Sciatica pain or more commonly known as a pinched nerve is a problematic back disorder that sees up to 3 million new cases annually in the United States. The pain from sciatica originates in the spine and shoots down the back of the leg. Only one side of the body is affected by sciatica, and areas include the back, buttocks, hip, and any lower extremities. Here we list some of the most common causes of sciatica.
Sciatica pain affects millions but can be managed with natural remedies and treatments such as exercise and physical therapy
Common Causes of Sciatica Pain
The most common reason behind sciatica is a Lumbar herniated disc. This happens when the soft inner material of the disc leaks out through the fibrous outer core and irritates the nerve root. This is often referred to as a “slipped disc.” Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is irritation of the sacroiliac joint which is located directly at the bottom of the spine. Piriformis syndrome is when the sciatic nerve that runs under the muscle in the buttocks gets irritated or “pinched.”
Natural Sciatica Pain Treatment
As with most disorders, heat and ice treatment work to reduce pain significantly in affected areas. First, you apply ice for 20 minutes to reduce any swelling in the affected areas, followed by 20 minutes of heat to help blood flow and soothe the area. This practice is repeated every two hours. Chiropractic treatment has been proven effective when performed by trained professionals. The point is to align your spinal column which in turn takes pressure off any of the pinched areas. Massage therapy has also been shown to help alleviate chronic pain symptoms associated with sciatica. It helps relax muscles, release endorphins, and increase blood flow.
Topical Compounds and Sciatica Pain
While not all treatments are proven to be 100% efficient, more options may be necessary to find the right mix. When used in conjunction with other therapies, topical compounds can be very helpful. The benefit of topical compounds is the ability to apply directly to areas that are in the most pain.
