Sciatic pain is moderate to severe nerve pain that can run from the buttocks down the legs. It is very common, with more than 3 million cases in the United States each year. Thankfully, chiropractic care can help relieve sciatic pain naturally and gently. Studies have shown that, unlike medications or surgery, chiropractic medicine can be useful in treating sciatic pain without harmful or costly side effects. With that said, the body is a complex system, and all pain relief takes time. Restoration and relief of pain won’t come quickly, but remaining committed to chiropractic care can help in the long term, but what about now? How can you get relief now?
Your chiropractor understands and is here to help. There are so many complementary therapies you can explore while working with your chiropractor to release your sciatic pain. Remember to keep an open mind, and that each body will respond differently to the methods outlined below. It’s tough living with nerve pain, but by learning more about your body, you’ll be able to find out what therapies
work for you!
Here are five all-natural ways you can help reduce your sciatic pain now:
Acupuncture
Originating in Ancient China, acupuncture has gained popularity in the United States for the past few years and has been proven to help with muscle injuries and pain. The way it works is by tapping into our body’s “meridians” or energy fields. By using needles, your provider will stimulate these meridians and improve the healing process, reducing pain. In a study involving acupuncture for the treatment of sciatica, it was found that acupuncture has a significant effect on pain relief compared to two other groups that were using medication.
Stretching and Yoga
Sciatica and exercise are not the best of friends, and strenuous activity can worsen or trigger pain. Therefore, it might seem best just to relax, but inactivity can also wreak havoc on not only your sciatic nerve but the rest of your body. Yoga and stretching are gentle exercises that lengthen your spine, release tense muscles, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the core. You might be hesitant to give it a try, but studies show yoga is safe and effective for relieving sciatic pain!
An Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Inflammation is the leading cause of sciatic nerve pain and issues but can be reduced by making diet changes to fight and lower inflammation in the body. A diet that is high in trans-fats, cholesterol, and processed sugars will cause a lot of swelling. Replacing these dietary choices with natural and organic food will promote a body free of inflammation. Some delicious anti-inflammatory foods to try are green tea, blueberries, and fresh ginger.
Heat and Cold Therapies
Heat and cold can work wonders on sciatic pain when used correctly. Heat can release tight muscles and dull pain away. Cold therapies slow blood flow and help reduce the symptoms of inflammation. Consult your chiropractor on which treatment is better for you, or if you should use both.
Epsom Salt Soaks
Epsom baths have been used for decades to restore and heal the body. When combined with warm water, the salts will draw out toxins, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation and pain.
