Sciatica
What is sciatica, and what causes it?
- Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg.
- It is typically caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis).
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
- If you find yourself experiencing a sharp, shooting pain originating from your lower back or buttocks and traveling down one leg with lightning-like precision, along with sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in your leg or foot, and perhaps even weakness or difficulty in moving the affected limb, you might be dealing with sciatica.
- Additionally, activities such as prolonged sitting, standing, or walking, and even the simple acts of coughing or sneezing, could exacerbate the discomfort.
How is sciatica diagnosed?
When seeking medical attention for these symptoms, your healthcare provider will likely begin by meticulously reviewing your medical history and conducting a comprehensive physical examination. This evaluation aims to assess various factors including your range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength.
Subsequently, diagnostic imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be recommended to elucidate any underlying structural abnormalities or sources of nerve compression.
What are the treatment options for sciatica?
Upon confirmation of a diagnosis, the treatment approach may encompass a range of modalities.
Pharmacological interventions, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or oral corticosteroids, may be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Complementary to medication, physical therapy may be advocated, incorporating tailored exercises and stretches designed to enhance flexibility, bolster muscle strength, and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
In select cases, epidural steroid injections may be administered to deliver targeted anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area, offering temporary relief.
However, in instances of persistent or severe symptoms refractory to conservative measures, surgical intervention may be contemplated, with procedures such as discectomy or laminectomy aimed at decompressing the sciatic nerve and restoring functionality.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Narayan Khandelwal
If ongoing Sciatica pain is reducing your quality of life, consider treatment at Khandelwal clinic. call 9920126404 or book online to schedule a consultation to determine if surgery is appropriate.