When you suffer from Sciatica pain, traveling hours in a car or plane can be an uncomfortable and painful experience. Therefore, knowing how to manage this pain before, during, and after the trip is crucial.
The Sciatic Nerve connects the spinal cord with the thigh, lower leg, and foot. Sciatic pain usually occurs when the muscles of the buttocks, or lower extremity become tense or tight and they compress and irritate this nerve. When this occurs, one experiences sharp shooting pain in the buttocks and down the back of the leg.
Just like packing luggage, prepare your Sciatica Kit for your trip. This should include:
- Disposable heat and cold packs. Heat can help loosen the tight muscles and cold can help reduce inflammation.
- Topical pain-relieving gel cream or spray.
- Over the counter or prescription medication for sciatica pain if applicable.
- Lumbar cushion or a rolled-up towel to place on your lower back while you sit.
- Lumbar support brace when doing strenuous activities.
- More importantly, you need to stretch your back and your lower extremities frequently. Knee-to-chest, spinal twists, and hamstring stretches are a must! (See Pictures). Whether in a bus, a plane, or a train station, these do not take up much space. Hold these stretches for 30 to 60 seconds each.
An even better idea is to consult your chiropractor, get adjusted, and be educated on how to alleviate and prevent future sciatica pain and spine degeneration.
Dr. Thomas Canseco- Chiropractor
Fit Vida Chiropractic / Disc Centers of America Reading
4453 Penn Ave. Sinking Spring, PA 19608
610-750-6804
