Sciatica

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that causes pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. It occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots that form the Sciatic nerve. The Sciatic Nerve is formed by the nerve roots L4, L5, S1, S2, and S3 in the lower spine. Chiropractic care is a popular natural treatment for sciatica. It can relieve pain without medication and is generally considered a safe treatment option. Other medical treatment options for sciatica include lifestyle adjustments, pain medications, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases.


What are the common symptoms of Sciatica Pain?


  • Lower back pain that extends through the hip and buttock and down one leg.
  • Pain that is worse when sitting.
  • Leg pain which is more common on the inner side of the thigh.
  • Weakness, pain, numbness or difficulty while moving the leg.
  • Tingling sensation along the thigh and leg.

Do’s and don’t in Sciatica Pain


Do’s:

  • Stay active and continue your day-to-day activities.
  • While lying down, keep a cushion under the knee to alleviate Sciatica symptoms and get a sound sleep.
  • Use heat therapy in the form of heating pads and warm bottles to increase blood flow and relax muscles.

Don’ts


  • Avoid staying inactive and bed rest as it may worsen the symptoms and delay the recovery.
  • Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
  • Avoid sudden, jerky movements of the back.
  • Do not bend but kneel to pick up things from the floor.
  • Cut down on fats and carbohydrates.

Please note that these are general guidelines and it is always advisable to consult a doctor for prolonged or severe symptoms.


Tips to prevent Sciatica

Here are some tips to prevent Sciatica

  • Exercise regularly: Physical exercise helps keep your back muscles strong and prevent sciatica.
  • Strengthen your core: Strengthening your core muscles helps support your spine. Many types of exercise, including yoga and Pilates, can strengthen the core muscles.
  • Avoid sitting for long periods: Prolonged periods of sitting put pressure on the discs and ligaments in the low back. If you have a job that requires a lot of sitting, take frequent breaks, or try a standing desk. Less sitting is better.
  • Manage your weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for sciatica. Even minor weight loss will reduce inflammation and pressure on the spine.
  • Practice good posture: Pay attention to your body’s position when you’re standing or sitting. To prevent slouching, pull your shoulders down and back.

How Acctive Plus can help you get relief from Sciatica?


Chiropractic care is a popular natural treatment for sciatica. It can relieve pain without medication and is generally considered a safe treatment option. A chiropractor can provide spinal manipulations that help decrease pain, inflammation, and spasms caused by sciatica. Depending on the underlying cause of sciatic nerve pain, a chiropractic treatment plan may include spinal adjustments, ultrasound therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and ice/ cold therapy.

Dr. Jeetu Mishra Dr. Jeetu Mishra
Dr. Jeetu Mishra
Head of Department

Experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in Sports Injuries, Chiropractic, Pain Management, Back Pain, and Holistic Health. Strong professional with a bachelors in physiotherapy, SAIMS formerly knows indore institute of medical sciences focused in physiotherapy from Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences, Sanwar Road, Indore.

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FAQ'S

Best medicine for Sciatica pain instant relief

Homeopathy:

  • Ammonium Mur, Bryonia, Gnaphalium, Dr. Reckeweg R71 Sciatica Drops, Mag Phos, and Rhus Tox are some of homeopathic medicines for sciatica. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medication.

Allopathy:

  • Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen can help provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.
  • In severe cases, doctors may prescribe muscle relaxants or corticosteroids. Corticosteroid injections may be effective for the treatment of some sciatica patients. This medication is a potent anti-inflammatory that reduces the intense pain caused by this condition. The injection is given via a shot in the lower back by the spinal cord. This helps decrease pain and swelling around the nerve root, which is a bundle of fibers that comes off of the spinal cord and extends to other areas in the body.
  • Please note that these are general guidelines and it is always advisable to consult a doctor for prolonged or severe symptoms.

Which are the tests for diagnosis Sciatica?

Sciatica is usually diagnosed using a two-pronged approach: physical examination and possibly certain imaging testing

  • Physical Examination:
    • The location and severity of your pain
    • Whether you have any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your leg.
  • Straight Leg Raise test: For this exam, you will lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight. The straight leg will be slowly raised by your doctor. Sciatica may be the cause if you have back or leg discomfort that travels down your leg and buttocks when your leg is lifted between 30 and 70 degrees.
  • Slump test: This test involves sitting upright with your arms outstretched in front of you. Your doctor will then ask you to slowly bend forward from the hips, keeping your back straight. If you experience pain in your back or leg that radiates down your buttocks and leg when you bend forward, this may indicate sciatica.
  • Medical Imaging tests include MRI Scans, CT Scans and X ray.

It's crucial to remember that not every sciatica sufferer will require every test. Based on your unique situation, your doctor will advise you on the tests that are most suited for you.

Is there any alternate therapy useful for Sciatica pain relief.

There are many techniques that can be used in combination with the ongoing treatment for fast recovery.

  • Cupping therapy(Hijama): In a study conducted at Aligarh Shifa Hospital, 92 patients with sciatica were randomly selected.
    • Hijama cups were applied at specific vertebrae locations (C7, T2, L5/S1, and L4/L5) and other relevant areas.
    • After three sessions of Hijama, there was an overall significant reduction in sciatic pain.
    • 67% of patients experienced relief in pain to varying degrees.
  • Dry Needling: While there is limited evidence specifically for sciatica, some studies suggest that dry needling may help reduce pain and improve muscle function.
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that targets deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues.
  • Here’s how it may benefit individuals with sciatica:
    • Muscle Relaxation: Deep tissue massage can help relax tight muscles around the sciatic nerve, reducing pressure and pain.
    • Improved Blood Flow: By increasing blood circulation, it promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
    • Release of Trigger Points: The therapist may focus on trigger points (knots) that contribute to sciatic pain.
    • Endorphin Release: Massage stimulates the release of endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers.

Precautions:

  • Ensure you receive deep tissue massage from a qualified and experienced therapist.
  • Communicate openly about your pain level during the session.
  • Avoid excessive pressure or aggressive techniques, especially if you have acute inflammation.
  • Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, including massage.

Sleeping positions for Sciatica Patients

Certainly! When dealing with sciatica pain, choosing the right sleeping position can significantly impact your comfort and overall well-being. Here are some recommended sleeping positions:

1. Side Lying Position:

  • Lie on your side with the injured side on top.
  • To maintain spinal alignment, consider placing a small pillow between your waist and the mattress.
  • Additionally, place a pillow between your knees to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
  • This position helps take the load off your lower back and hips where sciatica pain is present.

2. Fetal Position:

  • The fetal position can create space between your vertebrae and potentially reduce back pain caused by a herniated disc.
  • Lie on your side and bring your knees toward your chest, forming a “C” shape.
  • You can also add a pillow between your knees or under your waist for added support.

3. On Your Back with Knee Support:

  • Lie on your back with a pillow under your head for support.
  • Place one or two pillows under your knees to maintain the natural curvature of your spine.
  • This position evenly distributes your weight across your back and relaxes your hip flexors.

4. Additional Tips:

  • Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it can strain your lower back.
  • If you’re a side sleeper, use a pillow between your knees and/or waist to maintain proper alignment.
  • Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you.

Sciatica patients basic workout plan

When dealing with sciatica pain, it’s essential to incorporate exercises and stretches that can help alleviate discomfort and improve overall well-being. Here are some recommendations:

1. Swimming:

  • Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular exercise for sciatica sufferers.
  • It places minimal stress on the back and legs while providing an effective cardio workout.
  • Aim for 30 minutes a day, five times per week to reap the benefits without compromising comfort1.

2. Pilates:

  • Pilates is a low-impact way to strengthen muscles without causing excessive sciatic pain.
  • Most Pilates maneuvers involve gentle stretching of the muscles.
  • Consider incorporating Pilates into your routine to improve muscle strength.

3. Yoga:

  • Yoga combines stretching and breathing techniques, making it ideal for relieving sciatic pain.
  • Learn correct breathing techniques and practice gentle yoga poses.
  • Regular yoga sessions can help prevent pain recurrence.

4. Walking:

  • Walking is recommended for people with sciatica.
  • Warm up with dynamic range-of-motion exercises before your walk.
  • Maintain proper posture throughout the exercise to avoid straining the back.

4. Core Strengthening:

  • Strengthening your core is crucial for treating and preventing sciatic pain.
  • A strong core helps protect the spine and keeps the sciatic nerve in place.
  • Consider exercises such as planks, bridges, and pelvic tilts.

4. Sciatica-Friendly Stretches:

  • Focus on stretches that externally rotate the hip to provide relief.
  • Here are some effective stretches:
    • Sitting Glute Stretch: Sit and cross one leg over the other, gently pulling the knee toward your chest.
    • Sitting Spinal Stretch: Sit with legs extended, twist your torso to one side, and hug the opposite knee.
    • Basic Seated Stretch: Sit with legs extended, reach forward to stretch the lower back and hamstrings.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist before starting any exercise program. Individual responses may vary, so tailor your routine to your specific needs and comfort level. Regular activity and gentle stretching can help manage sciatica pain effectively.