Sciatica � Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

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Patrick Foote

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May 11, 2013, 10:48:02 PM5/11/13
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Patrick Foote

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Article Title: Sciatica � Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Author: Patrick Foote
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What is Sciatica & What Causes it?

Sciatica is a set of symptoms that occurs when the body�s largest nerve (the sciatic) is impinged by a misaligned, inflamed, or otherwise damaged portion of spinal anatomy. The sciatic nerve originates in the lower back, which just happens to be the region of the spine most susceptible to degenerative changes, because it supports a bulk of the body�s weight and facilitates a great deal of movement. For this reason, sciatica commonly occurs as a result of the natural aging process and the toll that time has taken on the spine.

What are the Symptoms of Sciatica & How is it Treated?

Many patients with sciatica experience radiating pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness along one side of the lower body (the hip, buttock, thigh, calf, and/or foot). Treatment � at least initially � focuses on relieving these symptoms through nonsurgical means. Every patient�s physician-recommended treatment regimen will vary, but some of the most common conservative treatments for sciatica include:

Medication � Over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen and ibuprofen are often the go-to drug because they�re relatively safe, inexpensive, easy to find, and fairly effective. Patients with certain cardiovascular or gastrointestinal conditions may be advised to take an analgesic like acetaminophen instead. If over-the-counter medications prove ineffective, some physicians may prescribe narcotic pain relievers and/or muscle relaxants.

Hot/cold therapy � Applying heat to the lower back can relieve muscle tension and increase the flow of nutrient-rich blood to the area. This can potentially relieve neural compression and might even aid in the healing process. Applying ice, on the other hand, can reduce inflammation and numb pain. Some patients may be advised to use hot and cold therapies alternately while others may be instructed to only use one or the other exclusively.

Weight loss � Overweight patients can sometimes benefit from losing weight. Because the lower back is already tasked with supporting a great deal of weight, excess pounds can really affect spinal health. It should be noted that losing weight won�t solve every patient�s problems, and no one should begin any weight-loss journey without consulting a physician first.

Does Sciatica Ever Require Surgery?

In the event that following a conservative treatment regimen for several weeks and months has failed to provide meaningful relief, a patient may be advised to undergo an operation to decompress the sciatic nerve. Some patients may be candidates for minimally invasive procedures that are performed on an outpatient basis and can require less arduous rehabilitations than traditional open back surgeries. These endoscopic procedures are performed through a very small incision that is typically less than one inch long, and doesn�t require the dissection of any muscles, tendons, or ligaments. Patients are generally able to return to daily activities within a matter of weeks, and many patients experience relief immediately following the procedures.

If your physician has recommended surgical treatment for sciatica, ask him or her if you�re a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure. Before consenting to any operation, it may be in your best interest to receive a second � or even third � opinion to ensure that surgery truly is your best treatment option.


About The Author: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute treats the symptoms that sciatica causes. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/sciatica_sciatic_nerve_pain/sciatica_causes/

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