Q. Dear Terry, “How can I fix very painful sciatica?” – Zane R., Richardson, TX

A. Dear Zane, The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body and runs from the spinal cord to the buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg. It controls many of the muscles in the lower legs and provides feeling to the thighs, legs, and feet. Sciatica refers to pain that often develops due to the sciatic nerve being compressed or “pinched”. The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating discomfort.

I have some options that I believe will make a significant difference. When it comes to addressing pain, I recommend these four ingredients: curcumin enhanced with turmeric essential oil, boswellia, DLPA, and nattokinase. Each ingredient works in a slightly different manner to get you comfortable as quickly as possible. I would take these four ingredients up to three times daily.

I believe you would also benefit greatly by taking a combination of nutrients to support nerve health. These nutrients include: B vitamins, biotin, alpha lipoic acid, chromium, and zinc, among others. B vitamins (B1-B3, B6, B12, Folate, and Pantothenic Acid) can help our nerves function better, delay damage to nerves, and reduce the frequency and intensity of the pain symptoms. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) can boost levels of glutathione, one of the body’s natural antioxidants, which helps protect delicate nerves from oxidative damage. Current research also shows that ALA can help to reduce the pain and tingling symptoms. Extremely effective as an antioxidant, zinc helps to promote tissue and wound healing.

When looking for nutrients, choose B vitamins in their “active” forms, as well as minerals in the form of amino acid chelates. Active B vitamins do not need conversion in the liver and are already in the effective form our body needs. This is important because many people (some experts estimate up to 50% of our population) do not convert B vitamins efficiently and, therefore, don’t receive their full benefits. I also prefer the amino acid chelates for minerals because they are so much better absorbed.

I recommend taking: 25 mg of vitamin B1, 25 mg of vitamin B2, 10 mg of niacin, 30 mg of vitamin B6, 425 mcg of folate, 500 mcg of vitamin B12, 1,000 mcg of biotin, 200 mg of pantothenic acid, 10 mg of zinc, 200 mcg of chromium, 300 mg of alpha lipoic acid, 100 mg of boswellia, and 50 mg of benfotiamine, twice daily.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally