Sciatica is caused by a disc that has become misaligned from the spinal structure and begins to exert pressure on the radicular nerve which forms part of the sciatic nerve. The term sciatica is used too frequently and rather loosely to talk about pain in the back and leg but true sciatica or radiculopathy is a condition that is quite different. Sciatica can be debilitating and distressing. However, most sufferers find relief within a few weeks or a few months without resorting to surgical procedures. Sciatica is an ailment that is in turn a symptom of an underlying condition. It is not caused by injury or trauma; rather it is a developmental condition of wear and tear on the structure of the lower spine.
Sciatica is caused by inflammation as well as pressure on the nerve root. Sciatica relief involves relieving both conditions and Sciatica treatment may be non-surgical or surgical.
Non-surgical treatment of sciatica consists of a combination of therapies including alternative treatments, stretches and gentle exercises. The aim of treatment is to relieve the painful condition as well as to prevent a recurrence of the condition. The condition demands the reduction of pain and inflammation before any other treatment can be administered. Therefore, doctors will prescribe pain medication in the initial stages of treatment. Pain medication may belong to the group of acetaminophen. Though this group of pain killers is effective in quelling pain, the anti-inflammatory effect is not so effective. To deal more effectively with pain and reduce inflammation, doctors often prescribe pain medication from the group called NSAIDs. These are generally aspirin based and may have the desired effect. In severe cases, oral steroids or opioids may be prescribed under strict supervision.
Alternative pain medications include the use of homeopathic medication. Patients have reported amazing results from the administration of homeopathy. However, the verdict is inconclusive as to the efficacy of the medication. In addition, skeptics claim that homeopathic medication is more of a pain reliever not a sciatica relief or cure.
Non-surgical Spinal Decompression is a kind of hydraulic traction that is controlled by the computer. The purpose is to allow the doctor to manipulate the spinal column without surgery in order to realign the herniated disc and free the nerve from compression. Aside from being non-invasive, it is a drug free alternative remedy. However, the effectiveness and long term benefits of the procedure are yet to be established.
Physical Therapy is used to treat disorders and ailments of the musculoskeletal system like sciatica. The physical therapists use traction, manipulation, electrical impulses and other devices to improve mobility and flexibility without surgery or as a recovery procedure after surgery. Other manipulation therapies include chiropractic manipulation, acupressure and reflexology. Mind Sciences like Rieki are also used as alternative therapies for sciatica relief.
In cases where reconstruction of the spinal column may be required, spinal surgery may be the only alternative. The procedure involves physically repairing the damaged portion to lift the pressure off of the nerve that is being compressed and causing sciatica.
Sciatica is caused by a disc that has become misaligned from the spinal structure and begins to exert pressure on the radicular nerve which forms part of the sciatic nerve. The term sciatica is used too frequently and rather loosely to talk about pain in the back and leg but true sciatica or radiculopathy is a condition that is quite different. Sciatica can be debilitating and distressing. However, most sufferers find relief within a few weeks or a few months without resorting to surgical procedures. Sciatica is an ailment that is in turn a symptom of an underlying condition. It is not caused by injury or trauma; rather it is a developmental condition of wear and tear on the structure of the lower spine.
Sciatica is caused by inflammation as well as pressure on the nerve root. Sciatica relief involves relieving both conditions and Sciatica treatment may be non-surgical or surgical.
Non-surgical treatment of sciatica consists of a combination of therapies including alternative treatments, stretches and gentle exercises. The aim of treatment is to relieve the painful condition as well as to prevent a recurrence of the condition. The condition demands the reduction of pain and inflammation before any other treatment can be administered. Therefore, doctors will prescribe pain medication in the initial stages of treatment. Pain medication may belong to the group of acetaminophen. Though this group of pain killers is effective in quelling pain, the anti-inflammatory effect is not so effective. To deal more effectively with pain and reduce inflammation, doctors often prescribe pain medication from the group called NSAIDs. These are generally aspirin based and may have the desired effect. In severe cases, oral steroids or opioids may be prescribed under strict supervision.
Alternative pain medications include the use of homeopathic medication. Patients have reported amazing results from the administration of homeopathy. However, the verdict is inconclusive as to the efficacy of the medication. In addition, skeptics claim that homeopathic medication is more of a pain reliever not a sciatica relief or cure.
Non-surgical Spinal Decompression is a kind of hydraulic traction that is controlled by the computer. The purpose is to allow the doctor to manipulate the spinal column without surgery in order to realign the herniated disc and free the nerve from compression. Aside from being non-invasive, it is a drug free alternative remedy. However, the effectiveness and long term benefits of the procedure are yet to be established.
Physical Therapy is used to treat disorders and ailments of the musculoskeletal system like sciatica. The physical therapists use traction, manipulation, electrical impulses and other devices to improve mobility and flexibility without surgery or as a recovery procedure after surgery. Other manipulation therapies include chiropractic manipulation, acupressure and reflexology. Mind Sciences like Rieki are also used as alternative therapies for sciatica relief.
In cases where reconstruction of the spinal column may be required, spinal surgery may be the only alternative. The procedure involves physically repairing the damaged portion to lift the pressure off of the nerve that is being compressed and causing sciatica.