What is sciatica and how is it treated without surgery?
Introduction
Sciatica is one of the most common nervous system problems that can affect people’s daily lives. Often accompanied by burning, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, the pain can range from a mild discomfort to a debilitating pain. Fortunately, in many cases, sciatica can be treated without surgery. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at sciatica, its causes, symptoms, and nonsurgical treatments, and introduce the role of the Spanta Center and leading experts like Dr. Mojtaba Mostafazadeh in providing effective treatments. Stay tuned with the Spanta Center.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that occurs along the path of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. This nerve starts in the lower back (lumbar spine) and runs through the buttocks to the back of the thigh and leg. Sciatica is usually caused by pressure or irritation of the sciatic nerve and can affect one or both legs.
Sciatica pain is usually caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. Some common causes include:
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Lumbar disc herniation: A protrusion of an intervertebral disc that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
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Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
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Spondylolisthesis: A displacement of vertebrae that can put pressure on a nerve.
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Piriformis syndrome: Contraction or spasm of the piriformis muscle that irritates the sciatic nerve.
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Traumatic injuries or inflammation: Such as injuries from accidents or chronic inflammation.
Symptoms of sciatica
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Sharp or burning pain that radiates from the back to the buttocks and back of the leg.
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Tingling or numbness in the feet or toes.
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Muscle weakness in the affected leg.
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Pain worsens when sitting for long periods of time, coughing, or sneezing.
How is sciatica treated without surgery?
In more than 80 percent of cases, sciatica can be cured with non-surgical methods. Below, we will examine effective non-surgical sciatica treatment methods that are offered at reputable centers such as the Spanta Center under the supervision of specialists such as Dr. Mojtaba Mostafazadeh.
1. Physiotherapy and corrective exercises
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Stretching exercises: such as stretching the piriformis muscle to reduce spasms.
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Core strengthening: Exercises like planks to support the spine.
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Gentle aerobic exercise: such as walking or swimming to improve blood circulation.
Using advanced equipment and a team of experts led by Dr. Mojtaba Mostafazadeh, the Spanta Center offers personalized physiotherapy programs for patients with sciatica.
2. Manual therapies (chiropractic and osteopathy)
Spinal adjustments and massage therapy by chiropractors can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. These procedures help improve spinal alignment and reduce inflammation.
3. Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications
In cases where the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or, in some cases, corticosteroids. These medications help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
4. Epidural steroid injection
In cases where sciatica pain is resistant to initial treatments, steroid injections into the epidural space can reduce inflammation around the nerve. This procedure is performed carefully and under the supervision of specialists at the Spanta Center.
5. Acupuncture and complementary methods
Acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve energy flow by stimulating specific points on the body. Practices such as yoga and meditation are also recommended to reduce stress and improve flexibility.
6. Lifestyle modification
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Correcting posture: sitting correctly, using an ergonomic chair, and avoiding prolonged bending.
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Weight control: Lose excess weight to reduce pressure on the spine.
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Avoiding strenuous activities: such as lifting heavy objects without proper technique.
The role of the Spanta Center and Dr. Mojtaba Mostafazadeh in the treatment of sciatica
When should you see a doctor?
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Severe weakness in the legs or loss of bladder/bowel control.
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Unbearable pain that does not improve with home remedies.
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Fever or unusual weight loss with pain.
Conclusion
If you suffer from sciatica, contact Spanta Center today for expert advice.