Sciatica is a painful medical condition caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest in the body and runs from your leg to the back. Any pain originating from your back and radiating to the lower legs signify a problem with the sciatic nerve. Since the symptoms include excruciating pain, patients often resort to medical treatment. If you think you have a compressed nerve fiber, here are some self-help remedies to deal with it while waiting for medical treatment.
Hot and Cold Compress
Alternating a hot and cold compress over the affected area can help reduce the inflammation. Since sciatica is often associated with muscle soreness, the heat dilates the blood vessels to improve the circulation of blood and supply the area with enough oxygen and nutrients. Hot pads available in many pharmacy stores, thus it is very easy to get them during the course of the problem. The cold compress reduces the inflammation by constricting the blood vessels and tissues.
Warm Shower
Taking a warm shower relaxes the sore muscles. You can soak your lower body in a bath tub filled with warm water for around 20 to 30 minutes. The technique has the same effect as the hot compress. If you do this with the first method, you can drastically reduce the swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
Over-the Counter Pain Relievers
Sciatica involves excruciating pain. Many times, the symptoms are intolerable that they can disrupt your normal activity. You can solve your problem by taking over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory drugs. These are available from your local pharmacy stores. These drugs will give you relief from the pain, temporarily.
Proper Diet Plan
Obesity worsens the symptoms of sciatic nerve compression. If possible, lose the excess pounds. You must also eat foods rich in magnesium, since a deficiency in this mineral may lead to tightening of muscles which in turn creates spasms.
Massage
Massage is another great way to deal with the soreness and inflammation. However, you must be very careful in doing this as it can lead to more damage in the compressed nerve fiber. In fact, this should be your last option if you have suspicions of sciatica. Consult your doctor before doing any type of back massage. Once you get the clearance, the back massage is a relaxing and relieving way to reduce your symptoms.
The sciatic nerve is important in the delivery of nerve impulses in the lower body. Thus, when you have sciatica, see your doctor right away and discuss the most appropriate treatment for you.
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