There are dozens of different nerves in the body, but the sciatic nerve is definitely one of the biggest nerves. It starts at the lower part of the spine, goes through our buttocks and finished at the lower limb of our foot.
The specific location this nerve has makes it crucial for the movement and feeling of legs. In addition, it affects the strength of the legs. But, there are situations when this nerve is affected by pain.
Sciatica pain is a very frequent problem that is characterized by tingling, pain, numbness, and weakness of the lower limbs. As a result of these issues, many people believe confuse it with lower back pain or leg cramps.
There are situations when sciatica pain can result in mild ache and numbness, but there are cases when it creates sharp, intense and burning sensation that affects one side of the human body.
As a result of this pain and discomfort sufferers usually, cannot leave their beds and use some pharmaceutical (typically over-the-counter) drugs to ease the symptoms. Ibuprofen is one of the popular drugs for cases like this.
The latest studies have confirmed that 4 out of 10 people in the world will have to experience this problem at least once in their lifetime. In this article, we will highlight eight natural ways to ease sciatica pain and heal the inflammation.
1. Chiropractic adjustments
Studies have confirmed that treating sciatica pain can be quite effective if people use chiropractic adjustments. It turns out that the specific handling of the spine conducted by professional chiropractors can soothe pain, support healing, take care of inflammation, bring back mobility and improve our health in general.
2. Acupuncture
Now here’s another great example of an alternative approach which is based on the insertion of tiny needles at specific points on our body. The basic goal is to aid the nerve function and increase energy levels.
What’s great about acupuncture is the fact that you will feel better even after one treatment. However, if you take a few sessions you will notice a huge difference. Today, acupuncture is popular all over the world because many people have confirmed that it is effective against stress, migraines, lymph flow stimulation and more.
3. Ice Packs
If you are looking for instant relief from sciatica pain, you can’t go wrong with ice packs. In addition, you can use a small package of frozen peas (wrap them in a towel) and put it on the affected area. Wait for 20 minutes before removing them. Do this every three hours and after a while, the pain will be gone.
4. Mild Stretches
Although every movement can be quite painful for sciatica sufferers, it is necessary to be active if you want to speed up the healing process. So, it is a smart move to practice mild yoga stretches or soothing back stretches. With their help, you will enhance mobility, make your back muscles stronger and improve blood flow.
5. Alternate Temperatures
If you want to address this issue on a deeper level and get rid of inflammation, you should use a hot pack right after you remove the ice pack. In addition, you can enjoy a hot bath too.
It seems that alternation of temperatures enhances the lymph flow and blood circulation and this means that you will heal the inflammation faster. If you want to maximize the effects, feel free to add essential oils, Epsom salts, and herbs to the bath.
6. Herbs and oil
There are many herbs that can deliver excellent results because they lower inflammation and eliminate pain. They can be used in different forms – capsules, infused oils, liniments, and salves.
In addition, you can use the herbs as tea made from dried or fresh herbs, essential oils, elixirs, and tinctures.
Keep in mind that you should talk to your physician before using any of these herbs because some of them may disrupt the effects of pharmaceutical drugs. The following is a list of the most effective herbs people use to get rid of pain and inflammation and enhance nerve health:
- Roman chamomile
- Turmeric/curcumin (use it with black pepper for optimal results)
- Milky oat tops
- Devil’s claw
- Mullein root
- White willow bark
- Lavender
- Clary sage
- St. John’s Wort
- Licorice
- Jamaican dogwood
- Skullcap
- Kratom
- Linden flower
- Arnica
7. Massage
Deep massages, as well as trigger-point therapies, are very efficient when it comes to elimination of muscle spasms, pain and numbness felt in the legs and toes. In addition, you should know that the use of essential oils and oils with infused herbs can bring even better results.
8. Sleep
If you want to relax the body and the muscles and make the nerves stronger, you must get enough sleep.
Even though science is still gathering evidence related to the efficiency of these alternative remedies, many people have confirmed that they are working. They say that the remedies we’ve mentioned in this article have helped them manage spasms, cramps, numbness, and pain.
However, if you notice that the symptoms are not gone after a few weeks, you should definitely talk to your doctor because you might be dealing with a more serious health issue that requires a different approach.
Source: Healthy Food House
