Sciatica Pain Relief Tips

How To Ease Sciatic Nerve Pain

The sciatic nerve runs down both sides of the lower spine all the way into the feet. When pressure is applied to this nerve, it can cause intense shooting lower back pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in the limbs. This pain is commonly known as sciatica, and its levels range from mild to sharp and can become unbearable if left untreated. This isn’t something a simple over-the-counter pain reliever or NSAID like Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin, or Advil is going to fix. And unfortunately, while ice packs and heating pads can help with low back pain, there are ways of preventing the pain altogether before it gets to that point.

There are a plethora of causes of sciatica, but that only means there are just as many ways of keeping it from happening. From standing up at work, and good posture, to choosing the right footwear, there are many ways to prevent and relieve sciatica; read on to discover our expert tips and home remedies!

Stretch and Exercise Often -Physical Activity

Whether at work or sitting for long periods of time at home, remember to stand up and move around frequently to relieve discomfort and get your blood pumping! Keep your range of motion high— stay active and see results. If you’re up for it, maybe even turn on an at-home exercise program. Besides warding off the severe pain that comes along with symptoms of sciatica, keeping a constant rhythm of movement in your day-to-day is a healthy habit of self-care for all other areas of life.

Individuals who sit for extended periods of time are more prone to sciatica than those who are regularly active. Even though there are other causes of sciatica, a lack of activity increases your chances of nerve compression and pain. Gentle stretching and exercising often are great ways to avoid irritation, muscle spasms, or just general soreness and prevent future sciatica flare-ups/risk factors.

Choose Comfortable Footwear

It is known that certain fashion items can be far from comfortable and wreak havoc on our physical health; this is especially true when it comes to shoes. Now more than ever, comfortable fashion is on trend, and you won’t have to sacrifice style to find snug footwear you can walk in all day long. (Plus, besides looking good, your healthcare provider will definitely approve your footwear choices) When shopping for shoes, be on the lookout for cushioned insoles and ankle supports; you will feel your back pain and leg pain improving with every step you take!

Lift With Your Lower Limbs

Knowing how to lift weight properly is extremely important, no matter your age or strength; a wrong move while picking up heavy objects can immediately strain your back and induce sciatica.

For a correct lifting posture, it is recommended to always bend down with the knees and hips. If you already suffer from back pain, consider investing in a lifting belt for additional lumbar support. don't upset your chiropractor by lifting with your back.

Schedule Your Appointment For Sciatica Treatment Today!

The board-certified physicians at Long Island Brain & Spine are fully equipped to assess and relieve your pain through effective alternatives to traditional surgery.

Contact one of our Long Island locations today, and one of our certified representatives will be happy to inform you about our sciatica treatment options!