How to treat sciatica pain naturally
This situation and more can be constant in people who suffer from sciatica, which, when defined correctly, means: very strong pain that runs down the back of the leg to the foot and that is due to compression, inflammation or irritation of the nerve. sciatic.
In this article, we are going to give you eight natural ways to treat inflammation and relieve sciatica pain.
Acupuncture for sciatica pain
This alternative treatment consists of inserting fine hair needles at certain points on the body. Acupuncture stimulates the flow of energy and also contributes to proper nerve function. You should feel some relief after the first treatment, but many people would benefit from having a few sessions.
It seems that lately, acupuncture is more popular than ever. It is used in treating various health conditions, such as migraine relief, stimulating lymphatic flow, fibromyalgia, treating stress, and helping to quit smoking.
Chiropractic adjustments
Studies based on chiropractic adjustments have shown different levels of efficacy in treating sciatica pain , and many patients have experienced significant relief. Manipulation of the spine can restore mobility, improve function, reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and promote natural healing.
Ice packs for sciatica
Ice packs or a simple packet of frozen peas wrapped in a towel can work wonders to provide instant sciatica relief . Apply the packs directly on the affected area for 20 minutes, every two hours, until the pain has completely disappeared.
Alternate temperatures
Ice packs are one way to get immediate relief, but the sciatic nerve is deep in the body, so the packs can’t go any deeper where the inflammation is.
To relieve sciatica pain, apply a warm compress right after applying the ice pack – or better yet, take a hot bath. By alternating temperatures, you can increase circulation and lymph flow.
This will reduce the deeper inflammation and aid in the healing process. For best results, add some Epsom salts or anti-inflammatory herbs or essential oils to your bath .
Light stretching (yoga)
When you’re struggling with sciatica, moving is probably the last thing that comes to mind. But it is important to be active, because otherwise the pain may last longer. Many people have confirmed that gentle yoga or back stretches actually improve your healing process.
Heavy water consumption
Adequate hydration is essential for good health. Drinking large amounts of water lubricates your bones and joints, making them less susceptible to injury. In addition, the muscles and joints become more elastic and mobile.
Hot bath with Epsom salts
A hot bath with Epsom salts is a perfect relaxation and pain relief therapy. The healing properties of Epsom salts will improve your overall health, and hot water will significantly improve blood circulation and relieve muscle pain.
Massage
Deep massages or trigger point therapies have shown great success in treating muscle spasms, pain, and numbness in the legs and feet. Herbal infused oils and essential oils will also work well for sciatica pain.
Herbs and oils
Nature provides many herbs that have beneficial effects, and many of them can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They can be found in capsules, ointments, liniments, and infusion oils.
You can also make fresh or dried herbal teas, or use elixirs, tinctures, and essential oils for pain relief. But be sure to consult your doctor or a professional herbalist, as some herbs can interfere with the medications you are taking.
The following is a list of some herbs that you can use to treat nerve pain, inflammation, and improve nerve health and therefore sciatica:
- Devil’s claw
- Jamaican dogwood
- Turmeric or curcumin (combine it with black pepper to increase its bioavailability)
- Kratom
- Arnica
- Willow bark
- Skullcap
- Grass of San Juan
- Mullein root
- Roman chamomile
- Sage
- Lavender
- Linden flower
- Milky oat flakes
- Licorice
Sleep well
Last but not least, try to get enough sleep to relax your muscles and relieve sciatica pain more quickly . By doing so, this will give your nerves and body time to rest, heal, and balance. The extra sleep and rest will help rebuild and strengthen your nerves.
Although these complementary and alternative remedies have not been confirmed by scientific evidence, many people have experienced significant improvements, and have managed to control pain, spasms, numbness, and cramps.
If the symptoms and pain last for more than a few weeks, be sure to see a doctor, as there is a possibility that you have a dislocated vertebra, or some other condition that is causing pressure or pinching on the nerves. If necessary, surgery is always an option.