The term "sciatica" describes the symptoms associated with the compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a nerve that runs from your lower back to the back of your foot. Aggravation of this nerve can arise from a narrowing of the spinal canal, a slipped disk, a tight piriformis muscle, spinal tumors or trauma, according to the Mayo Clinic. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling or a burning sensation that shoots down the back of your leg. Fortunately, many conservative options can alleviate sciatica.
Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice therapy is the first measure you should take to reduce the symptoms of sciatica, according to Medline Plus. Apply ice to the painful area for 20 minutes and then remove for 20 minutes to reduce inflammation associated with sciatica. Repeat this cycle as often as possible for the first 48 hours. Then apply ice for 20 minutes and then heat for the next 20 minutes. Heat will relax any tight muscles that may be compressing your sciatic nerve.
Physical Therapy
Ask your doctor if physical therapy is an appropriate measure to reduce your sciatica symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, rehabilitation exercises can help correct your posture, strengthen the muscles that support your back and improve your flexibility. Once you complete your prescribed physical therapy visits, you should continue the exercises at home that your physical therapist taught you to prevent future back problems.
Medication
Medication may be a necessary treatment but should be used only if ice and heat therapy and physical therapy do not improve your symptoms. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as Aleve, Advil or Motrin, may be used to reduce pain and inflammation along your sciatic nerve. If these do not help, your doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxant, antidepressants, anti-convulsants or narcotics to reduce severe pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, these medications work by blocking pain signals and enhancing the release of your body's natural painkillers.
Epidural Steroid Injection
An epidural steroid injection is a more aggressive conservative treatment that your doctor may suggest if other treatments are not working. In this procedure, your doctor injects a corticosteroid into the affected area to reduce inflammation around your spinal and sciatic nerve. According to the Mayo Clinic, these injections provide short-term relief but are not a long-term solution. In addition, because of serious side effects that can occur with overuse, you are limited to three injections per year.
