If you’ve ever experienced any sort of back pain, you’re not alone. In fact, about 85% of Americans experience some type of back pain within their lifetime. But, if you’ve been diagnosed with sciatica and its signature radiating, shooting pain through your hip and down your leg, you know that it’s no picnic.
The sciatic nerve is comprised of 5 nerve roots from the lower spine and join to create the largest nerve in the human body. This nerve runs on each side from the lumbar spine, deep through your buttocks, down the back of your leg, and ending in your foot.
Typically, you are diagnosed with Sciatica whenever there is pain felt along the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica can be caused by many different things but the most common cause is compression of the nerve in your lower back. A variety of lower back problems, like a herniated disc, can lead to sciatic nerve pain – be sure to see a specialist to determine what is causing yours.
Pain from Sciatica can range from a dull ache to a sharp searing pain that radiates into your lower back and down your legs. It is often worse when standing or sitting still, especially for extended periods of time. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your primary care physician or book an appointment at Narayan Wellness to make sure that what you are feeling is actually sciatica nerve pain.
No sciatic nerve pain is exactly the same which means finding the best way to treat it can seem daunting. The most common treatments for sciatica are chiropractic care and massage therapy. Our partner chiropractor, Dr. Spuller, will be able to tell if your sciatic pain is caused by a herniated disc. Our massage therapist will educate you on stretching (the most important part of recovery) and perform trigger point massage on your sciatic nerve and surrounding muscles to release some of the tension.
We’d like to give a special thanks to paleohacks.com for this great infographic showing some of the best stretches you can try today and hopefully start seeing relief from your sciatica pain.
Did you know that studies show about 54% of healthcare providers recommend massage therapy as part of their patient’s sciatica treatment plan?
Massage can improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, ease pain, and increase endorphin levels that trigger a positive feeling and relief of pain within your body.
An experienced massage therapist who specializes in sciatica, like those at Narayan Wellness, will work on your quadrates lumborum, psoas, glutes, piriformis, and hamstring muscles to relieve tension and decrease your specific sciatica symptoms.
Remember though, when you get a sciatica massage, It is very important to stay hydrated after your massage.
Sciatica can be a very painful condition, but, all hope is not lost. With the proper exercises, stretching techniques, making a few small adjustments to your daily routine (i.e.; stretching, using hot or cold packs, proper exercises), and getting regular massage treatments, your sciatic pain will decrease, your mobility will return, and you’ll start feeling better before you know it.
*Introductory offers are valid for first-time customers only. Introductory offers are not valid on gift card purchases. Offers, discounts, and/or promotions may not be combined. **Rates and offered services may vary depending on availability. Certain services are not recommended during pregnancy or for clients with certain medical conditions. In addition, your primary care physician’s approval may be required before receiving services from Narayan Wellness. Please contact us for more details or if you have any questions.
