Sciatica

Sciatica causes sharp, radiating pain from the lower back to the leg, often due to nerve compression.

Overview

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It’s caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, a large nerve that runs from the lower spine through the back of the leg.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Pain in the lower back, buttock, and leg
Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
Weakness in the leg or foot
Difficulty standing or walking

Treatment

Most cases of sciatica improve with conservative treatments, such as:

Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain.
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation.
Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the core muscles and improve flexibility.
Hot or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area.

Sciatica Surgery

While most cases of sciatica improve with conservative treatments like physical therapy, pain medication, and time, surgery may be an option if:

Pain is severe and disabling: It significantly interferes with your daily life and doesn’t improve with other treatments.
Neurological symptoms worsen: If you experience increasing weakness, numbness, or loss of bowel or bladder control, surgery might be necessary to prevent permanent damage.
Failed conservative treatment: If you’ve tried non-surgical options for several weeks or months without relief, surgery could be considered.

Benefits of Sciatica Surgery

Pain reduction: Significant relief from leg pain and discomfort.
Improved mobility: Increased ability to move and perform daily activities without limitations.
Enhanced quality of life: By relieving pain and improving mobility, surgery can significantly enhance overall quality of life.
Reduced numbness and tingling: These symptoms can be alleviated through surgery.
Return to normal activities: Many patients can resume their favorite activities and hobbies after successful surgery.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors. The success rate of surgery for sciatica is generally high, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief.