Sciatica refers to the pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve. It refers to numbness, tingling in the leg and weakness. The ailment occurs when there is a pressure or damage to the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back and runs down the back of each leg. It is the nerve that regulates the muscles of the back of the knee and the lower leg. The nerve is also responsible for providing sensation to the back of the thigh and the outer back part of the lower leg.
The healthcare practitioner will perform a physical exam that will show-
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Difficulty bending the foot inward.
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Weakness when bending the knee.
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Difficulty bending backward or forward.
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Abnormal reflexes.
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Loss of sensation.
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Pain when lifting the leg straight up.
Following are the conditions that cause sciatica-
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A herniated disc that leads to pressure on a nerve root.
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Piriformis syndrome. The ailment occurs when piriformis muscle, which is a small muscle, becomes tight. It can put pressure on and irritate the nerve.
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Spinal stenosis.
It is the condition that results from narrowing of the spinal canal with a pressure on the nerves.
How is Sciatica diagnosed?
There are a couple of factors that the healthcare provider takes into consideration such as a medical history, a review of your symptoms and a physical exam that helps the healthcare provider dive deep into the issue you are facing. For eg- The practitioner might perform a straight-leg raise test in which you lie on your back with your legs straight. Some other diagnostic practices might include-
1. MRI for creating structures of the back.
2. X-ray to look for fractures in the spine.
3. Myelogram using dye injected between the vertebrae for determining if a disc is causing the pain.
4. Nerve conduction velocity studies.
Why choose Homeopathic medicine for Sciatica pain?
One of the most common reasons why people seek alternative therapies is pain! Homeopathic medicine is appealing to many individuals who seek a holistic, gentle and non-invasive approach for treating the ailment. Homeopathy aims to identify the underlying cause before treating the ailment. Homeopathic medicines are non-addictive and they do not cause drowsiness.
Following are homeopathic medicines for sciatica pain-
1. Belladonna
One of the most commonly used homeopathic remedies for sciatica pain, Belladonna is used when the symptoms are intense, sudden and come with inflammation or heat. The drug works best with the acute phases of sciatica where the pain is sharp and comes on suddenly. When to use the drug for Sciatica?
The drug should be used when-
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The pain is burning or shooting.
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The movement and the noise aggravates the pain.
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The leg feels tense and sometimes stiff.
2. Colocynthis
One of the most frequently used homeopathic remedies for sciatica, Colocynthis is used when the pain is cramping and severe. It is suited for the people whose sciatica pain is worsened by emotional stress. The ingredients present in the drug are oil, carbohydrates, dietary fiber and protein. The drug also contains a chemical called cucurbitacins. It is one of the best homeopathic medicines for sciatica pain.
When to use Colocynthis for Sciatica?
You use the drug for alleviating the Sciatica pain when-
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The pain shoots down the thigh and calf.
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The pain is worse after any kind of emotional reaction such as anger or humiliation.
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Bending forward or lying up.
3. Arnica Montana
Known as a homeopathic remedy used for bruising, trauma and muscle soreness, Arnica Montana is used as a non-invasive solution for easing off the sciatica nerve pain. The ingredients present in the drug are turmeric, arnica and capsaicin.
When is Arnica Montana used for Sciatica?
The drug is used for Sciatica when there is bruised nerve sensation. It is also used when the patient feels worse after walking or standing after undergoing a post-surgical sciatica.
Following are the key benefits of the drug-
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Ease of use
Topical medicine is easy to apply and blend well into one's daily routine.
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Targeted relief
The direct application ensures that the active ingredients focus on the problem area.
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Minimal side effects
There are little to no side effects of using the medicine.
4. Magnesia Phosphorica
Individuals with right-sided sciatica are prescribed magnesia phosphorica for relieving the shooting pain. It is an effective remedy for pain that is cramping, shooting and is spasmodic in nature. The type of pain comes suddenly with spasmodic intensity.
Why should you choose Magnesia Phosphorica?
The individuals should choose the drug when-
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The sciatica pain feels like an electric shock.
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The cold drafts worsen the pain.
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The pressure eases the pain.
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The individual may bend over.
5. Ruta Graveolens
This valuable homeopathic remedy is caused by strain or injury to tendons, ligaments and periosteum. The drug is associated with trauma, soreness and stiffness, particularly in the lower back.
The pain usually occurs in the lower back, thighs and hips. It gets worse when lying on the back and sitting for too long. The pain gets better with gentle movement or lying on the abdomen. The drug is garnering attention as it is the best homeopathic medicine for sciatica pain.
6. Rhus tox
One of the top homeopathic remedies for Sciatica, Rhus tox is used when the pain is associated with restlessness, stiffness and it worsens after rest! However, it gradually improves with movement. The remedy is ideal for sciatica that comes with exposure to damp weather or overexertion. The type of pain is aching, tearing or burning pain and it worsens with cold weather or lying for too long. The pain occurs in the lower back and hip.
When should one use Rhus tox for Sciatica?
One should use Rhus tox for Sciatica when-
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One feels stiff and sore after resting.
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One needs to constantly change positions for feeling relief.
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Pain is worse at night.
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want relief from hot compresses.
All in all, homeopathic medicines which are safe and natural work on the root cause of sciatica and there are thousands of treatments available. The healthcare practitioner will select the one based on the severity of the symptoms the person is facing.