Helpful Ways To Treat Your Sciatic Nerve Pain
The sciatic nerve runs from the bottom of the spinal column down the back of your thighs to the lower legs and feet. If this nerve is compressed, the pain can be unbearable. Sciatic nerve pain could be the result of lots of circumstances, like a slipped disc, pinched nerves, age related constriction of the vertebrae, degenerative disc disease, and also bad posture. There are various forms of treatment for sciatic nerve pain that can give you some relief. Here’s a look at a number of of the more effective courses of action to reduce your sciatica pain.
Acupuncture: This age old Chinese technique for pain management has gained popularity with many of those who are experiencing sciatica. It is believed that acupuncture activates Qi energy, which helps to prevent pain. This will have to be done by a qualified practitioner.
Back Stretches: Stretching routines can assist to guide the back muscles to properly support the spine. The most effective stretches for sciatica nerve pain involve your back, neck and shoulders, hips, buttocks and hamstrings. These should be done slowly and each stretch should only be maintained for approximately 20 seconds so you don’t hurt yourself.
Cold and Heat Therapy: An ice pack can decrease the inflammation, numbness and pain associated with sciatic nerve pain or sore muscles. Heat helps to increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the painful region, and is best used when the extreme pain has decreased. Switching between cold and heat therapy offers the greatest results.
Hydrotherapy: Soaking in a hot tub gives relief to aching muscles and relaxes your body. Soaking for about 20 minutes to 2 hours helps reduce the pain attributable to sciatica. If remaining seated is too uncomfortable, taking a hot shower for approximately 20 minutes will work, but you will want to allow the water to accumulate in the bathtub to cover up your feet. This will warm the venous blood that proceeds from your feet throughout your body.
Reduce weight: Those who weigh more than they should will have to think about losing weight so as to relieve the strain on the spine.
Reflexology: You can perform this type of treatment on your own using your thumb or a reflexology tool. There are two reflex points on the feet, and if pressure is applied there for a minute or two, it alleviates the discomfort from the sciatic nerve.
Trigger Point Therapy: One more form of treatment that some people get good results with is to apply some force to the trigger point region for around 2 minutes with a ball or other firm object.
Exercise is an excellent approach to sciatica home treatment. Learn more about the causes and cures for this condition at the Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment site.