Helping sciatica and other back pain

I would not even think about using a mini-trampoline as long as you were having back pain. The jarring from such a motion will likely make things worse - which is why doctors recommend against running when dealing with such issues.  They also recommend avoiding any twisting and turning motions, such as twisting in you chair to reach down and pick up an object off the floor.  Additionally, it is recommended to not do anything like vacuuming where you lead forward with your feet level.  When doing dishes or such, it helps to have a footstool or a couple of books to place one foot on.

Walking is indeed one of the very best exercises for back pain.  Walking in a pool can be particularly effective, though I seem to have misplaced my deluxe swimming pool.  Some of the very best exercises to help relieve and prevent back pain are:

* Lie on the floor and tilt your pelvis upwards so that your spine is completely flat from the head and neck all the way to the hips.

* Back up against a wall and tilt your pelvis forwards so that your spine is flat against the wall.

* Lie on your back and, keeping your head flat against the floor or other surface, bring one knee up against your chest.  If the knee does not come all the way, don't force it, but rather relax into it and it will probably come further. Hold for several seconds and then do the same with the other knee.

* Lie on your back with both knees bent.  Place your hand behind your head and then try to touch your left elbow to your right knee and hold for several seconds.  Then repeat with the right elbow to the left knee.  Again, don't force it.  Go slow and easy and relax into it.

Now, before you even think about exercises you may need to first stop the cycle that is creating the pain.  What generally happens is that back pain from sciatica causes the muscles to spasm which puts additional pressure on an already aggravated sciatic nerve.  In the event of actual disc injury, the bulging disc may be pressing against the sciatic nerve bundle which causes the muscles to spasm and serves to increase the problem.  The sure fire remedies are:

1. immobilization of the back by lying on your back and elevating the knees with a few pillows

2. muscle relaxers

3. pain relievers

An ice pack placed beneath the lower back can also help bring down the inflammation (I use the flat refreezable ones).

I have to say that I tried a number of natural muscle relaxers and pain relievers and have to report that I have found nothing to equal such prescription items as flexeril and codeine-based pain relievers which are combined with ibuprofen. Steroids may also help, and in a couple of instances they were essential for me, much as I shudder at the thought of them. One herbal item I have yet to try (but plan to) is Suma - which has natural steroidal properties.

The key is to do the immobilization and gradually work into the exercises and not become dependent on pills. 

An excellent item to help with back issues is an inclined table or chair.  I have one that is quite good which is made by Marcy.

Good luck - I DO feel your pain!