What to Know About Sciatica?

Sometimes we may not have a way when it comes to pain, but suffering from pain is entirely our choice. The ideal way to treat pain is by seeking an accurate diagnosis to find the root cause of your pain. We know pain is among the leading factors of disability; therefore, you should not ignore pain; instead, it’s best to speak with your provider for evaluation. The sciatica Red Bank specialist Ron Ben-Meir, DO, and the team at Downtown Pain Management offers exclusive treatments for all types of pain to enhance health and prevent complications. Please continue reading for more details about sciatica.

What is sciatica?

It is a pain that develops from the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve divides from the lower back and moves down the hips, buttocks, and into your legs. With sciatica, you are likely to experience pain on one side of the body; however, it may also happen in both legs.

Like most pain conditions, you may find relief from home remedies such as over-the-counter painkillers, hot and cold therapies, and stretching exercises. When the pain does not improve or go away, it’s time to see your medical provider.

How does sciatica happen?

Sciatica occurs as a result of an existing problem. Usually, sciatica occurs due to nerve compression on the lower part of the spine.

Nerve compression may occur due to the following;

·         Spinal stenosis

·         Herniated disc

·         Spinal injury

·         Bone spurs

·         Spondylolisthesis

·         Degenerative disc disease

·         Piriformis syndrome

Though rare, sciatica may also result from nerve damage due to a chronic disease or a tumor pressing on a nerve.

How to tell if you have sciatica?

Did you know about 40% of the worldwide population is likely to experience sciatica at some point in life? You may have sciatica if your lower back pain extends to your buttocks and your hips and legs.

Typically, the pain ranges from dull to a sharp burning sensation. In some cases, you may feel an electric shock. You may also come along with muscle weakness, numbness, and a tingling sensation in your leg.

However, you need a comprehensive evaluation to confirm your sciatica problem even with all the signs. Your provider at Downtown Pain Management uses advanced techniques, including electromyography, to confirm a damaged nerve.

What are your treatment options for sciatica?

Your provider has a detailed and customized treatment plan using your diagnostic results. Your treatment may include the following;

·         Epidural steroid injections

·         Epidural nerve blocks

·         Selected nerve root injections

Other treatments include physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and medications. If your pain stays with the suggested remedies, you may need surgery.

Pain affects both your emotional and psychological well-being. Sciatica pain is critical; you may want to consider medical intervention before it’s too late. Most chronic pain conditions are likely to interfere with your range of motion, and sciatica is no different.

Pain management works to prevent complications and lower and resolve the effects of pain. Besides easing pain, it helps restore your function. Dr. Ben-Meir and his team use state-of-the-art techniques to allow you to feel better and participate in your life activities. Contact Downtown Pain Management today to schedule your consultation.