Question 1

How is this different from physical therapy or chiropractic?

Accepted Answer

Physical therapy focuses on strength, mobility, and movement patterns. Chiropractic focuses on spinal alignment and disc decompression. Both work at Layer 1 — the spine and nerve root. Neither systematically addresses the Layer 2 trigger points in the piriformis, glutes, and hamstrings that are often the primary remaining pain generator in chronic sciatica. Dr. Kukor treats both layers in the same visit, which is why patients who have completed PT and chiropractic care and still have symptoms often respond here.

Question 2

My MRI shows a herniated disc. Will that affect treatment?

Accepted Answer

Knowing the disc anatomy is useful context, but it does not change the treatment approach significantly. Many people have disc herniations on MRI with no pain at all, and many people with significant sciatic pain have modest disc findings. What matters clinically is your pain distribution, your nerve involvement, and the trigger point pattern found on exam. Treatment addresses both the nerve component and the peripheral musculature regardless of what the MRI shows.

Question 3

I've had epidural steroid injections that didn't work. Can you still help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Epidural injections reduce inflammation at the nerve root — that is Layer 1. If your pain persisted after injections, it is a strong indicator that Layer 2 trigger points are a significant contributor to your symptoms. This is one of the clearest signs that someone will respond well to the approach used here.

Question 4

Does dry needling hurt?

Accepted Answer

Dry needling into active trigger points produces a brief deep aching sensation — the twitch response — that lasts one to three seconds. This is a normal and expected response indicating the needle has reached the right spot. Most patients describe it as intense but very tolerable, and the relief that follows is typically worth it. Soreness for 24 to 48 hours after treatment is common and a sign the tissue is responding.

Question 5

How many visits will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most sciatica cases see meaningful improvement within 4 to 6 visits. Recent-onset sciatica tends to respond faster than long-standing cases. Post-surgical cases and bilateral presentations typically require more time. Dr. Kukor reassesses at every visit and will give you an honest picture of your trajectory based on how your body is responding.

Question 6

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Orlando Alternative Health is in-network with some United Healthcare policies. For all other insurance, we provide a detailed superbill for potential reimbursement. Visit the fees page for current pricing information.

Sciatica Treatment in Orlando | Dry Needling & Acupuncture

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