Take a warm bath and apply a hot compress

This treatment helps to open up blood vessels, better blood circulation to the damaged nerve area, reduce muscle spasms, and reduce pressure on the nerve. Patients can soak in a warm bath or shower. You can add a few drops of peppermint essential oil, cajeput oil, or ginger essential oil in combination with a full body massage for better sciatica relief. Besides, the patient can also apply the hot compress for the same effect as taking a warm bath.

If a cold compress works when the pain first appears, a hot compress will help reduce pain after 48 hours. Patients can use hot towels, ice packs, and hot pads to apply to the painful area. Hot compresses will directly affect the area of the painful sciatic nerve, reducing pain and stiffness. However, the hot compress method is not suitable for people with sciatica with swelling and inflammation. High temperatures can stimulate blood circulation to the site of inflammation, making the inflammation worse.