Sciatic nerve pain is an unwelcome disturbance. Anyone who suffers from this pain knows that it is no fun at all and calls for immediate attention when it occurs. If you are affected by sciatica, here are three few tips and tricks to help get you through your day as comfortably as possible.
1. Cold Packs
When it comes to sciatica, home care is important! Cold packs are our number-one recommendation to help deal with the pain associated with sciatica. As cold slows the transmission of nerve impulses, applying a cold pack can provide somewhat quick relief. Try placing a cold pack on painful areas three to four times per day.
The Temperature Rotation Myth
There is a time for rotating heat and ice but addressing sciatic nerve pain is not one of them. While most people believe that switching between hot and cold packs are conducive to pain relief, this is not true. When you are in acute pain, there is simply no reason to apply heat.
Why is this? Think about it. What is sciatic nerve pain? It is pain caused by inflammation. If you accidentally hit your thumb with a hammer and it is red and throbbing, you are going to put cold on it. Cold draws blood away from the injury, which ultimately decreases swelling and provides relief. Heat would bring more blood to the wound, having the opposite effect and increasing swelling.
2. Stretches
Stretching is another form of home care that can reduce sciatica symptoms. Proper stretches work by loosening the muscles that have become inflamed and are pressing against the sciatic nerves. Dr. Lichter and Associates gladly offers step-by-step guidance through several helpful stretching techniques. We suggest stretches number six, seven, nine, 10, 11, and 12 on our website for best results.
You Are Unique
Different stretches work for different people. Depending on your condition, you might benefit from one stretching technique over another. Our practice is happy to help you determine which stretches are the best fit for you.
While you can find some relief from stretching and icing, we encourage you to learn more about our chiropractic treatments and find permanent freedom from sciatic nerve pain.
Apr 15, 2023 at 6:58 PM
Nerve pain in lower back due to arthritis putting pressure on nerve. Excruciating! Will cold packs help?
Apr 21, 2023 at 4:32 PM
Rob Burns - When I suffer an "episode" anything I have tried didn't work and in many cases makes things worse for a short - long period of time. So, if anyone has an answer to this question would be welcomed news for me also. Thanks
May 01, 2023 at 3:11 PM
Cold packs help me immensely when this happens. I suspect it depends on where it is pressing. My pain doctor suggested it. Heat makes mine worse. Invested in some large ice packs meant for the back, and I lie down on one, put it back in the freezer when done, and repeat with the other one in a half hour.I'm also taking the advice of this page to start doing more stretching with my sciatic nerve pain.I'm hoping that it helps a lot along with ice!
Feb 25, 2024 at 3:13 PM
How many times a day should I do the stretching exercises?