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• Treat Sciatica

How to Treat Sciatica

Sciatica is an oft-misunderstood term used to describe lower back pain that may radiate into the leg and down to the foot. Strictly speaking, the word is a catch-all for a set of symptoms, rather than a condition unto itself. Because treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the symptoms, you should ultimately let your doctor decide how to treat sciatica.

Sciatica Causes

The word sciatica actually derives from the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the human body. Spinal nerve roots that branch off the lower portion of the spine come together to form a sciatic nerve on each side of the pelvis. The nerve then runs down the back of each leg and down to the bottom of each foot. The pain of sciatica can arise from numerous circumstances that put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing the signature pain in the lower back that may seem to shoot down the leg. These conditions may include

• Pregnancy—As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Piriformis syndrome—This a congenital case in which the sciatic nerve runs through the piriformis muscle instead of under it. The muscle then compresses the sciatic nerve when it contracts or spasms.
• Spinal stenosis—The constriction of the spinal cord (or a nerve root, which is called foraminal stenosis) can create the symptoms of sciatica if it occurs in the right spot.
• Herniated disc—If a lumbar disc becomes herniated, it could put pressure on the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots that merge to form it.
• Bulging disc—As with a herniated disc, a bulge in a lumbar disc could create pressure on the sciatic nerve itself or its nerve roots.
• Personal habits and lifestyle choices—such as prolonged sitting on a wallet

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Alternative to Open Back Surgery

If a spinal condition such as stenosis or a herniated disc is causing symptoms of sciatica, Laser Spine Institute (LSI) can help. We employ a team of renowned spine surgeons who are experts in the use of our groundbreaking laser-assisted endoscopic procedures to correct common spine ailments, restoring the quality of life you once knew without the added risk, pain, and inconvenience of traditional open back surgery. If your doctor believes that surgery has the best chance of alleviating your sciatica symptoms, contact LSI today. We will even review your latest MRI or CT scan results free of charge.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.