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How to Apply Heat Therapy for Your Sciatica Symptoms By Dr Andrew Moeller

Sciatica symptoms, like pain in your leg or numbness in your foot, can strike without warning.

By now, you likely know that heat therapy may help you find quick relief from these flare-ups. But you may be wondering how to apply heat therapy for your sciatica symptoms. Look no further; we have the answers for you below.

The first thing to know about heat therapy is that you want the temperature to be warm, not hot. If the temperature is too hot, you may suffer serious burns.

In part, the duration of your heat therapy session depends on the severity of your symptoms. If your flare-up is not severe, a 15 to 20 minute session may be enough. If your pain is acute, you may benefit from a 30 minute to 2 hour session. These sessions can be repeated several times throughout the day.

There are multiple options for heat therapy, including warm water bottles and electric blankets. Regardless of which option you choose, it is a smart idea to place a cloth barrier between your skin and the heat source.