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Sciatic nerve pain relief begins with determining which “version” of sciatica you’re suffering from. Any one of the following four problems can create the symptoms often associated with sciatica: • True Sciatica Each of these problems can cause symptoms such as lower back pain, buttocks pain, and pain down the leg. But because they are distinct issues, treatment must be specifically targeted. Too often individuals are given generic physical therapy exercises or other generic recommendations such as aerobic activity. Not only is this very imprecise, but the wrong type of treatment can, and often does, worsen the problem. And that’s when sciatic nerve pain relief becomes sciatica-like pain increased! To determine which form of sciatic nerve pain relief is most appropriate, it’s important to become familiar with the distinctions among these problems. Only True Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome actually involve the sciatic nerve. The former is a form of nerve compression, the latter a form of nerve entrapment. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction is a problem at the sacroiliac joint. Myofascial Trigger Points are a problem that occurs in ischemic muscles (muscles with poor blood circulation). Click on the individual issues to learn about the most appropriate pain relief recommendation for each. It’s important to point out that a combination of these problems is also possible and not infrequent. For example, an individual could be suffering from, say, both piriformis syndrome as well as trigger points in the piriformis muscle. This is especially true in cases where postural distortion has resulted in a functional leg-length discrepancy. Combination problems are also more likely in individuals who have ignored their symptoms and simply tried to cope, hoping to get better spontaneously. In my experience, men are at least twice as likely as women to adopt a stoic attitude about pain. The result of ignoring pain is that the body is forced to compensate, to “escape” from the pain through muscle recruitment and faulty movement patterns. When muscles are recruited for jobs they are not designed to do, they quickly become fatigued and strained. Insult, then, is added to injury. Return to Top of Sciatic Nerve Pain Relief
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