| This column is
about my experience as an
alternative health care provider within the modern medical system.
Although I now live in Morro Bay, I still manage a health care clinic
in the San Diego area, as I have done for the past twenty-five years
and where I still work ten days out of each month. |
|
Sciatic
Solutions - Part 2
By
Brian Dorfman
A general rule in treating sciatic problems is that each location needs
to be resolved independently. And it can take time.
There is no magic pill or procedure that will remedy these
issues. No doctor can do it for you. Your active
participation is required for a true and lasting resolution.
For my
part I start off addressing what's symptomatic, with the understanding
that if someone is experiencing pain from their lower back to their
toe, it generally its going to be slower progress than if someone just
has it in their hip area or only down their leg. The resolution below
the knee tends to be much simpler as the nerve has a lot less power
there. Sometimes we resolve one area only to discover extra attention
is needed further down stream.
Along
with receiving hands-on massage by a qualified practitioner, the
following self-care practices are essential for addressing sciatic
issues.
Self
Massage
Self-massage
on a regular basis is an essential component of recovery. It calms the
nerve and relaxes the muscles. And it's very simple.
There are many variations on self-massage but my favorite is with the
tennis ball. I really like the Accuroller Massage Stick
by SKLZ
that can be used just like the tennis ball but with more versatility.
Basically, you position the Accuroller or tennis ball between your body
and a relatively hard surface, like a chair or the floor. When sitting
or lying down, place the ball under the area of discomfort and apply
the right amount of pressure.
The
sensation should be strong and satisfying, a "good pain" feeling. If
you are wincing or gritting your teeth, you need to back off. Once you
have adjusted yourself to achieve the right pressure, relax as much as
possible, breath deeply and wait for the sensation to fade.
Then move to the next area and repeat.
Biomechanics
Biomechanics is another vital component for addressing these issues.
Especially for those who sit a lot, the use of correct sitting posture
is essential to reducing sciatic symptoms. If you are one of those
people who sits a lot for work or travel, my video, The Best Way to
Sita, is a must see. Take three minutes now to view this piece and get
into your best sitting posture right away.
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