Living with a chronic pain condition such as sciatica problems or peripheral neuropathy can be exhausting and challenging to deal with from a mental health standpoint.
Sciatica and peripheral neuropathy are two very different conditions that can cause chronic pain in the lower extremities. Sciatica is a form of radiculopathy, which is a disorder of the spinal nerve roots that commonly results in pain and numbness along the sciatic nerve. This pain typically radiates from the lower back and down one or both legs and is usually worse when sitting. In addition, a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or a degenerative condition in the spine can cause sciatica.
Peripheral neuropathy, on the other hand, is a disorder of the peripheral nervous system, which is the network of nerves that connects the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Peripheral neuropathy typically presents as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet.
When distinguishing between sciatica and peripheral neuropathy, there are a few key differences to be aware of. First, the pain associated with sciatica is usually worse when sitting and can often be relieved by changing positions or standing up.
On the other hand, the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy is typically more consistent and may be accompanied by sensitivity to touch, such as when wearing socks or shoes. In addition, sciatica is usually felt along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of the leg, while neuropathy can affect any nerve in the body.
Should you find yourself “behind the gun” of your sciatica nerve pain, some of the best ways to treat sciatica pain and prevent sciatica in the future are through:
- Physical therapy
- Massage
- Daily stretching
*Always remember information within this article is meant for entertainment purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological support. Seek appropriate advice from a healthcare professional should you feel it necessary.
Immediate relief for sciatica pain
Alternating from heat to ice is one therapy that provides immediate relief from sciatic nerve pain. Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat encourages blood flow to the painful area (which speeds healing). Heat and ice may also help ease painful muscle spasms often accompanying sciatica.
Massage is also an immediate pain relief solution to provide relief from sciatica pain. Utilizing the power from massage chairs can also provide relief from sciatica. Massage chairs, like a masseuse, use various massage techniques to help reduce inflammation, loosen tight muscles, and improve circulation. The action of massage will reduce stress and, in turn, reduce the severity of sciatica pain. Massage chairs are a great way to get relief without leaving your home, especially if you suffer from chronic pain.
Stretching and strengthening exercises are also great options to relieve sciatica pain immediately. Stretching can help reduce muscle tension that may contribute to the pain. In contrast, strengthening exercises can help support the lower back and improve stability to help prevent further episodes of pain.
Sometimes, if the sciatic nerve in the pelvic region (hip) is damaged, it may cause foot pain along the top of your foot with some weakness. Foot massagers can be a great way to alleviate foot pain caused by sciatica. Foot massage helps to improve circulation in the feet and can reduce inflammation, allowing for better healing.
How can I massage my sciatic nerve at home?
If you are able and have no one to assist or do not have a massage chair, begin with the following:
- Wrap your fingers around your sides
- Using your thumbs, try to apply firm and steady pressure toward the spine on the outer edges of the muscles
- Keep your thumbs around four inches apart
- Repeat the technique and apply pressure without causing any discomfort
Massage chairs offer an effective and convenient way to relieve sciatic nerve pain at home. The chairs use various massage techniques, such as kneading, rolling, and tapping, to help reduce tension and inflammation in the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve and, in turn, releases pressure on the nerve and reduces the intensity of the pain.
In addition, massage chairs use heat therapy to help increase circulation and reduce stress. Heat therapy encourages the body to release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers that reduce the severity of sciatica pain.
Massage chairs also provide targeted relief for specific areas of the body, such as the lower back and buttocks, which is especially beneficial for those who experience pain in these areas due to sciatica.
Does sciatic neuropathy go away?
The good news about sciatic pain is that it usually goes away independently with time and some self-care treatments. In addition, the majority of individuals (80-90%) who experience sciatic pain are able to manage their symptoms without the need for surgery. However, that is not always the case. Some people have to deal with this condition on a chronic level, and it is not going away anytime soon.
With proper care, such as stretching and strengthening exercises, massage therapy, heat or cold therapy, and over-the-counter pain relief medications, many people are able to find relief from their sciatica within a reasonable amount of time. In addition, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding sitting for long periods, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of future episodes of sciatica.
Difference between sciatica and peripheral neuropathy
While the pain and sensations associated with both conditions can be very similar, it’s essential to be aware of the differences and seek medical attention if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. An accurate diagnosis is critical to finding the most effective treatment plan to relieve pain and other symptoms.
Overall, massage chairs can provide an effective and convenient way to relieve sciatic nerve pain at home, using a variety of techniques to help reduce tension, inflammation, and stress while also providing targeted relief for specific areas of the body.
*Always remember information within this article is meant for entertainment purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological support. Seek appropriate advice from a healthcare professional should you feel it necessary.