| |  | | Sciatica Unresponsive to Treatment
Answered by: Christine Dennis
Question from: Aslam
Posted on: April 27, 2008
I am suffering from severe pain of sciatica in my left leg since last August, 2007. I have been through some medical tests e.g. MRI and CNS, MRI. Conclusion: "Subligamentous, focal herniated disc at L5-S1, causing minimal impingement on ventral theca. Narrowing of bilateral intervertebral foramen at L5-S1 due to short pedicles and hypertrophied facets casuing compression of nerve roots."
After getting this report I have been through various treatments and there is no sign of any relief for my pain. I received regular treatment physiotherapy which includes short wave diathermy and tens treatment. i regularly use to do some exercises for the relief of pain. Moreover, I used some pain killer and anti-inflammatory medicine to overcome my problem (as prescribed by the doctor). After few months of long treatment my problem seems getting aggravated and there is no sign of relief to my pain. Now I have decided to use herbal medicine for the treatment of my pain.
First of all, I would suggest that you speak to a yoga instructor for a specific yoga plan. In my experience, daily yoga has been a source of much relief for people in your situation but it must be tailored to your specific case. Sitting on a low stool with your knees up can help to bring relief by taking the pressure off the nerves.
Secondly, an anti-inflammatory diet would be indicated. Essential fatty acids, especially omega 3, such as walnut, flax, and hemp oils, B complex rich diet and magnesium rich foods is a good place to start. Curries and foods that contain tumeric, ginger and fennel can be eaten for the natural anti-inflammatory effects.
Thirdly, topical anti-inflammatory applications using st.john’s wort oil with wintergreen oil and cayenne pepper or ginger root will help to stimulate healing by bringing good blood flow to the area. Alternating hot infusion of comfrey, horsetail and nettles applied as a compress followed by a cold infusion of the same for half an hour each, ending with the cold infusion, can be done daily. Hot foot baths using this combination are also helpful in supplying a source of the much needed anti-inflammatory constituents. Symptomatic gentle herbal pain relievers such as willow, birch, and poplar can be used. For stronger pain relief herbs such as gelsemium and Jamacian dogwood, it is best to consult a registered herbalist.
Finally, gentle stretching each morning needs to be done once the inflammation starts to be reduced and healing is occurring to avoid re-injuring and irritating the area again.
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