Sciatica
Sciatica is the inflammation of the sciatic nerve causing pain and stiffness down the hamstring. Sciatica is becoming more and more common. People suffering from sciatica express that it hurts to stand, walk, run, stretch, and sit. Sciatica can be intermittent and can induce individuals to rely on or abuse pain medication just to get through the day. If sciatica is left untreated, surgery may seem like the only option to remove the pain.
The sciatic nerve can become active, causing pain, due to a past injury, constant sitting or a slipped disk. Exercise without appropriate stretching can exacerbate the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve can act up when the piriformus, gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus become tight and lose flexibility, which adds pressure to the nerve. If you are not an active person, the aforementioned muscles can become weak which leaves the sciatic nerve vulnerable.
Massage therapy can help by relaxing the nerve and the surrounding muscles. Ice massage is great to begin with, as it reduces inflammation of the inflamed area before detailed massage work is performed on the nerve and muscles to regain strength and flexibility.
Recovery depends on the person and how long they have been suffering from sciatica or ignoring the symptoms. Depending on the pain, self-treatment with ice or a massage tool is recommended for mitigating chronic pain if you cannot receive massage treatment.