How to relieve sciatica

Jun 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My father has had lumbar disc herniation for many years, and it has never been fully cured. Now it has caused sciatica. I would like to ask how to relieve sciatic pain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
To relieve sciatica, consider the following approaches: 1. Rest and posture adjustment: Avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods; get up and move regularly to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. When sleeping, choose a side-lying or back-lying position to avoid compressing the sciatic nerve. 2. Exercise and physical activity: Perform appropriate exercises targeting the lower back and gluteal muscles, such as the "five-point bridge" exercise, to strengthen muscles and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. 3. Lifestyle modifications: Maintain proper sitting and standing postures, and avoid prolonged bending or sitting. Keep the lower back warm and avoid excessive fatigue. 4. Physical therapy: Apply heat or cold therapy to alleviate pain—heat helps relax muscles, while cold reduces inflammation and pain. 5. Medication: Under medical supervision, use medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules or loxoprofen sodium tablets to relieve pain.