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How To Diagnose And Treat Sciatica
Sciatica is caused by the irritation of the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the largest in the body, beginning at the bottom of the spine and running down the leg. Sciatic pain is very common, but there are ways to treat and help prevent it from being a problem.
Pain that originates in the lower back area and radiates down can be associated with this problem. Some may experience a burn or tingle, and numbness has also been reported by some sufferers. Any problem that causes pain that radiates down from the lower back area may be a sign of sciatica.
This problem can be caused by many different factors. One of the main causes is a herniated disc in the lower back that causes pressure and irritates and inflames the sciatic nerve.Other causes can include irritation of the nerve by surrounding muscles or bone. It can also be caused by a tumor in the spine that has caused pressure and impaction of the nerve.
People that slouch or otherwise have bad posture may find that they have pain. Women who have never had problems with sciatica have reported pain during pregnancy that subsides after giving birth. Improper lifting and bending have also been known to attribute to problems in the lower back that lead to sciatica.
The application of heat or cold may help. Applying a heat or ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time can help to alleviate pain. These can also be alternated as cool will reduce swelling and heat can relax the back muscles. These non medicinal remedies can be used as often as necessary to help alleviate and prevent pain.
Stretching can also bring relief for some people. It is good to start slowly, yet do it every day to ensure the muscles stay limber. People who are inactive may notice sciatic pain, and many people find that it is at its worst first thing in the morning. Mild to moderate activity throughout the day can help pain that may result from inactivity.
Many people may find temporary relief through the use of medications. Pain relievers can alleviate symptoms and swelling. Muscle relaxants can help loosen the muscles surrounding the nerve and bring relief as pressure reduces. Medications that have an anti inflammatory effect help as well. It is always advisable to check with your physician and pharmacist to ensure that any over the counter preparations do not interact with each other or with other medications taken.
There are other ways to help treat and prevent the pain of sciatica. Sleeping on a firm mattress will help to combat pressure on the lower back. Sleeping on the stomach can irritate the back and should be avoided. Some people have found relief by sleeping with a pillow between the knees to relieve pressure. When sitting, try to keep feet firmly on the floor, and avoid crossing the knees as this can aggravate the sciatic nerve. Chairs that allow the knees to be slightly higher than the hips may help as well.
Article sponsored by: Tacoma Tree Cutting and Auburn Tree Cutting
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Filed under back pain by on Nov 6th, 2011. 
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