According to Merriam-Webster's online dictionary, sciatica is defined as pain along the course of a sciatic nerve, especially in the back of the thigh caused by compression, inflammation, or reflex mechanisms.
The sciatic nerve is an ensemble of several nerve roots that join together and create the longest and largest nerve in the body. Generally, symptoms of sciatica are pain in the buttock and leg that worsens when sitting, burning or tingling sensations that run down the leg and/or weakness, numbness or distress while moving the leg or foot.
Sciatica is usually a secondary symptom to a primary problem. Due to the fact that sciatica is commonly a symptom, the primary concern must always be addressed in order to obtain relief from sciatica.
In general, primary conditions include lumbar spinal stenosis, herniated or slipped disk in the lower back region, pregnancy, piriformus syndrome or trauma to the sciatic nerve. The most common of these conditions is a herniated disk. There are many methods used in relieving sciatic nerve pain due to herniated or slipped disk.
1. One form is the extension exercise method. Extension exercises should always be done gently with caution, because most patients are unable to tolerate the positions required. While in the prone position (lying on the stomach), prop the upper body up by using the elbows while keeping the hips on the floor. Hold this press up position for five seconds, then gradually increase the movement to thirty second intervals. Ten repetitions is recommended. For the patient whom is unable to tolerate the prone position, a similar method can be used by standing and arching the back slowly, with the hands placed upon the hips.
2. Another common approach to relieving sciatic nerve pain is a minimally invasive procedure known as epidural steroid injection (ESI). An ESI is a common type of injection used to relieve certain types of lower back pain, such as sciatica. The solution is injected into the epidural space, which is the space between the covering of the spinal cord and the spinal canal. What is generally injected is a strong, long lasting anti-inflammatory steroid known as Cortisone. Cortisone begins to take effect several days after injection and lasts several weeks to several months depending upon the individuals tolerance.
3. Additionally, sciatic pain from a herniated or bulging disk can be abated using the spinal decompression therapy procedure. Spinal decompression therapy is a process where forces are applied to the spine. This technique promotes the elongation of the spine as well as improving disk hydration. Thus relieving pressure on the nerves and intervertebral disks.
4. A not so difficult remedy in achieving relief from sciatica due to pregnancy is to lie on the side opposite of the pain. For added comfort, place a pillow between the legs. Also, avoid heavy lifting and standing for long durations. If avoidance of standing cannot be obtained, try elevating and resting one foot on an object.
5. Flexion exercises are generally the best approach in treating sciatica from lumbar spinal stenosis. Flexion exercises are exercises that involve forward bending. Bending forward increases the size of passageways that will in turn relieve irritation. An example of a Flexion exercise is the double knee to chest exercise. While lying on the back with both knees bent, gradually raise the knees to the shoulders and hold for five to ten seconds. Slowly lower the knees back to the floor. This exercise can also be done one leg at a time.
6. Acupressure is an alternate remedy that can be used in easing sciatic pain due to piriformus syndrome. Acupressure is the application of pressure on the pressure points of the body. A self administering acupressure technique is to lie down in the supine position (on the back) with knees slightly bent. Next, place the hands into fists and then lie on the knuckles. The knuckles should be positioned on the muscles on both sides of the spine. The body weight on the knuckles will aide in the releasing of the lower back muscles, which activates several acupressure points. While in this position, breathe deeply and slowly. Ten repetitions of breathe is recommended. For additional relief from sciatica after acupressure is performed, lie down and place the knees to the chest. This position aides in the releasing of the gluteal muscles.
7. A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit is used for the relief of nerve related pain ailments, such as sciatica. The electrical current produced prevents pain signal transmissions to the brain.
8. Hot and cold compresses are considered a popular method in obtaining relief from sciatica. Hot compresses are generally applied if inflammation is not the culprit of the discomfort. Stiffness and soreness are indicators of little inflammation. Cold compresses are applied if inflammation is the culprit. Swelling is an indicator of inflammation.
9. Hydrotherapy is a relaxing yet effective sciatic pain relief method. One method is simply filling a bath tub with warm water, preferably to the chest area. Soak in the water for twenty minutes to several hours. If the sciatic pain is too intense to remain in a tub, then take a hot shower for about twenty minutes.
10. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are beneficial in the reduction of inflammation and pain associated with sciatica. Some common forms are ibuprofen and naproxen.
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