Chronic sciatica is caused by compression or structural damage to the sciatic nerve, usually due to a spinal problem. Symptoms include radiating pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. Treatment depends on the cause and severity, and can include self-care techniques, medication, injections, or surgery.
Chronic sciatica refers to constant or recurring pain in one of the legs. The problem is caused by compression or structural damage to the sciatic nerve, the long nerve that originates at the base of the spine and travels in branches to each foot. Chronic sciatica is usually caused by a problem with the spine, such as a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or a birth defect. Occasionally, severe trauma to the leg or buttock or a large tumor near the spinal cord can also cause nerve damage. Treatment decisions are made based on the cause and severity of symptoms, and most cases can eventually be relieved when medical help is sought.
The symptoms of chronic sciatica can vary. Many people have constant, radiating pain that travels from the lower back through one side of the buttock and down one leg. Tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness are common sensations and can be felt all over the leg or at particular points along the sciatic nerve. For most people, chronic sciatica is only mildly bothersome and they can still handle daily activities, such as walking and driving. Some individuals, however, experience debilitating pain and weakness that significantly limit their activity level and quality of life.
A doctor can usually make a very simple diagnosis of chronic sciatica during a physical exam. Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, test your reflexes, and feel your leg and buttock to find tender spots. To find out the underlying cause, your doctor may order x-rays and MRI scans of your lower spine to look for signs of slipped and worn discs. Treatment for chronic sciatica is aimed at correcting the main causes of nerve pain.
If no serious damage is discovered during diagnostic testing, your doctor may simply suggest self-care techniques for pain relief. A patient can try alternating cold and hot compresses to reduce inflammation and relieve muscle pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can also be helpful. Regular low-impact exercise in the form of yoga, careful stretching, and walking helps many people find relief. Finally, it is important to try to maintain good posture when sitting and standing to take the pressure off the sciatic nerve.
You may need more aggressive treatment if a spinal problem is discovered. A patient may need to receive an injection of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications into the lower spine to temporarily reduce painful sensations. Surgery is needed in most cases of a herniated disc to realign the spine, decompress the sciatic nerve, and strengthen the spine, so the problem is less likely to recur. It may take several months of rest followed by regular physical therapy sessions to regain flexibility in your back and legs after surgery.
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