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Sciatica Diagnosis
After receiving a sciatica diagnosis, many people feel a sense of relief knowing that at least they have identified the source of their discomfort. However, sciatica is simply a group of specific symptoms in the lower back, buttocks, and/or feet; it's not a singular condition with an easy to identify treatment. Sciatica can be due to a number of issues ranging from diabetes to a ruptured or slipped disc and much more, and the most important part of a sciatica diagnosis is identifying what the underlying cause is so that it can be effectively treated.
In many cases, sciatica is due to compression of the sciatic nerve. The pressure put upon the nerve can be the result of conditions including:
- Bulging disc
- Herniated disc
- Bone spur
- Spinal arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Injury
- More
After a Sciatica Diagnosis - Treatment
Once you have identified the underlying cause of your sciatica, you and your doctor can determine effective treatment. In many cases this means a combination of conservative methods including:
- Prescription or over-the-counter pain medications
- Anti-inflammatories
- Epidural cortisone shots
- Stretching
- Rest
- Weight loss via exercise and a healthy diet
- Core strengthening with weight training
- Hot and cold compresses
In addition to these methods, surgery can also be used to address certain sciatica causes. However, this is reserved for only the worst cases in which other methods have failed to bring adequate relief.
For more information on sciatica diagnosis and what this means, as well as potential treatments such as minimally invasive spine surgery, contact Laser Spine Institute. We offer a review of your MRI or CT scan free of charge to determine your eligibility for one of our procedures and will also be happy to discuss all your treatment options with you.