Sciatica isn’t a condition, but rather a symptom of something that’s affecting your sciatic nerve, which starts in your low back and branches out to run down the backs of both your legs. The most common causes of sciatica include:
- A herniated disc
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Bone spur
There are also many factors that make you more prone to sciatica, such as age, carrying extra weight, or spending long hours in a chair. As well, pre-existing conditions that affect your nerves, like diabetes, also play a role in the onset of sciatica.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
You may also experience tingling or numbness that radiates down your leg, as well as muscle weakness.
How is sciatica treated?
After Dr. Chowdhury confirms that your sciatic nerve is compromised, he typically starts out conservatively, recommending the following measures for early treatment:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants or anti-seizure medications, and
- Physical Therapy
If your sciatica pain resists medications, Dr. Chowdhury may recommend injections, such as nerve root block or epidural steroid injections. These injections reduce the inflammation surrounding your sciatic nerve, giving it the room it needs to function normally again.
If your sciatica stems from a problem in your disc, he may recommend an MRI to evaluate the extent of the nerve root compromise. If the nerve root is severely compromised, he may recommend a surgical solution to remove the portion of the disc that’s compromising your sciatic nerve root(s).
In addition to these solutions, Dr. Chowdhury typically recommends a physical therapy program to prevent sciatica from developing again by strengthening the muscles in the area.
Get rid of unwanted pain and resolve your sciatica for good. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Chowdhury today by phone or through the online booking tool.