Sciatica FAQ
What are the common causes of sciatica?
Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, and traumatic injuries.
What are typical sciatica symptoms?
Typical symptoms involve lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, often worsened by prolonged sitting.
Can sciatica be cured?
Sciatica symptoms can often be managed or resolved with treatment, but underlying conditions may require ongoing care.
What medications are used for sciatica?
Common medications include pain relievers (e.g., NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and anticonvulsants like gabapentin.
Is surgery necessary for sciatica?
Surgery is usually a last resort, recommended only if conservative treatments fail to alleviate severe symptoms.
How long does sciatica typically last?
Acute sciatica may resolve within weeks, while chronic cases can persist for months or longer without treatment.
What self-care techniques help with sciatica?
Applying heat or ice, gentle stretching, and maintaining good posture can provide relief.
Can sciatica affect both legs?
Yes, depending on the nerve compression location, sciatica can cause bilateral symptoms.
Is sciatica more common in certain age groups?
Incidence increases with age, particularly in adults over 40, due to spinal degeneration.
How is sciatica diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves physical exams (e.g., straight-leg raise test) and imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scans).
Can sciatica cause permanent nerve damage?
Prolonged compression can lead to permanent damage if left untreated.
What role does physical therapy play in sciatica treatment?
Physical therapy helps strengthen the core, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Are there alternative therapies for sciatica relief?
Some find relief with acupuncture, chiropractic care, or yoga, but evidence varies.
Can obesity contribute to sciatica development?
Excess weight can increase spinal pressure, potentially exacerbating sciatica.
What is the outlook for most sciatica patients?
With appropriate treatment, most experience significant symptom improvement within several months.
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