Sciatica refers to the pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. It is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve due to various factors, including:
Herniated Disc: When the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes and presses on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal Stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the sciatic nerve.
Piriformis Syndrome: When the piriformis muscle in the buttocks spasms and irritates the sciatic nerve.
Spondylolisthesis: The slippage of one vertebra over another, which can pinch the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica manifests differently in each person, but common symptoms include:
Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks, thighs, and legs.
Numbness or tingling sensation along the sciatic nerve pathway.
Muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot.
Difficulty walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
Worsening pain with movement, coughing, or sneezing.
At Metropolitan Neurosurgery Brain & Spine, we understand the impact that sciatica can have on your daily life. We provide information on various treatment options to help you find relief and effectively manage your sciatica symptoms.
Pain management techniques, including over-the-counter or prescription medications for pain relief.
Physical therapy exercises targeting the affected area to reduce pain and improve flexibility.
Heat or cold therapy to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Chiropractic care and spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
In severe cases or when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options for sciatica include:
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the portion of a herniated disc pressing on the sciatic nerve.
Lumbar laminectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the bone or tissue that may be compressing the sciatic nerve.
Spinal fusion: In cases of spinal instability or spondylolisthesis, spinal fusion surgery may be recommended to stabilize the spine and alleviate pressure on the nerve.
