Soothe Sciatic Pain

If you are looking for relief from sciatic pain, you’ve probably heard chiropractic care as a suggestion. Unlike complicated surgeries and medications, chiropractic helps soothe sciatic symptoms without uncomfortable side effects. However, like all good things, repair, healing, and relief take time. Because chiropractic adjustments help you find relief over time, we have put together some suggestions to help you find more immediate relief from sciatic pain.

Stretching & Yoga

If you've been following our blogs, you know we love the benefits of a good stretch! If you are suffering from sciatic pain, you will often hear that you should avoid strenuous exercise. Alternatively, if you become sedentary, you will find that inactivity is equally as damaging. With regular stretching and yoga, you will get some gentle exercises in while improving posture, reducing inflammation, and relieving stiffness. Research shows that not only are stretching and yoga safe for those with sciatic issues, but also effective.

Soak in Epsom Salts

People have been using epsom salt baths for their restorative properties for years and years. Not only do these soaks assist the body in drawing out toxins, they also relax the nervous system. Soaking your body in warm water will increase circulation and reduce inflammation, which promotes relaxation that is beneficial in relieving sciatic pain. Not only are epsom salts effective, they are also a cost-friendly treatment that can be picked up at your local drugstore.

Cold and Heat Therapy

Cold and heat therapies are effective at relieving all sorts of pain, including sciatica. You’ve just got to know which form to use. The best way to determine if you need an ice pack or a heating pad is to listen to your body and understand what kind of pain you are experiencing. Cold therapy is ideal for reducing swelling, spasms, and inflammation as it restricts blood flow. Heat should be used for aches and pains; it can loosen tight muscles, dull pain, and increase circulation. Some find that alternating between the two provides the relief they are looking for.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

This might surprise you, but your diet can affect your sciatic pain. When the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, it results in pain. One way to combat that inflammation is to make healthy choices with your diet. If your diet is high in oxidized cholesterol, refined sugars, and trans fats, it is time to make a change. Add more organic, whole foods that fight inflammation like leafy greens, fermented vegetables, dark berries, and fatty fish.

When you combine these tips with regular chiropractic visits, you will be on the right track to relieving your sciatic pain. Do you have suggestions for sciatic pain relief? Let us know in the comments!