Home care for sciatica includes:
- Avoid activities that cause pain.
- Apply a cold compress:
- Wrap ice in a moist hand towel. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, for the first few days.
- Apply warm compresses:
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, after a few days.
- Acetaminophen for pain
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain:
- Rest your back:
- Avoid heavy lifting.
- Avoid bedrest.
- Return to walking as soon as possible.
- After the pain resolves, start:
- Back stretching exercises
- Back range of motion exercises
- Back strengthening exercises.
- Maintain good posture.
- Lift with your legs.
- Weight loss if you are overweight
- Take prescribed medications as directed.
