Customer question:
How long does sciatica last? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Sciatica is where the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the feet, is irritated or compressed. It usually improves within 4 to 6 weeks, but relief may take longer. Acute pain can be felt as a stinging or burning sensation, which can reduce to a dull ache.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed. The cause is usually a herniated disc in the spine or an overgrowth of bone, sometimes called bony growths, that form on the spinal bones. In rare cases, a tumor can press on the nerve or be caused by a disease such as diabetes.
Can sciatica require surgery?
In some cases, sciatica may require surgery, but this is usually a last resort when conservative treatment has failed to provide relief or if neurological symptoms worsen.
Surgery may be recommended in the following cases:
- Severe pain: If the pain is severe and the condition does not improve for several weeks to months of conservative treatment.
- Loss of bowel or bladder control may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare but severe condition requiring emergency surgery. It occurs when there is extreme pressure on the nerves at the base of the spinal cord.
- Progressive neurological symptoms: worsening weakness in the legs or other neurological deficits may be a reason to consider surgery.
- Confirmed Herniated Disc: An MRI or CT scan can confirm a herniated disc compressing a nerve fiber. Surgery may be recommended if this hernia is causing sciatica symptoms and conservative measures have not been successful.
A lumbar microdiscectomy is the most common surgical procedure to treat sciatica caused by a herniated disc. In this procedure, a small portion of the bone above the nerve root or the disc material below the nerve root is removed to give the nerve root more room and a better environment for healing. Another procedure is a laminectomy. This involves removing the back of the affected vertebra, which relieves pressure on the nerve roots.
Can the appearance of sciatica be prevented?
While not all cases of sciatica can be prevented due to factors such as genetics, age-related changes, or sudden injury, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk or lessen the severity of your symptoms:
- Maintain good posture: good posture, whether standing or sitting, can help keep your spine aligned and reduce the risk of conditions that could pinch the sciatic nerve.
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- Ergonomic workspace: If you work at a desk, ensure the chair and table are at the right height. Feet should be flat on the floor, knees, and hips at a 90-degree angle. Consider using a lumbar support pillow for your lower back.
- Exercise regularly: strengthening your core muscles (abdominal and lower back muscles) can support your spine and reduce the risk of disc problems. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight, especially around the belly, can strain the spine and contribute to conditions that cause sciatica.
- Proper lifting techniques: always lift with your legs, keeping the object close to your chest and avoiding bending at the waist. This helps prevent strain on the lower back and a possible herniated disc.
- Avoid sitting for long periods: if your job requires you to sit for long periods, take regular breaks to get up and walk around.
- Manage chronic conditions: Conditions such as diabetes can contribute to nerve damage, so managing these conditions effectively can reduce the risk.
- Avoid smoking: smoking can contribute to disc degeneration, increasing the risk of disc herniation and sciatica.
- Regular stretching: Incorporate regular stretches into your routine, especially for your lower back and legs, to maintain flexibility and reduce tension.
- Sleeping on a supportive mattress: make sure your mattress provides adequate support to maintain the natural curvature of your spine while you sleep.
- Stay hydrated: Staying well hydrated helps maintain the elasticity of the spinal discs and reduces the risk of herniation.
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