The sciatic nerve is the body’s longest, starting in the spine and running right down the ankle on both legs. Sciatica is something that the elderly experience but which affects everyone.
In fact, it is not always pain — sometimes you feel numbness, aching or even just trembling. Sciatica has even been linked to that weak kneed feeling that people get for no reason at all.
Pressure on the nerves, normally from a prolapsed spinal disk, causes sciatica, but you can also get it from sitting too long or in an awkward position.
Pregnant women often experience sciatica, which can also by heavy lifting, stress or — rarely — a tumor.
Certain types of stretches can ease sciatica.
You might not be able to do eight yoga poses each morning before work, but if you have time, give it a try.
Another well-known way to relieve sciatica is to lie on your back, your knees up against your chest or supported by a chair — keep them bent — and your head resting on a pillow. Do this for ten minutes at night or while watching TV.
Essential oils to Ease Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatica can also be treated with essential oils and other herbs. Remember, many require a carrier oil like avocado, sweet almond, jojoba, coconut oil, grapeseed or even extra virgin olive oil. Massage into the place where it hurts. If you like, cover the oil with a warm cloth; this will relax the muscles more fully.
Here is a list of essential oils you can rub into your skin:
- Mustard oil;
- Lavender essential oil;
- Roman chamomile essential oil;
- Pepper essential oil.
Other Tricks
- Nettle, saffron or other tea, or celery juice (for some kinds of sciatica);
- Fresh lemon juice — especially effective; rub on affected area;
- Fresh oregano or thyme added to bathwater.
I should mention, too, that you may add any combination of the essential oils listed above to your bathwater (fifteen or ten drops for normal or sensitive skin respectively). Juniper with mustard or pepper is particularly effective. (Side note: I prefer combining juniper with pepper, but not because it is more effective.)
If these tricks work for you, make comments to let us know. We welcome any feedback. Also, feel free to request solutions for certain ailments — we want to know what your concerns are.
Via Dynamic