Sciatica is a condition that causes pain that starts in the lower back and shoots down through the legs and sometimes into the feet. It happens when something in the body, like a herniated disk or bone spur, compresses the sciatic nerve. Here are some tips for relieving sciatica pain:

1. Over-the-counter medications: Acetaminophen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can help ease pain and inflammation.

2. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop a stretching and exercise routine for you, and also help improve your posture to take pressure off the sciatic nerve.

3. Stretching: You can help relieve your sciatica pain with lower-back stretches.

4. Hot and cold packs: Apply each for several minutes on your lower back, a few times a day. Cold packs first for a few days, then heat packs.

5. Alternative therapies: Many people believe that alternative therapies like yoga, massage, biofeedback, and acupuncture help with sciatica.

6. Dont stop moving: Although it may seem hard, its important to keep moving to keep your body from becoming weaker and incurring additional chronic pain. Moving occasionally and doing gentle stretches may be all you need for fast sciatic pain relief.

7. Surgery: Surgery may be an option if your case is severe or other treatments don’t help. The best procedure depends on whats causing your symptoms.

Its important to note that most people with sciatica dont need surgery, and about half get better within 6 weeks with only rest and medication. However, if you have severe pain, numbness or weakness in the area, and/or changes in bladder or bowel function, you should seek medical attention immediately, as these may be signs of a rare condition called cauda equina syndrome, which can result in permanent damage if not treated right away.