Sciatica is a condition which can result in significant pain. If you’ve experienced it, you know how it can make everyday tasks difficult. So what options are available for sciatica treatment?

See Also: What is Sciatica?

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Sciatica

Oftentimes sciatica will resolve itself within 1-2 months. As a result, doctors often start with a conservative approach in treating sciatica. Initial treatments may include the following:

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

The pain and tingling experienced with sciatica is the result of pressure on the sciatic nerve. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen can help reduce the pressure on the nerve, alleviating some of the pain.

Hot or Cold Therapy

The use of ice packs, heating pads or both can often be effective sciatica treatments.

Stretching / Exercise

Lower back stretches can often help treat sciatica pain. In addition, exercising can help build muscles which may take some pressure off the spine in the affected area.

Visit a Chiropractor

Chiropractors are trained in physical manipulation of the body. In addition, some use additional therapy methods such as TENS. Some individuals experiencing sciatica have found relief after visiting a chiropractor.

Surgical Sciatica Treatments

Depending on the cause and length of time an individual has experienced sciatica, a doctor may recommend surgical treatment. Some typical procedures that may be recommended are:

Discectomy for Treating Sciatica

One surgical method that has been used to treat sciatica is discectomy. During this procedure the disc that is located in between the vertebrae (and which may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve) is removed.

Laminectomy as a Sciatica Treatment

Laminectomy is another procedure that can be used to help individuals suffering with sciatica. If it’s found that bone spurs or the vertebrae are putting pressure on the sciatic nerve, the doctor may recommend this procedure. During this surgery the doctor removes small amounts of bone on the outer edge of one or more vertebrae to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

Are you experiencing pain associated with sciatica? Is it time to see a doctor? You may be interested in our related article: What doctor should I see for sciatica?