How to Alleviate Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatic nerve pain may be caused by degenerative disc conditions, pelvic injury, tumors, or nerve compression. In addition to pain, sciatica causes numbness, weakness or tingling in the leg. You need to visit your doctor so he can determine the cause of your sciatic nerve pain and recommend treatment. Your doctor may suggest further testing such as x-rays or an MRI. There are steps you and your doctor can take to alleviate or reduce your sciatic nerve pain.
Things You'll Need
- Physical examination
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Prescription pain relievers
- Heating pad
Instructions
-
-
1
See your doctor for a physical examination. Your doctor will assess your pain and may send you for additional tests. Your doctor may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in conditions of the nerves.
-
2
Try anti-inflammatory medication. Anti-inflammatory medication will help decrease swelling associated with sciatica and will help alleviate your sciatic nerve pain. Check with your doctor before taking anti-inflammatory medication to make sure it is appropriate for your pain. Read the label carefully and take only as directed.
-
-
3
Ask about prescription pain relievers. If your pain is severe, ask your doctor to write a prescription for pain medication. Some pain medications cause significant drowsiness, so do not drive when you take them.
-
4
Inquire about physical therapy. Ask your doctor if physical therapy would help alleviate your sciatic nerve pain. Exercises recommended by a physical therapist may strengthen muscles and relieve your pain.
-
5
Consider surgery. If your sciatic nerve pain is related to a herniated disc or lesion pressing on the sciatic nerve, ask your doctor if surgery to relieve the pressure would benefit you. Surgery may totally alleviate your sciatic nerve pain, however, it is not always effective and may even worsen your condition. Discuss this option thoroughly with your doctor.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Try a heating pad. Applying a heating pad over the affected area may temporarily relieve your sciatic nerve pain. Never sleep with your heating pad on, or use it on the highest setting, because it may cause a burn.
If you experience severe pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of movement, call your doctor right away. This may indicate a severe neurological condition that requires immediate medical attention.
