Treating Sciatica Using Herbs
What is Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, tingling or numbness in the lower back, buttocks and leg. It is usually caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, which is the longest and thickest nerve in the body. Sciatica can be treated with rest, painkillers, exercises, injections or surgery, depending on the severity and cause of the problem
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica can be caused by various factors that affect the sciatic nerve or the nerves that form it. Some of the common causes are:
- Herniated disk: A disk is a cushion between the bones of the spine. When a disk slips out of place or ruptures, it can press on the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve. This is the most common cause of sciatica.
- Bone spurs: These are overgrowths of bone that can develop on the spine due to ageing, arthritis or injury. They can narrow the space where the nerve roots exit the spine and cause compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.
- Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which is the space where the spinal cord and nerves run. It can be caused by ageing, arthritis, injury or congenital conditions. It can reduce the space for the nerve roots and cause pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, usually in the lower back. It can cause misalignment of the spine and compression of the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve.
- Piriformis syndrome: This is a condition where the piriformis muscle, which is located in the buttock, spasms or tightens and irritates the sciatic nerve that runs beneath it. It can be caused by injury, overuse, sitting for long periods or anatomical variations.
- Pregnancy: The growing uterus and baby can put pressure on the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots that form it. Hormonal changes can also cause inflammation or swelling of the tissues around the nerve. Sciatica during pregnancy is usually temporary and resolves after delivery.
Some of the herbs that have been used for sciatica are:
- Turmeric: This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and contains curcumin, which may help to reduce the swelling and pain of sciatica. You can apply a paste of turmeric and water on the affected areas, or drink turmeric milk for relief. https://www.repampgh.com/turmeric/
- Kratom: This herb has analgesic and muscle relaxant effects, which may help to soothe the pain and spasms of sciatica. You can brew the dried leaves of this herb into a tea, or take it in capsule or powder form2.
- Ginger: This herb has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to improve blood circulation and reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve. You can add ginger to your food, or drink ginger tea for relief.
- Cayenne pepper: This herb has capsaicin, which is a natural painkiller that may help to block the pain signals from the sciatic nerve. You can apply a cream or gel containing cayenne pepper on the affected areas, or take it in capsule form.
- Valerian root: This herb has sedative and antispasmodic properties, which may help to relax the muscles and nerves and ease the pain of sciatica. You can drink valerian tea, or take it in capsule or tincture form.
These are some of the herbal remedies that may help you with sciatica. However, before using any of these herbs, you should consult your doctor for the proper dosage and possible interactions with other medications. You should also follow other treatments for sciatica, such as rest, exercise, physical therapy and painkillers, as advised by your doctor.
1: Mayo Clinic 2: AyurvedicCure.com 4: Verywell Health 3: Brandon Orthopedics
Common ways to treat sciatica:
- Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain, such as heavy lifting, twisting or bending. Lie down on a firm surface and use a pillow or a rolled towel under your knees to support your spine. Change positions frequently and get up and walk around every hour or so
- Painkillers: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce the inflammation and pain of sciatica. Follow the directions on the label and do not take more than the recommended dose. If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers, such as opioids or muscle relaxants.
- Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve the flexibility and stability of your spine and muscles. They can also promote blood circulation and healing in the affected areas. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program for you based on your condition and goals.
- Injections: If the pain does not improve with rest, painkillers and exercises, your doctor may suggest a steroid injection into the area around the nerve root that is causing the pain. This can help reduce the inflammation and pressure on the nerve and provide temporary relief. However, steroid injections have some risks and side effects, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage and weakening of the bones and muscles. Therefore, they are usually limited to three or fewer per year.
- Surgery: Surgery is usually the last resort for sciatica and is only considered when the pain is severe, persistent and disabling. It is also indicated when there is a loss of bowel or bladder control or weakness in the leg. Surgery involves removing the part of the disk or bone that is pressing on the nerve and decompressing the nerve. Surgery can provide immediate and long-term relief, but it also has some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, spinal instability and recurrence of symptoms. Therefore, it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of surgery with your doctor before deciding on this option
These are some of the ways to treat sciatica. However, the best treatment for you may depend on your specific condition, symptoms, preferences and overall health. Therefore, you should consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You should also follow your doctor’s advice and instructions on how to prevent and manage sciatica.
1: Mayo Clinic 2: Cleveland Clinic 3: Better Health Channel
Preventing Sciatica
Here are some tips to prevent or relieve sciatica:
- Exercise regularly. This can help strengthen the core muscles that support the spine, as well as improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. Aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility training are all beneficial.
- Maintain good posture. This can help avoid putting extra stress on the spine and discs. Avoid slouching, bending over to lift heavy objects, and sitting for long periods. Use a standing desk, take frequent breaks, and adjust your monitor to eye level.
- Manage your weight. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of sciatica and slow down the recovery. Excess weight can put pressure on the spine and discs, leading to herniation and inflammation. Losing weight can reduce the pain and improve the function of the nerve
- Quit smoking. Smoking can impair the blood supply to the discs and nerves, making them more prone to damage and degeneration. Smoking can also increase inflammation and slow down the healing process. Quitting smoking can improve the health of the spine and the sciatic nerve