Sciatica is a condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling throughout the lower back, buttocks, and down one of your legs. It is usually caused by a herniated disc or bone spur in your spine that presses on the sciatic nerve. Sciatica Fort Worth can cause shooting pains and other uncomfortable symptoms in the affected area.
Sciatica is common and can affect people of any age. It usually begins gradually and then gets worse over time. You need a doctor to handle the diagnosis and treatment of sciatica. It is important to remember that sciatica can be very painful and disabling, so getting treatment immediately will help.
Finding an experienced doctor with a good understanding of the condition is recommended. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, take your medical history, order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs, and ask questions about your symptoms. Once you have been diagnosed with sciatica, your doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Symptoms of sciatica
These are some of the signs of sciatica:
- Shooting pains that can be severe: The pain can range from a mild ache to an intense burning sensation. It often affects one side of your body and radiates down the back, buttocks, and leg.
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area: This is caused by the sciatic nerve being compressed, preventing it from correctly sending signals to the brain.
- Weakness in the affected leg: This can make it difficult to move or even stand on that leg.
- · Loss of bladder or bowel control: This is a rare but serious symptom; you should seek medical attention immediately if you experience it.
Treatment for sciatica
Your doctor will likely recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Common treatments include:
Physical therapy
This therapy can help strengthen the muscles around your spine, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Your doctor can recommend specific exercises to help relieve your pain. The first step is to work with a physical therapist to develop an exercise plan that is right for you.
Pain medications
Did you know that over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and sciatica symptoms? Your doctor may also prescribe stronger painkillers if necessary.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to treat a herniated disc or bone spur that is causing your sciatica. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of this option before proceeding. Surgery is recommended when other treatments have not been successful.
Spinal injections
These injections can help reduce inflammation and pain. Your doctor can administer them directly into the affected area, providing relief for several weeks or months.
When is sciatica serious?
Though sciatica is often manageable, it can become a serious medical condition if left untreated. The best way to prevent sciatica is by taking care of your back and spine. Exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and maintain good posture while sitting or standing. It is also important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.
Don’t let sciatica go untreated. Contact your doctor at Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.
