I've had problems a couple of times over the years with my sciatica. It looks like I'm having a problem again

I went to a chiropractor the last two times and I guess it helped, but not really that much. I'm wondering if this is just one of those problems that will pretty much "go away by itself" over time. In other words, is it worth going to a chiropractor or would it have gotten better on its own.

I don't have insurance so I would have to pay out of pocket if I do go and money is tight right now so I hate to spend it if I can just "wait it out" for a week or two.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.

I can definitely sympathize with you and the horrible pain we go through.

I went through physical therapy for mine. I found that just laying on my back on the floor, pulling my knees to my chest and doing a very slow rocking motion is what works best for "me", when I have issues with. Thankfully, it's only a few times a year!

Hope your feeling better soon!

Ibuprofen or Aleve (take it faithfully)

gentle stretching

rest, warm soaks (whirlpool, jetted tub, hot tub)

The only other thing a traditional Dr. could offer is prescription anti-inflammatory/pain meds, possibly steroid injection, referral to physical therapy. Chiro can be helpful to some. A good, professional massage can be helpful.
I don't have sciatica. This is just what I've seen from when I worked in Work Comp.
Feel better!

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Have several friends who have or are dealing with it. My brother hasn't quite resolved his yet, but it's getting better. He recently had knee surgery to clean out debris so docs are saying that once he gives it time, his will probably go away. They think because of the pain in his knee he started walking differently and that brought on the sciatica. Have another friend, who after years of trying various things, has had no help. I think she has done everything except surgery. Have another friend who gets cortisone shots once or twice and year for the last 5 or so years and that works great for her. I think your level of pain should determine what you do, along with your finances. Exercise can help some, if you know the right ones to do.

My mom suffers from bad from sciatica on several periods lately. She is on 3 aleve a day, she also goes to physical therapy, and she also takes great advantage of her heat pad...I know if you do not any medical coverage that will cover the physical therapy it can get costly. She also goes believe it or not to the chinese ladies who do nails, they have those chairs you can sit in, and put your face in and for 15 minutes for a 10 dollar charge, they work on her back, I have to say the chinese people are really good at what they do..Hot baths or showers are also wonderful... Sincerely feel better.. Peace for our troops to come home safely... Catherine

I too have bad sciatica often. It helps me to be more active (which is hard because the pain makes me want to lay on the couch!) The best relief I have found came from a trainer at the local health club--I got one free session when I joined and he offered to stretch out my legs after a workout. He brought me the most instant, complete relief I have ever had! It is too hard to describe the stretches, but they were nothing complicated---laying on your back and pulling a leg up. Somehow, he got that muscle to release instantly and stay calm for days! I would suggest you trying some yoga stretches--google it for directions or seeing if you can get a 'free' session with a trainer or even paying for one time. It really helped me!

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