There are many different types of back pain, but sciatica is often described as painful and intense as it deals with sharp pain running down the longest nerve in the body. Sciatica is often caused by a pinch in the sciatic nerve, due to common problems such as a herniated disc, a cyst on the back, or vertebrae out of alignment. The sciatic nerve is extremely tricky as it contains several nerve roots and is far too easily compressed. The pain usually begins at the lower back, strikes the buttocks, and refers all the way through the thigh, the calf and then down to the foot. Once the sciatic nerve has been agitated, it can be very difficult to stop the pain. Here are some tips to help relieve the pain.
Go to the Doctor
The first step to take is to visit the doctor, get an MRI and determine the exact cause of the back pain. There are a number of issues that need to be ruled out, but once the diagnosis is in hand; it is much easier to deal with the problem. The doctor will provide specific steps to take, do’s and don’ts and can prescribe medication to help with the pain.
Use Medication When Necessary
The pain from sciatica can be quite severe and it is difficult to go about some normal daily activities. Use an over the counter anti-inflammatory when necessary and take any pain medication prescribed by the doctor when the pain is unbearable. Don’t hesitate to use the pain medication. Once a person is in pain, all of the muscles that protect the back can become inflamed, which then leads to an overly inflamed nerve. It is possible that the pain can increase when this occurs.
Physical Therapy
Seek a qualified physical therapist, via consultation from a doctor, and make sure the office is close to home or work. People tend to visit the physical therapist when the office is close to their home or work and a wide variety of office hours are available. Schedule some appointments, go to the therapy appointments and do the required exercises. They can help strengthen the core muscles, which eventually will help the back overall.
Also talk with the therapist about the appropriate times to ice the back (especially after exercise) and consider purchasing an e-stim machine (electronic muscle stimulation), which can be used to relieve some of the pain.
Massage
Consider getting a massage a couple of times per month while in severe pain. Though it is costly, it can really help decrease the pain. Some insurance companies cover massage, so be sure to check coverage prior to making an appointment.
Describe specific symptoms to the massage therapist and ask the therapist to focus on the piriformis muscle. Often, when this muscle is treated, the patient can obtain relief for many days afterwards.
Exercise
In the past, doctors often prescribed bed rest for those inflicted with back pain, but recent evidence has shown that rest does not always relieve back pain. After discussion with a doctor, begin walking and swimming slowly and gradually build up the speed. Moving the body, using the muscles and joints, can help the back move to a more natural state.
If these tips don’t help alleviate the pain, non-traditional steps may be in order prior to surgery. Consider a lumbar epidural steroid injection, visit a chiropractor or visit an acupuncturist and they may be able to reduce the pain in the sciatic nerve.
Laura Block-Stewart - Hello- My name is Laura Block-Stewart and I am a professional writer and editor that, throughout the last 14 years, has focused on ...
