Sciatica is characterized by symptoms of leg pain, starting from the lower back, spreading into the buttock, and sometimes reaching the foot.
It is not a medical diagnosis per se, but rather a symptom of an underlying medical condition. A herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis (disease of the spine), or spinal stenosis can cause symptoms of sciatica.
Here are 8 natural tips to relieve pain:
1. Compresses
Alternating hot and cold compresses can be very useful in case of sciatica pain. Indeed, warm compresses will improve blood circulation, and cold compresses will relieve the inflammation of pain.
2. Turmeric
Several studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of turmeric. The curcumin contained in the spice effectively relieves inflammation and reduces stress. In addition, several studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric intensifies when combined with piperine, a property found in black pepper. You can also prepare an equally effective remedy, adding a teaspoon of turmeric and a teaspoon of honey in a glass of warm milk and drinking this mixture twice a day.
3. Massages
Massages, practiced by a professional, can relax your muscles and relieve your sciatica pain. Essential oils can be used for massage, such as arnica oil, and wintergreen combined with peppermint oil. These mixtures prove effective in fighting pain and inflammation naturally.
4. Physical exercises
Proper physical exercises, especially yoga are very effective in relieving this back pain. Be careful not to solicit the sciatic nerves with inappropriate exercises. Take care of your posture and keep your back perfectly straight.
5. Valerian tea
Thanks to the valerian acids it contains, valerian has a real sedative action. It puts the central nervous system to sleep and acts as an excellent natural tranquilizer. Add a teaspoon of dried valerian root to a cup of warm water and drink this mixture as soon as the pain is felt.
6. White willow
Excellent analgesic and powerful anti-inflammatory, white willow is said to be vegetable aspirin. Nevertheless, its contraindications are the same as those of the drug, although its side effects seem minimal compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. So take advice from your doctor before using this kind of product.
7. Fenugreek seeds
Admittedly, its smell is very unpleasant but this spice has inflammatory properties that are particularly effective in case of gout, sciatica, or osteoarthritis. You can make a natural dressing by mixing fenugreek seeds with 250 ml of milk. Boil everything, and you will get a paste that you will apply on the painful areas. Let stand for a few hours before applying.
8. Acupuncture
Used by the Chinese for centuries, acupuncture is certainly one of the most effective treatments for relieving sciatica pain. In fact, acupuncture involves inserting small needles into specific places on the body, in order to provoke a reaction in the nervous system. Therefore, this response leads our brain to release natural painkillers, relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the painful area.
N.B: we remind you that self-medication is not always a good idea, especially when you do not know the origin of your ailment. So, if the discomfort persists or the pain intensifies, seek immediate medical attention.