow, fluid movements improve circulation and relieve lower back pressure. • Yoga Poses – Child’s Pose and Knee-to-Chest Stretch help release tension in the lower back and hips. 2. Acupressure Techniques • Weizhong (Behind the Knee) – Massaging this point can relieve lower back pain. • Huantiao (Outer Hip) – Helps alleviate sciatic pain. • Shenshu (Lower Back) – Strengthens kidney function and supports lumbar health. 3. Herbal Compress Therapy Applying a warm herbal poultice made from Chuanxiong (Szechuan Lovage), Honghua (Safflower), Ruxiang(Frankincense), and Moyao (Myrrh) mixed with warm rice wine can reduce pain and improve circulation. 4. Dietary Adjustments • For Cold-Damp Pain – Consume warming foods like ginger, longan, and lamb while avoiding cold/raw foods. • For Kidney Deficiency – Include kidney-nourishing foods like black beans, walnuts, and goji berries. • For Blood Stagnation – Opt for blood-invigorating foods such as hawthorn, brown sugar, and rose tea. 5. Lifestyle Modifications • Avoid prolonged sitting or standing—take short breaks every hour. • Use ergonomic seating and bedding to maintain spinal alignment. • Refrain from heavy lifting or excessive bending; use lumbar support if necessary. Stay Informed with the Vuda TCM Health Column Vuda TCM’s monthly health column, authored by Dr. ChangHsinPai, a distinguished practitioner from a century-old lineage of Traditional Chinese Medicine, offers expert insights on acupuncture, herbal medicine, and therapeutic massage. Rooted in generations of medical wisdom, this column not only provides professional health advice but also shares the latest clinical research and practical wellness tips. Stay updated and enhance your well-being by following our regular health updates. Media Contact Address: Lot 20,Valetia Street, Lautoka Phone: +679 8002727 Email: vudatcm.clinic@gmail.com