What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is the name given to pain (sciatica pain) caused by inflammation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This is the longest nerve in the body, extending from the back of the pelvic girdle through the buttocks and down the legs to the feet.

Sciatica Causes

Although sciatica can be caused by a slipped disc, or by an injury or infection, it is equally likely to be the result of a strain caused, for example, by heavy lifting. Sometimes, particularly in the over 40s, there can be a mineral deficiency, for example of calcium or iron.

While sciatica pain will generally disappear of its own accord within a few days, on the occasions when it is long-standing this can be disruptive to work and to life generally. Some sufferers elect to consult an osteopath or chiropractor for sciatica treatment, while others will result to painkillers, although their effect is only likely to be a temporary form of sciatica pain relief.

Chronic, long-term sciatic pain requires to be addressed from a variety of perspectives if it is to be banished permanently. According to Ayurveda, excess Vata is migrating from the colon to the nervous system, so the treatment for sciatica is focused on calming Vata. To this end both Vata-calming and digestive medicines may be used.

Some yogic sciatica exercises can be helpful but these need to be chosen with care as they might otherwise aggravate; each individual should select postures with which they feel comfortable. Sometimes a little pain may be felt at first, but this is generally followed by an improvement. If sciatica pain persists with any particular posture its practice should be discontinued.

A Vata balancing diet and appropriate herbs will be prescribed to make the treatment more effective.

Get treatment for sciatica call us on 1300 552 260 for free consultation or Book an appointment at Yatan Holsitic Health Care Ayurvedic Centre in Australia Sydney.