India Spine Clinic

Sciatica

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What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg. It is not a medical condition itself but rather a symptom of an underlying problem affecting the sciatic nerve or its roots in the lower spine.
Sciatica typically manifests as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and one leg, often extending down to the foot or toes. The pain can vary in intensity, from a mild ache to sharp, shooting pain that can be debilitating.

Common Sciatica

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A herniated or bulging disc in the lumbar spine can compress or irritate the nearby nerve roots, including those that form the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica symptoms.
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Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to age-related changes or degenerative conditions, can put pressure on the sciatic nerve roots, causing sciatica symptoms.
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Wear and tear on the spinal discs over time can lead to disc degeneration, which may contribute to the development of sciatica symptoms.
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This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, potentially pinching the nerve roots and causing sciatica.
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Irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle in the buttocks can also lead to sciatica symptoms.

Treatment of Common Scatica

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  • Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sciatica.
  • If over-the-counter medications are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants to help alleviate discomfort.
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  • Specific exercises and stretches can help improve spinal mobility, strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
  • Physical therapy may also include techniques such as hot or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and promote healing.
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    Applying heat packs or ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate sciatica pain. Alternate between heat and cold therapy for best results.
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    In cases of severe or persistent sciatica pain, your doctor may recommend epidural steroid injections. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the epidural space around the affected nerve roots, providing temporary relief from inflammation and pain.
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  • Avoiding activities that exacerbate sciatica symptoms, such as prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, or repetitive bending, can help reduce pain and prevent further irritation of the sciatic nerve.
  • Maintaining good posture, using ergonomic furniture and equipment, and practicing proper body mechanics can also help alleviate pressure on the spine and reduce the risk of sciatica flare-ups.
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  • In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there is severe nerve compression causing significant symptoms such as weakness or loss of bowel or bladder control, surgery may be considered.
  • Surgical options for sciatica may include discectomy (removal of the herniated disc), laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on the nerve), or spinal fusion (joining two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine).