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Which acupoints are used for sciatica?

Mar 21, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jin
Introduction
① For patterns associated with the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian: select acupoints including the Jiaji points and tender points in the lumbar region, Ciliao (BL32), Huantiao (GB30), Yinmen (BL37), Weizhong (BL40), Chengshan (BL57), and Kunlun (BL60). ② For patterns associated with the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian: select acupoints including the Jiaji points and tender points in the lumbar region, Huantiao (GB30), Yanglingquan (GB34), Xuanzhong (GB39), and Qiuxu (GB40). In cases of cold-dampness, supplement with Mingmen (GV4) and Yaoyangguan (GV3).

From the perspective of meridian differentiation in acupuncture, sciatica is primarily categorized into two patterns: the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian pattern and the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian pattern.

Acupuncture Points for Sciatica

① For the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian pattern: Jiaji (BL23–BL50) points at the lumbar region, tender points, Zhibian (BL54), Huantiao (GB30), Yinmen (BL37), Weizhong (BL40), Chengshan (BL57), and Kunlun (BL60).

② For the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian pattern: Jiaji (BL23–BL50) points at the lumbar region, tender points, Huantiao (GB30), Yanglingquan (GB34), Xuanzhong (GB39), and Qiuxu (GB40).

If cold-dampness is present, Mingmen (GV4) and Yaoyangguan (GV3) may be added. If blood stasis is present, Xuehai (SP10) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) may be added.

If qi and blood deficiency is present, Zusanli (ST36) and Qihai (CV6) may be added.

① Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian pattern: Pain occurs along the midline of the lower back and posterior aspects of the thighs and calves, extending to the lateral side of the little toe.

② Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian pattern: Pain occurs along the lateral aspects of the lower back and posterior-lateral aspects of the thighs and calves, extending to the dorsum of the foot.

③ Cold-Dampness pattern: Pain is typically dull, heavy, or cold in nature; it worsens with cold exposure and improves with warmth.

④ Blood Stasis pattern: Pain is sharp and severe, often aggravated at night, fixed in location, and may be associated with a history of trauma.

⑤ Qi and Blood Deficiency pattern: Pain is mild, exacerbated by exertion, accompanied by easy fatigue and a preference for gentle massage or pressure.

① The lumbar and dorsal regions contain abundant musculature; therefore, deeper needling may be appropriate. Mild stimulation of nearby nerves is permissible, but should not exceed three times. Due to its relatively thick subcutaneous tissue, Huantiao (GB30) may be needled with a 3-cun needle.

② For cold-dampness or qi-blood deficiency patterns, warm-needle moxibustion or conventional acupuncture followed by moxibustion is recommended.

③ In cases of severe pain, bloodletting at Weizhong (BL40) may be performed: select distended veins near Weizhong, sterilize a three-edged needle, perform rapid shallow puncture, and allow spontaneous hemostasis without manual compression. This technique provides rapid pain relief—hence the classical saying, “For low back and dorsal pain, seek Weizhong.”

We hope the above information is helpful to you. Wishing you a joyful and healthy life!

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