Sciatica treatment in Hyderabad

 

Sciatica refers to the pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated, often resulting in discomfort that can range from mild to severe. Sciatica is not a disease but rather a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

Sciatica treatment can effectively reduce pain and improve mobility through a variety of approaches, including physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. If you're looking for sciatica treatment in Hyderabad, Ashoka international pain management treatment with customized care.

Symptoms of sciatica

Pain:

• Sharp or burning pain that starts in the lower back or buttocks and radiates down one leg, sometimes all the way to the foot.
• The pain can vary from mild to severe, and it’s often worsened by sitting, standing, or certain movements.

Numbness or Tingling:

• A feeling of "pins and needles" or numbness along the leg or foot. This sensation is often felt in the back, buttocks, or the side of the leg.

Muscle Weakness:

• Weakness in the leg or foot on the affected side, which may make it difficult to move or control the leg properly.

Worsening Pain with Certain Movements:

• Actions like sitting, sneezing, coughing, or bending can increase the pain, especially if the sciatic nerve is being pinched or irritated.

Radiating Pain:

• Pain that starts in the lower back or buttock area and travels down the back or side of the leg, following the path of the sciatic nerve.

Causes of sciatica

Herniated or Slipped Disc:

• One of the most common causes of sciatica. When the soft material inside a spinal disc bulges out or ruptures, it can press on the nearby sciatic nerve, causing pain and other symptoms.

Spinal Stenosis:

• Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerve roots. This condition is often associated with aging and degenerative changes in the spine.

Piriformis Syndrome:

• The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can spasm or become tight, irritating the sciatic nerve that runs underneath it.

Degenerative Disc Disease:

• As the discs between the vertebrae wear down over time, they can lose height and elasticity, leading to spinal instability or nerve compression.

Trauma or Injury:

• Accidents, falls, or other injuries that affect the spine or pelvis can lead to nerve compression or inflammation.

Tumors or Infections:

• Though less common, tumors or infections in the spine can press on the sciatic nerve, causing pain and other neurological symptoms.

Poor Posture:

• Poor posture, especially while sitting or standing, can lead to misalignment of the spine, contributing to sciatica over time.

Spondylolisthesis:

• A condition where one vertebra slips out of place over another, potentially pinching the sciatic nerve and causing pain.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

• Sitting for long periods or lack of physical activity can weaken the muscles that support the spine, increasing the risk of nerve compression.

How to prevent sciatica

Good posture: Sit and stand with proper alignment, and avoid prolonged sitting.

Exercise: Strengthen your core, stretch regularly, and stay active with low-impact activities.

Lift properly: Use your legs, not your back, when lifting.

Maintain a healthy weight: Reduce pressure on your spine by staying at a healthy weight.

Stay active: Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and take breaks to move regularly.

Sleep with support: Use pillows to align your spine while sleeping.

Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension.

Treatment for sciatica

Pain Relief Medications

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Prescription medications: In severe cases, muscle relaxants, narcotics, or anti-seizure drugs may be prescribed for more intense pain.

Physical Therapy

• Stretching and strengthening exercises: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Epidural Steroid Injections

• Corticosteroid injections: For severe or persistent pain, an injection near the affected nerve can reduce inflammation and provide relief.

Alternative Therapies

• Acupuncture: Involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to reduce pain.
• Massage therapy: Can help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.

Chiropractic Care

• Spinal adjustments: A chiropractor may use hands-on techniques to realign the spine, potentially reducing nerve pressure and improving mobility.

Manual therapy:

·        Techniques like massage and spinal manipulation to reduce nerve compression.