If the sciatic nerve is inflamed. When is urgent medical attention needed? Exercises for inflammation of the sciatic nerve

The sciatic nerve is the largest and thickest nerve in the human body, resulting from the fusion of the lumbar and sacral nerve roots. It is responsible for the movement and sensation of the thigh, lower leg, ankle, foot and toes. Pinching or inflammation of the sciatic nerve causes discomfort and pain in the lower extremities and lower back. However, pinching of the sciatic nerve can occur without back pain, which occurs mainly in women.

What is a pinched sciatic nerve?

A pinched sciatic nerve is an inflammation of one of the longest nerves in the body, which manifests itself in the region of the lumbosacral spine with severe pain. In medicine, this phenomenon is also known as sciatica.

The sciatic nerve is considered one of the most powerful in the human body. The iliac-sacral joint, which is formed by the roots of the spinal nerves, is the region of its origin. Further, the sciatic nerve passes through the entire thigh, branching out with nerve endings in all the tissues surrounding it. In the popliteal fossa, it is divided into parts ending in the tibial and peroneal nerves. They connect the central nervous system and tissues of the lower leg and foot. Such a vast area of ​​distribution of the sciatic nerve causes the clinical picture of its pinching. Pain covers the lower back, back of the thigh.

Pinched sciatic nerve is a syndrome or manifestation of symptoms of other diseases. Therefore, inflammation can be caused by problems in the work of other organs and systems of the body, but in most cases, pathologies are associated with the spine.

Symptoms of pinched sciatic nerve

Pain sensations. A symptom that accompanies a pinched sciatic nerve is always pain of varying intensity. Depending on the cause that caused the pinching, the pain can manifest itself as a slight tingling sensation, or a very strong burning sensation or dull heaviness. In some cases, the pain can reach such strength that the patient cannot move.

Remarkably, the pain is predominantly felt only on one side of the body. If acute pain is felt, for example, in the right leg, then only weakness or numbness can be felt in the left. In a calm state, the pain is usually not too intense. But as soon as a person stands up, sits down, bends over or changes position, the pain intensifies. Often its intensity increases at night. Sometimes pain may be preceded by a decrease in the mobility of a limb (foot or knee joint), its weakness and slight tingling.

If the sciatic nerve is inflamed, the patient may develop lower back pain. It is usually milder than leg pain, but also causes significant discomfort.

Gait disturbance. This symptom is also known as intermittent claudication. It occurs due to paroxysmal pain. When the sciatic nerve is pinched, the discomfort increases with movement. To weaken them, a person instinctively changes his gait, which is why a slight lameness is observed. The patient tilts the body in the opposite direction from the one in which the pain is felt. During movement, he chooses a healthy leg as a reference, while bending the patient a little. From the outside, it looks like a person has an injury, which leads to intermittent claudication.

Violation of sensitivity. A change in the reaction of nerve endings is observed in that part of the body where the sciatic nerve is infringed. Sensitivity in this area can be both increased and weakened.

Burning, numbness, indication. To a greater extent, such sensations are characteristic of the buttocks, back of the thigh, lower leg, and foot. The toes are often numb. Sensations, as well as in violation of sensitivity, the occurrence of pain, are localized in this case in one direction.

Decreased mobility. During the diagnosis of a pinched sciatic nerve, there are difficulties with mobility in the knee joint or in the foot area. Changes in the position of the leg are accompanied by pain. Patients cannot perform flexion-extension movements in the knee joint, twist the foot.

Weakening of the musculoskeletal system. Patients with pinched sciatic nerve complain of lack of strength. It becomes difficult for them to perform actions that require muscle tension on the affected side.

Increase in body temperature. Thus, the body sometimes reacts to an attack of pain when pinched. This dangerous symptom indicates that it is necessary to contact specialists as soon as possible. Swelling may occur on the back, accompanied by reddening of the skin. Patients with pinching also suffer from dysfunction of the pelvic organs. This manifests itself in the form of pain during urination, incontinence, problems with potency in men.

It should be remembered that sometimes the symptoms of a pinched sciatic nerve are similar to the manifestations of other, more dangerous diseases. Be sure to seek medical help if pain in the leg or lower back is accompanied by even a slight increase in body temperature, swelling, redness of the skin, severe pain that does not go away for a long time, or burning when urinating.

Causes of pinched sciatic nerve

One of the most common causes of such an unpleasant syndrome as a pinched sciatic nerve is osteochondrosis. In this case, the piriformis muscle and the sacrospinous ligament change and compress the nerve (piriformis syndrome). Displacement of the spinal disc, hernia, all kinds of damage to the muscles and organs of the pelvis, as well as tumors can also provoke pinching.

Osteochondrosis

This disease is the most common cause of pinched sciatic nerve or sciatica. During its development, the cartilage of the spine is damaged. This process implies a violation of their structure, as a result of which the intervertebral discs cease to perform their functions in the human body. In their normal state, they give flexibility and elasticity to the spine. The destruction of cartilage leads to problems directly with the vertebrae.

Osteochondrosis is caused by various causes, which are conventionally divided into endogenous and exogenous. The first group includes factors associated with the characteristics of the body: age, intrauterine development of the spine, genetic predisposition. As an exogenous cause, uneven distribution of the load on the spine is distinguished. It can be caused by carrying heavy weights, stooping, keeping one position for a long time, infections, weakened back muscles. Not only incorrect posture causes osteochondrosis. Often, even athletes with well-developed muscles and a trained body are faced with cartilage damage that causes problems with intervertebral discs. Metabolic disorders, lack of vitamins and minerals - all this also contributes to the development of the disease.

The destruction of the intervertebral discs leads to a reduction in the distance between them, and contributes to the clamping of the nerves. As a result, the patient experiences pain in the neck and spine. Their localization depends on the place of occurrence of problems with cartilaginous tissue. Thus, osteochondrosis causes pinching of the sciatic nerve. In addition to pain, nausea may occur, turning into vomiting, tinnitus.

It will be possible to get rid of inflammation of the sciatic nerve by eliminating the manifestations of osteochondrosis. As part of his treatment, they resort to the use of conservative and manual therapy, folk methods, massage, and therapeutic exercises.

Spondylolisthesis

In medicine, this phenomenon refers to the displacement of the vertebrae. It is most often caused by microtrauma of the spine, congenital pathologies, muscle weakness or ligamentous apparatus. There are several types of spondylolisthesis, depending on the factors provoking it. So, dysplastic is usually associated with congenital pathologies. Isthmic spondylolisthesis affects athletes, such as gymnasts. Elderly patients are faced with such a type of this disease as degenerative. It develops as a result of age-related changes occurring in the vertebrae. Mechanical damage to bone and muscle tissue leads to traumatic spondylolisthesis.

In many cases, the disease is diagnosed only during an X-ray examination. Prior to this, the patient may not experience discomfort or other problems caused by the displacement of the vertebrae at all. But at some point, they can lead to pinched nerves, including the sciatic nerve, and cause severe pain. In women, the factor contributing to the manifestation of the disease is pregnancy. The occurrence of pinching during displacement of the vertebrae is associated with weight lifting, overwork. Pain in spondylolisthesis is felt in the back, legs.

The disease is dangerous with serious complications: narrowing of the spinal canal and spasm of the artery, impaired functioning of the lower extremities. Spondylolisthesis can be managed with conservative methods. If they are ineffective, they resort to surgical intervention.

It manifests itself in the form of a decrease in the lumen of the central spinal canal. The process is chronic and is caused by a number of factors, including ischemia, increased epidural pressure and aseptic inflammation. Their formation, in turn, leads to compression of the neurovascular structures in the spinal canal. Its volume depends on the position of the human body. When squatting, the lumbar lordosis is straightened, as a result of which an increase in the lumen of the intervertebral foramen is observed. As a result, blood vessels that were previously compressed are released, blood flow and nerve nutrition are restored.

In some cases, spinal canal stenosis is a consequence of osteochondrosis, developing in the later stages of this disease. The instability of the vertebral elements leads to the formation of osteophytes. These are growths on the bone tissue that help stabilize the musculoskeletal system. The formation of osteophytes and becomes the cause of stenosis of the spinal canal.

The pathological processes caused by this disease manifest themselves in the form of pinching of the sciatic nerve. Among his symptoms are also pain in the lower back and legs, weakness of the lower extremities, impaired sensitivity and functions of the pelvic organs. For the treatment of spinal canal stenosis, antalgic, vascular, anti-inflammatory drugs are used as part of conservative therapy. Most patients require surgical intervention.

piriformis syndrome

The sciatic nerve in this case is compressed between the piriformis muscle, which is located just behind it, and the sacrospinous ligament. This reason is more typical for women than for men. Pinching of the sciatic nerve is accompanied by pulling and aching pains in the sacral and hip joints, as well as in the buttocks. Some patients complain of numbness or burning in the legs, intermittent claudication may develop. It manifests itself in the form of periodic pain, disturbing only during movement. The skin of the extremities becomes pale. The patient has to stop frequently in the process of walking to rest or change pace.

Piriformis syndrome is diagnosed by palpation. Treatment includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, superficial thermal procedures. The most important thing is to provide rest to the sore muscle. After the discomfort subsides, you can perform special gymnastics, conduct wellness and relaxation massage sessions. All these remedies will allow you to get rid of the piriformis syndrome, which means eliminating the pinched sciatic nerve.

The intervertebral disc acts as a kind of shock absorber in the body, protecting the vertebrae from excessive stress. Its hernia involves the displacement of the intervertebral disc, which leaves the zone of its natural localization, breaking the fibrous ring. The cause of this process may be trauma or degenerative changes. It all starts with a minor deformity known as a disc protrusion. In the future, it develops into a hernia. A nerve root emerges from the intervertebral foramen, which is subjected to compression or infringement. The result is neuralgia of the sciatic nerve.

Symptoms of a hernia suggest the occurrence of local pain at the site of the affected intervertebral disc. It can spread over the buttock and thigh. The lower limbs become numb, they feel tingling. You may even lose sensation in your legs. As additional symptoms, by which a hernia of the intervertebral disc of the back is determined, there is a violation of the functions of the pelvic organs.

Surgical intervention is required if conservative treatment, which involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that relieve pain, does not give positive results. In addition to the operation, it helps to relieve pain in case of a herniated disc and, at the same time, to get rid of the pinched sciatic nerve, therapeutic exercises, massage, therapy with multifunctional electrodes.

Dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint

In manual therapy, this term refers to problems with a joint of a mechanical nature. Pain in dysfunction in this case occurs in the sacrum, spread from the buttocks along the back of the thigh to the knee. The most severe discomfort is felt in the morning after waking up and gradually decreases in the evening. Particularly severe pain disturbs patients while walking. Irritation of the fifth lumbar nerve root, which runs in the region of the sacroiliac joint, leads to pinching of the sciatic nerve. With dysfunction, tension occurs in the iliopsoas muscle, as a result of which discomfort may occur in the lower abdomen.

Dysfunction is diagnosed on the basis of various tests: mobility, flexion, pressure. In this case, injections of local anesthetics and corticosteroids help to stop acute pain. In the future, resort to manual therapy, physiotherapy, gymnastics.

Radiculitis of the lumbosacral spine

It is often a consequence of osteochondrosis and is a radicular pain syndrome. As a common cause leading to its development, there are problems with the sacro-lumbar region, which is experiencing heavy loads. In the course of osteochondrosis, deforming spondylarthrosis, intervertebral hernias and other degenerative-dystrophic processes, the spine is damaged, which causes such a pain syndrome. With cerebrospinal meningitis, influenza, syphilis, brucellosis, tuberculosis, rheumatism, similar back problems also occur.

So, radiculitis of the lumbosacral spine manifests itself in the form of sciatica or as a pinched sciatic nerve. Eliminate the pain syndrome and its causes should be complex, only then it is possible to get rid of discomfort for a long time. Treatment is carried out in 2 stages. On the first of them, the pain syndrome is eliminated, and on the second, the deep causes of the disease are eliminated. For this, chondoprotectors are prescribed, vitamins are taken, and special exercises for the back are performed. Well helps with sciatica massage. The use of folk methods is also possible, but only in combination with traditional methods of treatment.

Other diseases

Tumors, fibromyalgia, abscesses, blood clots, all kinds of infections - all this can also cause pinching of the sciatic nerve, but it is much less common.

Diagnosis of pinching of the sciatic nerve is carried out on the basis of X-ray examination, magnetic resonance imaging and biochemical blood analysis. According to the results of the examination, the doctor confirms the presence of inflammation.

Since a pinched sciatic nerve is considered a pain syndrome caused by other serious diseases, it can only be eliminated by coping with the causes. Therefore, therapy must be comprehensive.

First of all, the pain is relieved. For this, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used, for example:

Diclofenac. It can be used in both local and general forms. To eliminate discomfort when the sciatic nerve is pinched, injections and tablets of this drug are used. It has an antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, analgesic effect. The duration of use and the form of Diclofenac is determined by the doctor based on the strength of the pain syndrome and the danger of the patient's condition. As a rule, the use of the drug in the form of ointments and gels is carried out within a week. Injections are applied for a shorter period of time. It is not recommended to use the drug on its own, as side effects and overdose are possible. In addition, when used for a long period of time, Diclofenac can be addictive. If nausea, vomiting, dizziness occurs, the use of the drug should be discontinued. Side effects also appear in the form of fatigue, irritability, and even insomnia.

Ibuprofen. This drug belongs to the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The advantage of ibuprofen is that it quickly has a decongestant and analgesic effect, relieves morning stiffness when the sciatic nerve is pinched, and relieves limited joint mobility. The effect of the drug persists for 8 hours. It is not recommended to combine it with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as this leads to a decrease in its effectiveness. To eliminate attacks of acute pain when pinched, Ibuprofen is used orally. Before use, you should consult a doctor, as there are contraindications and side effects are possible.

Ketoprofen. Another drug belonging to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It helps to quickly cope with pain, has an antipyretic effect, increases the motor activity of patients with pinched sciatic nerve. After its application, there is a decrease in morning stiffness in the joints. The anti-inflammatory effect is due to the cumulative effect of the drug and manifests itself 7 days after the start of its administration. Ketoprofen is most rapidly and completely absorbed when taken orally. For this reason, in order to achieve the fastest result, it is used in the form of tablets. When applied externally, the effect appears only after a few hours.

Along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, various ointments and gels are used to quickly get rid of pain. They act more slowly, but have a warming and relaxing effect, allowing freedom of movement.

The most effective for pinching the sciatic nerve will be such means as:

"Finalgon"

"Nicoflex"

"Viprosal"

"Apizartron"

All these ointments have a warming-irritating effect. After applying them to the diseased area, blood circulation increases in it, which allows you to expand blood vessels and improve tissue nutrition.

From homeopathic ointments, "Target T", "Traumel C" is used. The main effect of these drugs is to provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. A significant advantage of such drugs is the natural composition. However, a specialist should be consulted before use. It is not recommended to use these drugs for pregnant and lactating women, patients suffering from allergic reactions.

Exercises for pinched sciatic nerve

You can proceed to therapeutic exercises only after the pain syndrome has passed. Perform the exercises for the first time with a specialist. Movement should not cause pain. If you experience discomfort, you should stop the session.

Yoga, gymnastics in the pool can act as physiotherapy exercises. But first of all, you should start with traditional exercises. You need to perform them in comfortable and designed for sports clothes and shoes. Do not make jerky movements. They should be smooth, gradual, to prevent possible pain. Exercises are performed 6-7 times. Gradually, the number of repetitions should be increased to 10-12 times.

In the supine position, bend the lower leg at the knee, and straighten the upper leg and perform back and forth movements;

Lie on your back and perform circular movements with your foot, then pull your fingers forward well;

Standing on all fours, swing your legs alternately back and forth. In this case, the movements should be very smooth, without jerks;

Lying on your side, bend your legs and pull them towards your chest. After performing the movement, return the limbs to their original position;

Lie on your back, bend your leg at the knee, lift and straighten at a right angle. After doing the movement several times, lower it to its original position;

Standing on all fours, straighten your leg and try to draw an imaginary circle in the air with it.

In addition to the usual therapeutic exercises, with a pinched sciatic nerve, as well as for the prevention of such problems, yoga is resorted to. It is best to start doing it during the remission period. For patients who have not practiced yoga before, the initial exercises will suffice. They are not difficult and do not require special physical training, although they have a very good effect on the back. As you acquire the necessary skills, the program becomes more complex. It is necessary to practice yoga under the guidance of a competent instructor, since it is important not only to observe the technique of movements, but also to breathe correctly.

Therapeutic exercises for pinched sciatic nerve can be done in the pool, and in the warm season even in open water. Such physical education involves walking in place with overcoming resistance, swinging your legs in different directions and outlining an imaginary circle with them. Patients who have back problems are also advised to swim more. This sport develops and strengthens muscles, but at the same time relieves unnecessary stress from the spine.

How to relieve pain due to the sciatic nerve in 2 minutes?

Massage for pinched sciatic nerve

Therapeutic physical training can achieve the greatest effect when combined with massage. It can be carried out only after the pain syndrome has been eliminated, that is, during the period of remission. In the presence of discomfort, massage sessions not only do not bring benefits, but can even aggravate the situation. When an exacerbation of a pinched sciatic nerve passes, it is necessary to consult a specialist. The massage therapist must have the appropriate education, it is worth asking for reviews and his experience. A competent massage doctor will help get rid of pain for a long time, otherwise the desired effect will either not be achieved, or incorrect movements will be harmful.

The course usually consists of a large number of sessions. Most often you have to visit a massage therapist at least 10 times. For preventive purposes, it is recommended to repeat the course every six months in the future. During the massage, the sciatic nerve is released in order to restore the passage of nerve impulses. After the session, spasms in the muscles disappear, the gap between the vertebrae increases. But the most important effect that massage provides is the stimulation of blood circulation, which allows you to enhance the nutrition of tissues, restore metabolism in them. Thus, in the course of manual therapy, it is possible not only to prevent the occurrence of pain associated with pinching of the sciatic nerve, but also to completely restore all its functions. If you continue to regularly repeat the course of massage, the inflammation will not worsen.

As part of the prevention of pinching of the sciatic nerve, you should go in for sports, including daily performing a set of simple gymnastic exercises aimed at different muscle groups. It is important to monitor your posture, keeping your back always straight. Women with back discomfort or pinching attacks should stop wearing high-heeled shoes. Do not lift weights, expose the body to hypothermia. During an exacerbation of a pinched sciatic nerve, you must observe bed rest and be sure to consult a doctor to identify the causes of inflammation. By eliminating them, it will be possible to prevent new bouts of pain in the future.

Despite the pain, pinching of the sciatic nerve is eliminated through physiotherapy exercises, yoga and special exercises. Of course, the possibility of performing certain movements is determined by the degree of damage. With a pronounced pain syndrome and constant lumbago, classes should be started from comfortable static postures for relaxation and stretching. For this purpose, the yoga pose of the “child” is suitable - from a sitting position on your knees, stretch forward, press your forehead to the floor, and put your hands along the body or stretch forward over your head.

Dynamic exercises for pinching the sciatic nerve are shown in the recovery stage, when the exacerbation has passed. During this period, suitable: swimming, walking, half-squat, movement "bicycle", movement on the buttocks, leisurely running, rotation of the hips. These exercises allow the load to be evenly distributed on the left and right side of the body. If there is a concomitant disease such as a hernia, then therapeutic exercises are allowed only by a specialist with the development of an individual program.

Preparations for the treatment of pinched sciatic nerve

All drugs for the treatment of pinched sciatic nerve can be divided into:

• painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs;
• substances that increase the body's defenses;
• ointments, gels, topical rubbing, which improve blood circulation, relieve swelling and pain;
• vitamins of group B, normalizing metabolic processes and blood circulation.

Often, the treatment of infringement of the nerve roots begins precisely with the elimination of pain and inflammation.

Here, the range of medicines is so wide (from the usual analgin to opioid drugs) that the drug is selected based on the severity of the symptoms, the individual characteristics of the course of the disease, and the tendency to allergies. The patient may be prescribed tablets or injections of non-steroidal substances, which are most widely used due to their effectiveness. In cases of a particularly acute condition, courses of steroid blockades are recommended. These pharmacological substances have a long list of side effects, so a specialist consultation is required before use.

Vitamin B1, B6, B12 and E, as well as mineral complexes have a beneficial effect on metabolism, blood circulation and help to relax spasmodic muscles.

Ointment for pinched sciatic nerve

Creams and ointments based on horse chestnut have a pronounced relaxing effect on the muscles and have an analgesic effect. Balm "Chaga", a series of relaxing, anti-varicose creams "Recipes of Grandmother Agafia", cream "Venitan" are used for varicose veins, but they help to alleviate the condition as a result of infringement of the nerve roots.

Homeopathic ointment for pinching the sciatic nerve "Traumeel C" and "Target T" have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. Despite the fact that the preparations consist of natural ingredients, it is recommended to consult a doctor before use. This is especially true for allergy sufferers, pregnant and lactating women.

Pinching of the sciatic nerve is treated with ointments with a warming-irritating effect. They provide blood flow to the area of ​​application and dilate blood vessels, saturating the cells with nutrients, improving metabolic processes. These analgesics include - "Finalgon", "Viprosal", "Kapsicam", "Apizartron", "Nicoflex".

Non-steroidal analgesics are considered the most effective and fast-acting, but on the other hand, these ointments have the most extensive list of contraindications and side effects. For complex therapy of infringement of nerve endings, Diclofenac, Ketoprofen, Ibuprofen, etc. are used.

Pain reliever for pinched sciatic nerve

In order to anesthetize and alleviate the patient's condition, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, which block the production of chemical components in the body that respond to pain (prostaglandins). Painkillers for pinched sciatic nerve are divided into short-term and long-term action. The following pharmacological substances are most common: Piroxicam, Ibuprofen, Celebrex, Ortofen, etc. Non-steroidal drugs are characterized by side effects - they irritate the gastric mucosa, thin the blood and adversely affect renal function. In this regard, they are contraindicated in patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers, suffering from high blood pressure and anemia, with renal / hepatic insufficiency and heart disease.

Anti-inflammatory steroids based on cortisol (a human hormone) are recommended for a period of no more than two weeks. This is due to serious side effects from drugs - lowered immunity, swelling of the face, weight gain, osteoporosis, ulcers. The action of steroid drugs is based on the simultaneous removal of inflammation and elimination of swelling of the tissue.

Relief in severe pain syndrome brings an epidural injection. Pain relief is achieved due to the local action of the steroid drug (directly in the area of ​​the inflamed nerve). The lumbar puncture method provides temporary relief and is not indicated for all patients, however, it has proven itself positively, as it allows to reduce side effects with a lower dose of the drug administered.

It should be understood that pain relief is temporary and without eliminating the cause of the nerve root infringement, it is quite difficult to return the patient to a full life.

Diclofenac for pinched sciatic nerve

The drug "Diclofenac" is included in the pharmacological group of drugs with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antiaggregatory and antirheumatic effects. The drug is available in solution for injection, in tablet form, in the form of ointments and suppositories.

Diclofenac in case of pinching of the sciatic nerve is prescribed for the purpose of pain relief, elimination of swelling. Recommended dosage:

• tablets - for adults up to 50 mg, for children over 6 years old, 2 mg for each kg of weight up to three times a day;
• candles - adults no more than 50 mg once a day, children after 6 years 2 mg per kg two to three times a day;
• intramuscular injections - the daily rate for adults is 75 mg, children are contraindicated;
• ointment - applied to adults on the painful area up to four times.

Treatment with "Diclofenac" is prohibited in case of impaired hematopoietic function, gastric ulcer and 12-intestinal ulcer, inflammation of the intestine in the acute phase, bronchial asthma, individual intolerance to one of the components of the drug, children under 6 years old, in the last months of gestation. Use restrictions apply to patients with heart failure, liver and kidney dysfunction, porphyria, during pregnancy and lactation.

Injections for pinched sciatic nerve

Recently, injections of B vitamins have been widely used to relieve pain from a pinched nerve. Vitamin complexes have a positive effect on muscle innervation, normalize metabolism, and help restore damaged nerves. Vitamins B1, B6, B12 contain lidocaine, which enhances the local analgesic effect. Injections of vitamins "Trigamma", "Milgamma", "Neurobion", "Combilipen" are shown only in acute processes (no more than 14 days), and in the case of a chronic and recurrent disease, they do not give the desired effect.

Eliminate pain and significantly reduce inflammation will help injections when the sciatic nerve is pinched with nonsteroidal drugs. Studies have shown that this group of drugs is highly effective along with a maximum of side effects that occur in 50% of patients. The least toxic among them is Ibuprofen. These painkillers are recommended to be used strictly for their intended purpose. Moreover, if one remedy does not help, replacing it with a drug of the same group does not make sense (there will be no expected effect).

Blockade with pinching of the sciatic nerve

Most often, pinching of the sciatic nerve occurs against the background of muscle tension along the spinal column. Injections into the trapezius muscles all over the back allow you to get rid of the pain syndrome after 10 minutes. As an injection solution, a mixture of ampoules of analgin 50% with two ampoules of sodium chloride 0.9% is suitable. The procedure can be repeated up to 4 times a month.

Novocaine / lidocaine blockade in case of pinching of the sciatic nerve is also performed from the buttocks to the shoulder blades at the points of greatest pain with maximum seals. Triggering trigger zones with lidocaine or novocaine can bring temporary relief, but often a single blockade helps restore muscle tone, eliminate spasm and restore motor activity. Positive dynamics is observed in patients with infringement of the nerve roots when injected with homeopathic preparations "Discus compositum", "Tsel-T" and "Traumeel S".

Advantages of therapeutic blockades:

• rapid relief of pain;
• action directly to the lesion;
• minimum side effects;
• reduce muscle tension, relieve swelling and inflammation, eliminate vasospasm.

Massage for pinched sciatic nerve

Massage and pinching of the sciatic nerve are compatible things if a comprehensive diagnosis has been carried out and the doctor has not identified contraindications.

In the case of acute radicular syndrome, deep massage is not recommended for pinching the sciatic nerve, as well as the use of warming ointments. Massage movements of the gluteal region should not be too intense, because they can cause exacerbation and an attack of unbearable pain. In order to activate blood circulation and relieve swelling, light stroking, gentle vibration (performs a lymphatic drainage function) in the area of ​​nerve infringement are acceptable. The therapy includes obligatory massage of the abdomen, especially on the side of the lesion in the region of the iliopsoas muscle. If possible (in the absence of problems with the intestines, always on an empty stomach), compression shocks are carried out from the side of the peritoneum over the pinching site, followed by a leg massage. It is important to work out the points of the sacral zone and the wings of the ilium on both sides.

Massage technique for infringement of the nerve roots is quite complicated and you can only trust yourself to a true professional in their field.

Gymnastics for pinched sciatic nerve

Paradoxically, a pinched sciatic nerve can be treated with movement that improves blood flow to the affected area. Start by walking normally for a few minutes every hour. You may have to overcome the pain syndrome, but you can not lie too long.

• in the supine position - exhale and pull your knees to your chest, wrap your arms around them. Inhale to connect your knees to your forehead. Hold for a few minutes, and then completely relax and straighten the body;
• slowly sit on your heels, straighten forward and stretch your arms to the floor;
• the back is pressed to the floor, straight legs are bent at a right angle and lie on the wall. At the same time, the buttocks are tightly pressed to the surface, hands rest against the hips. Hold the position for up to 10 minutes;
• standing (knees are “soft”, half-bent), the back is straight and slightly tilted forward. The emphasis of the palms on the hips. We press our hands into the pelvis, stretching the lumbar vertebrae;
• sitting on the floor with outstretched legs and clasped hands at the back of the head - gently move onto your back, while raising your legs as high as possible and spreading them wider. Lie down for a few seconds without taking your shoulder blades off the floor. You should stand up carefully, through your side with support on your hands.

Folk remedies for pinched sciatic nerve

A fairly effective method of treatment is alternative medicine, which includes recipes from nature itself. Of course, self-medication, experiencing new lotions and healing potions, is also not worth it. There must be common sense in everything and a clear understanding that a more serious disease may be hiding under the symptoms of pinching of nerve fibers. Without consulting a specialist, resorting to "grandmother's" recipes is sometimes even dangerous. Ordinary massage, warming compress or manual correction are strictly contraindicated in some cases.

Folk remedies for pinched sciatic nerve:

• honey compress with apple cider vinegar (200 g of honey and a tablespoon of vinegar). The composition is distributed over cotton fabric and applied to the problem area for half an hour;
• a warm mixture of 300g of liquid honey (steam if necessary) and 50g of alcohol is ideal for a half-hour massage;
• anesthetic infusion of bay leaf - approximately 18 medium-sized bay leaves are immersed in 200 g of vodka / alcohol, insisted for three days in a dark place. This tincture gently lubricates the painful area;
• potato sprouts are poured with 2 glasses of vodka / alcohol and infused in a dark place for 14 days. Tincture is used in the morning, rubbing into the affected area. After that, the lower back is wrapped with a scarf for the whole day;
• a medium-sized horseradish root is passed through a meat grinder (approximately ½ cup is obtained), mixed with the same amount of potatoes, 1 st. a spoonful of honey On the lower back previously lubricated with oil or cream, a manufactured gruel is applied, insulated with polyethylene and a woolen scarf. You need to lie down for up to an hour. The procedure is repeated every other day;
• the painful area is smeared with propolis, warm beeswax is applied on top, then covered with polyethylene and a blanket. Such a compress is indicated for the coming dream;
• equal amounts of chamomile and elderberry, scalded with boiling water, are placed in linen and applied to the lower back. The patient is wrapped and left for 6 hours.

Pinching the sciatic nerve causes a lot of discomfort, but before starting treatment, it is important to establish the root cause of the pathological condition. If the infringement occurred when the intervertebral disc was displaced, then warming up can increase the pain syndrome and only aggravate the patient's situation. Treatment with folk methods is prohibited in the presence of tumor processes.

Yoga for pinched sciatic nerve

A number of medical sources claim that pinching of the sciatic nerve occurs with a nervous breakdown, if degenerative changes in the spine were not identified as the root cause or there was no mechanical damage. Moreover, in women, the right limb is more often affected, and in men, the left, which is explained by the dominant hemisphere of the brain. Clinical practice knows cases of "miraculous healing" by providing bed rest (immobilization and relaxation) with simultaneous normalization of the function of the nervous system.

Patients suffering from frequent depression, powerless before stress, yoga is recommended for pinched sciatic nerve as an effective therapy and prevention. Simple asanas, meditation and breathing practice will help you stay active, cheerful and calm. If you have absolutely no time to attend group classes or you are just lazy, then give your nervous system up to 15 minutes a day and forget about the infringement of the nerve roots forever. Beginners still do not interfere with a few lessons from a competent instructor, the rest just need to make a set of exercises for themselves. Fortunately, there is a wealth of information on this subject.

What should you pay attention to when choosing positions? Give preference to asanas for relaxation, stretching, without dynamic transitions and twists. The following poses are ideal:

• baby (fetus) - from a sitting position on your knees, knees apart at the level of the pelvis, big toes touching, straight back (as far as possible) tilt forward, touch the forehead to the floor. The arms are stretched out above the head and pressed with the palms to the floor or lie along the torso. Important: completely relax, release the clamps of the lumbar region and sternum;
• Shavasana (or posture of the dead) - relaxation of all parts of the body in the supine position. Hands along the body, palms up, legs extended and spread apart. Considered the most difficult yoga asana! By the power of the mind (when the internal dialogue is stopped), it is necessary to cover every part of the body with attention, track blocks and clamps, relax as much as possible and liberate the body;
• a technique from Japan (for implementation, you need a roller with a diameter of 7-10 cm and a length of at least 40 cm) - lie on your back on a hard surface, place a roller under your lower back (exactly under the navel). We take straight legs shoulder-width apart (we do not tear off the floor) and connect the thumbs together (about 25 cm between the heels). Bring straight arms behind the head with palms to the floor and fasten the little fingers. You need to lie down for 5 minutes, but immediately it will work out with difficulty. Do not tear your lower back, back, hips off the floor.

Stay in asanas for as long as you want. In general, everything in yoga is built on personal feelings and depends on your ability to listen to your body. From all positions, you should exit gently, without jerking, calmly and with a smile. The described simple exercises help even in cases with severe pain, alternating with taking salt or herbal baths.

Exercise therapy for pinched sciatic nerve

Swimming, easy running, walking, as well as simple physical exercises will help to survive the pinched sciatic nerve and return to the usual rhythm of life:

• smooth rotation of the hips;
• movement on the priest - sitting on the floor with straight legs, resting your hands on the floor, step your buttocks back and forth;
• movement "bike" - is performed with a small amplitude, speed and duration. Increase the load as the painful symptoms subside;
• "cat kind / evil" - a simple and familiar exercise since childhood. Standing on all fours, we round and bend the back;
• perform squats with an emphasis (chair, sofa back), and the feet are shoulder-width apart.

If you suffer from infringement of the nerve roots, then the implementation of the exercise therapy complex with pinched sciatic nerve will negate possible relapses. Train every day, pay attention to all muscle groups. Create an individual movement sequence that will bring maximum benefit and joy, and you will have to spend no more than 15 minutes a day on it.

Acupuncture for pinched sciatic nerve

Oriental medicine eliminates soreness along the sciatic nerve, restoring mobility, through acupuncture. The technique is based on targeted therapy using acupuncture points, which triggers the body's response to external irritation. Thus, the self-healing mechanism is activated. In parallel, tissue regeneration occurs, blood circulation is activated, metabolic processes are normalized.

Acupuncture for pinched sciatic nerve relieves pain in cases where other methods of treatment have not brought long-awaited relief. The acupuncture technique is a complex scheme of influencing the life energy (Qi) flowing through the meridians of the body. Having decided on a course of acupuncture, you should choose a specialized clinic and forget about savings. Before starting treatment, the acupuncturist will assess the state of the body as a whole, determine the level of vital energy, and establish the degree of imbalance.

It should be remembered that pinching of the sciatic nerve is caused by pathologies of the spinal column, so take care of sufficient diagnosis and establishment of the true cause of pain.

It should be noted that the treatment of pinched sciatic nerve is always phased:

• pain relief - the use of analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, nise, diclofenac, etc.). With a pain syndrome of pronounced intensity, corticosteroids and analgesics are indicated intramuscularly;
• identifying the root cause of a pathological condition is the most important task for a diagnostician;
• physiotherapy - various types of massage (if there are no restrictions), electrophoresis, UHF and others;
• a set of physical exercises - to relax and stretch the restrained area;
• non-traditional methods of treatment - acupuncture, acupuncture or cupping massage, hirudotherapy, etc.

In medicine, inflammation of the sciatic nerve is called. At the same time, sciatica in the lumbosacral region of the spinal cord with infringement of the roots also refers to sciatica. Synonyms of sciatica are diseases such as neuritis, pinching and inflammation of the sciatic nerve.

In the human body, the sciatic nerve is the longest and largest. It is located in the lower back, passes through the buttocks and ends in the lower extremities.

As a result of compression of the sciatic nerve, the roots in the lumbosacral spine experience pressure, then become inflamed and the person experiences pain of varying degrees.

Pain can be localized in the lumbar region, the back of the thigh, feet, legs. The pain may increase with walking, coughing fits. In the initial stage, sciatica can manifest itself as lumbago, lumbar ischialgia or lumbalgia.

Pain can be both weak, muffled, and unbearable, in which the patient cannot move normally, even sleep.
With the manifestation of pain, you should immediately seek qualified help from a neurologist.

Provoking factors

Lumbar hernia is one of the provocateurs of nerve inflammation

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve in itself is not an independent disease and in most cases manifests itself as a reaction to other disorders in the body.

With an intervertebral hernia, the nerve experiences compression and the inflammatory process starts.

Often, osteochondrosis in advanced form with complications serves as a provocateur of sciatica.

As a result, the intervertebral gap is minimized and the sciatic nerve is compressed.

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve can begin under the influence of such causes:

• injuries of the back, pelvis, limbs;
• sudden hypothermia of the body;
• pathological changes in the shape of the vertebrae (growths);
• arthritis;
• gynecological diseases;
• diabetes;
• penetration into the body of infection and the development of inflammatory processes;
• exposure to nerve stimuli in the form of tumors, muscles (piriformis syndrome), bone tissue;
• constipation;
• internal bleeding;
• heavy physical activity.

Symptoms and characteristic signs

The defining symptom of the presence of an inflammatory process in the area of ​​the sciatic nerve is pain manifested in the lower extremities. Sensitivity in the legs is lost, normal motor function is disturbed.

Pain in nature can be different - stabbing, sharp, burning, pulling. The pain comes on paroxysmal. A sharp period of exacerbation is replaced by relative peace.

Mostly discomfort is experienced on one side. Bilateral inflammation of the sciatic nerve is less common.

According to statistics, in women, sciatica in 80% of cases is observed on the right side. In men, on the contrary, on the left side.

Attacks, as a rule, come as a result of physical or emotional overload. If at the same time hypothermia is added, then inflammation of the sciatic nerve is very likely. Very often inflammation occurs at night.

The sensitivity of the skin along the nerve undergoes changes. You may experience tingling, goosebumps, or numbness. The pain begins on the back of the femoral side and gradually descends to the lower leg, foot. Pain after an attack does not go away, it is felt in the area between the vertebrae (5 lumbar and 1 sacral), in the center of the buttocks and under the knee.

Often the sciatic nerve hurts so badly that it can lead to. There may also be redness of the skin, swelling, excessive sweating of the feet.

Walking, standing for a long time, sitting on a hard chair causes pain. A person involuntarily seeks a comfortable position of the body, transfers the center of gravity to a healthy leg. The gait is disturbed (the leg, as it were, stretches with pain in the lower back).

In especially severe cases of inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the functionality of the nerve is significantly limited or completely impaired. As a result of this, the muscles (calf, thigh, gluteal) may decrease in size. The patient has difficulty flexing the lower leg, moving the fingers and turning the foot due to a temporary “off” of the muscle on the back of the thigh.

The sidal nerve is an integral part of the nervous system and its inflammation in some cases can lead to uncontrolled urination, defecation and other unpleasant symptoms.

Diagnosing a violation

Making the correct diagnosis is the key to successful treatment of the patient. To this end, it is necessary to take a number of complex measures:

• initial examination by neuropathologists, in some cases, examination and consultation with rheumatologists, vascular surgeons, vertebrologists will be required;
• collection of clinical tests;
• X-ray of the spine in two fixed positions (sitting, lying down);
• MRI, computed tomography;
• radioisotope scanning of the spinal region (appointed for suspected tumor formation, for HIV-infected people);
• electromyography.

When examined by a neurologist, a number of symptoms inherent in sciatica are revealed:

• landing symptom;
• symptom of Sicard;
• flabbiness and hypotension of muscles;
• the gluteal fold from the side of inflammation is significantly lowered;
• Achilles tendon has a weakened reflex.

Treatment methods

How to treat inflammation of the sciatic nerve is decided on an individual basis. The following therapies are used:

• drug therapy;
• physiotherapy procedures;
• massage sessions.

During treatment, you must follow the regimen. The patient should have a hard bed. During the period of exacerbation, physical activity should be limited to the minimum limits. Bed rest is necessary until the acute inflammation is relieved.

Therapy with medications

Drug treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve is performed by drugs of the NSAID group. They make it possible to stop the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which is responsible for the production of prostanoids.

In practice, the following drugs are used:

• Ketorolac;
• Diclofenac;
• ibuprofen;
• Naproxen;
• Ortofen.

These drugs can relieve pain and inflammation. At the same time, one should not lose sight of the fact that drugs have side effects - the work of the kidneys becomes difficult, blood coagulation decreases, the gastric mucosa changes for the worse. The term of their application should be short.

After the removal of acute inflammation, it is possible to use safe dosage forms, but with a longer course of treatment.

Such sparing forms include the following drugs:

• Movalis;
• Nimesulide;
• Arcoxia.

Hormonal drugs may be prescribed in cases of unbearable pain. They are used for a short time, only to relieve pain. Hormonal drugs are dangerous for their side effects.

In addition to drug forms, vitamin complexes are prescribed. Vitamins E and B play a special role.

Medicines that allow you to normalize metabolic processes, relieve muscle tension are also used in the treatment of sciatica.

In especially severe cases, with acute inflammation of the sciatic nerve, with a sharp deterioration in the patient's condition, injections are given. Injections are used only when therapy with tablet forms does not bring the desired effect.

The injection should be done by a specialist. The steroid drug is administered as close as possible to the sciatic nerve in the affected area.

In the treatment, external medicines are also used in the form of patches, gels, ointments. Experts recommend such ointments:

• Viprosal;
• Finalgon;
• Virapin;
• Saliniment;
• Naftalgin.

To activate the work of the nerve, increase blood flow, you can use propolis, turpentine, mustard oil as part of therapeutic ointments.

Physiotherapy procedures

With sciatica, the following physiotherapy is indicated:

• phonophoresis;
• compresses;
• warming procedures.

In combination with physiotherapy, dosed medications are administered. As a result, the blood circulation of the inflamed areas increases, recovery is faster.

The appointment of procedures is the prerogative of the attending physician, he regulates the number of sessions, etc. Therapeutic massage is allowed to be used only after passing through a dangerous phase of exacerbation. Massage has a beneficial effect on muscle recovery, relieves pain, improves blood flow, increases the conductivity of the sciatic nerve.

The effect of massage can come from at least 10 sessions. With each session, the intensity of exposure should increase.

Exercise therapy and gymnastics

In the arsenal of methods for combating inflammation of the sciatic nerve, there are proven methods of physical therapy. Gymnastics, performing simple exercises will improve the general condition of the patient, will improve blood flow in the lumbar region.

Simple and effective exercises:

1. We raise our legs. The exercise is performed from a supine position. The legs alternately bend at the knees and rise to a height of 0.3 meters, the leg is fixed for 10 seconds. Performed 8 to 12 times at a slow pace.
2. Pushing off the wall. Become facing the wall, focus on the palms. We serve the body to the wall, elbows are bent. We unbend the elbows, the body returns to its original position. In a slow rhythm, it is done from 10 to 15 times.
3. Practicing with the ball. Lying on your back, hold the ball between your legs. We bend our knees, raise them to a height of 0.3 m. We make a turn with the ball to the right for 10 seconds. We return to the starting position. The same turn with the ball in the other direction. It is done 10 times.

Surgery

The surgical method for the treatment of sciatica is indicated in exceptional cases with a cardinal violation in the functioning of the pelvic organs. The removal of a disc or part of it is called a microdiscectomy. The pathology of the intervertebral disc is eliminated, the cause of the pinched nerve is eliminated.

What to do if the sciatic nerve is inflamed and sore:

Treatment with folk remedies

The treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve with folk remedies at home should be treated quite carefully. Consultation with a specialist neurologist will be quite useful.

The most effective recipes:

What could be the consequences

If you do not start the treatment process, then you can avoid the unpleasant consequences of the course of inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Possible complications include the following:

• partial or complete muscle atrophy;
• legs lose sensation;
• urine and feces do not hold, and the patient cannot control this process.

Preventive measures

The muscle corset must be kept in good shape. The weakening of the holding capacity of the muscles leads to the displacement of various organs (the spine ceases to function as the supporting column of the body). And as a result, the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed.

Therefore, it is necessary to take care of your health, the following recommendations will help to fight sciatica:

An inflamed sciatic nerve can give a person a lot of trouble, pain and negative health in general. Do not be shy at the very first symptoms that indicate inflammation of the sciatic nerve, contact the doctors, this will help to treat the pathology in a timely manner.

Update: December 2018

Infringement or pinching of the sciatic nerve, as well as sciatica with infringement of the roots of the sacral region - this is one and the same disease in which pain is localized in the lumbar region, thigh, lower leg, foot, aggravated by coughing, walking. At first, when the disease is just beginning, it proceeds according to the type of lumbalgia, lumbago, lumboischialgia.

Also synonymous with this disease is sciatica - it is neuritis, inflammation, pinching of the sciatic nerve, the symptoms of which are manifested by pain in the lumbosacral spine, radiating to the leg. When the longest and largest nerve in the human body, the sciatic nerve, is compressed, the pain ranges from mild to simply unbearable, preventing a person from sleeping or walking normally. We will talk about the causes, symptoms of a pinched sciatic nerve, treatment with medicines, folk remedies, about the general principles of therapy in this article.

Signs of inflammation of the sciatic nerve

Where is the sciatic nerve located? These are the 2 largest and longest nerves in the human body, which run to the left and right from the lower back to the toes. Usually, when the patient is inflamed, the pain is only in one of them, localized in the buttock, behind the thigh, behind the knee along the calf, reaching the foot.

With neuritis or pinching of the sciatic nerve, symptoms, pain are described by patients as burning, stabbing, sharp, cutting. They both appear and disappear suddenly, however, with severe inflammation, they can be chronic, with periodic relapses.

An attack of inflammation usually begins after an emotional or physical overstrain, especially in combination with hypothermia, it often begins at night. Along the course of the nerve, the sensitivity of the skin may be disturbed, or it may increase - tingling, or vice versa, decrease - numbness. At first, the pain extends along the back of the thigh, descending to the lower leg and foot.

In severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the symptoms are expressed in a strong decrease or complete impairment of nerve function. In this case, the gluteal, femoral or calf muscle may decrease. The patient may experience difficulty when trying to bend the lower leg due to temporary immobilization of the muscles of the back of the thigh, and flexion of the toes and rotation of the foot are also disturbed.

Diagnostics

Before carrying out treatment, the doctor must find out the cause of the pain in the sciatic nerve, so an adequate diagnosis should be made, since sciatica is a syndrome that can accompany various conditions.

The neurologist first conducts an examination, checks reflexes on the legs by tapping with a hammer, and determines skin sensitivity, which makes it possible to roughly assess the stage of damage to the nervous system.

To clarify the diagnosis, the simplest method available in any clinic is standard radiography, which will confirm or exclude serious bone changes.

If this diagnosis is not enough, the doctor may prescribe an MRI - magnetic resonance imaging or CT - computed tomography. If a tumor is suspected, it is also possible to conduct a radioisotope scan of the spine, especially for people who take corticosteroid drugs for a long time, as well as for HIV-infected people.

The true cause of pinching, inflammation of the sciatic nerve

Inflammation or pinching of the sciatic nerve is a very common disease, the causes of which official medicine sees in mechanical (displacement of the vertebrae, osteochondrosis, etc.), temperature (hypothermia) factors, as well as the presence of a tumor, infection in the pelvic area, Reiter's syndrome and other diseases. We will not list them.

In this article, we will consider one interesting theory of the cause of pinching the sciatic nerve, which, in our opinion, is the true fact of the occurrence of sciatic nerve neuralgia. And knowing the deep cause of the appearance of the disease, it is easier to cope with it.

If you are reading this text, then you have already encountered the fact that pinched sciatic nerve is a practically incurable disease, its treatment is based on temporary anesthesia. If hypothermia, sudden movement or heavy lifting occurs, the symptoms of sciatic nerve neuritis return again and you are again looking for an answer to the question of how to treat a pinched sciatic nerve.

The fact is that a person consciously cannot control the tone of the back muscles, the gluteal muscles, the piriformis muscle, which, with tension and spasm, just lead to back pain, problems in the spine, pain in the limbs, including those leading to pinching or inflammation. sciatic nerve. It is surprising that a person can easily strain these muscles, but they are not able to relax them.

This function is performed by brain structures that are responsible for the emotional side of human life, since all internal organs, blood vessels, and the skeletal system in the body are controlled mainly from the brain stem and hemispheres. As a rule, positive emotions that are formed in the brain contribute to the relaxation of these muscles, and negative, negative ones to their spasm, involuntary tension.

Moreover, even a short-term, but very powerful negative emotional reaction brings cells, tissues, muscles into a long-term state of combat readiness, high activity. This, in turn, provokes muscle spasm and pinched nerves, and the sciatic nerve is especially vulnerable to existing pathologies of the spine, especially the lumbosacral region, those same intervertebral hernias, osteochondrosis, spondylolisthesis, dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint, and other causes that are mentioned in all sources of medical information.

To finally verify the veracity of this theory, we present one more fact. Everyone knows that men and women differ not only in sexual characteristics, the main difference between the sexes is in the difference in the functioning and structure of the brain, reactions to stress - hence the difference in the localization of typical pain when the sciatic nerve is pinched. In 80% of women, pain when the sciatic nerve is pinched is localized on the right side of the buttock, right thigh, knee, foot and lower leg. In men, on the contrary, in the same 80% of cases, the left half of the buttocks and the left leg suffer.

Everyone knows that the right hemisphere is "responsible" for the left side of the body, and the left - for the right. It is also known that men and women have differences in the prefrontal cortex (decision control) and in the frontal lobe of the brain. Differences in the limbic system (where emotions are formed) of the sexes relate to the amygdala, which regulates both the generation of emotions and the ability to remember them. The male amygdala communicates with the right hemisphere, while the female body communicates with the left.

Researcher Larry Cahill, observing the work of the brain in conditions of acute stress in men and women (watching horror films), noticed that in men under stress the left hemisphere was at rest, and the reaction was most pronounced from the amygdala in the right hemisphere. In women, the left amygdala became active, while the right was silent.

Therefore, when stress, negative thoughts, bad mood, experiences arise, women tense up more, the right side spasms, infringing on the right sciatic nerve, and in men, the left.

Moreover, many neurologists noticed such an interesting fact that when a person has stressful situations, dissatisfaction with himself, his work, perhaps some kind of internal self-digging, self-flagellation, inflammation of the sciatic nerve aggravates, the treatment of which does not bring significant relief, but as soon as the problem goes away , inner peace and harmony are established, a person calms down, changes jobs, spends a full vacation, has a good rest - then the disease also calms down.

Given the above, analyze your life, your emotional state, recent events in life, what caused your illness? Perhaps, if you can calm your nervous system, adjust to a positive wave, this will help to cope with the disease.

The provoking factors influencing the occurrence of this disease are:

• Injuries, hypothermia, heavy sports or excessive physical exertion.
• Infectious diseases that have a strong effect on the nervous system, such as tuberculosis, herpes zoster, brucellosis.
• Infectious-allergic diseases
• Poisoning, intoxication - drugs, poisons, heavy metals, toxins during the decay of malignant tumors.
• Violation of blood circulation, metabolism, alcoholism.

Pinching of the sciatic nerve rarely has one cause, it usually appears in old age, against the background of a complex of various pathological changes in the spine, vascular disorders in the region of this nerve, therefore this disease does not occur in children.

How to treat a pinched sciatic nerve

If the sciatic nerve is pinched, the treatment should be entrusted to a qualified neurologist, who, based on the diagnostic result, will prescribe the appropriate therapy:

• Physiotherapy

This method of therapy helps patients significantly reduce pain, but does not eliminate the root cause of the disease. The doctor may prescribe various procedures: vitamins, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, UHF therapy, magneto-laser or laser therapy, phonophoresis, paraffin applications, UVR of the affected area, electrosleep. The action of physiotherapy improves blood circulation, relieves swelling and the pain gradually subsides.

• Massage, reflexology

During the period of subsiding of the acute inflammatory process, cupping, general massage, cauterization, acupressure are very effective, even the use of Kuznetsov's home applicator can help the patient relieve pain and relieve excessive muscle tension. Any type of massage and reflexology improves lymph flow, reduces pain, restores nerve function and prevents muscle hypotrophy.

• A course of anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy

The most effective painkillers are NSAIDs. This pharmaceutical group of drugs is represented by drugs that stop the action of the COX enzyme and have an anti-inflammatory effect, these include Indomethacin, Ortofen, Ceberex, Sulindak, Naproxen, Ketorolac. All of these drugs irritate the stomach lining, affect the kidneys, and reduce blood clotting, so their use should be limited. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Movalis, Arcoxia, Nimesulide less than others have an irritating effect on the gastrointestinal tract, and their longer use is possible, in a course that the doctor will prescribe (simultaneously with Omeprazole). Read more about, comparing prices and effectiveness, as well as injections, read our articles. With an increase in pain and inflammation, steroid hormones are sometimes prescribed, in short courses, they relieve pain, but do not eliminate the cause of inflammation, and their use has a lot of side effects and contraindications.

• Other medical treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve

The doctor also prescribes vitamins, especially vitamins of group B, B12, vitamin E, vitamin and mineral complexes, drugs that improve metabolic processes and blood circulation, as well as drugs that relax muscles.

• Physiotherapy

Even the simplest exercises, such as lying down bicycle, pelvic rotation, walking on the floor on the buttocks, any kind of stretching, are very effective. Exercises should be performed when the acute process subsides during periods of remission, they should be performed slowly, smoothly, without strong tension.

• Mode in the acute period

In the acute period, patients are recommended bed rest, preferably on a bed with a hard mattress, to limit any physical activity until the acute inflammation subsides. Listen to your body, some patients are very well helped by alternate application of ice, others only cold, especially massaging movements in the area of ​​localization of pain with a piece of ice.

• Sanatorium-resort treatment, mud therapy

Only without exacerbation, a spa treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve is recommended, hydrotherapy with the use of hydrogen sulfide, pearl baths, and courses of underwater traction are especially effective. Climate therapy always helps to strengthen the immune system, reduces the frequency of colds, rest improves mood and creates a positive attitude, which is so important for recovery.

Treatment with folk remedies

Of course, there are a lot of folk remedies for treatment, but they should be used only as directed by a doctor, since there may be contraindications to the use of a particular method.

• Oddly enough, but any cream that includes horse chestnut can help relax muscles and relieve pain in diseases of the sciatic nerve. Typically, such creams are used for, but horse chestnut also helps with pinching of the sciatic nerve, so you can supplement the treatment with the following creams - Venitan, Chaga Cream-Balm, Auchan Soothing Cream (sold in Auchan supermarkets), a cream from the series of grandmother Agafia's recipes - anti-varicose cream , prophylactic, relaxing.
• We have already mentioned can massage, it can be done independently with any warming cream or anti-inflammatory ointment. Spread the affected area with ointment and put the jar, move it in a circular motion clockwise, the duration of the massage is 10-15 minutes, it should be done every other day.
• Treatment with beeswax, for this it should be heated in a water bath to a soft consistency, make a cake and apply to the area of ​​pain localization, put polyethylene, cotton wool on top and bandage a compress, leave it overnight. This procedure can be done within a week.
• Rubbing the sore spot with tincture of pine or spruce buds, dandelions or just needles helps very well. To make such a tincture, pine buds, needles, dandelions are placed in a half-liter jar, poured with vodka, left in a dark place for a week. Wipe the affected area with this solution.

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The sciatic nerve is responsible for the activity of the leg muscles and the sensitivity of the lower limb from the thigh to the fingertips. Due to its large length, it is quite vulnerable and is often subjected to pinching, which in most cases causes severe pain and limits motor functions. The same thing happens with inflammation of the nerve, and very often the pain is simply unbearable. It is not always possible to quickly get qualified help, so it is useful to know how to cure the sciatic nerve at home.

Pinched sciatic nerve, or sciatica, can occur in 25 and 30 years, but people over the age of 40 are more susceptible to it.

One of the causes of this disease is the wear of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, resulting in their displacement and compression of the nerve roots. There are other factors that provoke the development of sciatica:

• osteochondrosis;
• arthrosis;
• intervertebral hernia;
• injuries of the sacrum and lumbar;
• excessive load on the spine;
• oncological tumors and metastases;
• infectious and viral diseases;
• hypothermia of the lower body.

To cure the sciatic nerve, you must first identify and eliminate the cause of pinching, otherwise you can only reduce the pain syndrome, and even then for a while.

Inflammation of the nerve often becomes chronic, and one awkward movement is enough for a new attack.

Symptoms of the disease

The pinched nerve usually occurs on one side of the body, although it can also occur bilaterally. It is accompanied by characteristic symptoms:

• sharp, penetrating pain in the lower back, radiating to the buttock, thigh and down the leg;
• numbness in the sacrum and pelvis, tingling or burning sensation;
• numbness of the toes;
• limited motor functions;
• gait disturbance.

Depending on the degree of damage, the intensity of pain can vary from mild to intolerable. When lying down, it becomes easier, it may not hurt at all, but during movements there are backaches in the region of the buttock or sacrum. If the pinching is strong, it is impossible to sit normally, walk, even stand straight with difficulty.

With severe damage to the nerve in the sacrum, swelling, redness appears, and body temperature may rise. Additionally, disturbances in the functioning of the pelvic organs are observed, for example, pain occurs during urination, problems with potency appear in men. If it is not pinching, but a rupture of the sciatic nerve, the motor functions and sensitivity of the limb below the knee disappear.

How to treat the sciatic nerve

At home, treatment is not always possible. If a nerve is torn or severely pinched, self-medication is dangerous to health and can lead to disability. So if the pain in the sacrum is unbearable, there is a complete loss of sensation in the leg, the temperature has risen sharply - you need to urgently call a doctor.

If these symptoms are absent, the patient's condition can be alleviated with the help of one or more treatment methods, which are worth learning more about.

First aid

The pinched nerve occurs abruptly, and it is impossible to predict it. In such situations, a person needs emergency help:

• the patient is placed on the stomach, choosing a flat, moderately hard surface. Do not use a sag bed or something unstable, so as not to aggravate the condition. For convenience, it is recommended to put a soft roller or a small pillow under the chest;
• the lower back and upper part of the buttocks should be freed from clothing, apply an anti-inflammatory ointment to the affected area;
• when the pain subsides, the patient must be helped to roll over on his back, put a pillow under his lower back, and a dense roller under his legs to raise his legs.

Heating pads, rubbing and warm compresses should not be done - at the initial stage, this can increase inflammation and worsen the patient's condition.

Medical treatment

The most effective and fastest way of treatment is medication. Here, tablets, ointments, injections are suitable, the main thing is to strictly observe the dosage and method of application.

Intramuscular injections act directly on the affected nerve and are considered the safest for the body. They have fewer contraindications, relieve pain and swelling faster, and shorten the treatment time.

Injections for sciatica

Additionally, vitamin complexes (B1, B6, B12) can be administered to improve blood flow and tissue regeneration, which has a positive effect on the general condition of the patient.

Important! should be done by a person with relevant experience and only as prescribed by a doctor. An inept injection can provoke an even worse deterioration, so it’s not worth risking your health. If there is no one nearby who knows how to give injections, it is better to pay attention to tablets and external agents.

For the use of tablets, a doctor's consultation is optional, but desirable, since there are a number of contraindications and side effects. The most effective for sciatica are the drugs "Celebrex", "Ibuprofen", "Ketoprofen", "Indomethacin", as well as the well-known analgin. These drugs relieve spasms and pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, substances that are actively produced by the body at the sites of nerve damage. The disadvantage of tablets is that they do not act as quickly as injections and ointments, in addition, they affect the organs of the digestive tract.

External funds- this is the best option: they are the safest, have a minimum of contraindications, act directly on the diseased area and can be used without consulting a doctor.

When using ointments, you should strictly follow the instructions and follow the regimen, otherwise it will be difficult to achieve a positive effect. The timing of treatment depends on the degree of nerve damage, but usually external agents are used from 5 to 10 days, injections and tablets - from 3 to 5 days.

Advice. After removing the pain syndrome, it is imperative to be examined and consulted about further treatment.

Physiotherapy

With the help of special exercises, you can unblock the pinched nerve, remove muscle spasms and pain. Exercise therapy is also very useful as a prevention of sciatica. You need to start exercising after the removal of the pain syndrome, especially if the inflammation is severe and is accompanied by fever and swelling of the tissues. In this state, it is easy to aggravate the situation and damage the nerve even more.

Nerve Unblocking Exercises

The main condition is that all movements are smooth, measured, no jerks or twists. Tighten your muscles gradually, if you feel a sharp pain, stop moving and relax for a few minutes. To unblock the sciatic nerve, it is enough to perform the described exercises once. If you do everything right, the pain will decrease almost immediately, but to consolidate the result, you need to practice 2-3 times a day for a week.

If you want to learn more about how to treat, as well as consider the symptoms and features of the disease, you can read an article about this on our portal.

Massotherapy

At home, massage of the sciatic nerve is allowed only with slight pinching and no complications. If there is swelling, redness, it hurts very much, any effect will only harm the patient. In such cases, only an experienced specialist should perform the massage and only after the pain syndrome has been relieved.

Light massaging the affected area allows you to relax the muscles and eliminate spasms that cause pain. The most effective is acupressure, which is performed with fingertips. Active points are identified by pressing with fingers in the area of ​​the sacrum, lower back and upper buttocks: where the greatest pain is felt, they are located there. You need to start by warming up the muscles with light stroking movements, then actively knead the lumbar, ilium, buttocks. You can intensively rub your back with the ribs of your palms, slowly moving from the coccyx to the waist. After working out the active points, it is necessary to stroke the skin for 2-3 minutes to calm the muscles.

Video - Massage

Treatment with folk remedies

Traditional medicine offers many effective recipes for the treatment of sciatica. Consider some of the most popular and safest external products.

1. . For cooking, you will need a kilogram of young pine branches, a suitable container for brewing, three liters of boiling water. The branches are poured with boiling water, boiled for 10 minutes and set aside to infuse for 4 hours. After that, the broth is filtered and added to a warm bath at the rate of 1 liter of broth per 1.5 buckets of water. Take such a bath for no more than 20 minutes, 2-3 times a week.

   

2. Radish rub. You will need black radish and natural honey. The radish is washed well, crushed together with the peel, and the juice is squeezed out. It is mixed with honey in a ratio of 3:1, then applied in a small amount to the sore spot and gently rubbed until the mixture is absorbed. After that, the back should be wrapped with something warm for 40-60 minutes.

   

3. Warm compress. You will need a tablespoon of liquid honey and a glass of flour, preferably rye. Mix the ingredients and form a thick cake. Apply it to the affected area, cover with a film or paper on top, then with a woolen cloth. The compress should be kept all night and repeated for a week.

   

4. Cabbage compress. White cabbage perfectly relieves inflammation and promotes healing. You will need several large leaves of fresh cabbage. They need to be dipped in boiling water to make them softer, then cool and put on a sore spot. From above, everything is covered with a film and tied with a woolen cloth. Such a compress should be kept for about 2-3 hours, and then the leaves are changed to fresh ones.

   

The described recipes cannot be used with severe nerve damage, with fever and acute pain. Also, do not rely too much only on traditional medicine: the treatment of the sciatic nerve can be effective only with an integrated approach.

If you want to learn more about how to treat, as well as consider effective treatments and remedies, you can read an article about this on our portal.

Video - How to cure the sciatic nerve at home