Sciatic Pain Cure refers to the treatment of the symptoms such as tingling in the leg, pain, weakness or numbness radiating through the sciatic nerve. The pain that occurs along the path of this nerve is known as sciatica. Sciatica is not a disease, it essentially points to an underlying medical condition.
How can you cure sciatic pain?
The cure for sciatic pain begins with the identification of medical conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated disc, spondylolisthesis, or degenerative disk disease. There is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve which becomes worse if there is no medical intervention.
Sciatic pain can be cured nonsurgically as well as through regular exercise. There are alternative treatments for sciatic pain such as consulting chiropractors or undergoing massage therapy.
Various methods to cure sciatic pain
Though there are non-surgical methods to cure Sciatic pain, in extreme cases surgical intervention is required.
The root of the sciatic nerve is compressed and this is the reason for the neurological symptoms that include pain.
The various methods of non-surgical treatment are:
- Heat/ice
Applying heat or ice to the affected area normally helps in reducing the pain in the leg. Ice and heat should be used alternately for 20 minutes, and the process is repeated every two hours. - Medications for sciatic pain
There are some prescribed medications that can reduce or relieve sciatic pain. You could get nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or oral steroids that help in relieving sciatic pain. Narcotics or muscle relaxants can also be used for a short period of time for pain relief. - Epidural steroids
In severe cases of sciatic pain, epidural steroids should be administered. The injection has a direct impact as it penetrates into the area surrounding the sciatic nerve thereby reducing the inflammation. In addition to this, these epidural steroids also help patients by supporting them in exercises and conditioning programs they might be undergoing for treating the pain. - Alternative methods of treating sciatic pain:
Chiropractic manipulation
There are certain medical professionals like osteopathic physicians as well as chiropractors who perform manual manipulation of the spine as well as spinal adjustments. They assist in better alignment of the spinal column which has a relieving effect on the underlying conditions responsible for the pain.
Acupuncture
This method ensures that energy flows openly to provide well-being of the patient. This is achieved by inserting micro needles in the skin near the painful area.
Cognitive behaviour therapy
Sometimes there are certain destructive behaviors while managing sciatic pain and consulting a therapist is helpful.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy has been beneficial in relieving sciatic pain by improvement of blood circulation, relaxing of muscles as well as releasing of endorphins.
- Treatment options for recurrent sciatic pain
In most cases, sciatic pain improves without any intervention and takes around 6 to 12 weeks to heal. Once the pain relief has been achieved at the initial stage, the patient should undergo a physical therapy as well as exercise program to ensure that it does not occur again.
It is also important to study the ergonomics of the workplace to ensure that the patient is educated with carrying out the right posture while sitting or lifting objects, as well as changes to be made in general lifestyle to prevent sciatic pain.
There are numerous spine care professionals who are not surgeons. They include chiropractors, specialists in pain management, physiatrists, and physical therapists. However, there should be a qualified medical practitioner who should oversee the entire treatment process.
Exercises to cure sciatic pain
Exercises for sciatica focus on three areas namely stretching, strengthening, and aerobic conditioning.
- Strengthening exercises
These exercises are focussed on the spinal column as well as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support it. The exercises address the lower back area as well as abdominal, hip, and gluteal muscle areas. When the core muscles are strengthened, there is relief from pain as these muscles support the spine. This results in ensuring that movements which twist or extend the spine are performed without any damage to the spine. - Stretching exercises
Relief from sciatic pain can be achieved by stretching. Muscles which become tight and that have have low flexibility are focused while stretching. Stretching of the hamstrings are an important module of the exercise program for sciatica. The hamstrings are not frequently stretched by people in their daily lives. - Low-impact aerobic exercise
One form of exercise that relieves sciatic pain is engaging in cardiovascular activities like swimming, pool therapy, or walking that is low intensity. This helps in the overall recovery process as there is exchange of nutrients and fluids which are essential for healing. Endorphins are released into the system when these exercises are carried out. Other exercises that are beneficial include pilates, yoga, and tai chi.
