Q I have heard that needle acupuncture for piriformis syndrome can cause nerve damage. Is it actually safe?
A Ultrasound-guided needle acupuncture is performed while monitoring the location of the piriformis muscle and sciatic nerve in real time, so the risk of nerve damage is very low. When performed by a skilled Korean medicine doctor under ultrasound guidance, it is highly safe and actually has the effect of directly relieving nerve compression. Temporary bruising and stiffness after the procedure are normal reactions.
Detailed Answer
Needle acupuncture is a procedure using a small surgical instrument with a diameter of 0.6 to 1.2 mm to separate fibrous adhesions of the piriformis muscle. Since the sciatic nerve is located near the piriformis muscle, concerns about nerve damage are valid. In current clinical practice, the procedure is performed while visualizing the location of the piriformis muscle and nerve under real-time ultrasound guidance, so accidents involving nerve damage caused by skilled practitioners are very rare. Temporary stiffness, bruising, and mild swelling at the treatment site within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure are normal tissue reactions. The procedure is contraindicated in cases of blood clotting disorders, pregnancy, or local infection.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, the Dochim is a tool for lysis of deep adhesions that has evolved from traditional acupuncture treatment, and it is one of the most efficient treatments for muscles and blood vessels hardened by blood stasis. At Dongjedang, we prioritize safety by performing the procedure while monitoring the thickness and echogenicity of the piriformis muscle in real-time using ultrasound. After the procedure, we also perform post-treatment using fire acupuncture or cupping to expel blood stasis and aid in tissue recovery at the treatment site. Any questions regarding the safety of Dochim will be fully explained during the initial consultation.
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