There are several ways to get relief of sciatica symptoms*. Some are simple changes in lifestyle such as including exercise in the daily routine. Other treatments involve regular medical appointments. This includes but is not limited to chiropractic sessions and even surgical intervention. The important thing, no matter what your treatment choice, is to be aware of all of the options open to a patient.

Although many people assume a surgical solution is best because it treats the cause of the pain and discomfort directly, it is also the most dangerous and costly. Payment for surgical procedures that may alleviate symptoms associated with the compression of nerves in the spine is often the sole responsibility of the patient and recovery time may be extensive. These two factors make seeking alternatives a wise choice.

One of the choices that can make surgery unnecessary is a change in lifestyle. Adding stretching and simple exercises to your daily routine can reduce the frequency of sciatica spasms, and your pain will be less intense as the back muscles are strengthened and pick up some of the burden that the spine has been carrying alone. If stretching and exercise is already a part of your daily life, enlist the help of a personal trainer to oversee your form. Improper form when exercising can contribute to or cause sciatic nerve pain.

Chiropractic treatment is an alternative worth considering. Chiropractors are literally back/spine specialists. Through several sessions with a trained professional, adjustments can be made that may give the nerves of the spine the room they need to sit comfortably. As a result, pressure is reduced and pain is diminished. Many people have been helped by non-invasive chiropractic treatment. However, some complain that they must receive treatments too often to keep pain at bay.

Treating sciatica with medication is yet another option. Within this option are two basic choices - treating inflammation or treating the pain. Both can potentially produce positive results, but may have side effects.

If the attending physician follows a regiment of drugs that are intended to reduce inflammation, the list of side effects are minimal. However, with several types of medications used to treat pain, side effects are numerous and serious.

Powerful pain killers may cause untimely drowsiness, sudden dizziness and vomiting. They can also be responsible for heartbeat irregularities, blurred vision and behavioral changes. These type of side effects can alter a patient's life considerably.

It is important to ask your physician pointed questions about any suggested treatment. Get as much information as possible before making a decision, and be prepared for issues that may come up as a result of the treatment you choose.

*This article is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition.