Sciatica is most often associated with lumbago (low back pain). The pain starts from the lower back and follows the path of the sciatic nerve along the leg. Although not serious, this problem is nonetheless very painful. How to Relieve Sciatica ? How long does sciatica last? The Qare medical team tells you everything you need to know about the treatment of sciatica.
What treatment to relieve sciatica?
To treat sciatica effectively, it is necessary to take pain treatments . We first use analgesics such as paracetamol , non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Treatments such as lamaline° , combining paracetamol and opium, can be prescribed for severe, very painful sciatica.
Treatments based on corticosteroids are not systematically used in cases of sciatica. But, you can receive treatment with cortisone injections or infiltrations in the event of chronic sciatic pain or osteoarthritis. The effects last longer and the medication does not cause side effects like NSAIDs.
The same treatments are used for sciatica that extends to the calf, or sciatica affecting the buttocks , for example. This has no impact on the medications to be taken. If you have sciatica during your pregnancy , you should definitely not take NSAIDs or aspirin after the 4th month of pregnancy because they are contraindicated . Ask your doctor for advice.
Effective natural treatments for sciatica
If you have sciatica starting from your lower back, some natural treatments can help relieve it . Applying heat or cold to the painful area can be a good treatment to temporarily soothe sciatic pain . Homeopathic treatments, however, have no effect on sciatica.
Rest is also important at the start of a crisis. If you have pain while standing or walking, you should stay lying down. On the other hand, this rest should not be too prolonged as this could worsen the problem. You should return to moderate activity , keeping your back straight as much as possible, as soon as you feel a little better.
Duration of treatment for sciatica
The duration of treatment depends on the type of medicine you are taking. Paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should only be taken for a short time , a few days maximum, as they can cause side effects. For sciatica that lasts, corticosteroids may be indicated because they can be taken for a longer period of time, but they must be prescribed by a doctor.
How to get rid of sciatica?
There is no miracle cure to relieve sciatica in 60 seconds. Generally, lying down, sometimes with your leg raised, helps relieve pain along the sciatic nerve .
Walking with sciatica is not contraindicated , if the pain does not prevent you from doing so. In any case, it is not recommended to stay still for too long as this could create stiffness and make recovery more difficult . You must therefore resume an activity as soon as you feel capable.
How to relieve the sciatic nerve naturally?
Consultations with a physiotherapist can complete your sciatica treatment once the worst of the attack has passed. It will help you perform exercises and stretches that you can repeat at home. The only other home treatment to relieve the sciatic nerve is to apply heat to the painful area to relax the muscles ( relaxant effect ).
The treatment of sciatica through osteopathy sessions is also possible, but consultations with the osteopath are not covered by Health Insurance, but are often covered by mutual insurance companies on an annual fee of a certain amount. number of sessions.
How to receive a prescription quickly?
In case of acute pain, you can consult doctors without traveling by teleconsulting. If necessary, the doctor can issue you a prescription for treatment which you will receive in your patient account after the consultation. All you have to do is present the QR code at the pharmacy or print it to receive your treatment.
How long does sciatica last?
Typically, sciatica lasts several weeks . Fortunately, the pain is not as intense as at the start of the attack. The most painful passage normally does not last more than a few days. If it is poorly treated or linked to another problem such as osteoarthritis, sciatica can last longer.