CAM for Sciatica - Eunice

CAM for Sciatica

Acupuncture: Involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at traditional acupuncture points which are believed to sit on meridians which run through the body.

- Thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of endorphins, which block pain. Many acu-points are near nerves. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), causing the release of endorphins (morphine-like chemicals produced in our own bodies during times of pain or stress). Endorphins, along with other neurotransmitters (body chemicals that modify nerve impulses), block the message of pain from being delivered up to the brain
- At present, there is not enough evidence to recommend acupuncture in the treatment of sciatica, but some people do gain relief
- Dummy acupuncture: uses non-traditional acupuncture points, which some people say is still beneficial

Mind-body therapies: aim to address psychological factors which affect intensity of pain and disability associated with chronic pain.

- Use various approaches: relaxation techniques, meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and hypnosis
- Benefits: greater sense of control, improved coping skills, decreased pain intensity and distress, changes in the way pain is perceived and understood and increased sense of well being and relaxation.
- Can improve recovery time and reduce pain following surgical procedures
- Evidence in support of these approaches is very strong

Alexander Technique: focuses on self-perception of movement, is a method of rediscovering natural balance and poise through thinking in activity

- Usually involves hands-on coaching by a qualified teacher
- Teacher provides verbal instructions while monitoring and guiding with hands-on assistance in order to help the student to change their previous physical habits.
- Helps to develop an even distribution of muscle tone, using philosophy of ‘good use’: using and moving the body lightly, with a minimum of interference in the interrelationship of neck, head and back. Emphasis on good posture and poise.
- “Every thought we have registers somewhere in our muscles, so the way we think about ourselves is a vital element.”
- Benefits: alleviates pain and weakness as a result of poor posture or repetitive demands, improves pain management for chronic disabilities, and enhanced rehabilitation following surgery or injury.
- A 2008 RCT published in the British Medical Journal found marked improvement in addressing back pain with the technique

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.Nsf/pages/Alexander_technique?OpenDocument
http://www.healingchronicpain.org/content/introduction/conv_mndbdy.asp
http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/pain-management-alternative-therapy
http://www.mydr.com.au/default.asp?article=4197