Sciatica can be extremely uncomfortable; and for those of you that have had it before, you know what I mean. It may sound like a strange species on a galactic planet, but it’s a very real pain in the butt!! (literally).
True sciatica is caused by compression (or pinching) of the sciatic nerve within the spine or after the nerve leaves the spinal track. One cause can be due to a herniated disc that narrows and presses against the sciatic nerve where the nerve leaves the spine. Piriformis syndrome is when the nerve gets pinched from too much sitting. This muscle tightens and irritates the nerve.
Stretching and massage can open and release the muscle. You can find this muscle by pressing on the center of the glut on what ever side hurts. A roller also releases this muscle and opens up the area so the nerve is not so constricted. But beware…this is no picnic. Rolling up and down along that nerve on your butt can really hurt! Go slow and breath through it, but it really works. The more it hurts, the tighter the muscle is. Do this every day and the pain will slowly improve as well as your symptoms.
Also, try a twisted triangle yoga pose (Parivritta Trikosana). This in addition to a short course of pain medications, like a non-steroidal antiinflammatory will help the swelling and inflammation. Chirpractic adjustments can assist in realigning the pelvis and spine.
For other treatments, visit sciatica.org.
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