Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Advanced Management
Sciatica is a common condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the “sciatic nerve”, the largest nerve in the body. Originating in the lower back, the sciatic nerve travels through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it results in sciatica, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg.
We specialize in diagnosing and treating sciatica with advanced techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions for lasting relief.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Common causes include:
1. Herniated Disc:
– A ruptured or bulging disc in the spine can press on the sciatic nerve roots, leading to pain and other symptoms.
2. Spinal Stenosis:
– Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease:
– Age-related changes in the spine can lead to disc degeneration, causing nerve irritation.
4. Spondylolisthesis:
– A condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, potentially compressing the sciatic nerve.
5. Piriformis Syndrome:
– Tightening or spasms of the piriformis muscle in the buttocks can irritate the sciatic nerve.
6. Trauma or Injury:
– Falls, accidents, or other injuries can damage the sciatic nerve or its surrounding structures.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms can vary in severity and may include:
– Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg.
– Tingling or “pins-and-needles” sensations in the leg or foot.
– Numbness or weakness in the leg or toes.
– Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, or sudden movements.
If you experience severe leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or progressive neurological symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, as these may indicate a more serious condition like cauda equina syndrome.
Diagnosing Sciatica
Our approach to sciatica begins with a comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint the underlying cause. This includes:
1. Detailed Medical History and Physical Examination:
– Identifying symptom patterns and testing nerve function.
2. Imaging Studies:
– X-rays: To rule out fractures or alignment issues.
– MRI or CT Scans: For a detailed view of the spine, discs, and nerves.
– Electromyography (EMG): To assess nerve and muscle function.
Management and Treatment of Sciatica
There are wide range of treatment options, tailored to the severity and cause of your condition:
Non-Surgical Treatments
More than 95% of patients get better with this form of treatment and don’t require anything else.
1. Medications:
– Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants to ease discomfort.
2. Physical Therapy:
– Customized exercises to strengthen muscles, improve posture, and relieve nerve compression.
3. Epidural Steroid Injections:
– Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
4. Lifestyle Modifications:
– Weight management, ergonomics, and activity adjustments to minimize strain on the spine.
Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical approaches fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be recommended. We specialize in advanced, minimally invasive spine surgeries, including:
1. Endoscopic Microdiscectomy:
– Removal of the herniated portion of a disc pressing on the sciatic nerve.
2. Laminectomy:
– Removal of part of the vertebrae to relieve nerve compression caused by spinal stenosis.
3. Spinal Fusion or Disc Replacement:
– For severe cases of instability or degenerative disc disease.
Why Choose us for Sciatica Treatment?
– Expertise You Can Trust: Our team, led by Dr Dheeraj, is highly experienced in diagnosing and managing complex sciatica cases.
– Advanced Diagnostics: We use state-of-the-art imaging and testing techniques to pinpoint the root cause of your pain.
– Minimally Invasive Techniques: Our surgical options focus on reducing recovery time and maximizing outcomes.
– Comprehensive Care: From initial diagnosis to post-treatment rehabilitation, we support you at every step.
Preventing Sciatica
While some causes of sciatica cannot be avoided, you can reduce your risk by:
– Maintaining a healthy weight.
– Practicing good posture during sitting, standing, and lifting.
– Staying active and strengthening your core and back muscles.
– Avoiding prolonged sitting or repetitive strain on the lower back.
Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief
Don’t let sciatica hold you back from living your best life. We’re committed to helping you achieve lasting relief with customized care.