A lot of people nowadays are suffering from sciatica, and they don’t really have the know-how to manage this condition. First of all, people need to understand that this condition is not a disease but rather an indicator of an underlying health condition. People who have sciatica experience pain along the sciatic nerve, located in the lower back and branches out to the legs, feet, buttocks, and hips. Sciatica is jargon that is utilised in the medical field to describe discomfort that emanates from the lower back. If you are facing lower back pain, you may need to visit a hospital that specialises in orthopedic services and treatments.
Causes Of Sciatica
A comprehensive understanding of the causes of sciatica may help to manage it effectively, as it is caused by various medical conditions. A herniated disc triggers the sciatica condition in many individuals as it compresses the sciatic nerve. Another contributor to the development of sciatica is degenerative spinal disease, which is a condition that causes shrinkage of the spinal canal, which negatively impacts the spinal cord and nerve roots, ultimately resulting in sciatica. Furthermore, pregnancies have also been linked with the development of sciatica, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
Effective Ways To Manage Sciatica
Let’s take a look at some of the effective ways that can help you manage sciatica.
- Self-care measures – There are some at-home methodologies that can help you remedy sciatica effectively. The simplest one is rest, as it can help to significantly reduce inflammation and pain in the lower back region. Rest is beneficial, but inactivity can worsen the situation as well. Also, people who suffer from sciatica can utilize heat and cold therapy, as it can help to alleviate the pain. Additionally, some physical activities like stretching and light exercises can also help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Professional treatment – Treatments like physical therapy help to reduce the pain and improve function, as therapists can curate exercises that target the affected areas. Another technique that is often used to manage sciatica is chiropractic care, which involves spinal adjustments that can help to correct the spine and minimize pressure on the sciatic nerve. Also, some steroid injections can be utilised to reduce inflammation and pain. Only special cases of a herniated disc require surgery to treat sciatica.
There are also other helpful tips, which include maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight puts a strain on the back. Other habits like smoking have to be given up to prioritize healthy living, as smoking reduces blood flow to the spine area, which can worsen the condition. If you have a high tolerance for needles, you can consider acupuncture, as it can also provide relief for sciatica. Having mentioned these remedies, it is also important to note that if the symptoms persist, it may be time to visit Kaylan Hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment. They have a team of specialist doctors who are dedicated to restoring your health.
