If you are between 30 and 50, you run a greater risk of developing sciatica than other Americans, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or AAOS. Sciatica may start suddenly, with pain running from your lower back into your thigh, along the sciatic nerve. The AAOS explains a herniated disc, or a disc that has sudden pressure against it, puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain. All mineral supplementation should be monitored by a doctor.
Calcium
Keeping bones strong by reducing the risk of osteoporosis may help reduce sciatica and associated pain. Calcium has long been identified as a mineral that plays a key role in preventing bone disease. A study in the June 2009 issue of "The British Journal of Nutrition" notes that ongoing supplementation with calcium, along with vitamin D, results in decreased bone fragility and bone loss in elderly individuals. The recommended daily allowance, or RDA, is 1000 to 1200 mg per day. Dietary sources include broccoli, cabbage, kale and dairy products such as milk and cheese.
Magnesium
Your body contains about 25 g of magnesium, over 60 percent of which is used in your skeleton, states the Linus Pauling Institute. Magnesium affects your bone matrix and bone density, keeping bones strong. It also plays an important role in maintaining healthy nerve function by facilitating the transport of ions, such as calcium and potassium, from cell to cell. The RDA is 320 to 420 mg per day. Dietary sources of magnesium include green leafy vegetables, nuts and unrefined grains.
Potassium
Potassium is considered both a mineral and an electrolyte, an ion capable of conducting electricity. The Linus Pauling Institute cites a study that shows potassium may help promote a more alkaline environment in your body, preventing the leeching of calcium from your bones to neutralize a high acidic environment caused naturally by metabolism and by foods you may eat. This may prevent osteoporosis. Proper body functioning depends on strict potassium controls in cell membranes; therefore, the use of potassium supplements should be closely monitored by a physician. Multivitamins normally provide not more than 99 mg of potassium. Vegetables and fruits are a rich dietary source.
