The sciatic nerve runs from the base of the vertebrae down the rear of the thighs to the lower legs and feet. If compression occurs in the region of the nerve, the pain tends to be excruciating. Sciatic nerve pain could be attributable to numerous circumstances, for instance pinched nerves, a slipped disc, age related constriction of the vertebrae, degenerative disc disease, and in some cases poor posture. There are various courses of treatment for sciatic nerve pain that can give you some relief. Here are a few of the more effective courses of action to reduce your sciatica pain.
Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese method of pain treatment has become popular with many of those who are afflicted with sciatica. Acupuncture is believed to trigger Qi energy in your body, thereby helping to prevent discomfort. This must be done by a trained professional.
Back Stretches: Stretching exercises can assist to teach your back muscles to correctly maintain the spinal column. The best stretches for sciatica nerve pain involve your back, shoulders and neck, buttocks, hamstrings and hips. These should be carried out slowly and each stretch should only be held for approximately 20 seconds so you do not injure yourself.
Cold and Heat Therapy: An ice pack can reduce the numbness, pain and inflammation caused by sciatica or aching muscle tissues. Heat helps to enhance the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the area that is affected, and is most effective when the intense pain has decreased. Switching between cold and heat therapy offers the greatest results.
Hydrotherapy: Soaking in a hot tub eases sore muscles and relaxes the body. Soaking for about 20 minutes to 2 hours helps relieve the discomfort caused by sciatica. If remaining seated is too uncomfortable, taking a hot shower for around 20 minutes will help, but you will want to allow the water to accumulate in the bathtub to cover your feet. This will warm the venous blood that returns from the feet through the body.
Weight loss: Those who are overweight will have to think about slimming down so as to reduce the pressure on the back.
Reflexology: You can carry out this form of therapy by yourself using a reflexology tool or your thumb. There are 2 reflex points on the feet, and when pressure is applied there for a couple of minutes, it eases the discomfort from the sciatic nerve.
Trigger Point Therapy: Another form of treatment that many people get good results with is to apply a bit of force to the trigger point area for approximately 2 minutes with a ball or other solid object.
Sciatica is a painful disorder that affects the lower body and is caused by pinching of the sciatic nerve at the bottom of the vertebrae. Find out more about sciatica pain treatment at the Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment site.
Tags: back pain, sciatic nerve pain, sciatic nerve pain treatment, sciatica