Sciatica pain can be described in various ways, including sharp, agonizing, burning, and stinging, but one thing is certain: you want relief as soon as possible.

Sciatica occurs when the long sciatic nerve is squeezed or "pinched" as it exits the spine in the lower back. The nerve separates into two branches, each of which travels down a leg. Sciatica can cause pain, discomfort, and numbness anywhere along the nerve, including your lower back, buttocks, and leg.

Sciatica affects around 40% of Americans at some point in their lives, and for some, it is a major cause of chronic pain. If you have sciatica, there are seven sciatica treatment options to try to get relief:

#1: Take an over-the-counter medicine

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can help decrease pain and inflammation around the nerve. Acetaminophen uses a different mechanism to disrupt pain signals. Taking these medications in moderation and as advised will alleviate discomfort and allow your back to heal.

#2: Use hot and cold therapy

Using a heating pad or a warm compress on your lower back improves circulation and relaxes stiff muscles. Using a cold compress or ice pack for 15-20 minutes at a time reduces inflammation, which may lead to sciatic nerve compression. For best results, alternate the two therapies.

#3: Look into physical therapy

A physical therapist will work with you to create a therapeutic exercise and stretching regimen targeted at lowering inflammation, increasing flexibility and strength, and relieving pain. Furthermore, your therapist might recommend easy changes to your everyday activities to help support your back and prevent future sciatica flare-up episodes.

#4: Get moving

Sitting a lot puts additional strain on your lower back (particularly if you slouch). If you spend a lot of time sitting at work, school, or home, you should get up and move around frequently. Exercise helps heal circulation in the lower back and also relaxes stiff muscles.

#5: Drop the excess pounds

If you are overweight and suffer from chronic or recurrent sciatica, losing weight can help you break the cycle of pain. Extra pounds put additional strain on your lower back and disrupt your center of gravity. Losing weight helps to restore your spine's natural position while relieving excess pressure on your lower back.

#6: Do some stretching

Gentle stretches for the lower back, buttocks, and thighs can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the area. Stretching also helps to relax the tendons and ligaments in the area, which reduces compression. Try to do some effective sciatica stretches, but don’t overdo it.

#7: Lower your stress

Stress causes your muscles to "tense up," putting more strain on your spine. It can also reduce the quantity of oxygen reaching your sciatic nerve. Together, these effects might amplify or enhance pain signals, exacerbating your symptoms. You don't have to be a yoga expert to relieve stress; deep breathing exercises are easy to learn and can be done anywhere.

When to see the doctor

Mild sciatica may resolve on its own with some TLC (and these seven tips). Sometimes the pain worsens or simply refuses to go away, despite your best efforts.

Try to find a doctor who specializes in pain management treatments that target sciatica and other back-related symptoms. If your sciatica pain is worsening, won't go away after a week, or keeps coming back, schedule an appointment online or over the phone today to see how they may help you receive the relief you need. Don't forget: the sooner you ask for help - the sooner you’ll get the best treatment you deserve!