Generally very painful, sciatica can sometimes prove to be disabling or even require surgery. In most cases, it is possible to relieve pain through medication. But what about soft methods? Here are 6 ways to relieve sciatica pain naturally.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica or sciatic neuralgia refers to severe pain that radiates along the leg, tracing the path of the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve is a nerve located at the back of the leg. It is considered the most voluminous of the whole body and has as a role to ensure the movements and sensitivity of the posterior part of the thigh. The sciatic nerve originates in various nerve branches of the spine and extends to the backside, the posterior part of the leg and divides towards the back of the knee.
Normally, the pain felt in sciatica mainly affects the backside and thighs and can sometimes reach the feet. Generally, it radiates only in one side of the body.
The causes of sciatica:
It is important to note that like other health problems, sciatica is not a disease but rather a sign that the sciatic nerve is irritated.
In most cases of sciatica, the cause is a herniated disc which compresses one of the roots of this nerve. But this problem can also be caused by other factors, such as osteoarthritis of the lumbar vertebrae, which can cause lumbar lumbar contraction, shock or back trauma that can damage the nerve roots, or infection at the level Of the spine.
Symptoms of sciatica:
The most common symptom of sciatica is an intense pain in the lower back that radiates to the thighs, calves and feet.
The patient may also experience an electric shock, but in some cases the pain may be mild but persistent. This is accentuated during physical exertion, coughing and sitting.
It is also possible to experience muscle numbness or weakness in some parts of the leg. Tingling can also occur.
How to relieve sciatic pain?
Generally, to relieve pain, patients resort to self-medication and take analgesics, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or paracetamol. However, when the pain does not calm even after taking these medications, it is important to consult a doctor.
In addition to these solutions, it is also possible to reduce sciatic pain by opting for natural tricks.
Here are 6 natural treatments to try:
1 - The chamomile:
Chamomile is highly appreciated for its therapeutic virtues. In addition to treating digestive disorders, it is also effective in relieving sciatica pain. Indeed, this plant has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect that will calm the irritation of the sciatic nerve pain.
Drink three cups of chamomile infusion daily.
2 - St. John's Wort:
St. John's wort or the plant with a thousand virtues. It is widely used for its antidepressant effect and is also prized for its ability to fight insomnia, relieve wounds and reduce sciatic pain.
Indeed, thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory virtues, this plant helps to relieve the inflammation and thus the pain. Apply St. John's Wort oil 1 to 3 times a day on the affected area.
3 - Horsetail:
This plant has a powerful pain and anti-inflammatory power. Prepare an infusion of horsetail and consume it once a day to relieve sciatic pain.
4 - The capsaicin cream:
Chili contains a substance known as capsaicin, which has potent anti-inflammatory effects. Generally, capsaicin creams are used to relieve joint and muscle pain, but also to decompress the sciatic nerve. Apply to the area to be treated twice a day.
5 - The essential oil of peppermint:
Used to relieve headaches and many other health problems, the essential oil of peppermint also helps to reduce the pain associated with sciatica.
Simply rub the affected area with a little essential oil of peppermint diluted in a vegetable oil to enjoy its benefits.
Caution: essential oil of peppermint is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women and children under 6 years of age.
6 - Garlic:
Garlic is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a solution of choice to calm irritation of the sciatic nerve. Be sure to eat a clove of raw garlic during a meal to ease the pain and strengthen your immune system.