Sciatica is a condition that is brought upon by the irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerves found by the spinal column. The sciatic nerves run from the lower back up to the buttocks area, thighs, back of the legs and even up to the toes. If a person is experiencing sciatica, they will likely feel pain in different parts including a tingling kind of sensation from the lower extremities down to the toes. Sciatica pain can be very mild but it can also turn into extremely unbearable pain. Also, pain is usually felt on just one rear side or leg. It is seldom that pain is felt in both areas. Nonetheless, people should not exactly panic when they are diagnosed with sciatica or when it has been confirmed that they are suffering from such. There is sciatica treatment available. Methods can vary though most of them target the same thing – relieving pain.
Treatment
There are several options for individuals to address their sciatic condition. Among these, perhaps one of the best methods to relieve pain is to reduce physical activity and try to bed rest for a couple of days. Walking or even the mere prospect of standing can already strain the nerves. People should see to it that they stay off the ground until the pain subsides. Bed rest is actually one of the most immediate solutions to such problem. The sciatica can also subside by itself if the body is given enough rest. However, it is also necessary to remember that bed rest should not be prolonged because long periods of inactivity can actually worsen the condition. Rest and physical activity should be balanced. In this case, the person needs to also perform mild exercise such as stretching and a little bit of walking. The muscles should always be firm and developed in order to provide better support for the back.
Warm baths can also help. They can provide a soothing effect throughout the body and in fact reduce pain like no other. The warm temperature can be therapeutic. However, unlike warm baths, heating cannot be used to address the problem. Such direct heat over the affected area can only worsen the inflammation. Prolonged heat basically exacerbates the symptoms which is not good at all. Instead, it is better to use ice packs. The cold temperature provides temporary relief and helps reduce the swelling.
Medications can also be used to treat sciatica. It may be over the counter or in some graver cases, doctor prescribed. It is possible to try different types of treatment depending on the preferences of the person. Treatment also depends on what the doctor deems best for the condition of the patient.