When looking for solutions to sciatic pain, chiropractic care is often at the top of the list. Chiropractic care effectively helps sciatic pain sufferers, without uncomfortable side effects that one would see with medication or surgery. But, remember that chiropractic is not an overnight solution. And if you're going to do something, you might as well do it right, which usually requires time. Repair, healing, and relief do not happen in a snap. Regular chiropractic visits can help you on your journey to finding relief, but what about immediate solutions?
While you continue your regular chiropractic care, you can also take additional steps that may assist in finding immediate pain relief. Keep in mind that every body is different, and what works for someone else may not work for you. Sciatic pain is extremely frustrating, and if you keep an open mind, you might be surprised by the therapies that help you.
COLD AND HEAT THERAPIES
If done properly, cold and heat therapies can provide relief for many different types of pain, sciatica included. In order to determine whether you need heat or cold, pay attention to what kind of pain you're experiencing. If you are feeling aches and pains, use heat. It can increase circulation, dull pain, and loosen tight muscles. Cold reduces swelling, inflammation, and spasms by restricting blood flow. You can even try alternating the two.
EPSOM SALT SOAKS
Epsom salt baths are not only soothing, but also have restorative properties. They relax the nervous systems and help the body to draw out toxins. Simultaneously, warm water increases circulation and reduces inflammation, which creates an ideal combination to promote relaxation that many find beneficial for their sciatic pain.
STRETCHING AND YOGA
If you've been reading to our blogs, you know we are strong supporters of stretching! For those suffering from sciatic pain, it is recommended to stay away from strenuous exercise. However, becoming sedentary is not an option, as inactivity can be equally as damaging. Stretching regularly or practicing Yoga will improve posture and lengthen the spine while helping stiffness and strengthening, and can even reduce inflammation. Studies show that yoga and stretching are not only safe for those with sciatic pain, but also effective!
ACUPUNCTURE
Recently, there has been a growing interest in acupuncture, which is a form of therapy that uses needles to stimulate the body’s healing process. A study was done to see if acupuncture was effective for sciatica pain. One test group of patients was exposed to warming acupuncture, and the other was exposed to medication. The acupuncture group found relief from sciatic symptoms, their pain tolerance increased, and they showed significantly higher improvement.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET
When the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, the results are not good and typically painful. One way to combat that inflammation is through your diet. If your diet is high in trans fats, oxidized cholesterol, and refined sugars, it's time to consider a change. Try filling your diet with whole, organic foods that will help reduce inflammation such as fatty fish, leafy greens, dark berries, and fermented vegetables,.
These tips, combined regular chiropractic visits, will have you on the right path to relieving your sciatic pain.