The Sciatica nerve starts from the back and runs through the hips down each leg. It is an important and the longest nerve in the body. Sciatica pain occurs when this nerve gets irritated. You may feel moderate to severe pain in the back, buttocks, and legs. You can also experience numbness and weakness in the leg. You must consult an orthopedic doctor at the QI Spine Clinic to get sciatica pain therapy.
Causes of Sciatica
Several other problems can cause sciatica. Conditions affecting the nerves of the back can result in sciatica pain. It may also occur due to an injury, fall, or spinal nerve tumours. Other problems that can lead to sciatica pain are:
- Herniated Discs
Your spinal bones are separated by discs that are made of cartilage. Cartilage makes your spine flexible and helps to move around. A herniated disc occurs when the substance inside the disc moves outward and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This causes pain in the leg.
- Spondylolisthesis
In this condition, one vertebra may extend over another and this can cause pinching of the nerves. If the sciatic nerve is involved, it causes sciatica pain.
- Spinal Stenosis
It is a condition in which the spinal spaces become narrow and put pressure on the nerves. This can cause sciatica pain.
- Piriformis Syndrome
It is a neuromuscular problem in which the piriformis muscle contracts and becomes tight. This presses the sciatic nerve and causes sciatica.
Sciatica Pain Therapy
You should consult with an orthopedic doctor to get a diagnosis of sciatica pain. An orthopedic doctor or a physiotherapist at the QI Spine Clinic can suggest the best physical therapy and treatment options for sciatica pain. You can search for a physiotherapist in Bangalore to find the best one. Some common treatment options for sciatica pain include:
- Cold Therapy
You can use ice packs or cold therapy to get relief from sciatica pain. Apply an ice pack on the affected part for a short interval several times during the day. This will give relief from pain and swelling.
- Hot Packs
You may also apply a heating pad to the affected part. Heat relaxes the muscles of the back. You can also alternate between heat and cold to get relief.
It’s recommended that you use ice packs during the first couple of days to reduce swelling. After 2-3 days, switch to heat therapy. Heat can help relax the back muscles that can spasm when an injury occurs and cause pain or discomfort. If you continue to experience persistent pain, try alternating between ice and heat therapy.
- Stretching
Gentle stretching can give relief from sciatica pain. You must consult with a physiotherapist in Bangalore at the QI Spine Clinic to learn how to stretch properly. A trained physiotherapist can help you deal with the sciatica pain effectively.
- Exercise
You must exercise regularly to stay active. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that help to relieve pain in your body. You can start with mild strengthening exercises such as yoga or swimming to build muscular strength. Once your pain reduces, you can include other exercises, such as aerobics, under the guidance of an expert.
- Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can improve muscle strength and posture. Visit the QI Spine Clinic to consult with an experienced and professional physiotherapist and learn the best physical exercises for improving sciatica pain.
Sciatica pain can result due to several reasons. A physiotherapist can help to give relief from sciatica pain by suggesting the best natural therapies and exercises. Consult with an orthopedic doctor or a physiotherapist to understand sciatic pain therapy.
FAQs
Q1. What are the risk factors for sciatica pain?
Risk factors for sciatica include obesity, lifting heavy objects, and sitting for prolonged periods of time.
Q2. When should I consult with a doctor for sciatica pain?
If your leg pain does not improve in a week, you must consult with an orthopedic doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Q3. Can I heal sciatica pain naturally without surgery?
Yes, sciatica pain can be managed naturally by using home therapies and physical therapy. You must consult with an experienced orthopedic doctor or a physiotherapist at the QI Spine clinic to treat your sciatica pain naturally.
