Published on: 5/21/2025
What Are the Common Treatments for Sciatica?
Common treatments for sciatica include medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery if needed.
Explanation
Sciatica is a condition that causes pain along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs.
Treatment Options:
- Medications:
- Pain relief can often be managed with medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and sometimes stronger pain relievers.
- Physical Therapy:
- Exercises and stretches can help improve mobility and reduce pain by strengthening the muscles around the affected area.
- Surgery:
- In severe cases, when other treatments do not help, surgery might be considered to relieve pressure on the nerve.
These treatments aim to reduce pain and improve function. It is important to discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for individual needs.
(References)
- Wheeler AH. (1995). Diagnosis and management of low back pain and sciatica. American family physician, 7572557.
- Valat JP, Genevay S, Marty M, Rozenberg S, & Koes B. (2010). Sciatica. Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology, 20227645.
- Pinto RZ, Maher CG, Ferreira ML, Ferreira PH, Hancock M, Oliveira VC, et al. (2012). Drugs for relief of pain in patients with sciatica: systematic .... BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 22331277.
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