Sciatica is pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It usually affects one side.
What sciatica feels like
- Sharp, burning or shooting pain from the back or buttock into the leg
- Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
- Pain that is worse when sitting, coughing or sneezing
- Weakness in the leg or foot
Common causes
Sciatica happens when something irritates or presses on a nerve root in the lower spine.
- A slipped (herniated) disc, the most common cause
- Narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
- A tight piriformis muscle in the buttock
- Injury to the spine or pelvis
Acupuncture and herbal medicine for sciatica
Neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered at The Tole as a complement to medical care. They aim to ease pain along the nerve and support circulation in the lower back and leg.
Studies of acupuncture for sciatica have given mixed results, so we do not promise a particular outcome. Many cases settle over weeks, and your doctor can advise on medicines and physiotherapy.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. The Master’s team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs and the family’s ancestral formulas.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can acupuncture help with sciatica?
Some people feel less pain with acupuncture, but research results are mixed. We offer it as a complement to your medical care and do not promise an outcome.
Do I need an MRI before I come?
Not necessarily. If you have a scan report, bring it, because it helps us understand the cause. Your doctor will tell you whether a scan is needed.
How long does sciatica last?
Many people improve within a few weeks to a few months. If your pain is severe or not improving, see your doctor.
See a doctor first if
- Numbness around the groin or buttocks, or loss of control of your bladder or bowels. Go to emergency care at once
- Weakness in a leg or foot, such as foot drop
- Pain after a fall or accident, or with fever
- Severe pain that does not ease with rest or medicine
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. We do not promise a cure or a particular result, and responses vary from person to person. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.