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Sciatica Treatment
Sciatica is a collection of symptoms that results from pressure put upon the sciatic nerve by nearby tissue, but it can also be caused by nerve damage. Sciatica treatment depends upon the underlying cause of your symptoms. For example, a person whose sciatica is caused by nerve damage related to diabetes may be prescribed a different combination of treatments than someone whose symptoms are the result of a bulging disc.
However, the vast majority of sufferers find success with some combination of the following conservative treatment methods:
- Rest
- Exercise for weight loss and to build strength
- Hot and cold compression
- Pain medications
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Epidural steroid injections
Surgery as a Sciatica Treatment
In addition to conservative techniques such as those listed above, surgery can also be used as a way to treat the causes of sciatica. However, surgery is a serious procedure that is not right for all patients, and in fact most sufferers do not qualify for this type of treatment for their condition. Those that do can usually choose from open back surgery or a minimally invasive procedure such as those performed at Laser Spine Institute. Minimally invasive or endoscopic procedures offer significant benefits over open back surgery such as a shorter incision, less trauma to the body, local rather than general anesthesia, and a much faster recovery time. And, endoscopic procedures have a higher success rate as well.
For more information on sciatica treatment options, and to request a complimentary MRI or CT scan review, contact Laser Spine Institute. One of our doctors will look over your information and let you know if you qualify for treatment at one of our facilities.