Sciatica is one of the most common forms of back and leg pain. The term “sciatica” describes the symptoms of leg pain originating in the lower back and spreading to the leg, calf, or toe. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and is made of individual nerve roots that branch out from the spine and combine to form the whole nerve. Making small changes in your life can add up to major sciatica relief. Here are a few changes you can make to your daily life for sciatica relief.
Ditch the heels
Don’t be a slave to fashion. High heels are a common fashion accessory, but they can actually contribute to lower back pain. Wearing heels shifts your weight forward, causing a disruption in the natural curvature of your spine. This causes increased stress on your lower back, which can provoke sciatica symptoms. Naturally, the best way to prevent this is to avoid wearing heels altogether. Substitute a comfortable pair of shoes. Footwear stores that cater to runners are great places to start. They can analyze your gait and foot shape, thus finding the optimum pair of shoes for you. If you must wear heels, limit the height to less than 2 inches and make sure they fit snugly, but not to tight, so your feet don’t slide forward.
Switch up your workout routine
Exercise is an important part of sciatica relief. Aerobic exercise spurs healing nutrients and oxygen to your lower back and gentle stretching can relieve tension in your lower back muscles. However, keeping the same workout routine from before your sciatica symptoms can provoke your sciatica. The key for relief is a controlled, gradual exercise plan that is targeted at the underlying causes of your symptoms. The first step to formulating a plan is to meet with your doctor for a diagnosis. Your doctor can help tailor a plan to meet your specific needs.
Visit Dr. Capicotto.
Small changes can be difficult, but even the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. No matter what you do, visiting a doctor is an important first step. For over 25 years our caring, compassionate, and knowledgeable staff has been treating patients with neck and back injuries. Our goal is to restore your mobility and get you back to your normal life.If you are suffering from sciatica, contact Dr. Capicotto.
