Page 23 - Florida Sentinel 6-8-18

Health
Keep Moving
If your
pain isn't too
severe, it's a
good idea to
stretch, go
for short
walks, and do
any other
physical ac-
tivities that you feel up to. It's especially im- portant to try to stretch your lower back, since that's where something may be pinch- ing your sciatic nerve.
Give It Time
"Wait and
see" might
not be what
you want to
hear when
you're in
pain, but it
works. The
passage of
time is probably the best proven treatment. About 80%-90% of people with sciatic nerve pain get better within a few weeks.
Stand Up
While a little extra pam- pering may be in order, don't stay off your feet for long. Too much bed rest can weaken your muscles. If you don't feel up to your usual workout, it's smart to listen to your body's signals. But try not to sit a lot or the pain might get worse.
Try Over-the-Counter Meds
NSAIDs like
ibuprofen and
naproxen may
help ease your
pain as well as
bring down in-
flammation.
Take the dose
on the drug's
label unless your doctor gives you special in- structions.
Work With a Physical Therapist
Physical
therapy can
help you cor-
rect poor
posture or
strengthen
the muscles
that support
your lower
back. The therapist will create an exercise pro- gram, including stretching techniques, that you can do at home.
Health Tip
Why It Hurts
Sciatic nerves go from your lower back into your legs. When something presses on them, like a slipped disk or a bone spur, you get sciatica. You might have a burning sensation, numbness, weakness, or pain. Some peo- ple say it feels like pins and needles, while others say it's more like getting an electrical shock or being stabbed with a knife. However it feels to you, there are many ways to get relief.
Heat Things Up or Cool Them Down
Hot and cold may be op-
posites, but both can help
keep you comfortable. Cold
treatment is usually best for
an injury that just hap-
pened. After about 72 hours,
doctors usually suggest
switching to heat. Use an ice
pack that's wrapped in a
towel or try a heating pad for
about 15-20 minutes at a time. Be careful not to burn your skin.
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