I’m sure we all know someone that has had to endure sciatic nerve pain at one point or another. In fact, WebMD cites that 4 out of every 10 people will suffer from sciatica. Prevent sciatic nerve pain or find pain relief with these tips.
How do you know if it’s sciatica?
The Mayo Clinic states that sciatic nerve pain can be caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, compression of the nerve, pregnancy, or narrowing of the spine, the result of which is a sharp pain that follows that nerve, all the way from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down each leg. Symptoms can include pain, tingling, numbness, cramping, burning, weakness in the muscles of the affected leg, and, in extreme cases, loss of control of the bladder or bowels. Though the pain usually only affects one side of the body at a time, it can be debilitating.
Most of the time, with proper help and tools, the problem will rectify itself. In fact, WebMD states that 90% of cases are able to recover without surgery.
How can you prevent sciatic nerve pain?
There are some factors that are simply unavoidable. Age and diabetes can greatly increase your chances of having sciatic nerve pain. Sciatic nerve pain tends to affect people between the ages of 30 and 50.
Since no one can control either of those factors, let’s talk about what can be done.
Get active! Obesity and sitting for prolonged periods of time are both contributing factors to sciatica. Diet and exercise can greatly prevent sciatic nerve pain discomfort.
How can you find sciatic pain relief?
Obviously, if you are already suffering from sciatic pain there is little chance that you will feel up to exercising, but it is important to avoid bedrest as a form of treatment. Try to stay as active as possible, in spite of the discomfort.
You can also use a lumbar support. Sciatic nerve pain can be eased with proper posture, and lumbar supports are a great way of ensuring that you don’t slouch. On that same line, try to avoid bending at the back, and instead focus on bending at the hips.
What else can you do?
It is important to visit a physical therapist if the pain is severe or persists. Physical therapists are trained to deal with nerve pain, and they will be able to determine the best form of treatment for your case. They will give you exercises and stretches that will ease the symptoms. For best results, seek out a physical therapist within the first two weeks. Here at Envista Neck and Back we have physical therapists and chiropractors on staff that would love to help you find sciatic pain relief. Contact us today to make an appointment!