Sciatica
Updated Apr. 16th, 2018
The pain caused by sciatica is usually one-sided and can range in intensity and character, from a pins and needles/tingly sensation, to a burning, stabbing or aching pain. The pain can lead to a weakness in the affected limb, greatly impacting one's daily life.
Sciatica, often called sciatic neuralgia or neuritis, is caused by irritation on the nerve from another source – lumbar disc herniation (radiculopathy), bone (bone spurs) or muscle (– often a spasm of the piriformis). In this sense, it is actually not a medical condition on its own, but rather a symptom of another condition. Neuritis, simply means that there is inflammation due to this irritation.
Sciatica is most effectively treated with body work – manipulating or working with the source, to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can consist of one, or a combination of therapies like acupuncture, TENS, massage, chiropractics or osteopathy. The most effective treatments may include a combination of supplement and bodywork, but bodywork is almost always necessary for long lasting results. Depending on the pain, it is not uncommon for individuals suffering with sciatica to compensate for any weakness, lack of balance, or pain by adjusting one's stance, gait or seated positions. This can eventually cause wear and tear on other joints, potentially more pain and musculoskeletal injury that will ultimately need to be corrected in order for pain free
I've dealt with a sciatic issue for about 13 years now and the most effective things for me are massage, stretching, and not sitting too much in unnatural positions (like working on my laptop in bed). I've never really considered natural supplements for sciatica so it's interesting to read what is recommended here.
Hello Stephanie,
Thank you for sharing your experience. Sciatica pain is a big issue for many, especially with sitting at a desk. Supplements are great for taking the pain and inflammation away while you work towards the underlying issue with stretching, exercise and not sitting for long periods of time, like you mentioned.
Have a healthy day!
I have sciatic issue for a couple of years and it can get very painful. Stretching helps somewhat and although I do take most supplements mentioned here, I still continue to have the problem. This article mentions suggestions that can be helpful, so I am going to pay heed and follow your tips. Thank you.
Hello Roger,
Sciatic pain can be pesky and often times debilitating, it really decreases your activity level and range of motion due to the pain. Unfortunately we sit more often than we should which exacerbates the issue. We hope some of these remedies can help you.
Have a healthy day.
I have been hearing about sciatica for years now and never fully understood what it was or what caused it so this was very interesting to read. I did not realize that it could be eased with massage or vitamins and other natural things so that is really cool to hear! I will have to remember to pass along the message to my friends who do have sciatica pain and hopefully that will help them as well. Great information!
Hello,
We are glad you found our article to be able to help your friends who suffer from this pain. Massage and exercises are the best ways to lessen the pain and stretch this muscle. Supplements supporting inflammation are also useful. As the article states, magnesium is also a great mineral for muscles spasms, you can learn more about it here:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/magnesium/