Sciatica. It’s sharp. It’s relentless. It may  make every step a struggle. At Newport Wellness Group, we understand the toll chronic sciatica pain can take on your daily life. Located in Newport Beach, we serve patients from Newport Coast and throughout Southern California, offering a targeted solution: acupuncture. But does it really work? And how can you tell? Let’s break it down. What Is Sciatica Pain? Sciatica isn’t just a backache. It’s that sharp, shooting pain that travels down your leg, usually from a herniated disk putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. It doesn’t let up. And traditional treatments often fall short. Have you tried painkillers, physical therapy, maybe even surgery? Still hurting? You should have tried acupuncture first. But, there’s hope—now that you have developed chronic pain. How Acupuncture Helps At Newport Wellness Group, we use acupuncture—a scientifically-backed method—to relieve pain and restore function. A recent clinical trial, published in JAMA, found that acupuncture significantly reduced sciatica pain in patients. So how does it work? Acupuncture uses targeted needles to activate your body’s natural healing mechanisms. It releases endorphins, increases circulation, and reduces inflammation. Just relief—pure and simple. Real Relief, Real Evidence The science is clear. Science isn't about belief—this study was a randomized controlled trial, the gold standard. A randomized trial conducted in six hospitals found that acupuncture reduced pain and improved function, with results lasting a full year. Patients treated with acupuncture saw a consistent reduction in pain after they had developed chronic pain.  Usually people develop chronic pain after they’ve tried physical therapy, and medication. At Newport Wellness Group, we see this in our clinic too. Patients with chronic sciatica pain leave their first few sessions with less pain, more mobility, and—more importantly—better quality of life. Why struggle when you don’t have to? Functional Gains Matter Pain relief is great. But what about getting your life back? Acupuncture doesn’t just reduce pain; it improves functionality. The JAMA study used the Oswestry Disability Index to measure patients' ability to move and function—and the acupuncture group saw significant improvements. At Newport Wellness Group, we’re not just interested in taking the pain away. We want to get you climbing stairs, walking the beach, and sitting comfortably again. What would it mean to regain that freedom? To do the things you used to love—with less pain? That's what we're here for. If you want to avoid developing chronic pain, you need to see us as soon as pain starts. What You Can Expect Our acupuncture sessions are designed around you. Dr. Shohre Mehvar, OMD, LAc, and Dr. Shabnam Pourhassani, DACM, LAc, QME, FABORM, use targeted needle placements that address the root of your sciatica pain. You’ll likely start with weekly sessions for several weeks, and we’ll adjust your plan as your symptoms change. It’s all about finding what works best for you. Does it hurt? Hardly. Most patients feel a brief tingling or a dull ache. And often, they leave feeling more relaxed than when they walked in. Imagine that—relief without pills, without the fog, without the surgery. A Drug-Free Alternative One of the biggest reasons patients come to us is to get away from pharmaceuticals. Painkillers are a quick fix, but they come with side effects, dependency, and diminishing returns. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is natural. It’s effective. And it doesn’t come with the same risks. Newport Wellness Group offers this as an alternative—one that can work in tandem with other treatments or stand on its own. How many times have you popped a painkiller just to get through the day? What if you didn’t have to? Benefits That Last Here’s the exciting part: the benefits of acupuncture don’t just fade away. In the clinical trial, patients experienced reduced pain and better function for an entire year after treatment. At Newport Wellness Group, we’ve seen similar results. Patients who once struggled to make it through their day are now taking their lives back—without being chained to medications or invasive procedures. It’s not just relief; it’s lasting relief. How would a life without chronic pain feel for you? Personalized Care, Every Step Your pain is unique—and so is your treatment. Dr. Mehvar and Dr. Pourhassani bring a wealth of knowledge to each session, tailoring every step to your needs. They work with you to find the perfect balance, adjusting needles, evaluating progress, and tweaking plans as needed. This isn’t cookie-cutter care; it’s customized to what your body needs most. Ready to get started? The first step is a consultation. Let’s sit down, discuss your symptoms, and determine if acupuncture is right for you. Chronic sciatica pain doesn’t have to be a life sentence. At Newport Wellness Group, located in Newport Beach and serving patients throughout Southern California, we believe acupuncture can offer a powerful solution—one backed by science, proven by patients, and designed just for you. Ready to move beyond the pain? Contact us today and discover how acupuncture could change your life. In California, patients do not need a referral from an MD to consult with an acupuncturists. Medical doctors have not received education about acupuncture during medical school or residency. Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prospective patients must have consultations with one of the acupuncturists who will deem if acupuncture is recommended.