Sciatica & Nerve Pain

Suffering from discomfort caused by compression of the sciatic nerve is given the general term "sciatica".  It is characterised by intense pain running from the lower back down through the buttocks and along the back of each leg.

Whilst there may be a number of causes, these symptoms are given one simple label. 

How long does the Sciatica last?

Without treatment, the leg and lower back pain sometimes continue for months. 

Who can get it?

Bouts of sciatic pain often occur in runners, women in early pregnancy and old age.  However, anyone can suffer from it, whether you consider yourself fit or not.

Home treatment for Sciatica

These are some of the remedies that you can try at home to decrease discomfort:-

Exercises can loosen and strengthen the muscles.  Contrary to popular opinion, lying in bed does little for back pain sufferers and can often lead to stiffness.  Continuing to move, when possible, will help restore movement.  Also used in physical therapy, exercise can help prevent further recurrence of this debiliatating health problem.

Herbal products and oils used in massaging the body and affected area can help to reduce inflammation, loosening both nerve fibres and muscles in order for your trapped spinal cord to slip back to its proper state.

Infrared light can provide temporary relief of muscle and joint pain, arthritis, muscle spasm, relieves stiffness, relaxes muscle tissue and temporarily increases blood circulation to the area.  This effect is enhanced by the warmth created and promotes the body's own natural healing process.  The nitric oxide released in the body as a result can decrease or eliminate pain.

Medications such as painkillers and muscle relaxants that can be bought over the counter can help reduce or eliminate the symptoms of sciatica.  However, it's important to remember that they often mask the true symptoms and cause of your problems.

What about Cures for Sciatica Pain?

Whilst many physicians will treat the symptoms, it is physical therapists, osteopaths and chiropractors who often offer a full "cure" as they get to the root of what's causing your sciatic nerve pain.  Some simple manipulations can help to reduce compression of the nerve or eliminate it all together, effecting a full cure of your symptoms.  Whilst this may be instantaneous, it can also happen over a number of sessions, with a decrease in your physical discomfort on each visit.

Useful Info on Relieving Sciatic Nerve pain

Sciatica Latest Info - up to date information on prevention and treatment

Sciatica Exercises - suitable for at home treatment