Sciatica

Sciatica Treatment & Diagnostics in Tardeo, Mumbai

Sciatica

As the largest nerve in the human nervous system, the sciatic nerve is the union of five nerve roots from the lower vertebrae. The nerve passes from the lower spine to the buttocks and extends from the back of the thigh to the heel/sole. It performs a significant role in connecting the vertebral column’s nerves to the nerve roots in muscles and the skin of your legs, thighs and feet.

What is sciatica?

Lumbar radiculopathy is a disorder that causes the lower back, hips and legs to ache, due to the nerves being pinched (compressed). Sciatica is the most common type of lumbar radiculopathy, as the sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in our body. Any pain or other neurological symptoms caused by the pinching of the sciatic nerve is called ‘sciatica’.

To seek treatment, you can search online for a pain management doctor near me or a pain management hospital near me.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica is primarily caused by the compression, irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerves. Some of the common causes of sciatica are:

1. Mechanical compression due to direct physical force inflicted on the nerve can cause sciatica. Herniated discs (vertebral prolapse) can cause compression of the sciatic nerve roots and lead to sciatica. 
2. Stenosis is a degenerative narrowing of the openings between the vertebral column through which the nerve roots travel. Foraminal stenosis can compress and irritate the sciatic nerve. Facet joint capsule thickening, lumbar spinal stenosis or changes/stress on the ligaments may cause similar pain.
3. Spondylolisthesis, spondylolysis and/or complete dislocation of vertebrae may strain the nerve root endings as well.
4. Tumors, abscesses, chemical inflammation, immune system responses, obesity, ageing, occupational hazards, genetic factors or cysts could also be the cause of sciatica.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

The foremost symptom of sciatica is pain that could originate in the lower back, and pulsating, burning pain may be felt across one leg. Some of the other common symptoms of sciatica are:

1. Pulsating/throbbing pain
2. Constant or discontinuous minor aching
3. Aching lower back, front thigh
4. Sharp pain along the top/outer side of the foot and sole
5. Weakness in thigh/leg muscles
6. Numbness
7. Paresthesia

When should you consult a doctor?

Sciatica usually indicates prolapsed vertebral disc as its primary cause. At times when the symptoms of sciatica may suddenly increase, medical attention is required. This could point towards a serious injury or underlying complications. 

Whenever there is a loss of bowel and bladder control or motor control of parts of the leg, sciatica can be considered a medical emergency. A fever or sudden weight loss, combined with the symptoms of sciatica, might indicate cauda equina syndrome. In such cases, and accidents, immediately seek treatment at a sciatica hospital near you.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Tardeo, Mumbai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

How is sciatica treated?

A sciatica specialist will prescribe one of the following treatments, based on factors like severity, age, medication, physical conditions, etc:

1. Non-surgical options - Since most of the patients with mild sciatica recover within a few weeks, doctors recommend physical therapy, stretching, exercise, limited bed-rest, hot/cold packs, alternative therapies like yoga, massage, acupuncture and biofeedback.
2. Medicines - Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, etc. (but only for short period)
3. Stronger medications like anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, tricyclic antidepressants, like Elavil, and anti-seizure drugs
4. Steroidal injections applied directly at the site of the irritated nerve can provide relief from the pain
5. Surgical procedures are used as a last resort for severe sciatica conditions, where intervention is necessary for a speedy recovery

Conclusion

The sciatic nerve pain (sciatica) is a physical ailment that can be treated with the right consultation and medical supervision. The sciatica specialists in Mumbai are experienced at treating spinal disorders effectively.