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Sciatica is a complicated word that can send shivers down your spine if a doctor diagnoses you of having it. But the direct opposite is true; it’s a complex word to describe a rather mild condition. Sciatica is pain in the lower back that travels straight down to the lower limbs. But this is only in general terms, there is far much more to sciatic pain than this.

There is what is called the sciatic nerve, a nerve that stretches from the back right down to the lower limbs. And like all other nerves it transmits sensations, good and bad. From this vantage point it makes sense that sciatica is characterised by symptoms related to sensation like numbness; tingly sensations and a weakness in the lower back and limbs. Just for the record, the sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body.

And just like hemorrhoids sciatic pain is caused by a relentless amount of pressure being applied against the sciatic nerve. The resulting compression makes the sciatic nerve swell and a distortion of sensations results. Pressure can be applied against the sciatic nerve in a variety of ways. One such example is when a person sits for too long in an improper pose that can only cause damage to the nerve over a long period of time.

On top of this the bone structures in the spinal column can be a direct cause of sciatica. When vertebrae in the column slip over each other when you fall awkwardly they exert pressure against the sciatic nerve. And again the impulses of sensation will become distorted and numbness can ensue.

In order to treat sciatic pain a number of remedies have been prescribed by chiropractors. One such remedy is the ice-pack. You simply take ice-cubes and out the in a plastic bag. You then lie on your stomach and someone can then rub the ice around the affected parts of your back and lower limbs. This should be done for 10-15 minutes at least three times a day until pain goes away.

If extreme cold against your spine is unbearable there is an option you can pursue. You can try out the heat-pack and get the same positive results. Take the usual bed warmer tube and fill it up with hot water. And just like the ice-pack rub it around the areas where you feel the most pain. Pain relief will follow a few hours afterwards depending on your condition.

Alternative treatments are available in the form of back massages. Find a good massage therapist and allow here to release the tension in your sciatic nerve and lower back. A massage also results in the release of feel good hormones called endorphins. Another thing you can try out is acupuncture. Acupuncture brings about an increased blood circulation and the further release of endorphins.

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