Sciatica Treatment: Home Remedies for Sciatica Relief

Sciatica is one of those conditions that is often found to be associated with lower back pain. However, sciatica is not a medical condition in itself, but is an indication of some other health problem like herniated disc. The term 'sciatica' denotes symptoms like lower back pain that radiates to the buttock and leg, numbness and tingling in legs, etc. These symptoms are caused by injury to the sciatic nerve, which originates in the lower back and runs through the back of the leg. Even pressure on this nerve can cause these symptoms. Sciatica treatment may vary with the underlying cause. But, in some cases, these symptoms are found to subside on their own, without any treatment. Home remedies for sciatica relief are also found to be effective for some. Scroll down to learn more about sciatica and its remedies.

Sciatica Causes

Sciatic nerve is the longest and widest single nerve in the human body. Any sort of irritation or pressure (or injury) on the nerve, in the lower back, leads to symptoms that are collectively termed as sciatica. So, sciatica is an indication of some health problem of the lower back and hips. There are various medical conditions that can cause sciatica, and spinal disc herniation is one among them. Others include lumbar spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, pelvic injury or fracture, tumor, etc.

Firstly we have herniated disc, a condition in which, sciatica is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve due to a herniated or protruding disc. A herniated disc is a vertebral disc that has been displaced from its original position due to external pressure that could be due to trauma. Even constant pressure caused by muscle imbalance can lead to herniation of spinal discs. While herniated disc is a common cause for sciatic pain, it is equally important to note that many people with this condition, may not experience any pain at all.

Sciatica can also be caused by piriformis syndrome. Usually, the sciatic nerve is found beneath the muscle, but in some people, it may pass through the piriformis muscle, that is found near the lowest part of the spinal cord. In case of trauma or overuse, the muscle may get shortened or may develop spasms, thereby compressing the nerve. Such type of pressure or irritation may lead to the set of symptoms that is called sciatica.

Spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord that runs inside it. In case of lumbar (lower back) region, the sciatic nerve roots get compressed with spinal stenosis. This could lead to various medical conditions (like herniated disc, bone spurs, spondylolisthesis and inflammation) that can cause sciatica. Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when a vertebra slips over the one located beneath it. This happens when the small bone between the vertebrae suffers fracture. In some cases, isthmic spondylolisthesis could be congenital too. This condition can also affect the sciatic nerve leading to symptoms called sciatica.

In short, sciatica causes may be minor or major and so, the treatment too varies with the specific cause. So, it is very much important to diagnose the underlying cause and treat the same. While in some cases, the condition is remedied with simple medication (like painkillers) and exercises, in some others, the condition may subside on its own. In rare cases, surgery might become necessary. There are also some effective home remedies for sciatica relief.

Sciatica Home Remedies

If you are searching for some home remedies for sciatica, you may resort to certain types of food that are claimed to be effective for relieving the symptoms. You may also try some types of exercises like yoga and pilates. Another method is to try some alternative medical treatment like acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, hypnosis or ayurveda. Even a good massage can work wonders in relieving sciatica pain. The following are some of the time-tested natural cures for sciatica.

• Potato juice is said to be highly effective for remedying conditions like gout and sciatica. Those with sciatica can use this juice, mixed with some celery juice. Even carrot and beetroot juice can be added to this mixture. It is said that at least ten ounces of potato juice must be taken daily.
• Water is one of the best natural treatment options for sciatica pain relief. Water increases blood circulation that will provide relief from sciatica. Celery tea is also said to be good for sciatic nerve pain relief.
• Another home remedy for sciatica relief is elderberry (is said to be a muscle relaxant), which can be taken in the form of tea or juice.
• Some people use raw garlic for natural sciatica relief. Garlic keeps the body warm, aids blood circulation and provides relief from aches and pain. Some claim that garlic milk also can be an excellent sciatica home treatment. Just chop two cloves of garlic in about ½ a cup of milk and drink this concoction twice daily and the results can be seen in just a week's time. However, care must be taken to avoid garlic, if you are taking medication like anticoagulants or if you have any bleeding disorders or ulcers. Consult your doctor before taking garlic supplements.
• Vitamin B supplements are also used as one of the sciatica remedies. The common natural sources of vitamin B1 or Thiamine are green peas, spinach, liver, beef, pork, navy beans, nuts, pinto beans, bananas, soybeans, whole-grain cereals, breads, unpolished rice and legumes. Thus, maintaining a healthy balanced diet containing foods rich in vitamin B and salads containing watercress and parsley, green leafy vegetables and fresh red vegetables is very important for good health. Germans have been eating raw sauerkraut since ages to relieve muscular pain.
• Another magical home remedy to treat sciatica is freshly minced horseradish that can be applied as poultice. You have to keep the poultice over the painful areas for at least an hour at a time. This stimulates the sciatic nerve and give tremendous relief from sciatica pain.
• Alternate hot and cold compresses too are equally beneficial. You may also opt for cold and hot showers. This is one among the popular remedies for sciatica relief.

In short, home treatments for sciatica must include a good diet and proper exercise. The person must sleep on a firm mattress, use ergonomic furniture, maintain a good posture and avoid lifting heavy loads. The above said are some of the commonly used home remedies for sciatica relief. You may try any of these remedies or a combination of the effective ones. However, home remedies are advisable for mild cases and not the major ones that require medical attention. Even if the condition is mild, consulting a doctor is always good, to rule out the possibility of some serious underlying cause. Seek his/her opinion with regard to home remedies and natural cures for sciatica.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.