Verified on 04/17/2024 by Alexane Flament, Editor

Sciatica causes severe pain in the legs, back and buttocks, sometimes even the foot. If medical methods exist to relieve them, it is also possible to resort to natural solutions. Here are the ones.

Sciatica: what is it?

The sciatica is a fairly painful pathology which results from compression of the sciatic nerve. Several causes can cause this pain, but the most common is a herniated disc.

The pain is generally felt in the lower limbs. They start from the lower back, or buttock, and continue to the thigh to go down the leg. They can go all the way to the feet. The pain actually follows the path of the sciatic nerve.

This pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as tingling, numbness, impaired sensitivity, muscle weakness or difficulty moving the leg or foot.

This pain can be debilitating and impact daily life. Fortunately, it is possible to use natural solutions to relieve pain.

Heat and stretching: perfect for relieving sciatica pain

While medications and physiotherapy are very effective in relieving sciatica, there are other ways to do it. Thus, natural solutions can be applied directly at home to relieve pain.

It is possible to :

  • Sleep on your back. Some people prefer to sleep in a side position, with their knees bent and separated by a cushion;
  • Alternate between heat and cold. This helps relax your muscles and relieve pain;
  • Perform exercises to relieve sciatic nerve and pain;
  • Practice a sport. Contrary to popular belief, remaining static will not improve your sciatica. Swimming, walking, cycling… moving according to your tolerance can help relieve pain;
  • Massage the painful area can help reduce muscle tension while improving blood circulation.

In any case, remember that a little rest may be necessary, but it is advisable not to remain static for too long. This could cause even more pain and apprehension when moving.

Florine Cauchie

Health journalist

April 17, 2024, at 4:58 p.m.

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