Dr. Paresh Bang | Matruchhaya Spine Clinic
A sciatica specialist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats sciatica, a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This can result in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates from the lower back down through the buttocks and legs.
Some risk factors can impact the likelihood of getting sciatica, including, but not limited to age, obesity, diabetes, and prolonged periods of sitting.
The best ways to prevent getting sciatica is to exercise on a regular basis, use proper body movements (especially when lifting heavy loads), and maintain good posture as you sit. You can also improve your spinal health by being under regular chiropractic care to ensure no nerves are being pinched in your back and neck.
Primary Care Physician (PCP): A PCP is often the first point of contact and can diagnose sciatica. They might recommend treatment like physical therapy, medications, or refer you to a specialist.
Chiropractor: Specializes in spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, aiming to improve nerve function and alleviate pain.
Physical Therapist: Focuses on exercises and stretches to improve mobility, strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, and relieve nerve pressure.
Orthopedic Surgeon: Specializes in musculoskeletal issues, including spinal conditions. They can provide surgical options if conservative treatments fail.
Neurologist: Focuses on the nervous system and may be consulted if there are concerns about nerve damage or if symptoms are severe.
Pain Management Specialist: Trained in various techniques to manage chronic pain, including injections like epidurals, nerve blocks, or medications.
Neurosurgeon: In cases where surgery is needed to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, a neurosurgeon may be involved. They specialize in surgeries involving the nervous system.
Medications: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants & nerve pain medications.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to relieve pressure and strengthen muscles.
Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments to reduce nerve compression.
Injections: Steroid injections reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery: In cases of severe or persistent sciatica, surgical intervention (e.g., discectomy, laminectomy) might be necessary.
Sciatica usually responds to self-care measures for most people. Rest may help relieve the problem however, remaining inactive will worsen symptoms.
Other self-care treatments that may help include:
Alternative therapies sometimes used for low back pain include:
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