Sciatica Pain 坐骨神经痛

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down the legs.
It is usually caused by irritation or compression of the nerve roots in the lumbar spine.

While commonly seen in adults aged 30–60, modern sedentary habits, prolonged sitting, and poor posture are contributing to increasing cases among younger individuals.

At Jin TCM Clinic, we integrate TCM wisdom with modern medical diagnostics, manual therapy, and TCM rehabilitation to address both the symptoms and the underlying structural and energetic imbalances.

From a modern medical perspective:

Sciatica is not a disease itself but a symptom caused by:

• Lumbar Disc Herniation: The soft disc material protrudes and compresses the nerve root.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Disc dehydration and loss of height reduce cushioning and increase nerve irritation.
• Lumbar Spondylosis: Bone spurs narrow the nerve canal, causing inflammation and compression.
• Piriformis Syndrome: Tight piriformis muscle in the buttock compresses the sciatic nerve.
• Muscle Imbalance: Weak core and gluteal muscles overload the lumbar spine, causing persistent irritation.

From a TCM viewpoint:

Sciatica is known as “痹症 (Bi Syndrome)” or “腰腿痛”.
The pain arises due to:

• Qi and Blood stagnation obstructing the meridians
• Wind-Cold-Damp invasion causing heaviness and ache
• Liver–Kidney deficiency weakening the tendons, bones, and lower back support
• Channel blockage along the Bladder and Gallbladder meridians 

This results in radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower limb.

• Lower back pain radiating to the buttock, thigh, or foot
• Tingling, “pins and needles,” or numbness along the sciatic pathway
• Sharp, shooting pain when sitting, bending, or standing up
• Leg weakness or heaviness
• Difficulty walking or straightening the back
• Pain worse after long sitting or driving

At Jin TCM Clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to assess sciatica pain:

• Physical Examination:  
  • Posture and lumbar alignment
  • Range of motion and nerve tension tests (SLR, slump test)
  • Gluteal, piriformis, and hamstring tightness
  • Core stability and muscle imbalance
• TCM Pattern Differentiation: Identifying whether the pain stems from TCM patterns.
• Medical Evaluation:  If available, we review MRI for lumbar disc herniation, X-rays for degeneration or spondylosis, Nerve conduction tests (if previously done).

This integrated approach ensures clear understanding of both structural and internal causes.

 We combine TCM Tuina with modern myofascial techniques to release nerve compression and restore mobility. 

Components:

• Myofascial Release: Loosening tight fascia in the lumbar, gluteal, and hamstring regions
• Trigger-Point / Acupoint Release: Targeting piriformis, quadratus lumborum, and deep gluteal muscles
• Soft-Tissue Mobilisation
• Pelvic and Lumbar Mobilisation: Gentle oscillations to improve joint movement and reduce nerve irritation

Benefits:

• Reduces muscle tension that compresses the nerve
• Improves circulation and nerve glide
• Restores pelvic and lumbar balance
• Enhances effectiveness of acupuncture and bone-setting

Performed by trained TCM orthopaedic physicians.

Purpose:

• Correct lumbar and pelvic misalignments
• Reduce nerve root compression
• Improve disc space and spinal mobility
• Prevent recurring sciatica due to biomechanical imbalance

Soft-tissue release is always done first to ensure safe and comfortable adjustments.

 Cupping is applied to the lower back, sacrum, and gluteal muscles to relieve deep stagnation. 

Benefits:

• Reduces muscular tightness, especially in QL and piriformis
• Improves local blood circulation
• Clears Dampness and Cold obstructing the lumbar meridians
• Supports healing of chronic lower back tension

Techniques Used:

• Stationary cupping for deep muscle relaxation
• Sliding cupping along the Bladder meridian
• Flash cupping for acute pain relief

 Acupuncture regulates meridian flow and reduces nerve irritation. 

Effects:

• Relieves sharp, radiating pain
• Reduces inflammation around nerve roots
• Loosens tight gluteal and lumbar muscles
• Enhances nerve function and reduces numbness

Electro-acupuncture is often used for stronger muscle relaxation and improved nerve recovery.

TCM herbal formulas can support recovery by:

• Reducing inflammation and swelling
• Promoting tendon and ligament healing
• Improving overall energy and circulation

Common herbs include Du Huo, Xu Duan, Sang Ji Sheng, Hong Hua, and Dang Gui tailored to each patient’s condition.

Our physicians will guide you through:

Essential Exercises:

• Deep core activation
• Glute strengthening
• Hip flexor and hamstring stretching
• Piriformis release techniques

Lifestyle and Ergonomics: 

• Correct sitting posture
• Avoiding long driving/sitting
• Proper lifting techniques
• Sleep posture guidance

Breathing and Relaxation: Reduces chronic tension around the lumbar spine.

During the first visit, our physicians perform a thorough assessment, including physical exam and TCM pattern differentiation. A personalized treatment plan is designed, combining manual therapy, acupuncture, bone setting, cupping, or herbal medicine.

Relief Timeline: 

• Many patients feel improvement in pain or leg tightness within 1–2 sessions, especially if caused by muscle compression.
• Chronic disc or degeneration issues may require several sessions to gradually decompress the nerve and improve stability.

Normal Reactions: Mild soreness for 1–2 days after treatment is expected as the tissues release tension and begin healing.

No Package Policy: We do not sell fixed packages — treatment frequency depends on each patient’s condition and healing speed.

Seek immediate Western medical attention if you experience:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control

These may indicate serious nerve compression requiring prompt imaging.

• MOH-registered bilingual physicians
• Special expertise in TCM orthopaedics & pain management
• Integrative approach combining acupuncture, manual therapy, bone-setting and modern assessment
• Safe, precise, and evidence-informed treatment
• Focus on both symptom relief and long-term function

If you suffer from lower back or sciatica pain, our physicians will assess your condition comprehensively and design a tailored treatment plan to help you recover safely and effectively.

JIN TCM Clinic 精诚中医诊所 @ Ubi
📞 +65 8896 9398

JIN TCM Clinic 精诚中医诊所 @ Aljunied
📞 +65 8896 3210