- The best method of treatment for sciatica really involves a plan that is expressly tailored to your needs. Each person varies in terms of the severity of the injury, accompanying symptoms and response to treatment, so it's quite difficult to pinpoint a strict regimen for everyone to follow. Consulting with a physician is ultimately the best option before ever starting a treatment plan. Doctors, chiropractors and other medical professionals are more than equipped to establish the most ideal plan for you. That being said, there are a few self-care factors you can put in place do to aid in your recovery.
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As soon as you experience sciatic pain, take some time to rest. Most likely one of the disks in your spine is pinching or compressing the sciatic nerve, so alleviate this pressure by resting your back. This doesn't mean you should just convalesce for days at a time. After a day or two, you want to make sure you're going about your normal, everyday activities. Even performing some stretching exercises can relieve the pressure being placed on the nerve. But some rest from time to time can often help lessen inflammation of the disk and reduce sciatic nerve pain.
To further lessen inflammation, ice the area of the back that has sustained the injury, especially at the onset of sciatic pain. Ice should be applied in 15 to 20 minute intervals periodically in the days following the injury. Icing can help with both swelling and pain. But after two or three days, consider implementing a little heat therapy as well. Applying heat for 15 to 20 minutes at a time between icings can also help lessen the sciatic pain.
When you feel some improvement in the pain and discomfort, consider taking up a little exercise. Even if you're already stretching the back, low-impact exercises can really set you on the path to recovery. Biking, swimming and walking can all increase your fitness level as well as ward off pain. This is largely due to the reaction your body has to exercise. As you engage in an athletic activity, endorphins are released, which can help diminish the signs of pain.
However, don't just stick to one form of exercise. Think about mixing it up, particularly once you're feeling better. By incorporating other forms of fitness, you can improve the strength, flexibility and conditioning of your back. Core exercises can help strengthen both the abdominals and lumbar muscles to add support to your back. Weight training, running and other athletic pursuits enhance your level of fitness and ensure better flexibility throughout the body.
