Reassessing Non-Invasive Treatments for Sciatica and Lumbar Pain

From medicalresearch.com

Sciatica and lumbar pain continue to be among the most frequent causes of disability across the adult population. In 2020, approximately 619 million people worldwide suffered from low back pain. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects this figure to climb to 843 million by 2050.

These conditions frequently stem from lifestyle choices, aging, injuries, or spinal degeneration. Symptoms vary from slight discomfort to intense pain that can extend down the leg, often accompanied by numbness or muscle weakness.

Despite the variety of causes, the initial clinical response has often been the same. It starts with medication for pain, followed by imaging, and then consideration of invasive interventions for persistent cases.

However, a growing body of evidence suggests that many patients may find long-lasting relief through non-invasive methods when care is applied appropriately. As a result, healthcare providers are taking a second look at these therapies, re-evaluating their role in both early and ongoing management.

Why Non-Invasive Approaches Are Receiving Renewed Attention

Multiple factors drive the renewed focus on non-surgical treatments. First, there’s growing concern about the long-term consequences of relying heavily on opioids and other medications to manage chronic back pain.

While effective, opioids and many other types of pain relief medications can be addictive. This can even lead to opioid overdose deaths, which are on the rise in the US. According to an NCBI study, overdose deaths increased sharply from 2000 to 2021 among adults without a college education. Synthetic opioids have also entered the market, which has further increased the death rate from 2018 to 2021.

Second, advances in diagnostic imaging have made it easier to identify mechanical contributors to pain that might be treated without surgical intervention. Third, patients themselves are increasingly more informed and proactive, often seeking lower-risk solutions that cause minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Clinical practice guidelines now reflect this shift in perspective. Organizations recommend starting with non-pharmacologic, non-surgical options, including physical therapy and spinal manipulation, before turning to more invasive treatments. This change is supported by research indicating that for many patients, conservative care can yield similar or even better long-term outcomes.

How do non-invasive results for back pain compare with surgery?

Long-term studies have shown that for many cases of sciatica and lumbar pain, non-invasive treatments can produce outcomes comparable to surgery. Patients typically recover function and successfully manage their pain, avoiding the risks and lengthy recovery times linked to invasive surgeries.

Non-Invasive Treatments for Sciatica and Lumbar Pain

As people started looking for alternatives to medication and surgical treatment for sciatica and lumbar pain, many approaches started gaining traction. Here are some popular non-invasive methods for managing back pain:

Physical Therapy and Targeted Exercise

Physical therapy has become a cornerstone of conservative care for both sciatica and lumbar pain. A well-structured program aims to improve spinal stability, restore movement, and address muscular imbalances that often contribute to chronic symptoms. Over time, consistent therapy can reduce inflammation, improve nerve mobility, and help patients return to their normal activities with fewer flare-ups.

Treatment commonly starts with a comprehensive evaluation, including assessments of range of motion, posture, and strength. Based on the findings, therapists create individualized plans that may include core stabilization exercises, stretching routines, and posture retraining.

As noted by WebMD, some of the most popular exercises for sciatica pain include:

• Knee-to-chest stretch
• Standing hamstring stretch
• Pelvic tilts
• Glute bridge
• Lying gluteal stretch
• Clamshell exercise
• Bird dog pose
• Water aerobics
• Walking, either on land or in water

Physical therapy is also useful for educating patients about body mechanics and ways to avoid activities that aggravate symptoms. When performed regularly and tailored to the individual, these interventions can reduce the likelihood of recurrence and help patients manage their condition.

Spinal Decompression and Mechanical Relief

Spinal decompression therapy is another non-invasive option gaining attention for its ability to reduce pressure on spinal discs and surrounding nerves.

According to Phoenix Integrated Medical Centre, this technique is particularly relevant for individuals with herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or foraminal narrowing. These are the conditions that frequently underlie sciatic pain and lower back discomfort.

The therapy involves controlled mechanical traction that gently stretches the spine. The goal is to relieve pressure within the disc space, enhance nutrient exchange, and create a more favourable environment for healing. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others observe their condition improving gradually over multiple sessions.

This kind of multi-pronged approach is becoming increasingly common in clinics specializing in non-surgical spine care. Care providers are increasingly recognizing the importance of tackling both the structural and functional elements of the condition.

Though not a solution for every case, spinal decompression has shown promise in select patient populations. It is beneficial to those who have not responded well to other conservative treatments but are not candidates or are unwilling to pursue surgery.

Can spinal decompression be used with other treatments?

Yes, spinal decompression is frequently incorporated into comprehensive treatment plans and can safely enhance other therapies. It’s commonly combined with physical therapy, massage, or anti-inflammatory injections. Coordination among providers ensures that these therapies work together without increasing the risk of over-treatment or side effects.

Manual Therapy and Mobilization Techniques

Manual therapy encompasses a range of techniques performed by trained clinicians to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and restore proper joint alignment.

Chiropractic adjustments, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue manipulation fall under this category. These therapies are particularly effective in cases where joint stiffness or muscular tension contributes to nerve compression or restricted motion.

Chiropractic care, for example, may involve spinal adjustments aimed at restoring joint function and relieving pressure on surrounding nerves. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) may combine stretching, resistance, and gentle pressure to achieve similar goals. These hands-on therapies are often most effective when used in conjunction with exercise and postural retraining.

Manual therapy can also help reduce muscle guarding, which is a common protective response in patients with chronic or acute pain. When these techniques are applied judiciously and based on a thorough evaluation, they can contribute significantly to symptom relief.

Is manual therapy safe for people with bone issues?

Manual therapy may not be recommended for patients with severe osteoporosis or existing vertebral fractures due to the risk of further injury. However, gentle mobilization techniques can sometimes be modified for safety. A thorough clinical evaluation helps determine whether this approach is appropriate for a given patient.

Neuromodulation and Nerve Stimulation

Another area of interest in the non-invasive treatment of back pain and sciatica is neuromodulation. The most common form used in outpatient settings is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This method delivers low-voltage electrical impulses through the skin, which can interrupt pain signalling and stimulate the release of endorphins.

Although TENS is often used for short-term relief, it can also be beneficial during acute pain episodes or in conjunction with other therapies. For some patients, it provides enough comfort to allow them to engage more fully in physical rehabilitation.

According to an NCBI study, the three primary techniques of TENS include:

• Conventional TENS: Employs high-frequency stimulation with a narrow pulse width and low intensity.
• Acupuncture-like TENS: Uses low-frequency stimulation with a longer pulse width and high intensity.
• Burst mode TENS: It combines features of conventional and acupuncture-like TENS.

Beyond TENS, newer approaches such as pulsed electromagnetic field therapy and high-frequency stimulation are also being researched. They can influence nerve activity and reduce chronic pain without the need for invasive procedures. While the evidence is still developing, these techniques show promise and are being explored as adjuncts to more traditional forms of care.

Acupuncture as a Complementary Option

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medical practice, is gaining recognition in pain management. It involves inserting fine needles into specific body points to stimulate nerves and muscles, though its exact mechanisms are still under investigation.

Several randomized controlled trials have suggested that acupuncture may help reduce both the intensity and frequency of back pain episodes. According to MedicalNewsToday, a randomized trial shows that patients receiving acupuncture report greater pain relief and improved mobility. Participants receiving the treatment experienced twice the reduction in pain and three times the reduction in chances of disability.

Acupuncture is often well-tolerated and can be safely integrated with other non-invasive therapies, such as physical therapy and manual treatment.

For patients seeking drug-free options, acupuncture may serve as a valuable addition to a broader treatment plan. It is especially valued by patients seeking a more holistic or minimally invasive approach to managing their condition.

Acupuncture is not universally effective and is still somewhat debated in certain clinical circles. However, it continues to be investigated as a viable adjunct in the non-surgical management of chronic spinal pain.

The reassessment of non-invasive treatments for sciatica and lumbar pain reflects a broader shift toward individualized, lower-risk care. While spinal decompression offers one promising route, it is far from the only option. Physical therapy, manual techniques, nerve stimulation, and behavioural interventions all contribute to a comprehensive approach that prioritizes patient safety and long-term recovery.

Not every treatment suits every patient. However, there’s increasing evidence supporting the benefit of customizing care plans to address both the physical and mental aspects of back pain. As clinical research continues to evolve, non-invasive care is likely to remain a central focus in the treatment of sciatica and lumbar conditions.

The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Some links may be sponsored. Products are not warranted or endorsed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website. 

https://medicalresearch.com/reassessing-non-invasive-treatments-for-sciatica-and-lumbar-pain/

8 Holistic Remedies for Sciatica Pain

From digitaljournal.com

If you have sciatica pain, you might have been to the doctor several times and already tried medications and other interventions. If you haven’t been able to experience any relief from the pain you feel, you might be wondering if there are any holistic remedies. Luckily, there are doctors, vitamin shops, and holistic chiropractors  who can help you succeed with your recovery plans.

Here are the top holistic remedies to try so you can be on your way back to your normal way of life without sciatica pain. 

 Acupuncture 

 If you have never done acupuncture before, the thought of needles might scare you. However, these needs are very small and thin so most people do not even feel them being inserted. The needles are very thin and they are inserted in certain parts of the body to help patients have pain relief. 

These thin needles signal the body to release chemicals and hormones that act as natural painkillers. 

Acupuncture does not cause any long-term side effects which is why so many choose it over medications or surgery where they could experience long-term effects.  

Massages  

Everyone loves a good massage and they can be really good for those with sciatica pain. A massage therapist who specializes in sciatica pain will know exactly where to massage to make sure you experience pain relief and tension relief in different muscles and spinal areas that can cause sciatica pain.  

Massages are also great because they increase the oxygen in the body which can help your muscles to heal faster. Always make sure you go to a licensed and experienced massage therapist as they know the best places to massage for the most effective pain relief.  

Stretching and Yoga  

If you have sciatica pain, you might experience pain when you stand or sit for long periods. This is often most common in people who have to sit at a desk all day long or those who have to drive long distances for work and are always sitting in the car.  

Yoga and stretching are great not only for the body but also for the mind. It can also help you change your posture which will help you when you need to sit for long periods. When combined with healthy eating or additions of natural supplements, most people notice a difference in their sciatica pain after doing yoga and stretching exercises for a few weeks.  

Chiropractic Care  

Many people find that the top holistic treatment for sciatica is visiting the chiropractor. Depending on how long you have had the pain and how the pain started, you might need to see the chiropractor once a week or just once every few months.  

If you have pain in the legs and lower back but are not sure why or are not sure if it’s sciatica pain or something else, you can visit a chiropractor and they can determine the cause of the pain and help you feel relief. 

Chiropractor adjustments often provide immediate relief and they can reduce the pressure on the spine and muscles so you find it easier to be mobile and get back to the normal activities of life.  

Applying Ice and Heat  

While this is a simple technique, it’s very effective and is used for many different injuries. It might not give long-term relief, but it can give you some relief in between massage or chiropractic appointments.  

Keep in mind that the sciatic nerve and the muscles that are attached to it are pretty deep within the body, so ice and heat will only provide temporary relief.  

Make sure not to leave the ice or heat on for too long. Use each for only 15 minutes and then alternate them.  

Physical Therapy  

Some people have the belief that they have to stop working out or being active when they have sciatica pain. This could not be further from the truth. Staying active is very important and can help your body heal quicker compared to if you are just sitting around all the time.  

Staying active also keeps the blood flowing in the body which helps the nerves and muscles to heal faster.  

Physical therapy also engages the muscles and keeps the blood flowing. During physical therapy, the therapist will do several different exercises with you that can provide effective pain relief. 

They will also show you some exercises you can do at home.  

While you might have to continue sitting at work for long periods, try and stay as active as possible. Even if you just get up and walk around for 15 minutes, this can make a huge difference compared to if you just sit in the same spot at the desk all the time.  

While you are at the desk or driving, always be aware of your posture. Try not to slouch or put pressure on the spine as this can all make sciatic pain worse.  

Traction Therapy  

There are options for nonsurgical spinal traction therapy which can be especially effective for those who have sciatica pain or pain from pinched nerves and herniated discs.  

Traction therapy works because it takes pressure off the pinched nerves that are putting too much pressure on the sciatic nerve. Traction therapy can also help move oxygen, water, and nutrients into the discs which promotes healing.  

Herbal Supplements  

Some chiropractors and massage therapists recommend the use of herbal supplements to help with sciatica pain. If you are on prescription medications, make sure to ask your doctor which herbal supplements you can take so they do not interfere with each other.  

The Bottom Line  

Sciatica pain doesn’t have to hinder you from living an active life that you enjoy. Following some holistic remedies and making some lifestyle changes can greatly improve your pain and even be more effective in some cases compared to medications and surgery.  

If you want to try some holistic remedies, visiting a chiropractor is a great way to get started. 

https://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/news/cdn-newswire/8-holistic-remedies-for-sciatica-pain

Say Goodbye To Sciatica Pain: Natural Remedies For Sciatica Pain Relief

From theworldbeast.com

Introduction

Sciatica pain can be very debilitating. It can cause sharp shooting pain, significantly affecting your ability to enjoy life fully. Sciatica can also cause tingling or numbness that may radiate down your leg. It can seriously affect your daily activities, such as standing, sitting, or sleeping. The constant soreness and intermittent pain can range from a warm, wet feeling in your thigh to shooting pain in your legs. As the symptoms may arise without any prior warning, getting treated as soon as possible is a brilliant idea.

Causes Of Sciatica Pain

Sciatica can be caused due to several medical conditions. Let’s have a look at some common causes of sciatica pain.

• Herniated Disc

A herniated disc, or a slipped disc, can cause pressure on your nerve root. One of the most common causes of sciatica is herniated discs. It is said that around 5% of people living in the US will suffer from a herniated disc at one point in their life. The disc acts as a cushioning pad between each spine and the vertebrae. So, any pressure from vertebrae can lead to a gel-like center in the disc herniating through a weakness in its outer wall. It can cause strain on the sciatica nerve, causing pain. 

• Spinal Stenosis 

Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of your spinal canal. The abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal reduces the available space of the spinal cord and the nerves and thus causes pain. 

• Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis in your spine can cause damage to the disc and the cartilage between the spinal column’s bones. The worsening of the damage may irritate the sciatica nerve and thus cause pain and inflammation. 

• Spondylolisthesis

It is a slippage of one of the vertebrae, which makes it go out of line with the one above it. It causes the narrowing of the opening through which the nerve exits. The extension of the spinal bone can pinch the sciatica nerve. 

5 Natural Remedies For Relieving Sciatica Pain

The primary goal of treating sciatica pain is to reduce the pain and increase your mobility. The treatment of sciatica pain is mostly dependent on the cause of the pain. There are various causes that can be easily treated with natural remedies without the use of harmful medication or surgical procedures. 

Let’s have a look at some of the effective natural remedies to relieve sciatica pain:

• Applying hot or ice packs

Firstly you must use ice packs to reduce the pain and swelling. You can wrap ice packs or a bag of frozen vegetables in a towel and apply it to the affected area. Apply the same for 20 minutes at a stretch several times a day. Apply hot packs also for 20 minutes at a stretch. You can switch to applying hot packs after the first couple of days. If you still experience the pain, switch between hot and ice packs and see whichever provides better results. 

• Reducing inflammation with nutrition

It is very effective to take a diet that includes whole grains, natural foods, nuts, fruits, vegetables, soluble and insoluble fibre, fatty fish, etc., to reduce inflammation. Turmeric, ginger, green tea, and black tea are some of the most potent sources of anti-inflammatory substances that can boost your immunity and thus improve your overall health. 

• Building more micronutrients

Supplements are beneficial for building up micronutrients in your body, as a regular diet fails to provide those essential nutrients. Some important micronutrients are Vitamin D, Magnesium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Zinc, Folic acid, etc. 

These micronutrients are beneficial in suppressing inflammatory mediators and thus reduce the overall inflammatory process. This group of vitamins helps in boosting up your neurological health and helps in the reduction of sciatica pain.

• Physical Therapy

The main goal of physical therapy is to provide a combination of various exercises and therapies for faster and long-lasting relief from sciatica and inflammation. Various specific exercises can be beneficial for reducing the pressure on the sciatica nerve. The exercise program usually includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve muscle strength and flexibility. 

Various aerobic exercises such as swimming, walking, and water aerobics can be beneficial for reducing sciatica and inflammation. A trained and licensed physical therapist can be very helpful in designing a customised treatment plan, including exercises and therapies, depending on the cause of the pain, to strengthen the muscles of your back, legs, and abdomen, thus providing relief. 

• Alternative Therapies

Alternative therapies for sciatica pain relief include spinal manipulation, yoga, acupuncture, etc., by a licensed therapist to reduce muscle spasms and sciatica pain and inflammation. 

Final Words

Sciatica pain can cause various disruptions in the life of a person. It can also be prevented in various ways, such as maintaining good posture, a healthy weight, regular exercise, etc. The good news is that if you suffer from sciatica pain, it usually goes away on its own and through self-care. Natural remedies can always be beneficial for providing long-lasting relief from sciatica pain. A trained and experienced physical therapist can be very helpful in providing proper guidance to get faster relief from sciatica pain and inflammation and prevent it from occurring again.

https://www.theworldbeast.com/say-goodbye-to-sciatica-pain-natural-remedies-for-sciatica-pain-relief.html 

Why Is My Sciatica Not Going Away?

From healthline.com

Sciatica is a condition caused by an irritation, inflammation, pinching, or compression of your sciatic nerve. It can lead to moderate-to-severe pain and weakness in your lower back, buttocks, and legs.

Sciatica typically heals in 4 to 6 weeks, but for some people, it can last longer. In this article, we look at potential reasons why your sciatica pain is sticking around.

Why is my sciatica not going away?

Here are some of the reasons why your sciatica may be getting worse.

Injury and reinjury

If an injury was responsible for your sciatica, and if your symptoms get better and then worse, you may have re-aggravated the injury that originally caused your sciatica.

Sudden injuries and repetitive overuse injuries can lead to sciatic symptoms. Herniated discs are the most common cause of sciatica.

Age and underlying health conditions

In general, younger people heal more quickly than older people. But there are many underlying health conditions that can also slow your body’s ability to heal. Some conditions include:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• obesity
• heart disease
• alcoholism
• malnutrition
• smoking

Infections

An epidural abscess is a collection of pus that develops between the bones of your spine and membrane of the spinal cord. It may lead to swelling that puts pressure on your nerves and leads to sciatica.

Wear and tear

Wear and tear on your spine can lead to a condition called spinal stenosis, which is narrowing of the spaces within the spine. This narrowing can compress your nerve and lead to sciatica.

Lifestyle issues

Sciatica often responds to gentle exercise. It’s thought that mobilizing the sciatic nerve may help improve symptoms by decreasing nerve sensitivity. Gentle stretching and exercising may be recommended as a part of treatment.

Alternatively, a sedentary lifestyle and spending a lot of time sitting can potentially aggravate symptoms of sciatica.

Spinal mass or tumour

In rare cases, a cancerous mass can put pressure on your sciatic nerve. One very rare type of tumour that can develop is called a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour.

What to do if it’s getting worse

Sciatica often responds to home treatment, but you should see a medical professional first to make sure you’re dealing with sciatica. If you haven’t already tried treating your symptoms at home, you may find the following methods helpful:

• Cold. Try applying an ice pack or cold compress to the painful area for about 20 minutes several times a day.
• Hot. You can apply hot packs or heating pads to the sore area for 15 to 20 minutes several times per day after the first couple of days to stimulate blood flow to the injured area.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen can help you manage pain, swelling, and inflammation.
• Physical therapy, stretching, and exercise: A physical therapist can help you strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight muscles that may be contributing to your pain. The United Kingdom’s National Health Service recommends resuming normal activities and gentle exercise as soon as possible. Always perform these activities under the guidance of a professional.

Seeing a doctor

If you’ve already tried home remedies but your pain is getting worse, it’s a good idea to visit a medical professional.

Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxers, stronger pain killers, or other medications. In some cases, they may recommend epidural steroid medications. These medications are injected into the area around your spinal cord to reduce inflammation.

In certain cases, surgery may be the best option. This includes instances of worsening pain, pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments, and severe weakness in muscles that results in loss of bladder or bowel control.

One option is a microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive surgery that often offers quick relief of symptoms. The procedure removes the disc material that’s putting pressure on your sciatic nerve.

A laminectomy may also be considered, which is a surgery that involves removing bone to ease pressure on the spinal cord.

How long does sciatica typically last?

Sciatica typically lasts about 4 to 6 weeks. But about 30 percent of people still have noticeable symptoms after a year.

It’s not always clear why some people develop chronic sciatica and others don’t. Some risk factors linked to chronic sciatica include improper lifting techniques and not engaging in regular moderate-intensity physical activity when possible.

Risk factors for recurrent herniated discs include:

• diabetes
• smoking
• disc protrusion

Will it come back?

Sciatica may recur, especially if the underlying cause isn’t treated. For example, if you use improper lifting techniques and developed sciatica after herniating a disc, continuing to use that same lifting technique puts you at risk of injuring your back again.

A 2016 study found that in a group of 341 people seeking non-surgical care for a lower back herniated disc, 23 percent of people with leg pain experienced pain again within a year, and 51 percent experienced pain again within 3 years.

The researchers also found 28 percent of people with lower back pain experienced pain within a year, and 70 percent experienced pain within 3 years.

A 2015 review of studies found that nearly half of 609 people seeking treatment for leg and back pain experienced symptoms for more than 3 months. Just under 75 percent of the participants in the study had sciatica.

How to prevent a recurrent sciatica

Making lifestyle changes like the following may help you prevent recurring sciatica symptoms:

• Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
• Minimize sitting, and sit with good posture.
• Avoid bending your back when lifting heavy objects.
• Choose exercises that are unlikely to cause lower back injuries.
• Avoid smoking.
• Minimize your chances of falling by wearing sturdy shoes and keeping the floors of your house free from clutter.

When to talk with a professional

Most of the time, mild sciatica will go away within 4 to 6 weeks. But you should talk with your doctor at the onset of symptoms to make sure you’re dealing with sciatica. You return to see a medical professional if:

• your pain is getting progressively worse
• your symptoms start after a sudden injury
• you have severe pain, muscle weakness, or numbness
• you lose control of your bladder or bowels
• symptoms last longer than 6 weeks
• pain interferes with your daily life
• you haven’t responded to treatment after your initial visit to see a health professional

After your initial visit to see a health professional, you should discuss a plan for when to return if symptoms haven’t gone away.

The bottom line

Most of the time, sciatic pain goes away within a couple months. It’s best to see a medical professional at the first sign of symptoms to develop a treatment plan.

Some people have pain that may last longer than average. To prevent recurrent sciatica, try not to bend your back while lifting. It’s also a good idea to consider exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet.

If you have severe pain, your pain is getting progressively worse, or if you notice anything else concerning, it’s a good idea to speak with a health professional.

https://www.healthline.com/health/back-pain/why-is-my-sciatica-not-going-away

The alternative road to sciatica relief

From newindianexpress.com

While modern medicine has plenty to offer for those burdened with sciatica, here is how acupuncture, physiotherapy and yoga can help address this debilitating pain

CHENNAI: A condition of lower back pain that radiates down to the legs, sciatica is most commonly found in people between 25 to 45 years of age. The estimated prevalence of sciatica has been found to be widely varying in medical literature, ranging from 1.2 per cent to 43 per cent in different studies. The condition derives its name from the sciatic nerve that branches down from the lower back through the hips to the legs. It is usually caused by a herniated disc that results in compression of a nerve, causing inflammation and pain in the areas affected by that particular nerve.

While the intensity of pain and distress is different from patient to patient, sciatica is a debilitating condition that negatively impacts the quality of life and productivity. In modern medicine, sciatica treatment involves the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and corticosteroid injections. However, prolonged use of these drugs is associated with adverse side effects on patients.

When the condition is severe enough to cause bowel or bladder changes or significant leg weakness, surgical intervention to remove a part of the herniated disc is considered. On the other hand, alternative therapies such as acupuncture in conjugation with physiotherapy have been found to be highly useful in reducing sciatica pain without any negative repercussions or major surgical intervention.

Acupuncture for sciatica
Acupuncture is a widely-used alternative therapy derived from traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture therapy is based on the belief that a vital force or energy circulates between the organs of the human body via certain channels or pathways. The disease is a result of a disorder occurring in the normal functioning of these pathways that obstructs the flow of vital energy. Acupuncture practice uses very fine needles on concerned points to remove the channel obstruction and stimulate the flow of energy and blood circulation.

Acupuncture points also stimulate sensory receptors which in turn induce the hypothalamus to release neurotransmitters and endorphins two essential elements in the body’s natural pain relief and healing mechanism. This theory postulates that there are over 2,000 such points that connect with 20 pathways in the human body. People struggling with chronic pain who fail to find effective medical solution in modern medicine often turn to acupuncture and find long-term relief.

Acupuncture is particularly useful for relief of chronic pain such as sciatica or arthritis pain. A comprehensive study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2015 analysed 12 previously conducted studies to gauge the impact of acupuncture on sciatica patients. The study concluded that acupuncture was more effective than conventional western medication in reducing pain intensity and increasing pain threshold in patients with sciatica. In fact, being a drugless and minimally-invasive procedure, acupuncture is one of the safest and most effective treatments for sciatica.

Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is another critical element in the rehabilitation of sciatica patients. Physical therapy for sciatica patients may involve physiotherapists, chiropractors as well as spine rehabilitation experts working in tandem to offer pain relief and healing to the patient. This may be done in conjugation with conventional medicine as well as with acupuncture therapy.

A physical therapist will examine the patient in-depth and then prescribe a combination of therapies including manual therapy, soft tissue mobilisation and multiple back strengthening or stretching exercises. This will also include exercises to correct spine posture and adaptive mechanisms to prevent injuries and restore mobility. Physiotherapy provides symptom relief to sciatica patients and promotes healing of the underlying cause of the condition while preventing the recurrence of pain.

Yoga poses for relief
When performed consistently, yoga poses help align and strengthen the lower back while also helping to loosen the hip muscles. Spinal twist poses can also help address the pain arising out of nerve compression. Here are a few yoga poses to help relieve sciatica pain:

Gomukhasana
The cow face pose is one of the best poses for lengthening and stretching the spine and back muscles. To perform this asana, you have to sit on the floor in a staff pose. Then, draw your legs towards each other so that your knees are stacked on each other. Then, stretch out your arms behind your back, one stretching from down the shoulder and the other reaching out from down the other side. Now, try to touch and hold the fingers of both hands together.

Gomukhasana (Cow Face
Pose) by B Shalini, PhD
scholar, MAHER

Ardha Halasana
This asana helps stretch the hamstring and relieve sciatica pain. It involves lying down on your back
and gradually raising one leg up by keeping the knee straight. Maintain the final position for some time and keep taking deep breaths before slowly bringing the leg down. And then, repeat the pose with the other leg.

Ardha Matsyendrasana
This sitting half spinal twist pose gives the piriformis a  mild stretch, also helps stretch the spine and back muscles while relieving stress on the hip muscles. To practise this pose, you have to sit on the floor, raise a leg knee up and twist your body one by one to each side. Twist your back as much as you comfortably can.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2021/mar/31/the-alternative-road-to-sciatica-relief-2283643.html

Physical Therapy Has Benefits for Back Pain

From nytimes.com

People with back pain and sciatica who got physical therapy had less disability and decreased back pain intensity compared with controls

People with back pain are often referred for physical therapy, though studies on its effectiveness have been mixed. A randomized trial suggests that, despite some limitations, physical therapy may have real benefits.

Researchers studied 220 adults, aged 18 to 60, with back pain and sciatica (pain radiating down the leg) of less than three months’ duration. They assigned half to usual care — one session of education about back care — and half to four weeks of physical therapy, including a specified program of exercise and hands-on therapy. All patients completed eight well-validated questionnaires covering back and leg pain, disability, physical activity and quality of life.

At four weeks, six months and one year, the therapy group showed less disability and decreased back pain intensity compared with the controls. There was no difference between the treatment group and controls in how much additional health care they used or how many days of work they missed, but the therapy group was more likely to rate their treatment as successful at one month and one year. The study is in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

“We know that with back pain and sciatica, being active and exercising within your limits is a good thing to do,” said the lead author, Julie M. Fritz, a professor of physical therapy at the University of Utah. “But there’s an additive benefit in the care provided by a physical therapist. With added physical therapy, you’re less likely to have a prolonged case of disability.”

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/14/well/live/physical-therapy-has-benefits-for-back-pain.html

What is sciatica and how can you manage it?

From willowlife.co.uk

Sciatica is possibly one of the most misunderstood ailments out there, yet also one of the most common. It is estimated that up to 40% of us will experience sciatica at least once in our lifetimes, with the likelihood becoming more pronounced with age, weight gain and a sedentary lifestyle.

So, what actually is sciatica, and how can it be managed and prevented? Good question, and this brings us to the first myth around sciatica.

Myth 1: Sciatica is a condition.

Sciatica is the name for a group of symptoms caused by the irritation of the sciatic nerve, which has its origins in the lumbar (lower) region of the spine. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body, running from the lower back, through your bum and down your legs, ending just below the knee. Sciatica is not its own condition, just the expression of pain and other symptoms.

Sciatic pain can manifest anywhere along this route and can radiate along it too. Many people report the sensation of numbness or pain all the way down one leg and/or in your lower. The type of pain can vary from a dull ache or numbness to tingling or sharp pain – at its most severe it can make simple movements such as standing or even lying down difficult.

The estimated recovery time for a bout of sciatic pain is approximately six weeks. For some people one instance is all they will ever have, but for others the pain becomes a returning, reoccurring presence in their lives.

Myth 2: Sciatica is a sign of something worse.

Technically this actually isn’t a myth, but it also is.
Let us explain.
Sciatica is rarely a sign of a serious medical problem, although the pain can be very disruptive and difficult to manage, which can take its toll on your mental health and general wellbeing.

The reason this is also technically not a myth is that something has occurred, often within your spine, to irritate the sciatic nerve. It is important to note that the pain doesn’t necessarily mean that significant damage is being caused, even though it can be unbearably uncomfortable – the pain just proves that your nerve is really good at working and communicating when it’s being pinched! The most common cause is a slipped or bulging disc, which accounts for an estimated 90% of cases.

Other causes tend to be either medically-based or lifestyle based. There is a long-standing myth that pregnancy increases the likelihood of sciatica; this is not the case, although back pain (which is a separate condition) is very common in pregnant people.

Medical causes include:

• Piriformis syndrome, which places pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Spondylolisthesis – a condition where a disk slips forward over the vertebra below it
• Pinched nerve
• Tumours within the spine, benign or otherwise

Lifestyle causes include:

• Smoking
• A sedentary lifestyle, including a desk-based job
• Being overweight or clinically obese
• Physical inactivity
• Age – people in their 30s and 40s have a statistically higher risk of developing sciatica, although it is important to note that it is not inevitable – there are things that you can do to prevent it. Which brings us to our third myth:

Myth 3: Sciatica is inevitable, or just a sign of ageing.

No, it’s not!

Yes, statistics show that the likelihood of experiencing sciatica increases with age, but this does not mean that you can’t take preventative steps to reduce your individual chances. Remember – sciatica itself is a set of symptoms, not a condition.

If your lifestyle falls into any of the above listed traits, you should strongly consider changing your habits. You can also prevent the likelihood of sciatica by taking excellent care of your spine and properly supporting your posture. It’s never the wrong time to make a change and start paying attention to your overall wellbeing; if you do not make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness.

5 Tips on Managing & Preventing Sciatica

There are a number of ways to both alleviate and relieve the pain from sciatica. Many of these can also help to prevent it in the first place, or prevent a future flare up. Of course, it is always better to treat the root of the cause and prevent these things from happening in the first place, so we would recommend implementing these regardless of if you’ve ever suffered with a bout of sciatica.

1. Keep Moving
This is the biggest piece of advice from all major healthcare sources. It may be difficult, or even painful, which makes the temptation to stay seated or laid down in one position very strong, but you absolutely must not. Extra bed rest is out, I’m afraid!

Work within your own threshold for pain, but move as much, as gently, and as often as you can. In the unlikely event that moving makes the pain worse, please seek medical advice as soon as possible. The NHS recommends that ‘studies have shown that longer periods of rest and avoiding activity actually leads to more pain and longer recovery times’. Many of the major recommendations around managing and preventing sciatica revolve around this basic premise of gently moving more.

2. Exercise
This follows on from the recommendation to keep moving. It may make your back feel a little sore at first, but it doesn’t cause any harm; in fact, the opposite.

Low-impact activity and exercise will help to strengthen the weak muscles that support the spine, which in cases of slipped disc can help to prevent a further episode. Start gently, with stretches, walking and short periods of mild exercise, and work your way up. Even if all you can manage is walking the dog, that's an excellent start! This guide from Dr Liji Thomas can give you more in depth information about exercising with sciatica.

Ask your GP or your chiropractor about additional stretches and exercises specifically for relieving sciatic pain. You can find some basic stretches on the NHS website.

3. Hot & Cold Packs
Exercise caution around this one if numbness is one of your symptoms, but making use of alternate hot and cold packs on your lower back, or at the epicentre of your pain, can provide some relief. Use these in 20-minute stints, alternating between hot and cold each time. You may find it helpful to protect your skin with a flannel or a cloth to avoid harm to yourself, as if you experience numbness you will be less able to accurately gauge what is comfortable, too hot, or too cold.

4. Turmeric
The traditional recommendation from medical sources is to take anti-inflammatory painkillers to relieve the discomfort from sciatica and enable sufferers to go about their lives as normally as possible. However, painkillers come with their own set of issues and side-effects, and many people report finding no relief from sciatica even with strong, prescription-only medication.

We recommend trying more natural anti-inflammatories such as turmeric, which you can buy in capsules from Holland & Barratt or any other good health store. Many coffee shops also now offer turmeric lattes, which are delicious (Coffee #1 does a great one). Turmeric is often recommended for people with osteoarthritis for the very same reason – it’s a natural alternative to alleviate swelling which causes discomfort.

In addition, we recommend significantly reducing the amount of salt and sugar in your diet, both of which have inflammatory properties. This will make you feel good in more ways than one!

5. Manual Therapies
There are a very limited number of medical interventions for sciatica, except in extreme circumstances, and these can be very invasive. Many people find relief from sciatica through manual therapies such as chiropractic, which work directly with the site of the problem in the spine to restore movement and function, and reduce pressure on the nerve.

Dr. Ryan Stephenson, a chiropractor from Willow Chiropractic’s clinic in Bedminster, Bristol, advised us that ‘misalignment is the central cause of the symptoms associated with sciatica'. Chiropractic adjustments will restore function to the area that is affected, allowing the body to communicate effectively and heal from within.’ Additionally, massage can help muscle spasms that often occur along with sciatica.

Some people may find Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helpful for dealing with the mental health effects of a bout of sciatica – your GP can refer you to these services. Sciatica can be a very disruptive ailment and cause a lot of pain and discomfort, but it is very treatable and manageable with the right care and attention.

https://www.willowlife.co.uk/Blog/Willow-Blog/May-2019/Sciatica-3-Myths-5-Tips.aspx