Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment

Sciatic nerve pain is caused by the irritation of the sciatic nerve that originates in the lower back region and then extends to the back of the thighs and legs. People often use the term 'sciatica' to refer to any pain that radiates to the legs, whether it is caused by the irritated or pinched sciatic nerve or any other condition. But sciatica or sciatic nerve pain, that radiates from the lower back region to the legs is specifically caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This pain is often felt in either side of the lower part of the body, along with numbness and a tingling sensation. Sciatic nerve pain can be a symptom of several medical conditions, which can compress or squeeze the sciatic nerve.

Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatica can have several causes, which in turn determine the sciatic nerve pain treatment. Lumbar herniated disc, lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc diseases and isthmic spondylolisthesis are some of the common conditions that can irritate the spinal nerve roots, that ultimately lead to the sciatic nerve pain. A disc is a structure that separates one vertebrae from another and herniated disc refers to the protrusion of the inner core layer of the disc, through the outer fibrous core. This condition is also known as slipped disc, bulging disc or ruptured disc. If it takes place in the lumbar region, it is called lumbar herniated disc. The condition places pressure on the sciatic nerve and causes pain that originates in the lumbar region of the body.

Degenerative disc diseases are commonly associated with aging and they can also be responsible for causing sciatica. Spinal stenosis or narrowing of the spinal canal is another condition associated with sciatica, which is commonly found in older individuals, especially those over 60 years. Sometimes, spondylolisthesis or forward dislocation of vertebrae can cause sciatica by compressing the spinal nerves. However, mild and occasional sciatic pain can be caused by some minor factors, like improper posture, especially while sleeping, muscle strain or spasm and being overweight or pregnant.

Symptoms of Sciatic Nerve Pain
Lower back pain radiating down the back of the thighs and legs is the typical symptom of sciatica. The pain can be mild and infrequent for some individuals, while for others, it can be an intolerable and debilitating pain, that can restrict their movement. This severe pain is often felt in only one side of the lower body. Some individuals can experience pain not only in the back and legs, but on the foot and toe as well. Along with pain, numbness and a burning or tingling sensation can be felt.

Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment
Treatment for sciatic nerve pain is mainly determined by the underlying causes. It is usually diagnosed with the help of a detailed study of the symptoms and by carrying out some physical examinations, like X-ray, CT scan, MRI scan and electromyogram. These tests and examinations help to find the root causes and help to determine the appropriate treatment for pinched sciatic nerve.

Sciatic nerve damage treatment can be classified into two categories, surgery and non-surgical treatment. Physicians usually suggest bed rest to the patients, as sciatic pain has been observed to subside on its own, within a few weeks with adequate rest. However, the underlying causes can lead to recurrences, for which it is very important to address and manage these factors. A simple treatment option for sciatic nerve pain is the application of heat or ice pack. If applied in the initial stage, both can provide considerable relief. But sometimes, medications may also be required to ease the pain and inflammation associated with sciatica. Both steroids and non steroidal inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve sciatic pain along with muscle relaxants and pain killers. But, of course such medications can provide only temporary relief. A more permanent result can be achieved with the help of physical therapy and exercises, that can minimize the frequency of future flare-ups.

Regular exercises and physical activities can play a vital role in strengthening the muscles of the abdomen and back, to speed up the process of recovery. Stretching exercises and back exercises are ideal for the patients of sciatica. They can also practice some low intensity aerobic exercises, like swimming. Such exercises can increase the secretion of endorphins, which are neurochemicals and can be termed as our body's natural analgesics or pain killers. More on exercises for sciatica.

But, if sciatic nerve pain is caused by some serious medical conditions, like disc herniation, then spinal surgery may be required. Physicians generally consider this treatment option when sciatic pain has not subsided within six to twelve weeks, and the patient is experiencing progressive weakness in the legs and bowel or bladder incontinence.

Sciatic nerve is the longest nerve of our body, that runs from the spinal cord to the back of each legs, for which, the irritation of the nerve produces a sharp pain that radiates throughout this entire region. Sciatic nerve pain treatment is basically dependent on the underlying causes and the severity of the pain. Initially, some non surgical treatment options, like oral medications and exercises are recommended. But, if these options fail to produce the expected result, then surgery would be required to address the underlying causes and provide permanent relief.