A pinched sciatic nerve can cause pain, weakness, numbness or a tingling sensation in the legs. The severity of symptoms of this condition can range from mildly bothersome to excruciating pain. Although it is always best to see a doctor for an official diagnosis and to discuss treatment options, you often can make certain lifestyle modifications to ease the pain of a pinched sciatic nerve.
Step 1
Stretch the muscles around your hips, buttocks and hamstrings. Ask your doctor for specific exercises that may prove useful.
Step 2
Exercise. Talk to a doctor about specific strengthening exercises that might be most beneficial for your specific situation. Also, engage in low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming.
Step 3
Apply heat or ice to the legs or area where you are experiencing pain. Apply the ice or heat for approximately 20 minutes and repeat every two hours, or as needed, suggest Spine-Health.com. It may be useful to alternate between the heat and the ice.
Step 4
Ask a professional massage therapist or a loved one to give you a massage. Request that they concentrate their efforts in your lower back, backs of your thighs and buttocks region.
Step 5
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Try a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen, suggests the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Step 6
See a doctor. Ask that the doctor examine you to determine if other factors may be contributing to your pain. If lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter pain relievers were not helpful, ask your doctor about prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxants, cortisone-like injections or other treatment options.
Tips and Warnings
- It also may be useful to visit a physical therapist for specific exercises and therapy programs that may prove useful. Practicing proper lifting techniques, using good posture and exercising regularly once the sciatic pain has ended may protect your back and reduce your risk of experiencing this condition again in the future, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
- Always call a doctor if you are concerned, or have any questions, about your condition.
