Sciatica’s symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options

Lower back pain reduces your productivity at work, especially if you engage in activities requiring you to lift heavy objects. Therefore, if you begin experiencing the signs and symptoms of sciatica named below, you are required to seek medical attention. If you are interested in finding symptomatic relief and treatment for sciatica, Dayton sciatica specialists are the solution to your concern. The qualified and board-certified neurosurgeons offer patient-centered care using advanced technologies. Below is all you are required to know concerning sciatica.

What is sciatica?

It is a medical condition that results from inflammation, irritation, or sciatic nerve compression. Generally, the sciatic nerve is the largest in your body because it runs from your lower back to your hips, legs, and feet. Mostly, sciatica is caused by a bone overgrowth/ bone spur or a herniated disc. When one vertebral disc ruptures and bulges against the nerves, it leads to the formation of a herniated disc. Even though sciatica can affect people of all ages, certain factors increase your risks, such as obesity, age, and occupation.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

Common sciatica symptoms include numbness, pain, muscle weakness, and tingling. In most cases, this condition affects one side of your body, with most people experiencing pain radiating from the lower back down to their limbs. Even though sciatica is treatable, if it is left untreated, it can cause permanent nerve damage. In severe cases, it can result in bowel or bladder function.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Your health care specialist begins by performing a physical examination and reviewing your medical history to help in coming up with a diagnosis. During your appointment, your care provider checks your muscle strength and reflexes. Besides the physical examination, your care provider also performs other tests, including CT scan, x-ray, electromyography, or MRI. After coming up with the diagnosis, your caregiver works with you to develop the best treatment option.

What treatments are available for sciatica?

Physical therapy, oral medication, and steroid injections are common treatment options for sciatica. The primary goal of the treatment is to improve your physical concerns precipitating the condition and alleviate your symptoms. Treatments like steroid injections and oral medication usually aim at relieving pain, while physical therapy improves the strength and flexibility of the muscles that support your back.

Do you need surgery for sciatica?

In severe cases, your sciatica may require surgery. Your care provider may offer microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive procedure used to eliminate a part of the entire herniated disc. The surgeon uses minimally invasive techniques and advanced techniques to ensure you achieve the desired outcome. Your sciatica can be dealt with in the outpatient department using small incisions, allowing you to return home after the procedure. It also requires minimal downtime.

Sciatica causes low back pain, among other symptoms, affecting your overall health and quality of life. Therefore, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms named above and are interested in seeking the right treatment for sciatica, you can get started by calling or booking your appointment at Vertrae today. The qualified and experienced specialists ensure your needs are met.

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