Meet Our Doctor
Dr. Paresh Bang
Consultant Spine Surgeon
Sciatica Specialist In Chhindwara
Sciatica presents itself when the sciatic nerve (locat in the lower back and legs area) has been pinch in some way. The sciatic nerve is commonly pinch when an individual has a herniat disc. In some cases, an overgrowth of bone (known as a bone spur) on the vertebrae can also pinch the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica.
Some risk factors can impact the likelihood of getting sciatica, including, but not limit to age, obesity, diabetes, and prolong 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 pinch in your back and neck.
What is a sciatica specialist?
A sciatica specialist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating sciatica. They may be:
- Orthopedic surgeon: This type of doctor specializes in treating musculoskeletal conditions, including sciatica.
- Neurologist: This type of doctor specializes in treating disorders of the nervous system, including sciatica.
- Physical therapist: This type of healthcare professional can help to relieve pain and improve function in people with sciatica.
- Chiropractor: This type of healthcare professional can use spinal manipulation to help relieve pain and improve function in people with sciatica.
Types of Specialists for Sciatica Treatment
- Orthopedic Surgeons: Specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions, including spine-relate issues that cause sciatica. They can perform surgeries if needed but also offer non-surgical treatments.
- Neurosurgeons: These doctors specialize in the nervous system and can address sciatica when it is caused by nerve compression due to conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
- Physiatrists (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialists): Focus on non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, including sciatica. They often use physical therapy, medications, and injections to relieve symptoms.
- Pain Management Specialists: Provide treatments aimed at controlling chronic pain, often using injections, nerve blocks, or medications for sciatica.
- Chiropractors: Use spinal adjustments and manipulative therapies to relieve sciatic nerve pressure. Some people find relief from sciatica through chiropractic care.
- Physical Therapists: Offer exercise-based therapy to improve mobility, strength, and flexibility, often focusing on relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Treatment for sciatica
The treatment for sciatica will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. However, most people with sciatica can find relief with a combination of the following treatments:
- Pain medication
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Common Treatments for Sciatica
- Physical Therapy: Helps stretch and strengthen the muscles around the lower back, improving posture and reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or prescription medications may be used to manage pain and inflammation.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Steroid injections into the spine can reduce inflammation and relieve pain, providing temporary or long-term relief.
- Surgical Options: For severe or persistent sciatica, surgery might be necessary to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. Procedures like microdiscectomy (removal of part of a herniate disc) or laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebra to reduce pressure) may be considere.
- Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy, or yoga may be suggested as complementary treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve mobility.
Choosing a Sciatica Specialist
- Experience and Specialization: Look for a specialist with experience in diagnosing and treating sciatica specifically. Orthopedic and neurosurgical spine specialists often have the most expertise.
- Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Options: Depending on your preference, choose a specialist who aligns with your treatment goals, whether it’s conservative management or surgical intervention.
- Reputation: Patient reviews, success rates, and testimonials can provide insight into the specialist’s expertise and patient care.
- Hospital Affiliation: Specialists at larger hospitals or spine centers often have access to more advance treatment options and technologies.
When to See a Specialist
- Severe or Persistent Pain: If pain continues for more than a few weeks or is severe, it’s important to consult a specialist.
- Numbness or Weakness: If you experience weakness in your legs or numbness, immediate medical attention is necessary.
- Difficulty Controlling Bladder or Bowel Movements: This could indicate a more serious condition (like cauda equina syndrome) and requires urgent medical intervention.
Long-Term Management and Rehabilitation
- Physical Therapy: Essential for post-treatment recovery, whether you undergo surgery or manage sciatica non-surgically. Strengthening core muscles and improving posture can help prevent recurrence.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and proper posture can reduce pressure on the spine and minimize the risk of sciatica returning.
“Schedule your appointment expert Sciatica Specialist Surgeon Dr. Paresh Bang. Receive personalize care from experience surgeons using advance techniques for faster recovery and better outcomes. Contact us today!”