The sciatic nerve proceeds through the buttock, extends along the leg all the way to the toes. Sciatica pain is actually a symptom of an inflamed sciatic nerve which can be caused by a number of problems, including but not limited to pinched nerves, a slipped disc, or bad posture. Those suffering from sciatic pain say that the pain seems to radiate through the hip along the thigh and at times is felt all the way down the front of the lower leg area. It's a tough pain to ignore, and can make sitting and sleeping very uncomfortable. The sciatic nerve may heal itself over a few weeks time but can take as long as several months. This article covers the various sciatica treatments for pain management and recovery.

The oldest most common remedy for sciatica pain treatment is oral painkillers. There are multiple forms of painkillers that can relive the pain.  These painkillers can be OTC, topical analgesic solutions and prescription medications. However, it should be consumed under strict guidance and advice of specialist as irresponsible consumption can lead to various side effects like, long term liver damage, drowsiness, reaction to other medication, unsafe for pregnancy. Exercises to strengthen the core muscles that comprise of the back, abdomen and legs muscles, can be routinely undertaken, to prevent sciatica flare ups. When the core muscles are strong, they aid the spine in becoming flexible and reduce the spinal tissue away from the sciatic nerve. These exercises can be undertaken at home or at a gym under supervision. Reducing the inflammation and swelling of the muscles and tissue surrounding the sciatic nerve is one of the sciatica treatments. This reduces the pressure on the nerve and assists in eliminating the pain. These methods include alternating hot and cold packs, oral medications and sprays or gels. Care should be taken that the ice and hot packs should not be places for more than 10 minutes on the direct skin, and it should be done in intervals of 10 minutes apart to prevent future damages. OTC medications, gels and sprays can help reduce inflammation and swelling. For a more persistent form of sciatica pain, stronger and aggressive steroidal medications can be prescribed by a specialist. Each of these medications comes with risks when consumed over a long period of time.

If the above mentioned sciatica treatment methods do not work, various medical procedures at the hospital can be considered. It requires a long stay at the hospital with a long term recovery period. Visit the specialist and determine if this option for sciatica treatment is needed to relieve sciatica pain. But the best method is prevention. Preventing an injury that can bring on sciatica pain is the easiest and least painful method. Use a good posture, lift heavy objects by sitting down, rather than bending over, and avoid overly strenuous activities. These preventive measures will help you avoid the long journey of sciatica pain and its treatment and management.

Author Bio :
Dr. Shantanu is a Postgraduate in Sports Physiotherapy and Fellow in Sports Sciences with a total experience of 3 years in treating and managing Sports Injuries and rehabilitation and Spine care for conditions like Sciatica Pain and has hands on experience over Sciatica Treatment.