Diseases of the sciatic nerve are quite common. They may arise due to various factors that directly harm the nerve, such as infections or hypothermia, or it can become involved in an inflammatory process due to issues with neighboring organs and tissues.
Sciatica is pain that occurs due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can cause significant discomfort and limitations in mobility. The sciatic nerve is the longest in the human nervous system. It begins in the area of the coccyx and runs through the buttock down the leg to the foot. Therefore, when it is pinched, the pain radiates from the lower back to the back of the thigh and further to the calf, heel, and toes.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica can occur for several reasons:
- Spinal diseases, such as herniated or protruding intervertebral discs that press on the nerve roots.
- Osteochondrosis — degenerative changes in the spine that can damage nerve roots.
- Physical strain and injuries in the back area — can cause inflammation or swelling affecting the sciatic nerve.
- Inflammatory conditions caused by infection, general or local hypothermia, and other factors.
- Pregnancy — in the later stages, women may experience pulling pains in the lower back due to overloading the spine.
Symptoms of Sciatica
The main manifestations of sciatica usually include shooting or burning pain that spreads from the lower back through the buttocks to the back of the leg. It may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, causing the patient to have difficulty moving the leg.
It is essential to differentiate sciatica from other diseases of the sciatic nerve, as this can affect treatment tactics. For example, neuritis (inflammation) of the sciatic nerve is usually accompanied by severe pain and a feeling of "electric shocks" in the leg, typically without additional symptoms. Additionally, pain in the lower back may be caused by muscle tension and does not always have associated neurological symptoms.
You should see a doctor if the pain is severe, persistent, does not decrease over time, does not improve with home treatment, or if neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness) appear that require consultation. During the examination, the doctor identifies characteristic pain points, loss of sensation in specific areas, and vegetative-trophic disturbances, such as impaired blood supply to soft tissues, sweating, and others.
Treatment of Sciatic Nerve Compression
Therapy is tailored to the patient's condition. It can include:
- Prescription of medications;
- Engaging in therapeutic exercises;
- Massage;
- Physiotherapeutic procedures.
In the medical treatment of sciatic nerve inflammation, the following groups of medications are used:
- Non-specific anti-inflammatory drugs. If the pain syndrome is pronounced, preference is given to injections, which act faster and can be more effective at the initial stage.
- Heating ointments and gels applied locally.
- Muscle relaxants — medications that reduce muscle tension;
- Vitamins of group B — accelerate the recovery of damaged nerves.
In severe cases, hormonal agents may be indicated.
If the standard treatment plan does not help, the specialist may suggest a sciatic nerve block. In this case, medications (solutions of novocaine, lidocaine, diclofenac, and others) are injected directly into the affected area.
How to Treat Sciatica
Physiotherapy is an essential component of treating sciatica. It helps reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, improve blood circulation, and restore mobility.
Main Physiotherapeutic Methods:
- Magnetotherapy
This method is based on the use of a magnetic field, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Magnetotherapy improves blood circulation in the affected area, promotes tissue recovery, and helps relieve muscle spasms. The procedure is painless and may involve several sessions, depending on the patient's condition. - UHF Therapy (Ultrahigh Frequency Therapy)
UHF therapy is used to treat inflammation and pain in the area of the sciatic nerve. This method helps to improve metabolic processes in tissues, accelerates healing, and reduces swelling. UHF therapy also has a relaxing effect on the muscles. - Electrophoresis and Phonophoresis with Medication
Electrophoresis is a method where microcurrents are used to deliver medications (analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs) directly to the problem area. This allows for rapid pain relief.
Phonophoresis is a method that uses ultrasound waves to deliver medications into the deeper layers of tissue. It helps reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which contributes to faster regeneration. - Paraffin Applications
This method involves using heated paraffin to improve blood circulation in the affected area. Paraffin applications provide a warming effect, reduce muscle tension, and improve the elasticity of soft tissues. This is a very pleasant and relaxing procedure that can significantly relieve pain.
How to Treat Sciatica After the Acute Phase
During the recovery period, sessions of manual therapy are recommended. Massaging the sciatic nerve area during exacerbation is advised only on the healthy side, increasing the volume and intensity of procedures gradually based on the patient's improvement. Manual therapy and massage focus on preventing the recurrence of sciatica.
Exercises for sciatic nerve compression help restore normal function of the lower limb. Patients are also taught proper walking techniques. For preventive purposes, exercises should be performed regularly. For more details on the exercise program for sciatica prevention, you can read on our website: https://dobrobut.com.
Prevention of Sciatica
Preventing sciatic nerve inflammation and compression involves treating the early stages of the disorder. After experiencing sciatica, all measures should be aimed at preventing recurrences. Patients are advised to avoid hypothermia: not sitting on cold surfaces, avoiding cold water, and wearing warm clothing in winter. It is recommended to gradually strengthen the body and regularly perform the exercise program.
Patients prone to frequent respiratory illnesses should not "walk them off." Heavy physical loads should also be avoided whenever possible. For sciatica based on congenital spinal changes or acquired curvatures, it is recommended to wear a supportive corset.
Doctors also advise maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity is a common cause of sciatic nerve compression. It's essential to monitor posture and lift heavy objects correctly, meaning keeping the back straight and squatting to the load rather than bending toward it. It is preferable to sleep on firm mattresses.
You can seek qualified assistance for sciatica from specialists at the Clinical Vertebrology Center "Dobrobut."
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What Patients Ask About Sciatica
- What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition that causes painful sensations along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks to the legs. This pain may result from irritation or compression of the nerve. - What are the main symptoms of sciatica?
The main symptoms include shooting or burning pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. - What causes sciatica?
Sciatica may be caused by a herniated intervertebral disc that presses on the nerve. Other causes may include degenerative changes in the spine, injuries, inflammatory processes, or tumors. - How is sciatica diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on a clinical examination and medical history. The doctor may order additional tests, such as MRI or CT, to determine the exact cause of the pain. - Can sciatica be treated at home?
In the early stages, sciatica can be alleviated through home treatments that include rest, light exercises, and heat therapy. However, it’s essential to see a doctor if the pain lasts longer than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by neurological symptoms. - What treatment methods exist for sciatica?
Treatment may include medication therapy to reduce pain and inflammation, physiotherapy, massage, manual therapy, exercises to strengthen the back, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. - Can sciatica be prevented?
Yes, sciatica can be prevented through maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical exercises to strengthen the back, and correcting posture. It is also important to avoid overexertion and lift heavy objects correctly. - Can sciatica return after treatment?
Yes, this is possible, especially if the underlying causes of the pain are not addressed or if the patient forgets about preventive measures.
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