What Are the Treatments for an Inflamed Sciatic Nerve?

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body. It runs from the spine down to the back of each leg. So long as another issue, such as a bulging disk, is not the cause of sciatica, home treatments are usually effective.

Symptoms of an Inflamed Sciatic Nerve

• Symptoms of an inflamed sciatic nerve include pain in the lower back that can radiate down the thighs, numbness in your legs and feet and tingling in your toes. If you experience loss of bladder or bowel control, seek immediate medical help.

Ice Pack

• At the first sign of pain, it is important to apply ice to the affected area for periods of 15 to 20 minutes several times a day for two days. This reduces pain and inflammation.

Heat

• After two days, apply heat to the affected area to increase circulation and reduce pain and swelling.

Stretching

• Stretch your lower back in smooth, steady movements, holding the stretch for 30 seconds to relieve nerve compression.

Over the Counter Pain Relievers

• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen can help provide some relief to sciatica pain.