When the sciatic nerve is impinged by a tumor, a slipped intervertebral disc or bone spur at the spinal cord level a number of symptoms are experienced on the affected limb. This is what is termed sciatica (or radiculopathy). Commonly, affected persons complain of a tingling sensation, weakness and varying degrees of pain. There are several modalities of sciatica treatment Marina Del Rey patients need to be aware of if struggling with the problem.
Most of the treatments that are available are conservative in nature. The surgical techniques are mainly used for the advanced forms of the condition. Physical exercise is one of the commonest interventions that exist. There are many self-help physical actives that are recommended. They include regular walking, cycling and swimming. Short term bed rest is often prescribed but the aim should be to return to work as soon as possible.
Compression packs are another cheap yet effective treatment that can be tried out. Both cold and hot compressions help reduce the leg and the back pain. A cold compression pack can be made using a handful of frozen peas wrapped in a small towel. Hot compressions are available commercially and can be easily obtained from pharmacies. These therapies can be used two to three times in a day.
There are a number of pain relieving drugs that can be considered. One of the groups of drugs that are considered here are the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also known as NSAIDs). Examples of NSAIDs include naproxen, ibuprofen and diclofenac. Stronger analgesic agents such as morphine and codeine are required for more severe pain. Tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants may be added in some cases to help with nerve pain.
The specialist usually comes in when your GP is unable to manage the symptoms adequately or when the sciatica is complicated. Spinal surgeons can do a number of things one of which is the administration of spinal injections. The injections may contain either a local anesthetic or a steroid. Steroids have anti-inflammatory properties which help greatly in symptomatic relief.
Surgery is not usually required except in rare circumstances. One of the situations in which it may be indicated is when the problem has been clearly identified. The types of surgeries performed include laminectomy, fusion surgery and discectomy. The type of surgery to be used is mainly determined by the underlying problem. Risks exist just as is the case for other surgeries.
Alternative therapies have a role to play as well. Acupuncture and chiropractic have in particular been used widely with variable rates of success. In acupuncture, sharp needles are sunk into the spine (in the area believed to the source of the problem). While some people claim that they get immense relief from the therapy, others say that there is very little or no relief at all. Chiropractic is manipulation with the aim of restoring spinal mobility.
The probability of suffering from sciatica is immensely lowered by taking part in regular physical activities. The most beneficial routines are those that help strengthen abdominal and low back muscles. It is also vital that one maintains an upright posture when sitting, standing or walking. This ensures that the spine curvatures retain their natural contours.
Most of the treatments that are available are conservative in nature. The surgical techniques are mainly used for the advanced forms of the condition. Physical exercise is one of the commonest interventions that exist. There are many self-help physical actives that are recommended. They include regular walking, cycling and swimming. Short term bed rest is often prescribed but the aim should be to return to work as soon as possible.
Compression packs are another cheap yet effective treatment that can be tried out. Both cold and hot compressions help reduce the leg and the back pain. A cold compression pack can be made using a handful of frozen peas wrapped in a small towel. Hot compressions are available commercially and can be easily obtained from pharmacies. These therapies can be used two to three times in a day.
There are a number of pain relieving drugs that can be considered. One of the groups of drugs that are considered here are the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also known as NSAIDs). Examples of NSAIDs include naproxen, ibuprofen and diclofenac. Stronger analgesic agents such as morphine and codeine are required for more severe pain. Tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants may be added in some cases to help with nerve pain.
The specialist usually comes in when your GP is unable to manage the symptoms adequately or when the sciatica is complicated. Spinal surgeons can do a number of things one of which is the administration of spinal injections. The injections may contain either a local anesthetic or a steroid. Steroids have anti-inflammatory properties which help greatly in symptomatic relief.
Surgery is not usually required except in rare circumstances. One of the situations in which it may be indicated is when the problem has been clearly identified. The types of surgeries performed include laminectomy, fusion surgery and discectomy. The type of surgery to be used is mainly determined by the underlying problem. Risks exist just as is the case for other surgeries.
Alternative therapies have a role to play as well. Acupuncture and chiropractic have in particular been used widely with variable rates of success. In acupuncture, sharp needles are sunk into the spine (in the area believed to the source of the problem). While some people claim that they get immense relief from the therapy, others say that there is very little or no relief at all. Chiropractic is manipulation with the aim of restoring spinal mobility.
The probability of suffering from sciatica is immensely lowered by taking part in regular physical activities. The most beneficial routines are those that help strengthen abdominal and low back muscles. It is also vital that one maintains an upright posture when sitting, standing or walking. This ensures that the spine curvatures retain their natural contours.
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