Highly Effective Treatments for Sciatic Nerve Pain

Manual Manipulation

Manual manipulation is performed by a chiropractor and involves a spinal adjustment to properly align the affected area. It works on the premise that restrictions in spinal movement create reduced functioning in the nerves stemming from restricted areas. With spinal adjustments, the patient's vertebrae are brought into proper alignment, thereby decreasing nerve compression and associated pain and inflammation. Chiropractic care may also involve the use of ice and heat to treat sciatic nerve pain and may even include electric muscle stimulation to control spasms.

Massage

Tight muscles in the lower back may result in sciatic nerve compression. Massage therapy manipulates tightened muscles and reduces pressure on the compressed nerve, allowing them to relax and as a result, alleviates associated pain. Muscle manipulation also stimulates the brain's release of its natural painkiller, endorphins. These bind to opioid receptors in the body, blocking feelings of pain and discomfort. Massage also increases blood flow to the affected area, encouraging healing of damaged and inflamed tissue. Many times, massage therapists may employ topical treatments as part of the procedure, helping decrease pain and inflammation in the affected area.