Sciatica Treatment at Pain Care of Atlanta, GA
Sciatica is a common condition that develops when the sciatic nerve in the lower back becomes compressed. This can be extremely uncomfortable, causing lower back pain as well as pain that radiates down the path of the affected leg – sometimes even all the way to the feet.
In most cases, sciatica is the result of a separate condition, such as a herniated disc or a bone spur in the bottom section of the spine. Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal, can cause it as well.
When treating sciatic nerve pain without surgery, the recommendations may be the same regardless of what is causing the issue. However, surgical treatment recommendations may vary from one situation to the next (e.g., surgery to remove a herniated disc is considerably different than surgery to treat spinal stenosis.)
Nonsurgical treatment for sciatica
Conservative therapies that can help relieve some of the discomfort caused by sciatica include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Nerve pain medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Radiofrequency neurotomy
Exercise can also help, although low-impact activities are better than those that could put further stress on the spine. For additional benefits, patients can also participate in physical therapy.
Sciatic nerve decompression surgery
When sciatica does not improve with nonsurgical care, a surgeon may be able to manually decompress the sciatic nerve. This can be accomplished through both traditional and minimally invasive techniques.
Whether you’re considering surgical or nonsurgical sciatica treatment – or have no idea where to even start – you can turn to Pain Care of Atlanta, GA, for help. We have a team of highly experienced pain management specialists who treat sciatic nerve pain on a regular basis. To learn more about what options might be right for you, contact Pain Care today.
