You know, before you can cure something, you have to know what it is. So, let’s find out just what sciatica is – and see if there’s a sciatica cure. Sciatica is defined by the medical community as “nerve pain, radiating from the lower back area, into the buttocks, legs and feet.” The cause may be a compression or “pinching” of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the pelvis down both legs and everyone who suffers from sciatica has different symptoms. This could mean that there is no universal cure. Many sufferers have sought unorthodox methods to deal with sciatica pain.

Many, including some medical doctors believe that the body can heal itself without the use of medical/surgical intervention. Are they speaking of natural treatments as a sciatica cure – and if so, which ones would be effective?

There is evidence that a lack of Vitamin D can result in musculo-skeletal disorders which could be corrected by taking a supplement or by absorbing more sunlight – a natural source of Vitamin D. Also, ensure that you’re getting enough Vitamin B12; essential for brain and bone health. A lack of B12 results in reduced muscle control (muscles help to hold the bones in place) and pernicious anemia. And B12 is known to reduce the frequency and severity of back pain; another sciatica cure resulting in less medication. If you lack B12, eating more meat and poultry or taking a supplement will help your body assimilate it.

Does your body lack magnesium? Magnesium is critical for hundreds of chemical functions and is essential for healthy muscles and an efficient central nervous system. You can ensure you’re getting it by eating more vegetables such as beets, broccoli, spinach, parsley and carrots; add them to your salads.

We mentioned earlier that strong musculature is important for the health of your bones – and we know that regular exercise is essential. But yoga? As a sciatica cure? Definitely. Doing yoga exercises works naturally with bones and muscles, helping to maintain flexibility and strength. And another of those studies shows that back pain can be greatly reduced and even eliminated by doing yoga exercises regularly.

A massage is a treat – but did you know that it’s also excellent as a sciatica cure? It’s especially beneficial if you suffer from acute sciatica attacks – massage tends to soothe it which can form part of your sciatica cure. Try to avoid staying in bed despite your pain as moving around will prevent your muscles from tightening and causing spasms. Try resting in your armchair for short periods while applying a hot pack to your lower back – alternate it with a cold pack as this will ease most lower back pain – and if you’re pregnant, there’s no need for you to avoid enjoying your massage as long as it’s done gently on your lower back – very relaxing, particularly if you’re having difficulty tolerating the weight gain.

Back pain of any kind is generally accompanied by some inflammation. Here’s where diet can really help to resolve it – some foods we eat can actually aggravate chronic inflammation which leads to more back pain. Go online and seek out diets which are anti-inflammatory and ensure that they include nuts, olive oil, berries and fish – and plenty of fresh water.

If you’re experiencing sciatica pain, see your doctor. Try to avoid pain medication; these unconventional and alternative methods do work. Just a few lifestyle changes may help you find an effective sciatica cure.

Tags: Alternatives, Consider, Cure, Sciatica