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The sciatic nerve is one of the largest nerves in our body. Given the extraordinarily important role it plays in the functioning of the legs, it is no surprise that its pain is a very unpleasant condition. The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back and continues through the buttocks to the leg. Pain is usually caused by its compression and is often sharp and stabbing. Tingling or numbness of the legs may also occur. Permanent damage to the nerve occurs only in rare cases.
The problem affects nearly half of people
According to some experts, the problem with sciatica affects about 43% of people, and therefore it cannot be ignored. As with many other health problems, medications for this condition provide only temporary relief from pain without removing the cause of the problem. In this article you will therefore learn about six techniques that permanently eliminate the pain and focus on its source.
The method of alternating temperatures helps. Apply, for example, a bag of frozen vegetables to the sore spot, or ice wrapped in a cloth. The pain should begin to subside after 15–20 minutes. This method provides only temporary relief, so to increase effectiveness you should immediately after removing the ice pack apply a hot heating pad to the area, or take a hot bath. As a result, lymphatic and blood circulation will improve, which speeds up the nerve healing process.
Alternative medicine
Acupuncture is a very comprehensive system of knowledge that has been used since ancient times. It can improve nerve function and reduce various kinds of pain, so it also helps with sciatica. You can also try chiropractic, which is likewise a form of alternative medicine. It specializes in treating mechanical damage to the musculoskeletal system, mainly the spine. However, it can also reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve, thereby easing pain and improving leg mobility.
Massage can be very effective in treating pain caused by sciatica as well as accompanying muscle cramps and numbness in the legs. Massage relaxes tense back muscles that put pressure on the root of the sciatic nerve. It also releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, thereby providing immediate relief.
Herbs that help
If you want to try the power of herbs, rely primarily on turmeric, willow bark, devil’s claw, licorice root, or linden blossom. They act as anti-inflammatories and can be used to treat pain. You can use them in the form of essential oils, capsules, tinctures, and teas. In this case the treatment is a bit more time-consuming, but just as effective as other methods.
Although many doctors primarily recommend bed rest and avoiding increased physical activity, exercise may actually be the best solution. Inactivity often only makes the pain worse. Exercises temporarily reduce pain and prevent its recurrence by lowering pressure on the sciatic nerve. Simple yoga exercises work best. Of course, first consult your doctor about which treatment approach is best for you.
