Sciatica

Sciatica is a common form of back pain. The classical definition of Sciatica refers to pain along the large sciatic nerve- which runs from the lower back and down the back of each leg.

For some people, the pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. For others, the pain might be infrequent and irritating, but has the potential to get worse. Usually, sciatica only affects one side of the lower body and the pain often radiates from the lower back all the way through the back of the thigh and down through the leg. Depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain may also radiate to the foot or toes.

One or more of the following sensations may occur as a result of sciatica:

• Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting
• Burning or tingling down the leg
• Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot
• A constant pain on one side of the rear
• A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up
• Low back pain may be present along with the leg pain, but usually the low back pain is less severe than the leg pain. 

The key to resolving Sciatica is in the release of restrictions at all possible nerve entrapment sites, along the entire length of the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica alternative treatments

Heat/ice for sciatica

For acute sciatica pain, heat and/or ice packs are most readily available and can help alleviate the pain, especially in the acute phase. Usually ice or heat is applied for approximately 20 minutes, and repeated every two hours. Most people use ice first, but some people find more relief with heat. The two may be alternated to help with sciatica pain relief.

In addition to standard medical treatments, several alternative treatments have also been shown to provide effective sciatica pain relief for many patients. Three of the more common forms of alternative care for sciatica include acupuncture, massage therapy and chiropractic manipulation.

How Therapeutic Massage Helps

Therapeutic Massage can help relax muscles, release trigger points and abnormal tissue adhesions, and improve posture to relieve the pressure on nerve roots and other sensitive structures. Depending on your individual condition, massage therapy and bodywork may provide significant long-lasting relief. We offer Relief of Muscle Pain/Soreness with Therapeutic massage, Relief of Chronic Pain and Massage for Athletes as your choice of muscle therapy in our clinic.

Reference: Release Your Pain by Dr. Brian Abelson, DC and Kamali Abelson, BSc; www.spinehealth.com