Sciatica is a relatively common kind of back problem leading to pain that ranges from the lower back and backside down to the knee and foot on one side of the body; numbness, tingling and “pins and needles” can also result.

The term “sciatica” essentially alludes to the indicators of the irritation to the root of the sciatic nerve, which causes the pain. The cause of irritation is most generally compression of the nerve roots by a herniated or bulging disk in the low back.

Common Treatments

Treatments for sciatica depend on the underlying causes, the severity of the agony and the length of the problem.

For most patients with short term sciatica the following may help:

– A course of painkillers such as Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Nevertheless these aren’t without risk, especially when taken in the long term or for those with high blood pressure, possibility of heart or liver disease, or a history of stomach and digestive afflictions.

– Exercise and remaining physically active is important; bed rest should only be recommended if the discomfort is debilitating.

– Thermotherapy (hot and cold) compression packs may aid in reducing the discomfort, use either one at a time or in combo.

For longer-term sciatica the following treatments are typically recommended:

– Painkillers like paracetamol, codeine or anti-depression drugs like amitriptyline, which also help with nerve discomfort.

– Injections of a corticosteroid – epidural steroid injections are used to ease inflammation when painkillers don’t work.

– Surgery, is recommended usually as a last resort, if the issue is gradually worsening. Surgery may involve removal of part of the disc, trimming of the spinal disc or joining of bone, to release stress on the nerve.

All the above common treatments come with associated risks. That’s why it’s wise to tackle sciatica with exercise, physiotherapy or chiropractic care if feasible.

A programme of chiropractic adjustments, with a carefully thought out daily exercise routine to reinforce the muscles that support your back, can generally help with sciatic agony without the common significant side effects associated with the common treatments mentioned above.

Mark Stephens is a contract writer focusing on the health-care field. He has a particular interest in writing about spinal conditions like sciatica and working with consultants like Bedford Sciatica to help folk reach a fast resolution of their sciatica.