Sciatica is a problem affecting many people. This problem stems from aggravation of the sciatic, which in the human body, is the largest nerve. This nerve starts in the lower spinal area and runs through the buttocks through to the leg.
Pain that originates in the lower back area and radiates down can be associated with this problem. Some may experience a burn or tingle, and numbness has also been reported by some sufferers. Any problem that causes pain that radiates down from the lower back area may be a sign of sciatica.
There are many possible causes. Commonly, an injury that relates to the herniation of a disc or discs in the lower back can result in sciatic pain, as it outs pressure on the nerve and this irritates and inflames it. The surrounding tissues, bones can also cause this. On occasion, a tumor or growth in the spinal region can be responsible for problems as well.
Bad posture and slouching can be attributed to the problem. Pregnancy can put undue pressure on the back, and also be a cause. Being overweight has also been identified as an underlying cause. Lifting heavy objects improperly can cause damage to the back and lead to sciatica as well.
Relief can sometimes be found with the application of heat or cold to the lower back areas. Cold will help to reduce swelling and heat can help loosen muscles. Either heat or cold can be applied for ten to fifteen minute intervals then stopped and repeated ten to fifteen minutes later. The can also be used alternately with hot for a while then switching to cold.
Doing stretches that help to loosen the back muscles has proven to help some sufferers as well. This should be done on a daily basis, unless it is proving to cause further pain. Inactivity can cause sciatica to worsen which is why many people find that it is worst first thing in the morning. Sitting or laying for extended periods of time can cause pain upon movement, so it is always a good idea to stay moderately active throughout the day to prevent this.
Medications that are available without a prescription can provide temporary pain relief and may help reduce swelling. Muscle relaxant medications can help as well, as they will help the muscles from being tight in the lower back. Medications with anti inflammatory properties will reduce swelling and can provide relief. Check with your physician or pharmacist to ensure that there medications are appropriate and that they do not cause any reactions with other medications that are currently being taken.
There may be other changes that sufferers can make to help alleviate symptoms. A firm mattress can help lessen pressure on the back while sleeping. A pillow placed between the knees may help those that sleep on their side. Sleeping on the stomach can further aggravate the problem and should not be done. Firm, comfortable chairs that provide lumbar support are helpful, and making sure that the feet can be flat on the floor when sitting may be advantageous as well.
There are many possible causes. Commonly, an injury that relates to the herniation of a disc or discs in the lower back can result in sciatic pain, as it outs pressure on the nerve and this irritates and inflames it. The surrounding tissues, bones can also cause this. On occasion, a tumor or growth in the spinal region can be responsible for problems as well.
Bad posture and slouching can be attributed to the problem. Pregnancy can put undue pressure on the back, and also be a cause. Being overweight has also been identified as an underlying cause. Lifting heavy objects improperly can cause damage to the back and lead to sciatica as well.
Relief can sometimes be found with the application of heat or cold to the lower back areas. Cold will help to reduce swelling and heat can help loosen muscles. Either heat or cold can be applied for ten to fifteen minute intervals then stopped and repeated ten to fifteen minutes later. The can also be used alternately with hot for a while then switching to cold.
Doing stretches that help to loosen the back muscles has proven to help some sufferers as well. This should be done on a daily basis, unless it is proving to cause further pain. Inactivity can cause sciatica to worsen which is why many people find that it is worst first thing in the morning. Sitting or laying for extended periods of time can cause pain upon movement, so it is always a good idea to stay moderately active throughout the day to prevent this.
Medications that are available without a prescription can provide temporary pain relief and may help reduce swelling. Muscle relaxant medications can help as well, as they will help the muscles from being tight in the lower back. Medications with anti inflammatory properties will reduce swelling and can provide relief. Check with your physician or pharmacist to ensure that there medications are appropriate and that they do not cause any reactions with other medications that are currently being taken.
There may be other changes that sufferers can make to help alleviate symptoms. A firm mattress can help lessen pressure on the back while sleeping. A pillow placed between the knees may help those that sleep on their side. Sleeping on the stomach can further aggravate the problem and should not be done. Firm, comfortable chairs that provide lumbar support are helpful, and making sure that the feet can be flat on the floor when sitting may be advantageous as well.



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Heru
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