{"id":20538,"date":"2022-04-28T13:10:15","date_gmt":"2022-04-28T20:10:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sciatica.com\/?p=20538"},"modified":"2024-09-03T14:58:01","modified_gmt":"2024-09-03T14:58:01","slug":"9-treatment-options-for-sciatica","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sciatica.com\/blog\/9-treatment-options-for-sciatica\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Treatment Options for Sciatica"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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BY Justin Field, M.D.<\/strong><\/div>\n
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Dr. Field is a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic spine surgeon. Dr. Field has specialized training in minimally invasive spine surgery and motion sparing technologies, such as cervical and lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement, as well as non-fusion stabilization. In addition, he has extensive training in adult deformity correction and treatment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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View Bio<\/a><\/div>\n

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What is Sciatica?<\/h2>\n

Sciatica pain<\/a> can feel like an all-consuming problem. The pain cuts right through the middle of you, making it hard to ignore. Despite the pain it causes, sciatica is a symptom of a deeper issue in your spine<\/a>. Sciatica is a term used to describe nerve pain in the leg that is caused by irritation and\/or compression of a sciatic nerve root<\/a>. It originates in the lower back, radiates deep into the buttock, and travels down the leg. The pain may be accompanied by numbness and\/or weakness.<\/p>\n

Since sciatica occurs when something pinches or compresses the sciatic nerve, sciatica treatment often focuses on what causes that problem. In many instances, another spinal condition is the root cause of sciatica. Understanding the anatomical pathways and associated symptoms can help in identifying the underlying issue more effectively.<\/p>\n

By addressing the root causes, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, treatments<\/a> can be more targeted and effective. This holistic approach not only alleviates the immediate pain but also prevents future occurrences, providing a comprehensive solution for those suffering from this debilitating condition.<\/p>\n

Non-Surgical Treatments for Sciatica<\/h2>\n
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With some exceptions, doctors initially pursue non-surgical treatments for most sciatica cases. Whenever possible, avoiding surgery minimizes risks and shortens recovery times. The specific therapies doctors recommend depend on your pain level and condition. Here are a few possible treatments your doctor may recommend to help with your sciatica pain.<\/p>\n

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1. Physical Therapy<\/h3>\n
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Doctors often prescribe\u00a0physical therapy<\/a>\u00a0to sciatica patients as an initial measure. If significant pain is present, they will address that before prescribing physical therapy. Physical therapy for sciatica can strengthen your muscles and reduce inflammation. In doing so, it helps relieve pain and helps your body recover from sciatica over time.<\/p>\n

Physical therapy consists of strength and aerobic conditioning and\u00a0stretching exercises<\/a>. Physical therapists tailor the exercise and conditioning programs to each patient’s fitness level and medical condition. Your routine should avoid aggravating your sciatica pain while working specific muscles to help you overcome it.<\/p>\n

For sciatica, physical therapy routines generally focus on:<\/p>\n