October 31, 2009
Sciatica Exercises: Reduce Your Pain
When a diagnosis of sciatica has been made, it’s almost certain that your doctor will suggest a program of sciatica exercises. Sciatica is a condition that resutls from sciatic nerve irritation and is normally experienced from the lower back to beneath the knee. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It has its roots in the lumbar area of the spine, and spreads right down to the feet. A herniated disc often brings on sciatica as it creates pressure on the nerve. However anything that causes irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerve can trigger the condition. Internal bleeding, injury and infection are three of the most normal causes of sciatic pain. An accurate diagnosis for sciatica is achieved after an exam supplemented with your medical history.
Exercise is an excellent approach to sciatica home treatment. An expert in this area can offer suggestions for exercises that will help alleviate your painful condition. Prior to performing sciatica exercises, though, it is imperative to speak to a physician or physical therapist to locate the underlying cause of the pain. It is critical that you obtain consent from your doctor before trying any of the following exercises for sciatic nerve pain treatment.
One simple and yet very effective way to alleviate the symptoms of sciatica is by doing a back stretch. While lying on your back, flex your legs to pull your knees close to your chest. Then wrap your arms around your legs, applying gentle pressure just under the knees, which will provide your lower back with a good stretch. Don’t jerk your body, and only stretch to the point where you still feel at ease.
The quadriceps stretch is another effective sciatica treatment exercise which really helps to ease pain. While lying down on your stomach, slowly move your right leg up toward your buttocks. Take hold of this leg with your right hand and pull your foot as close as you comfortably can. Hold this pose for around 12 seconds and then repeat it on the other side.
Sciatica relief can also be achieved by means of a stretch that requires you to sit on the floor while using your palms to hold up your body. Stretch out your feet in front of you while keeping your back straight. Return your body to the floor, then bend one leg toward your chin. Place your hand on your bent leg and hold it towards you for a few seconds and then repeat the process with your other leg.
Twisting your torso in stretching poses is another good treatment for sciatica. The best way to start is to sit in a chair that has a straight back while parting your knees slightly. Twist your torso towards one side and hold for 10 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
While participating in exercises to treat sciatica, remember to watch your posture. Take in deep breaths and remain calm and relaxed throughout the whole process.
Tags: severe back pain, lower back pain exercises, cause of back pain, exercise for low back pain, chronic back pain, lumbar stabilixation














