Spine Surgeon

Sciatica Specialist Doctor in Mumbai

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, usually caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lower spine. It occurs when irritation, inflammation, pinching, or compression impacts the nerves running from your lower back down to your legs. It is uncommon before the age of 20 unless associated with an injury. While most cases improve on their own, in some instances, treatment becomes necessary, and severe cases may require surgery.

What are the causes and symptoms of Sciatica?

Causes of Sciatica

Herniated Disc: When the soft inner material of a disc in the spine protrudes and presses on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the nerve.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the discs between vertebrae.
Spondylolisthesis: Displacement of a vertebra, causing nerve compression.
Piriformis Syndrome: Irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle in the back.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sharp Pain: Radiating from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg.
Numbness or Tingling: Along the sciatic nerve pathway, often extending to the foot.
Weakness: Difficulty moving the leg or foot due to muscle weakness.
Burning Sensation: In the affected leg.
Worsening Pain: While sitting or standing for prolonged periods.
Difficulty Walking: In severe cases, mobility may be impaired.

How to diagnose sciatica?

Spine X-rays or CT Scans: Provide initial views of bone structures for detecting structural issues.
MRI Scans: Offer detailed images of soft tissues of spinal nerves and their structure., aiding in the diagnosis of herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other soft tissue abnormalities.
Nerve Conduction Velocity Studies (NCV): Assess nerve function by measuring electrical impulse speed, aiding in the identification of nerve compression or damage.
Electromyography (EMG): Measures muscle response to nerve signals, helping diagnose conditions affecting the nerves and muscles.

What are the potential complications of sciatica if left untreated?

While most individuals fully recover from sciatica, there is a potential complication—chronic, long-term pain. In cases of severe nerve damage, chronic muscle weakness, like a “drop foot,” may occur, making normal walking challenging or impossible due to numbness. Additionally, sciatica has the potential to lead to permanent nerve damage, resulting in a loss of sensation in the affected legs. In severe cases, it could also lead to difficulty in urination and defecation.

What is the treatment for sciatica?

Medications

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.
Muscle Relaxants: Prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms.

Physical Therapy

Specific exercises and stretches to improve flexibility and strengthen the back and core muscles.
Manual therapy techniques, such as massage or spinal manipulation, may provide relief.

Injections

Epidural Steroid Injections: Deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected nerve root, providing temporary relief.

What are the surgery options to treat sciatica?

Microdiscectomy for Pain Relief – In most cases, surgically removing the offending herniated disc provides adequate decompression and dramatic improvement in symptoms. To achieve this, a small window is created in the bone overlying the nerve and the disc fragment is removed. This could be done by a conventional open approach or with the help of more recently with the help of an endoscope/microscope.
Decompression with/without fusion: Some patients may require additional stabilization with screws and lumbar spinal fusion to address structural issues causing instability.

Synapse Spine in Mumbai provides specialized care and expertise to treat individuals, navigate the complexities of Sciatica Specialist Doctor in Mumbai , and achieve optimal outcomes. If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica, don’t hesitate to seek evaluation and treatment from our qualified spine specialists to regain control of your health and well-being.