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Pressure Points to Target for Sciatica Pain Relief

    

7.7 - Where Is the Pressure Point for Sciatica


Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. Sciatica can be caused by various factors, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, pregnancy, or piriformis syndrome. Living with sciatica can be excruciating, impacting your daily life and mobility. While various treatment options exist, understanding the pressure points associated with sciatica can provide targeted relief and help you manage the pain more effectively.

Pressure points are specific areas on the body where concentrated nerve endings and blood vessels intersect. Stimulating these points can have a profound impact on pain relief and overall wellbeing. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective pressure points for sciatic nerve pain relief.

Piriformis Muscle 

The main pressure point associated with sciatica relief is the piriformis muscle. Located deep within the buttock region, the piriformis muscle plays a crucial role in hip rotation and stability. When this muscle becomes tight or inflamed, it can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to intense pain. 

Several techniques can be used to target the piriformis muscle. One effective method is to apply gentle pressure with the fingertips or a tennis ball to the buttock region. Massaging the area in circular motions for a few minutes can provide relief. Skilled massage therapists can use various massage techniques to relax the piriformis muscle and surrounding tissues, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Whether you have just started to experience sciatic pain or you are in the last stages of sciatica, exercises that focus on stretching the piriformis muscle, such as the seated piriformis stretch and pigeon pose, can release tension and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve. In addition, strengthening exercises targeting the core and lower back muscles can improve posture, provide better spinal support, and reduce the risk of sciatic nerve compression.

Acupressure Points for Sciatica

Acupressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and relieve pain. Acupressure can be a natural and effective way to treat sciatica pain, as it can relax the muscles, reduce inflammation, and increase blood circulation.

Acupressure points can be massaged with the fingers, thumbs, elbows, or special tools. There are several acupressure points that can alleviate sciatica pain, depending on the location and severity of the symptoms. Here are some of the most common ones.

Gallbladder 30 (GB30)

The Gallbladder 30 acupressure point is perhaps the most common acupressure point utilized to provide relief from sciatica pain. This point is known in Chinese as Huan Tiao, which translates to “jumping round.” It is located on the outer edge of the buttocks, about halfway between the hip and the tailbone. To massage this point, use your thumb or elbow to apply pressure and massage in a circular motion. You can also use a tennis ball or a foam roller to roll over this point. Apply pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute and then release. Repeat this process 2–3 times per day until the pain subsides.

Urinary Bladder 40 (UB40 or BL40)

The Urinary Bladder 40 acupressure point is also known as the Middle Crook point. It is located at the back of the knee, in the center of the crease. This point is said to regulate the blood flow and relieve pain in the lower back and legs. To massage this point, use your thumb or index finger to apply pressure and massage gently. You can also use a warm compress or a heating pad to stimulate this point. Apply pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute and then release. Repeat this process 2–3 times per day until the pain subsides.

Urinary Bladder 23 (UB23 or BL23)

The Urinary Bladder 23 acupressure point is also known as the Kidney Tonifying point. It is located in the lower back at the level of the second and third lumbar vertebrae. This point is said to strengthen the kidneys and relieve lower back pain and sciatica. To massage this point, use your thumbs or elbows to apply pressure and massage in an upward direction. You can also use a warm compress or a heating pad to stimulate this point. Apply pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute and then release. Repeat this process 2 –3 times per day until the pain subsides..

Urinary Bladder 62 (UB62 or BL62)

The Urinary Bladder 62 acupressure point is also known as the Extending Vessel point. It is located on the outer side of the ankle, below the ankle bone. This point is said to open up the channels and relieve pain in the lower back and legs. To massage this point, use your thumb or index finger to apply pressure and massage gently. You can also use a warm compress or a heating pad to stimulate this point. Apply pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute and then release. Repeat this process 2–3 times per day until the pain subsides.

These are some of the most effective pressure points for sciatic nerve pain relief. However, they are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. If you have severe or persistent sciatic nerve pain, you should consult your doctor before trying any self-care measures.

Patients who have had discectomies or less invasive microdiscectomies for herniated discs may experience sciatica if their discs become reherniated, which often occurs if there is a large hole in the outer ring of the disc after surgery. Fortunately, there is a new treatment available. Barricaid is a device shown to reduce the risk of reherniation by closing the hole in the disc after a discectomy, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in the 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-288-7474.

 

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.

 

 

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