The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back all the way down the back of the legs, and it is the largest nerve in the human body. When this nerve gets irritated and inflamed, a condition develops called "sciatica," which causes pain to radiate through the whole length of the sciatic nerve. Alternative treatments can be used when this pain develops.
Significance
Other than pain, there are more symptoms that can be seen with sciatica. The muscles in your foot and leg can become weak or numb. Pain can be felt in one area of your body and numbness can be felt somewhere else. Your toes or a foot can experience tingling sensations. In the worst of cases, you can lose bowel and bladder control, which is a sign of a more serious condition called "cauda equina syndrome."
Cold
Cold therapy can be used to relieve the discomfort and inflammation that often accompanies sciatic pain. Ice packs, ice cubes wrapped in a towel or a package of frozen fruit or vegetables can be applied to the affected area several times throughout the day in 15- to 20-minute intervals.
Heat
Heat can be used 48 hours after the pain first develops. Heat lamps, heating pads on the low setting and warm packs can all be utilized. If pain persists, heat treatments can be alternated with cold treatments.
Exercise
Exercise can help sciatic pain because of its endorphin-releasing properties. When they are released in the body, pain signals to the brain can be stopped. Exercises that have low or no impact are the best choices such as water exercise, stationary bike, recumbent bike and elliptical trainer. You should start off slow and easy and eventually work your way to the point where you are exercising 30 minutes a day.
Stretches
Stretching can help relieve tension and compression on your lower back, and it can also help lengthen tight muscles that might be exacerbating the pain. An example of a lower back stretch is back flexion. This is done from a lying position on your back. You place your hands behind your knees and pull your legs in towards your chest. Stretches should be held for 20 to 30 seconds (see Resources for sciatica stretches).
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a type of Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of tiny needles into certain areas of the body where energy pathways are blocked. In the case of sciatica, the needles would be inserted in the areas where pain is felt, and they would be left in for about a half hour or longer.
Massage
Massage therapy is done by a licensed professional who uses her hands, fingers and knuckles to relieve knots and sore muscles. This treatment can increase circulation, release endorphins and relax the muscles.
