6 Therapeutic Ways to Reduce Sciatic Nerve Pain

Sciatic nerve pain is a common problem though it can be quite excruciating. Sciatica is the result of your sciatic nerve getting pinched in your lower back. Typically, the pain is felt originating in your buttock and shooting down your thigh.

Fortunately, there are several easy-to-follow, very basic methods for reducing sciatic pain, including stretching exercises. According to the Spine Pro, the sciatic nerve runs through your piriformis, a muscle located deep in your glutes. If the piriformis gets too tight, it can crimp the sciatic nerve, causing pain, tingling, and numbness in your leg. Sometimes, stretching your piriformis may be enough to reduce the pain. Below are five treatments recommended for reducing sciatic pain:

Pilates Exercise

A recent study found that by adding Pilates to a physiotherapy routine, people with back pain were able to reduce their pain and improve balance. Twice a week, the patients in the study received 40 minutes of nerve stimulation and 20 minutes of massage and stretching. Half of them also did one hour of Pilates twice a week. Those taking Pilates reported greater improvements at the end of the six-week long study than those who did not receive the Pilates treatment.

Acupuncture Therapy

In a study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it was demonstrated that by utilizing acupuncture, 17 out of 30 patients with sciatica experienced complete relief. Typically, about a dozen treatment sessions are enough to lead to improvement.

Trigger Point Massages

Trigger point therapy is where a therapist applies firm pressure to points on your piriformis, lower back muscles, and glutes. It has been demonstrated that the treatment can help release the pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Creams and Oils

Anti-inflammatory oils and liniments have been demonstrated to be extremely helpful in relieving sciatic pain. Examples include St. John’s wort oil and cayenne pepper cream. Doctors recommend that the patient should apply ointment to the painful area two to three times a day.

Chiropractic Relief

It has been demonstrated that 60 percent of people with sciatica who received chiropractic care three times a week for four weeks ended up experiencing the same amount of relief as patients who opted for surgery.

For more information on how to reduce sciatic nerve pain, please contact the Spine Pro at (310) 574-0405 or visit http://www.thespinepro.com/.