Q. Is there anything I can do at home to ease sciatica pain?
A. Sciatica is a condition that causes pain that radiates down the buttock and the leg. It occurs when one of the two sciatic nerves in your body, which run from your back down to your toes, is compressed or irritated. Most often the problem is triggered by a ruptured disc or arthritis in the lower spine. This condition can be quite painful, but there are some strategies you can use at home to ease your discomfort.
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve), can help to relieve pain.
Use hot or cold compresses. Cold packs can reduce nerve inflammation that causes sciatica. Alternatively, warm compresses applied to the lower back can also help relax the area and ease your discomfort. In either case, be certain to protect your skin, and don't apply either measure for more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Change your position. Resting periodically on the side of the body opposite the pain with your knees bent may relieve pressure on the nerve and give you temporary relief.
Get moving. While you may be tempted to remain lying down until the pain goes away, this is the wrong approach, according to experts. While you can certainly take it easy for a few days, you'll get back to normal more quickly if you start moving around. Start by walking and slowly returning to your normal activities.
Stretch the area. Stretching exercises or even doing yoga can help reduce pain and prevent future recurrences.
Most often, sciatica pain will go away on its own in a few weeks.
— by Toni Golen, M.D., and Hope Ricciotti, M.D.
Editors in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch
