Lumbar sciatica is an acute back pain that results from inflammation of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body, located at the lower back. The nerve continues all the way to the buttocks and the feet. Sciatica pain is usually a symptom of an underlying back problem that can be diagnosed by your doctor. Different people may feel varying degrees of pain, but it usually starts as a dull, throbbing pain followed by a burning sensation. Some people experience it only on the lower back; others complain of back and leg pain. The best way to heal lumbar sciatica is by following a regular exercise routine and maintaining a healthy weight.
Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic has listed many symptoms that most people experience in lumbar sciatica. Though the degree of pain tends to vary, it usually starts in the lower spine and travels downward. The pain is either a dull, burning sensation or unbearable pain that's accompanied with a pricking or tingling feeling. Acute lumbar sciatica patients may even lose bowel or bladder control. Though this symptom is relatively rare, it requires immediate medical attention.
Causes
Lumbar sciatica is a symptom of a greater problem, such as acute arthritis or a herniated disk. Disabled World also suggests that a shock or injury to the spine can result in lumbar pain, causing the sciatic nerve to become inflamed. In some rare cases, a blood clot may also cause the sciatic nerve to swell.
Treatment
Mayo Clinic and Disabled World suggest a combination of physical therapy and medication to heal lumbar sciatica pain. The physical therapy may have to be initiated in the presence of a physiotherapist; medication can be prescribed by your doctor. If you experience excruciating pain, your doctor may use steroid injections to provide relief. If lumbar sciatica causes loss of bowel and bladder control, surgery may be required.
Exercises
Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program aimed at relieving your sciatica pain, because the wrong type of exercise can worsen the pain. According to Spine Health, strengthening your core muscles helps shorten recovery time from sciatica pain. Stronger core muscles, including your abdominal and back muscles, provide more back support, lessening sciatica pain. Also, stretching the area in pain can also help relieve discomfort. Tight hamstrings increase stress on your lower back, so stretching these muscles decreases sciatica pain. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, is low impact and is encouraged to maintain general body fitness. It's also good for the lower back.
Alternative Therapy
Acupuncture and massage therapy are popular alternative therapies used for healing lumbar sciatica pain. Mayo Clinic suggests using acupuncture as an alternative therapy, because a lot of people have found it to help the healing process.
Diet and Exercise
If you are overweight, you must make an effort to change your diet and choose nutritious, balanced meals for losing weight. Once the pain is alleviated, you must start exercising regularly and maintain proper posture to eliminate any stress on the back.
