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Homeopathy for Sciatica

Sep 9, 2011 | By Rick Rockwell

When the sciatic nerve along the spine in the lower back is irritated, sciatica occurs, and the pain can make it difficult to perform routine activities. Called sciatica, this condition can be treated in a number of ways, though there is no known cure. While not a cure, surgery is the most extreme treatment option for treatment of sciatica symptoms; pain medications are another. However, many patients opt to start or augment their sciatica treatment with homeopathic remedies that are natural, non-invasive, and non-addictive.

Sciatica

The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back and runs down the back of both legs. When it is irritated in some way, sciatica develops, causing problems that include weakness in the legs, tingling in the lower back and back of the thigh, or a loss of feeling in those areas. In some cases, these issues may extend all the way down the leg to the feet and/or toes, though it is usually isolated to one side of the body.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a form of treatment that uses natural sources to create positive symptoms in people using the smallest dose possible to achieve the desired result. Herbs, acupuncture, yoga, and chiropractic care are all remedies and treatments that can be useful in the treatment of a number of different ailments, including sciatica. Highly individualized care is afforded each patient, taking into consideration his or her other health issues and medical history.

Posture

Certain techniques that can be done at home may relieve sciatic pain: Maintain good posture. Change sitting and standing positions often. Use a low back support if prolonged sitting is necessary, and rest one foot on a low stool if prolonged standing is necessary. Sleep on a firm mattress. Walk, swim or engage in some form of exercise for 30 minutes every day. Avoid heavy lifting or a lot of sitting.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one homeopathic remedy that can be included in the treatment of sciatica. By stimulating the flow of energy using needles that barely pierce the top layers of skin, it is believed that there may be benefits to the sciatic nerve when it is “blocked,” according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The procedure is painless and often very relaxing, performed in private rooms with dim lights and soft music.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is another option for homeopathic treatment of sciatica. According to SpineUniverse.com Chiropractors use the following methods to treat sciatica; ultrasounds to increase circulation through small heat waves, ice therapy to reduce inflammation, and spinal adjustments which relieve nearby irritation to the sciatica by increasing circulation and relieve associated pain. Another method of treatment is Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which is a small machine that sends various intensities of electrical currents into the back to control any muscle spasms and relieve associated pains.

Herbs

A number of different herbs are believed to be helpful in aiding the process of healing when sciatica is an issue. The amounts and specific types of herbs used will be determined by the herbologist according to the needs, experiences, and reactions of each individual patient. Usually taken orally in capsule form, they are sometimes applied as a poultice or ingested as a tea or as a tincture.

Caution

Do not attempt at-home remedies either before or during medical treatment for sciatica without first consulting your doctor. Some herbs can be harmful or interact negatively with each other; it is important to employ experts to assist you. Similarly, it is recommended that you allow only licensed massage therapists and chiropractors trained in the treatment of sciatic perform any treatments.

References

Article reviewed by Debbie C Last updated on: Sep 9, 2011

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