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Calf Soreness Can Result From Sciatica

Sciatica pain may be experienced anywhere from the lower back to the calves, creating constant, nagging pain. The sciatic nerve, the longest in the body, originates in the lower back and runs downward in the back of each leg continuing to the toes of each foot. If this nerve has become aggravated due to injury or illness, the pain can radiate into wider areas of the body. Sufferers of this condition may not always realize that calf soreness and sciatica pain are a common issue.

Many Types of Sciatica Pain

Due to the fact that the sciatic nerve ranges over a large portion of the body, and will be found in such a variety of body masses, it is not surprising that the pain of sciatica irritation may be described quite differently from person to person. Many people suffering the condition complain of a sharp pain that originates in the lower back and travels downward into the leg, often through to the toes. Numbness and tingling of the feet is commonly reported in the cases.

There are many occurrences where calf soreness is experienced but is not immediately attributed to sciatica. This sometimes delays correct treatment that targets the true source of the pain. Sometimes people associate calf soreness to unusual physical activity or improper footwear, but sciatica should be considered a possible cause of any extended period of discomfort.

Methods to Relieve Calf Soreness

When it has been determined that the soreness in your calves is caused by sciatica aggravation, there are several treatments that will provide relief. For immediate pain relief, common pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help. Long term treatment may require that persons suffering calf soreness and sciatica pain seek a more permanent solution.

Yoga exercises have been shown to strengthen muscles in the affected regions and may the key to long term relief from sciatica pain. The success of yoga has been directly proportionate to the severity of the sciatica condition. It has also be suggested that Yoga must be practiced regularly for an extended period of time to be of significant benefit.

However with regular practice, yoga can reduce both the pain and the number of flare-ups. For calf soreness, a qualified yoga instructor can suggest specific postures and movements that will relieve sciatica pain and promote long term relief.

Typically this will be accomplished by addressing three key issues. Initially the cause for aggravation to the nerve must be addressed to eliminate the immediate cause and reduce the pain. This would typically be followed by proper muscle alignment and muscle conditioning exercises. Often a primary component of the long term treatment involves aligning the pelvis and spine which could require from six months up to a year.

That should be followed up by routine exercises to maintain proper tone and muscle conditioning.

Many persons find that practicing yoga to ease sciatica pain and the soreness of calf muscles results in more than merely treating the pain. Additional benefits include improved overall mental and physical health that will benefit the entire body.