How to Heal a Herniated Disk from Sciatica
A bulging or herniated disk is the leading cause of sciatica, according to orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jean-Jacques Abitol in his article "6 Leading Causes of Sciatica" on Spineuniverse.com. Sciatica is a pain that can radiate from the back to the buttocks, thighs and ankles. A herniated disk occurs when the outer wall of cartilage (which supports spinal vertebrae) tears, and the jelly-like nucleus puts pressure on spinal nerves. This pressure can cause sciatica pain. You can heal a herniated disk and sciatica by treating the injury with a combination of rest, ice, heat, medication and exercise.
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Instructions
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Treating Your Herniated Disk & Sciatica Pain
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Stop all physical activity immediately. Take two ibuprofen pills every four to six hours while you are awake.
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Fill an ice pack with ice. Place the ice pack down and lie on it. Position yourself so that the ice pack is compressed directly against your injury. Repeat every three to four hours throughout the day.
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When the inflammation and pain are under control, use a heating pad several times a day.
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Once you start using a heating pad, perform the following exercise each day: Lie on your back with both knees propped up and your feet on the floor. Gently press your lower back against the floor. Hold that position for two to five seconds, then relax. Do 10 repetitions of this exercise.
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Next, while still lying on the floor, pull both knees toward your chest. Hold that position for two to five seconds, then relax. Perform 10 repetitions.
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Tips & Warnings
Always see your doctor for a proper diagnosis of a herniated disk and sciatica. This injury can heal on its own in most cases.
Ice is most effective if it is used within the first 48 to 72 hours after the onset of inflammation and pain. Ice causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels), which controls inflammation, swelling and pain by limiting the flow of blood and lymph to the herniated disk. Once the inflammation has subsided, you can apply heat to promote blood flow to your disc. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing.
If ibuprofen does not relieve sciatica pain, your doctor might prescribe muscle relaxants or give you a cortisone shot.
Massage and exercise also can promote blood flow to your disk. Stretching exercises such as the two mentioned above can increase flexibility in your back. Strength-building exercises for the lower back and adjacent muscles can add stability to your spinal vertebrae and take pressure off your injured disk. This also can enhance the healing process.
Do not apply ice directly against the skin of your back; this can cause frostbite. Also, never bend over and twist your body simultaneously when you have a herniated disk. This movement can exacerbate your injury. Do not exercise before the initial swelling is under control, or you could injure your herniated disk further.
