Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is a symptom of dysfunction at some point along the path of your sciatic nerve, which is the longest and thickest nerve in your body, traveling from your lower back into your lower leg. Sciatica.org states that numerous factors may cause this problem, including bony or muscular impingement of your sciatic nerve. Nutritional treatments, especially nutritional supplements, may help treat your sciatica, but you should only use this natural treatment method after discussing its risks and benefits with your physician.
About Sciatic Nerve Pain
The quality of sciatic nerve pain may vary between individuals. According to the Cleveland Clinic, sciatic nerve pain might feel like a bad leg cramp or you might feel a shock-like, stabbing pain that impairs your ability to sit or stand. In most cases, sitting, sneezing or coughing will make your symptoms worse. Other common symptoms associated with this health problem include numbness, tingling or weakness in one of your legs or feet. Herniated lumbar discs, spinal stenosis and piriformis syndrome are all possible causes of sciatic nerve pain.
Helpful Nutritional Supplements
Sciatic nerve pain may respond to numerous nutritional supplements, although certain nutritional supplements historically used for this purpose may require more scientific research to determine their efficacy. Naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," reports that burdock, juniper and St. John's wort may be among the most helpful nutritional supplements in treating sciatica. Other helpful nutritional supplements may include B vitamins, calcium and magnesium, evening primrose, essential fatty acids and stinging nettle.
Highlighted Nutritional Supplement
Tilgner states that juniper berries have historically been used in treating numerous conditions, including sciatica, gout, arthritis, chronic bladder and kidney infections and dysmenorrhea, or menstrual cramps. According to Ed Smith, an expert herbalist and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," juniper berries are a mild circulatory stimulant and appetite stimulant that may help treat rheumatic disease and muscle strains.
Additional Information
Sciatica is a common musculoskeletal problem that can be caused by numerous conditions. Sciatica is a condition that should always be evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional. If this condition is not treated properly, it may lead to serious health complications, depending on the cause of your sciatica. Nutritional supplements, though commonly used in treating this condition, may cause undesired health effects in certain people and should always be used under the care of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
References
- Sciatica.org: Sciatica
- Cleveland Clinic: What is Sciatica?
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
