Sciatica is characterized by a series of symptoms, including pain, typically resulting from compression and inflammation of one of the five spinal nerve roots of the human body. The pain is felt in the lower back, buttocks, and various parts of the legs and feet, but usually only on one side of the body. Treatment for sciatica will vary, depending upon the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Among the most common approaches to relieving the pain of sciatica is the use of medication. Anti inflammatory medicines and muscle relaxants can greatly help with inflammation resulting from this affliction. Numerous sciatica patients elect for this type of treatment because it is easy to employ and can offer pain alleviation within half an hour of ingesting the medication.

You will need to look at making some modifications in your daily life, though, if you want to prevent recurrence of your sciatica symptoms in the future. Luckily, the required alterations are not terribly onerous, and should not be expensive to undertake. Two common causes of sciatica are frequently repeated motions and failure to maintain proper posture. The manner in which a person sits and stands can greatly affect the health of the sciatic nerve and cause substantial discomfort. Making a point to readjust your seating position, taking frequent walks and utilizing body stretches through the course of the day can help sciatica from becoming a major issue.

You can also ease your pain, along with deterring future episodes of sciatica pain, by exercising regularly. A course of anti-inflammatory medication and ample rest for the affected area are recommended before starting an exercise routine. By allowing reduction of inflammation and recovery of the areas in pain, you can avoid re-injuring the nerve and avoid additional suffering. A number of activities such as stretches can increase an individual's range of motion which then will eliminate the likelihood of further problems.

Pain relief can also be found in the form of a medical procedure or surgical operation to help alleviate the pain and distress. Such methods may seem to be drastic or usable only as a last resort, doctors may recommend them if they see little likelihood of success through other treatments.

Whichever sciatic nerve relief alternative someone selects, it's a good idea to visit a healthcare professional prior to using any drugs or following any courses of treatment. Diagnosing and treating conditions on one's own is dangerous and unwise.