A systematic review and network meta-analysis undertaken by researchers at the University of Huddersfield, has compared the effectiveness of various treatments for sciatica. The conclusion is that acupuncture is effective for sciatica. The work was funded by the National Institute for Health Research.
A total of 122 relevant studies, of which 90 were randomised controlled trials, covering 21 different treatment strategies were examined. Taking overall recovery as the main outcome criterion, and compared with inactive control or conventional care, there was found to be statistically significant improvement following acupuncture, disc surgery, epidural injections, non-opioid analgesia and manipulation.
(Comparative clinical effectiveness of management strategies for sciatica: systematic review and network meta-analyses. Spine Journal, October 2013.)
Author: Robin Costello
I offer traditional Chinese acupuncture in Exeter, from a tranquil clinic a mile from the city centre, and next to the University of Exeter. I graduated originally from the London School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine’s 3 year full time Acupuncture Diploma (DipAc) course. I am on the practitioners register of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC), a regulatory and professional body with an entry standard of a full three year undergraduate degree level training.
I have worked in a hospital in south west China, deepening my knowledge and using acupuncture and Chinese massage (tuina) as the treatment of choice in its country of origin. I have taught Chinese medicine in colleges, the NHS and at university level. I also practise Qi Gong, and Chinese dietary therapy, that is the medicinal use of ordinary foods, chosen to help achieve particular therapeutic effects in different individuals.
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