Sciatica can be understood as the pain that results from problems with the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that runs through the back of the legs from the lower back. Sciatica happens when there is pain radiating across the nerve. The pain mostly affects the lower back and down to the hips, legs, and buttocks. Luckily, this is a problem that can be treated. Over 90 percent of people with this issue recover without the need for surgery. Below are some important things you should know about sciatica in Greenacres.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates from the lower spine down to the buttocks and the back of the legs. Discomfort can be experienced anywhere along the path of the sciatic nerve, but it mostly follows the path along the lower back, to the buttocks, to the back of the thighs, and then to the calf. The pain can range from mild pain to a burning sensation, and even to excruciating levels. In some cases, the discomfort can worsen with sneezing, coughing, or sitting for prolonged periods. In most cases, only one side of the body gets affected. Some people may also experience numbness and weakening of the leg muscles.
Mild sciatica usually goes away with time. However, if you are experiencing numbness, sudden or severe pain, or your pain is a result of an accident, then you may have to seek the assistance of a doctor.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica usually happens when the sciatic nerve gets pinched by a herniated disc in the spine or by overgrown bone on the vertebrae. In some rare circumstances, sciatica can result from the sciatic nerve damaged by a disease like diabetes or compressed by a tumor. Therefore, there is no known reason why it happens. Some of the risk factors that are associated with sciatica include age, obesity, occupation, diabetes, and prolonged sitting.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Sciatica can simply be diagnosed through imaging scans such as X-rays, MRI, CT Scans, and Electromyography (EMG). Treatment is usually done through medication such as muscle relaxants, narcotics, anti-inflammatories, anti-seizure medication, and tricyclic antidepressants, among others. In some cases, doctors may recommend steroid injections and even physical therapy. In very rare cases, it may be important to go in for surgery. However, the best way to deal with sciatica is to prevent it. You can do this through regular exercise, maintaining proper posture, and using proper body mechanics.
The Takeaway
Overall, it is apparent that sciatica is a pain that results when the sciatic nerve is pinched. Luckily, if you have this problem, there is a solution. You can seek the assistance of a pain management specialist to help you with sciatica diagnosis and treatment. If you are looking for a reliable pain management specialist offering reliable sciatica solutions, American Interventional Pain Institute is the best place to visit. The facility is known for many years of treating cases of sciatica in Greenacres, FL, and you can count on their expertise to get relief.