Great Self Massages And Exercises To Relieve Sciatica Pain
Sciatica nerve pain is best described as chronic ache coming from the lower back down to one’s buttocks and legs. It can occur in the back, front, or the side of the legs. Typically, only one side of the body is affected. Luckily, there are simple yet effective exercises and techniques of self-massage for sciatica pain relief.
The condition can manifest itself not only with chronic pain in one’s lower limbs. It can also come up with tingling sensation, sharp pangs, weakness, and numbness in the legs.
The Time In Between Your Massage Appointment And Now
What can you do to ease your pain before you come see us? If you feel as if you need immediate relief, you can try a massage chair or small stretches to help you with your pain. While massage might not eliminate all of your pain and symptoms, it can provide you significant relief when combined with a well-rounded plan for treatment.
Massage Can Make Sciatica Worse
While using a massage gun for sciatica, some key points should be kept in mind. The reason is that the trigger points for sciatica are very sensitive and wrong massage can make sciatica worse. Therefore, use the massage gun properly so that it can help you out instead of causing any damage.
- The first key point to note is that you will set the depth and speed of the vibrations of the massage gun according to your requirement
- Put the massage gun on the sciatic nerve How To Massage Sciatica Trigger Points.
- Let the massager do its work: dont compress it down on your body
- Give at least ten to fifteen minutes to each targeted area and let it float on the muscles
- Take deep breaths. Believe me, youll feel so much relaced.
- Always follow the instructions of the therapist or your physician
Read Also: What Is Lidocaine
How Can Massage Ease Sciatic Pain
If you’re living with sciatic pain, massage therapy may be a great option. While it’s not a cure for this condition, it can ease your discomfort and improve your overall quality of life. Through regular treatments, you can relax tight muscles, improve blood circulation, alleviate your stress, and put yourself in a better mood. Let’s dive deeper into how massage can reduce sciatic pain and what types of massages are ideal for this condition.
Can Massage Make Sciatica Worse Best Type Of Massage For Sciatica
Sciatica is the pain that occurs along the sciatic nerve, and believe me when I say the pain can be excruciating. When the sciatica nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body, is in pain, your entire body is too. With massage, you can eliminate sciatica pain and prevent any conditions associates with sciatica.
The question that may end up popping in your head is, can massage make sciatica worse? The good news is massage is meant to improve the condition and not make it worse. This means there is no way a massage for sciatica can worsen the situation.
Don’t Miss: How To Stop Stomach Pain From Eating Pineapple
Other Methods Of Sciatica Pain Massage
There are some other methods as well but they are not directly related to sciatica pain. Other than massage therapy by hands, massage therapists and physicians are now using massage guns to cure sciatica. It helps in triggering the focal points. Furthermore, you can also adjust the frequency of the massage gun according to your need.
The massage gun applies pressure on the targeted area through vibrations. These vibrations help in releasing rigidness and stress from the muscles. One of the reasons for soreness in muscles is due to lactic acid. Massage guns help out in soothing the muscles and the blood flow is increased in the area which causes relief from pain. The same method goes with sciatica where the patient feels improvement after two to three sessions.
Best Massages For Sciatic Pain
There are a variety of massages that a massage therapist can perform. The best ones for sciatic pain, however, include the following.
Deep Tissue Massage
Through slow strokes and finger pressure, deep tissue massage can ease tension from your muscles and connective tissues. You may notice a positive change in your sciatic pain, even if your session only lasts 30 minutes.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage improves muscle tension while giving you the chance to completely relax. It involves a massage therapist placing heated stone throughout your body while making flowing movements.
Swedish Massage
During Swedish massage, a massage therapist stimulates nerve endings through flowing movements and boosts blood circulation as a result. In addition, this type of massage helps with tension and relaxation.
Also Check: Ways To Sprain Your Wrist
How To Treat Sciatica:
Three of the most common treatments for sciatica are chiropractic care, physical therapy and massage therapy. Our chiropractors here at OSR will be able to tell if a herniated disc is the cause of your sciatic pain. Our physical therapists will be able to show you what may be the most important part of your treatment which is STRETCHING. If youre dealing with muscle spasms with your sciatica, your massage therapists will be able to perform trigger point massage on your sciatic nerve and release some of the tension.
Thanks to paleohacks.com, we have a great infographic showing some of the best stretches for your sciatica pain.
How Massage Can Help With Sciatica Pain
For those who have not yet experienced sciatica pain, count your blessings.
For those of you who have had to deal with mild or severe pain from your sciatica nerve, we know exactly how you feel.
Sciatica pain is not fun, and is not pleasant. Sciatica pain usually comes about with a problem in the lower back where compression occurs in the nerve, which sends pain down the leg.
The sciatica is the biggest nerve in your body, and begins in the lower back and goes down both of your legs.
Symptoms that you may experience include but are not limited to: tingling, numbness, and a pain which is shooting down the leg are all clear indicators that you have possible compression in your sciatica.
So how can massage therapy help when the pain is just too much? Going to see a trained registered massage therapist can help you as the goal in dealing with problems with the back is that a massage therapist can send much needed relief to that area by promoting circulation which will help with releasing the pressure the nerve maybe experiencing.
When you visit your massage therapist, they will work on the major muscle areas that are part of that area, such as: the piriformis, the hamstring muscles, and the glutes, among others.
Often times, muscle overuse by those who are active in running and cycling can cause a trigger point to develop in the piriformis muscles, which can then put pressure on the sciatic nerve, which then causes sciatica like symptoms.
Read Also: Lidocaine Ointment For Back Pain
Massage Therapy Has Proven To Help With Sciatica Because It:
- Loosens and stretches the tight, problematic muscles. Some of these muscles are the Quadratus Lumborum in the back, the Piriformis in the glutes, and the Iliopsoas in the front hips.
- Relieves lower back pain, which is one of the symptoms of sciatica. Studies have shown that massage can be as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Increases circulation, which allows oxygen and nutrients to enter the sore areas in order to promote healing, releases endorphins, and reduces stress and the bodys cortisol levels. This however, is not effective if your sciatica is due to a herniated disc. If your sciatica is due to a herniated disc, we recommend going to see your chiropractor or osteotherapist before booking in for a massage.
- Increases flexibility and range of motion. This allows you to use your supporting muscles properly rather than overcompensating, prevents injury, and allows you to recover faster. This is especially helpful if your sciatic pain is coming from tight muscles pushing on the nerve.
- Relieves stress. Massage helps decrease your bodys production of the stress hormone and increase your bodys production of the feel good hormones . This relieves stress and helps your body be more able to recover.
-
Sciatica Trigger Point Massage In Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an older treatment used for pain relief of the body. It utilizes very thin needles inserted into the skin which are then stimulated with heat or electricity to bring the desired effect in your system depending on where theyre needed.
For sciatica treatment, needles are placed along the spine and around the hips as they relate to sciatica pain. This type of acupuncture is used to bring about healing on a holistic level by affecting the nervous system.
Recommended Reading: Can Neck Pain Cause Nausea
Read Also: Does It Hurt To Cut Your Wrists
How To Use Massage Gun To Fix Sciatica Pains
Suppose you suffer from sciatica pain or nerve pain that radiates down the legs. Whats mostly on your mind is how to alleviate your pains.
The good news is that you can use a massage gun or theragun to manage this condition. I bet the question probably on your mind is how do you use a massage gun for sciatica?
Nevertheless, the paragraphs below provide an answer to the question. And its as follows:
Firstly, you should pick up the device to treat the side where you are experiencing pain. However, ensure you focus on your lower back, thigh muscle, and calves for one minute. If there is pain on both sides of your body, then treat both sides.
Secondly, as discussed earlier, calves, hamstrings, the lower backs are the best areas to focus on. But ensure to be cautious when putting pressure on the nerve, particularly around the piriformis muscle. Avoid pushing right on the piriformis for no longer than three seconds. You should do this once.
Moreso, if you move the massager gun directly on the piriformis, it will make the piriformis angry. As a result, your sciatic nerve will make you suffer for it. So allow your massage gun to do the work no additional pressure is required.
Lastly, avoid treating the sciatic nerve directly with the massage gun. Instead, you can work around the target areas and wipe down the sciatic nerve. Again, no pressure is needed!
ALSO READ: OPOVE M3 Pro Massage Gun Review: Why Its Worth The Hype
Deep Tissue Massage Treatment
How exactly can deep tissue massage therapy help your sciatica pain? The muscles in your lower back may be tightened, which can place stress on the roots of your sciatic nerve. Massage therapy can loosen these muscles and prevent any pinching or further pain. Massages also release endorphins, which can help you naturally fight any pain your may be feeling. This means you might experience temporary relief of everything from burning sensations to stiffened backs.
Read Also: Can Sciatica Cause Stomach Pain
Massage For Sciatica Pain
Sciatica is an exceedingly common source of pain among adults, the elderly, and pregnant women. As many as 40% of people will experience sciatic pain at some point in their lives, and of that 40%, a significant portion will experience that pain more than once. If you experience pain from sciatica, massage therapy might provide the solution you need to feel your best.
How Can Massage Therapy Help Sciatica
Depending on what is affecting the sciatic nerve, deep tissue massage can be a very beneficial way of reducing pain. One of the main benefits of massage therapy is to sooth tense muscles, which in turn is likely to reduce pain.
Stress is often associated to muscle tension. When muscles are tense, this can cause pressure on nerves, whether muscle structures are compressing, rubbing or pinching on the nerve. Massage therapists use various techniques to relax the surrounding muscular structures. Massage therapy will also increase sense of well-being by inspiring and encouraging the release of endorphins, and decreasing levels of stress hormones, which are cortisol. Calming and comforting outcome on the nervous system, can reduce muscle tension. Therefore re-energising the release of endorphin, which can improve or develop an individuals mood.
Here at Keheren Therapy, massage therapy is carried out on our Hydrotherm system. The client lying face up on two cushions that are filled with warm water, heated between 30-40 degrees. This means clients sciatic pain will be placed directly on heated water filled cushions which will also help significantly to relax the muscles and deliver the area with blood, to encourage healing.
Don’t Miss: Why Does Lidocaine Burn
What Kind Of Chair Is Best For Sciatica Pain Relief
There are many different kinds of massage chairs to consider when looking to purchase one, but not every chair is equally helpful for a specific pain like sciatic nerve pain.
Positive Postures Brio Sport Massage Chair is specifically designed for recovery, so its perfect for sciatica pain. This chair reduces inflammation and swelling, muscle tension, and chronic stress. It also improves muscle recovery, flexibility, and blood circulation.
This chair will offer you a deep tissue massage that can roll, knead, and press into you with its L-Track massage path that is designed to hit all the spots you need, from the back of your head to your glutes for that perfect, relieving butt massage.
On top of offering sciatica pain relief, this chair also offers a foot and calf massage, heat capabilities, an easy-to-use remote, and a USB charging port.
Panasonics MAJ7 Massage Chair is another alternative that can offer healing for your lower back and legs. It was designed to replicate the touch of human hands and marries modern design with the ancient arts of healing massages.
This chairs air cells will target your sciatic nerve pain by lifting and repositioning your body. Tending to your glutes and upper hamstrings and relieve stiff hips. These are the areas most often affected by sciatica pain, so targeting them will bring the relief you seek.
Can Massage Therapy Ease Sciatica Pain
Self Massage for Sciatica Relieve! (Piriformis Syndrome)Having sciatica pain can make daily activities like sitting, walking, and standing a challenge. You may experience pain in your lower back, legs, feet, hips, and buttocks. While pain killers can provide temporary relief, you may want to consider getting a massage to ease sciatica pain.
Read on to learn how massage is beneficial and find out about the different massage techniques that can reduce pain.
Don’t Miss: Cipro Side Effects Stomach Pain
Can I Treat My Sciatica
In general, light to moderate sciatic nerve pain can be treated with regular self-care at home. When you first experience sciatica, consider these three self-care remedies:
Apply cold and heat Heat helps muscles relax and cold reduces swelling and pain. Start with applying a cold pack directly to the affected area for about 20 minutes, and then move to heat. Continue switching, or stay with whichever best relieves the pain.
Take over-the-counter medication Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories will help relieve the acute pain and allow you to move around. If youre sensitive to aspirin, try ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Do gentle stretches and target massage Muscle tightness around the sciatic nerve is a common cause of sciatica, so any physical treatment that loosens muscles will help relieve discomfort and return your mobility. Take care! Talk to a physical therapist, massage therapist or physician to learn proper stretching techniques. If you overexert yourself youll risk making things worse.
These suggestions are only for cases of mild-to-moderate sciatica. If you experience severe pain, or if the discomfort persists for an extended period of time , then youll need to consult with your primary physician. Its possible you may have one of the more severe conditions that cause sciatica and may require professional treatment or even surgery.
Massage Benefits For Sciatic Nerve Pain
Massage therapy is an effective way to manage pain for those suffering from sciatic nerve pain. Targeting lower back muscles and the area surrounding the sciatic nerve causes several beneficial changes to the body allowing pain relief. Heres how:
Massage relieves lower back pain
First, massage therapy offers pain relief from lower back pain, a common symptom of sciatica. According to a 2014 study published in the Scientific World Journal, deep tissue massage may be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for relieving lower back pain. For sciatica patients who prefer an alternative to prescription drugs, massage therapy is an ideal option.
Massage soothes tense muscles and release pressure on nerves.Tight, tense muscles can increase pressure on nervesincluding the sciatic nerve. Massage therapy, unlike other pain management therapies, begins with muscle tightness and reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Massage boosts flexibility and range of motionMassage therapy can also help with sciatic pain while moving or walking. Generally speaking, massage can increase flexibility and range of motion, which results in increased mobility and faster recovery.
Massage reduces stress and anxiety
Finally, massage therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety that can accompany sciatica pain. Relaxation can help sciatica patients cope with the stress of injury while also helping to speed recovery.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Arthritis In Wrist
How Does Massage Therapy Help Relieve Sciatica Pain
Massage therapy can help relieve sciatic pain, along with helping to
- promote healthy blood circulation, which can ease nerve tenderness and built up tension,
- reduce muscle tightness and spasms,
- and improve functioning along the sciatic nerve.
Sitting for long periods of time or sleeping can cause sciatic pain to worsen, and regular massage can help to make these actions more comfortable.
How A Chiropractor Can Help With Sciatica In Littleton And Columbine
If you are experiencing a shooting, piercing pain that runs from the lower back down to the legs, you are probably suffering from sciatica pain. Sciatic is the longest nerve in the body running from the buttocks right down to the toes. The nerve can experience pain whenever you have a trapped nerve, disc herniation, Piriformis syndrome, or trigger point referral. Typically, symptoms of sciatica include the following:
- Leg pain that worsens when sitting
- Tingling or burning running down the leg
- Numbness, weakness, or difficulties moving the foot or entire leg
- A consistent pain on one side of your lower back
- An intense and intolerable pain that makes it hard to stand up
Read Also: How To Lose Belly Fat With Sciatica
Don’t Miss: Does Lidocaine Have Side Effects
https://www.knowmypain.com/wp-content/uploads/massage-can-alleviate-sciatic-pain-massage-professionals.jpeg
https://www.knowmypain.com/does-massage-relieve-sciatica-pain/
https://www.knowmypain.com/wp-content/uploads/massage-can-alleviate-sciatic-pain-massage-professionals.jpeg
https://knowmypain.weebly.com/know-my-pain/does-massage-relieve-sciatica-pain
No comments:
Post a Comment