How to Ease Sciatica

Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve is called sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body; it begins at the spine and travels down the buttocks and down the back of each leg. Sciatica has many causes, including herniated discs, degenerative arthritis, vascular problems and injury, according to the American Medical Association. Most people recover from sciatica within a few weeks without treatment, but you can take steps to ease the pain in the meantime.

Things You'll Need

• Ice pack
• Towel
• Heating pad

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Instructions

• 1

  Rest as much as possible for the first few days of symptoms to allow the inflammation to go down.

• 2

  The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends trying an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation.

• 3

  Apply a cold compress at the first sign of symptoms to decrease pain and reduce inflammation of the sciatic nerve. The Mayo Clinic recommends wrapping an ice pack in a towel and applying it to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day.

• 4

  Try applying heat to painful spots. Alternating between a heating pad and a cold compress can help relieve pain after you have had symptoms for a couple of days.

• 5

  Be active as soon as you can. Stretching, walking and other low-impact physical activities are good choices. Avoid activities that require twisting or bouncing.

• 6

  See your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. Prescription medications, physical therapy, steroid injections and surgery are treatment options for people with severe sciatica.