Sciatica Treatment
Initial treatment for sciatica focuses on pain relief. For acute or very painful
flare-ups, bed rest is advised for up to a week in conjunction with medication for the
pain. Pain medication includes acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs), such as aspirin, or muscle relaxants. If the pain is unremitting, opioids may be
prescribed for short-term use or a local anesthetic will be injected directly into the
lower back. Massage and heat application may be suggested as adjuncts.
If the pain is chronic, different pain relief medications are used to avoid long-term
dosing of NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and opioids. Antidepressant drugs, which have been
shown to be effective in treating pain, may be prescribed alongside short-term use of
muscle relaxants or NSAIDs. Local anesthetic injections or epidural steroids are used in
selected cases.
As the pain allows, physical therapy is introduced into the treatment regime.
Stretching exercises that focus on the lower back, buttock, and hamstring muscles are
suggested. The exercises also include finding comfortable, pain-reducing positions.
Corsets and braces may be useful in some cases, but evidence for their general
effectiveness is lacking. However, they may be helpful to prevent exacerbations related to
certain activities.
With less pain and the success of early therapy, the individual is encouraged to follow
a long-term program to maintain a healthy back and prevent re-injury. A physical therapist
may suggest exercises and regular activity, such as water exercise or walking. Patients
are instructed in proper body mechanics to minimize symptoms during light lifting or other
activities.
If the pain is chronic and conservative treatment fails, surgery to repair a herniated
disk or cut out part or all of the piriformis muscle may be suggested, particularly if
there is neurologic evidence of nerve or nerve-root damage.
Alternative Sciatica treatment
Massage is a recommended form of therapy, especially if the sciatic pain arises from
muscle spasm. Symptoms may also be relieved by icing the painful area as soon as the pain
occurs. Ice should be left on the area for 30-60 minutes several times a day. After 2-3
days, a hot water bottle or heating pad can replace the ice. Chiropractic or osteopathy
may offer possible solutions for relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve and the
accompanying pain. Acupuncture and biofeedback may also be useful as pain control methods.
Body work, such as the Alexander technique, can assist an individual in improving posture
and preventing further episodes of sciatic pain. |
