What do you do if your sciatica is getting worse?
You can use certain home remedies to treat your sciatica. However, it is imperative to see your healthcare provider first before treating the condition on your own. You can use the following methods to treat sciatica:
- Cold: You can place an ice pack or cold compress on the affected area for more than 15 minutes several times a day.
- Hot: You can place heating pads on the sore area for 15 to 20 minutes several times per day. This would be done after the first few days to enhance blood circulation to the injured area.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Your doctor may recommend NSAIDs [4] such as ibuprofen or aspirin to improve inflammation, swelling, and pain.
- Exercise, stretching, and physical therapy: You can visit a physical therapist to help you stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak muscles that are responsible for your pain. According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, gentle exercises and physical stretching can help improve the symptoms of sciatica. It is important to do these activities under the supervision of an expert.