Sciatica can cause either a persistent ache or sporadic discomfort ranging from a warm, wet feeling in the thigh to a shooting and scorching pain along the leg.
It is believed that forty percent of people in the United States suffer sciatica pain.
If you’re one of them, you’re likely looking for some ways that you can find relief from the discomfort. Here in this article, you’ll learn about five overlooked ways to relieve sciatica.
5 Overlooked Ways To Relieve Sciatica
Medications, Including Pain Relievers Or Nerve-blocking Drugs
Gels, lotions, and patches containing pain-relieving and/or numbing medicine can provide rapid and efficient pain relief. These drugs infiltrate your tissues and exert their effects locally. They are less likely to have adverse effects, hence preventing long-term issues.
In some cases, multiple medications may be mixed. But you should be careful if you do.
For example, avoid applying a heat patch or ice pack to the affected region while using a topical treatment. Combining these treatments may diminish or change the efficacy of topical analgesics.
Hot And Cold Compress
Alternating heat and cold can provide instantaneous relief from sciatic nerve discomfort. Ice reduces inflammation, whereas heat increases blood flow to the hurting location (which speeds healing). Heat and ice may also alleviate the painful muscle spasms associated with sciatica.
Apply ice to the affected area for 15 minutes every hour, followed by heat for 15 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. Always protect your skin with a barrier (such as a towel) when using heat or ice, and never sleep while using heat or ice therapy.
Massage And Physical Therapy
One solution many may not consider is massage and/or physical therapy. Be sure to find a qualified therapist who’s experienced in treating sciatica.
Stretches And Exercises
A comprehensive fitness program can help with sciatica pain. Experts often recommend low-impact aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming.
You can also try strengthening exercises and stretches, including yoga. Just be careful in how you move, so you don’t make things worse.
The combination of regular exercise and weight control can help you combat the discomfort of sciatica. Daily walking for 15 to 30 minutes will significantly improve your health, especially your back, hips, and legs.
Alternating between a sitting and standing desk or short standing and walking breaks throughout the day can provide relief.
Fix Your Posture
Whether working at a desk or unwinding at home, if you remain in the same posture for too long, you may have increased sciatica pain.
Altering your position every 20 minutes and maintaining appropriate posture will relieve strain on the spine and alleviate sciatica symptoms.
