Sciatica nerve damage treatment. Sciatica (lumbosacral radiculitis) - causes of compression and inflammation of the sciatic nerve, symptoms and diagnosis, drug treatment and rehabilitation methods

What is it - one of the most common diseases among pathologies of the spinal and autonomic nerve plexuses is sciatica, or a disease with the usual name - sciatica.

It is characterized by a painful manifestation of the symptom complex in the area of the sciatic nerves.

As a result of complete identity in meaning, sciatica is classified in medical practice as sciatic neuralgia or lumbosacral radiculitis.

What is sciatica?

In the human body, the sciatic nerves are the longest, occurring as a result of the connection of the spinal nerve roots with the nerve fibers of the last - the fourth and fifth, lumbar, and the first, second and third, initial sacral spinal roots.

Originating on a five-level segment of the lumbosacral region, each of them, going down the legs, branching along the way, is supplied with small nerve processes - the hips, legs and knees, feet and fingers.

And since the sacral spine bears the main load, then with various lesions that cause pinching, compression or irritation of the main trunk of the sciatic nerves or their roots, the irradiation of pain can spread to any areas along its “following”.

Causes of sciatica

Due to its location, the trunk of the sciatic nerves is susceptible to inflammation as a result of pathological processes occurring in adjacent organs located in the pelvic area - the lower intestine or organs of the genitourinary system. But the main causes of sciatica are various diseases and their complications:

1) In most cases, neuralgia manifests itself as a complication as a result of degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs - their deformation and flattening, overgrowth with osteophytes. The space between the vertebrae narrows, which leads to pinching of the sciatic nerve roots, causing inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissues.
2) – damage to the roots occurs as a result of ruptures of the disc membranes - fibrous rings of the discs, and protrusion through the rupture of the nuclei pulposus into the spinal canal. The formation of such hernias causes various types of injuries to nerve endings.
3) Instability of the spine - spondylolisthesis - as a result of displacement of the vertebral discs, or their slippage, as a result of thinning, compression or flattening occurs, sometimes of several roots that are part of the sciatic nerve, forming an inflammatory focus and swelling of adjacent tissues.
4) As a result of facet joint syndrome - spondyloarthrosis - their main function is disrupted - stabilization and support of the spine. This process accelerates disc degeneration, and expansion of the facet joints leads to narrowing - stenosis of the vertebral spinal canal, from which the roots branch, resulting in damage to the sciatic nerve endings.
5) As a result of spasm of the piriformis muscle, located under the gluteal muscle. The sciatic nerves running under or through it are stretched or irritated, causing radiating pain.

In addition to the main causes, the manifestation of inflammation is facilitated by:

excessive loads;
vertebral deformities;
DM and tumor formations;
arthritis and abscesses;
exposure to extreme cold;
infectious and gynecological diseases:
fibromyalgia and thrombosis;
tick-borne infections;
Reiter's urethroculosynovial syndrome

Classification of the disease

In medical practice, sciatica is classified according to data that determines the location of damage to the sciatic nerves:

1) With upper sciatica, the roots are affected, directly at the exit from the spinal canal.
2) With moderate sciatica, the lesion is noted in the plexus area.
3) With lower sciatica, extensive damage occurs not only to the trunk, but also to the branches of the sciatic nerves.

Considering the nature of the disease and the cause of its occurrence, the disease is divided into types:

1) The primary type includes sciatica caused by: infections, as a result of hypothermia or intoxication.
2) The secondary type of sciatica is provoked by diseases of tissues or organs located in close proximity to the sciatic nerves, their roots or plexus. Or for pathologies in the hip joints and bones.

Depending on the number of nerve lesions, the disease is divided into forms:

1) Unilateral form of sciatica - determined by a single lesion.
2) Bilateral form - includes simultaneous damage to both nerve branches

Symptoms of sciatica

Pain localized in the lumbar region and radiating to the lower part of the body are the main symptoms of sciatica. The pain varies in intensity. Descending along the sciatic nerve, they are accompanied by various manifestations:

disturbance of sensitivity;
“goosebumps” and tingling;
burning and numbness;
muscle weakness;
pain even with minor movements

It is possible for sciatica and its symptoms to develop in a different scenario - without lower back pain, but with the presence of the listed symptoms. Or pain and the manifestation of these symptoms may appear only after reaching the level of the knees.

Shooting pain in the foot and toes, loss of Achilles and plantar reflexes, numbness of the surface of the lower leg and thighs indicates circulatory disorders in the radicular arteries of the first sacral segment, and the manifestation of paralytic sciatica.

In addition to such a disorder, radicular inflammation in the fifth lumbar segment provokes pathologies of motor functions of the limb and functions in the pelvic apparatus, which can lead to paralysis.

Diagnostics

To accurately diagnose the disease, various research methods are used to determine the location of the lesion and the nature of the disease, taking into account the symptoms. The diagnosis of sciatica is made based on:

X-ray examination;
Ultrasound, MRI and CT;
manual diagnostics;
neurological and electroneuromyographic examination;

A more accurate diagnosis, based on the manifestation of pain, is made on the basis of the following tests:

1) Symptom of sitting - determining the patient’s ability to sit down after a supine position without bending the knee. Pain intensifies along the entire course of the sciatic nerve
2) Lages symptom - determining the localization of pain by lifting the straightened leg of a lying patient up. The disappearance of pain while simultaneously bending the leg at the knee indicates damage or inflammation in the sacrolumbar region.
3) Sicard's symptom - determination of the affected segment by traction pressure when lifting the straightened leg in a supine position and simultaneous extension of the big toe - a symptom of tension, causing pain in the sciatic nerve along its entire path.

Treatment of sciatica

An important condition in the treatment of sciatica is early diagnosis and a well-designed treatment plan, taking into account the use of complex methods - medication and physiotherapy, aimed at eliminating the main cause provoking the disease and relieving the patient of clinical symptoms.

The first stage of sciatica treatment is aimed at relieving painful manifestations and reducing inflammatory processes with the help of anti-inflammatory and painkillers. Physiotherapeutic procedures - electrophoresis and magnetic therapy, UHF sessions

As additional purposes, according to indications, the following are used:

acupuncture;
manual therapy;
electrical muscle stimulation;
fixation of vertebrae with special belts.

The following methods should be applied in parallel:

etiotropic therapy - to eliminate the source of the disease;
antibacterial and antiviral therapy – for infectious causes of inflammation.

The second stage of sciatica treatment proceeds if conservative treatment fails. If the manifestations of sciatica are caused by mechanical damage to the nerve roots, intervertebral hernia or tumor, surgical intervention is inevitable.

These methods can be lumbar disectomy, laminectomy or microdiscectomy. The purpose of the operation is to eliminate the cause of compression on the root by removing part of the disc that is causing pressure or irritation of the nerve endings.

Prevention of sciatica and exercise therapy

The basis of prevention is an active lifestyle without bad habits. If your work involves sitting for a long time, you need to take short breaks to warm up and stretch your muscles. Avoid heavy loads on the vertebra. If possible, sign up for a yoga course. Avoid hypothermia. Women need to give up high-heeled shoes.

Gymnastics play a major role in restoring lost functions. Certain exercises improve blood circulation, which helps saturate the muscles with blood supplying them with oxygen and nutrients, which activates and normalizes metabolic processes. As a result, inflammation products disintegrate and are removed from the body. Even doing a few exercises a day will bring significant relief over time.

Exercise No. 1 – aimed at stretching the sacrolumbar muscles. You need to lie down on a hard surface. Extend your legs, slowly pull them towards your chest, bending your knees. Wait a minute and return to the starting position.
Exercise No. 2 – lying on your stomach and bending your elbows, slowly straighten them, rise, bending as much as possible, stretching your back. We stay in this position for 10 seconds and slowly return to the starting position.
Exercise No. 3 - lying on your back, tense your muscles as much as possible and press as tightly as possible to the floor surface.

Each type of exercise is performed ten times. To prevent attacks, focus on muscle stretching exercises.

Which doctor should I contact for treatment?

If, after reading this article, you think that you have symptoms characteristic of this disease, then you should

Sciatica(lumbosacral radiculitis) is a syndrome that manifests itself in the form of pain spreading along the sciatic nerve (see below). Its occurrence is associated with compression of the spinal cord roots located at the level of the lumbar spine.

Sciatica almost never occurs before age 30. All patients are older people.

There are a huge number of reasons that can lead to compression of the nerve roots and the occurrence of lumbosacral radiculitis. Because of this, the symptoms of sciatica can vary greatly from person to person.

Anatomy

The structure of the lumbar spinal column

The lumbar spine is represented by five vertebrae, which are large in size compared to the others, a massive anterior part - the body - and the spinal processes located behind (the protruding posterior part of the vertebra - see illustration).
Between the bodies of the lumbar vertebrae are the intervertebral discs.

The structure of the intervertebral disc:

pulpous The nucleus pulposus is located in the central part and acts as a shock absorber during walking;

dense fibrous ring surrounds the nucleus pulposus along the periphery and does not allow it to fall outside the vertebral body.

From above, the lumbar spine is connected to the sedentary thoracic region, from below – to the sacrum, which is a single bone. The lumbar vertebrae are movably connected to each other, and they bear the greatest load. Therefore, disorders most often occur in this area, leading to compression of the nerve roots.

Structure of the spinal cord, nerve roots, sciatic nerve

The spinal cord passes through a narrow spinal canal, which is formed bodies And temples vertebrae (see illustration). Paired nerve roots depart from it, which exit through the intervertebral foramina formed by two adjacent vertebrae. Then the roots are connected to each other and form sacral nerve plexus(so named because it is located near the sacrum). Several nerves arise from it, including the sciatic one.

The sciatic nerve is the largest in the human body. It contains many sensory and motor fibers and runs along the back of the buttock and thigh, and then at the lower leg it splits into smaller branches - the tibial and peroneal nerves.

Causes of sciatica

Herniated disc

A herniated disc (synonyms: intervertebral hernia, intervertebral hernia) is a disease in which the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc ruptures and the nucleus pulposus is displaced.

The hernial bulge compresses the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and other symptoms. Over time, an inflammatory process develops at the site of compression.

Intervertebral hernias in the lumbar spine occur with a frequency of 150 per 100,000 population annually. Most of them cause sciatica.

Infectious diseases

In infections, sciatica develops as a result of damage to the sciatic nerve by toxins released by pathogens.

Infections that can lead to sciatica:

typhoid and typhus;
scarlet fever;
generalized(encompassing the entire body) purulent-inflammatory disease – sepsis;

Intoxication (poisoning) of the body

Poisoning that can lead to the development of sciatica:

Endogenous(formation in the body of toxic substances that can damage the nerves) with metabolic diseases:

Exogenous(receipt of toxic substances into the body from the outside):
1. alcohol intoxication due to chronic abuse of alcoholic beverages;
2. poisoning with arsenic, lead, mercury.

Hypothermia

Almost all patients who develop sciatica have suffered from hypothermia shortly before. This is due to the fact that the cold provoked the inflammatory process and activation of the infection.

Often patients have other causes of sciatica, and low temperature is a provoking factor.

Vertebral osteophytes

Osteophytes- These are bone outgrowths that form on various bones, in particular on the vertebrae. They can take the form of cones, cones, spikes, or hooks. Osteophytes can be located in different places and have different sizes

Causes of vertebral osteophytes:

osteochondrosis– degenerative disease of the spine, in which destruction of intervertebral discs occurs and the development of an inflammatory process around the vertebrae;
osteoarthritis spine - inflammation of the intervertebral joints;
spondylosis– inflammatory processes in the vertebrae of various origins.

Osteophytes compress the roots of the spinal cord and lead to the development of inflammation. They are often the cause of chronic radiculitis and sciatica.

Spinal tumors

Tumors that can lead to the development of sciatica:

Benign vertebral tumors: osteoma, osteoblastoma, osteoblastoclastoma.
Malignant tumors of the vertebrae: malignant osteoid osteoma, osteosarcoma, malignant osteoblastoclastoma, chondrosarcoma.
Metastases of malignant tumors into the vertebrae and intervertebral discs.
Intramedullary tumors – developing from the spinal cord: ependymomas And astrocytomas(by the name of the cells from which they come).
Extramedullary tumors– developing from tissues that surround the spinal cord: meningiomas(from the membrane of the spinal cord), neuromas(from nerve roots).

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae is displaced relative to the one located below. When displaced, it compresses the spinal cord and its roots, leading to the symptoms of sciatica.

Most often, the last, fifth, lumbar vertebra is displaced in relation to the sacrum. Typically, spondylolisthesis develops over a long period of time and leads to sciatica only by age 35.

Causes of spondylolisthesis:

vertebral arch fractures;
congenital vertebral deformities(wedge-shaped vertebra - its body has the shape of a wedge), nonfusion of the vertebral arches;
degenerative diseases of the spine, for example, osteochondrosis.

Sciatica during pregnancy

During pregnancy, sciatica occurs as a result of increased loads on the spinal column and a shift in the center of gravity. The spine of some women is not ready for such changes.

Symptoms of sciatica

Pain

The main manifestation of sciatica is pain. Other symptoms are most often absent.

Characteristics of sciatica pain:

Character. With sciatica, the pain is dagger-like (sharp, sharp, intense, reminiscent of blows from a dagger), burning, shooting.
Prevalence. Pain sensations spread to the gluteal region, along the back of the thigh, into the popliteal fossa and down the back of the lower leg. Sometimes pain is felt throughout the entire leg, reaching the tips of the toes. Low back pain may occur in parallel or be absent.
Duration. Sciatica pain is most often chronic. It can bother you constantly or in the form of attacks, depending on the cause of the disease.
Intensity. Sciatica pain can vary in severity. In some cases, it is not very intense and does not cause significant suffering to the patient, but in others it is so strong that every movement causes pain, and the patient cannot stand in a standing position.
Symmetry. In most cases, sciatica pain is unilateral. It occurs on the right or left. In some cases, it can occur on both sides.

Movement, sensory and reflex disorders

Neurological disorders characteristic of sciatica:

Sensory impairment. The sensitivity of the skin of the leg and foot is impaired, with the exception of the inner surface of the leg, which is not innervated by the branches of the sciatic nerve.
Forced position. Due to pain, the tone of the muscles of the lower back and lower limbs changes. The patient tries to take a position in which pain would be minimal. Most often, he leans forward and to the side, maintaining this position while standing, sitting, or while walking.
Movement disorders. Movements in the posterior group of muscles of the thigh and lower leg are impaired, which manifests itself in impaired flexion in the knee ankle joint and in the joints of the foot.
Muscular atrophy. Due to disruption of innervation and movement, the muscles of the posterior group on the thigh and lower leg decrease in size.
Reflex impairment
Osteoporosis and destruction of the bones of the foot, leg, femur– a consequence of paralysis and muscle atrophy in severe sciatica.
Autonomic disorders(associated with dysregulation of the function of blood vessels, skin, sebaceous and sweat glands by the autonomic nervous system)
Change in skin color: it becomes pale or red due to a violation of the nervous regulation of the width of the lumen of blood vessels
Thinning skin: It can take the form of tissue paper
Dry skin
Thinning and increased brittleness of toenails
Excessive sweating, impaired sweating

Symptoms that are detected with sciatica during a neurological examination

Symptom name	The essence
Decreased Achilles reflex	The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It can be easily felt under the skin. Achilles reflex examination: The patient lies or kneels on the bed with his feet hanging freely over the edge. The doctor gently taps the Achilles tendon with a hammer. The calf muscle contracts and the ankle joint flexes. With sciatica, this reflex becomes sluggish, and in severe cases it may be absent altogether. A decrease in the Achilles reflex is most often observed when the nerve roots are compressed by a herniated disc, which is located between the fifth lumbar and first sacral vertebrae. Flexion is the movement of the foot backward, extension is the movement forward, by analogy with the hand. Thus, movement of the ankle joint that appears to be extension is actually properly called flexion.
Decreased knee reflex	The patella is connected to the tibia by a tendon that contains many nerve endings. Nerves extend from them, which connect in the spinal cord with the processes of motor neurons that regulate movements in the leg muscles. Knee reflex test: The patient is asked to sit on a chair and place his feet on the floor, bending them at a right angle at the knees. The patient's legs should not rest heavily on the floor; they should be positioned freely. The doctor uses a hammer to hit the tendon that connects the patella and tibia. Normally, the muscles that extend the leg at the knee joint contract. With sciatica, this reaction is weakened or not detected at all. A decrease in the knee reflex is most often observed with sciatica, caused by compression of the nerves of the plexus by a herniated disc located between the third and quadruple lumbar vertebrae.
Decreased plantar reflex	If you run the tip of a neurological hammer across a person’s sole, the plantar reflex will normally work and the foot and toes will flex. With sciatica, this reaction is weakened or absent altogether.
Lassegue's sign	If you ask a patient lying on his back to lift his straight leg up, sciatica will cause severe pain along the back of the thigh and in the lower back. This is due to the fact that tension occurs on the sciatic nerve. If the patient bends the straightened leg, the pain will decrease or disappear.
Bonnet's sign	And the same as Lassegue’s symptom, only the patient does not lift the straightened leg himself: the doctor does it.
Cross syndrome	When checking Lassegue's sign, pain occurs not only on the affected side, but also in the second leg.

Examination for sciatica

Radiography

Benefits of X-rays for sciatica:

This technique allows you to diagnose sciatica caused by pathologies of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs;
X-ray is a simple and quick diagnostic method; equipment for its implementation is available in almost any hospital.

Contraindications:

pregnancy
restless behavior of the patient and the inability to record him for research: the pictures are blurry and uninformative;
severe obesity: the vertebrae will be very poorly visible in the pictures.

Information content

CT scan

Benefits of CT Scan for Sciatica:

this study allows us to identify different causes of pain in the sciatic nerve;
it is more informative and accurate than radiography;
Using computed tomography, you can build layer-by-layer sections of the lumbar spine or a three-dimensional model.

Contraindications:

pregnancy
all other contraindications are relative and apply only under certain conditions.

Information content
Computed tomography is quite informative and allows you to identify most causes of sciatica. When conducting this study, it is not possible to examine in detail only soft tissues: nervous tissue, muscles, etc.

Magnetic resonance imaging

Benefits of Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI has the same capabilities as computed tomography: it allows you to obtain layer-by-layer images of the patient’s body, build clear three-dimensional images of the spinal column, intervertebral discs, and spinal cord;
With the help of magnetic resonance imaging, it is possible to obtain clearer images of soft tissues, so it is an effective method for diagnosing the causes of sciatica, which are located in the spinal cord and its membranes, the roots themselves, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues.

Contraindications:

the presence of an artificial pacemaker - a device that is sewn into the heart muscle for arrhythmias;
implants in the middle ear (tympanic cavity), which are made of metals that can be magnetized;
any metal implants that can be magnetized, fragments of metal objects that remain in the body after injuries and wounds;
MRI cannot be performed on people who are on mechanical ventilation;
the presence of an Ilizarov apparatus - a metal structure that is used to connect and hold bones in place after complex fractures.

Information content

Magnetic resonance imaging can identify causes of sciatica that are located in nerves, muscles and other soft tissues that are not visible in X-ray and CT scans.

Electroneuromyography

This is a test done in some patients with sciatica to evaluate nerve conduction for sensory and movement problems. Special electrodes are placed on certain muscle groups, which record the passage of nerve impulses.

Treatment of sciatica

Directions for treating sciatica:

drug therapy;
massage;
physiotherapy;
acupuncture (acupuncture);
osteopathy;
physiotherapy;
herbal medicine and various folk methods;
other specific techniques (mud therapy, use of medicinal leeches, etc.)

Drug therapy for sciatica

A drug	Effects and indications	Mode of application
Analgin (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)	The most common pain reliever that is used for sciatica, other forms of radiculitis, and other types of pain. In addition to being an analgesic, Analgin also has some antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects.	Application in tablets: For adults - one tablet 0.25 - 0.5 g after meals 2 - 3 times a day. Application by injection (intramuscular or intravenous, as part of systems): Adults: 1 – 2 ml of 50% or 25% solution 2 – 3 times a day. The maximum dosage should be no more than 2 g of the drug per day.
Combination preparations of Analgin (used more often, as they have a more pronounced effect): Andipal (analgin+papaverine+dibazole+phenobarbital); Tempalgin (analgin + tempidine - a mild tranquilizer); Pentalgin (analgin+codeine+paracetamol+phenobarbital+caffeine); Sedalgin (analgin+paracetamol+caffeine+phenobarbital+codeine); Baralgin (analgin in combination with antispasmodics that can relieve increased muscle tone).		These medications must be taken strictly as prescribed by your doctor.
Diclofenac (Ortofen, Diclogen, Voltaren, Rapten Rapid). A group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.	Diclofenac is a powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug. It relieves pain, inflammation and swelling, effectively eliminating the symptoms of sciatica.	In tablets: Adults take 1 tablet 0.025 - 0.05 g 3 times a day. When the pain becomes less of a concern, you can switch to a dosage of 0.025 g 3 times a day. The course of therapy can last up to 5–6 weeks. In injections: Intramuscularly or intravenously, 0.075 g of the active substance in solution up to 2 times a day for no more than 2 to 3 days. When using injections instead of tablets, the effect is observed faster and is more pronounced. But the risk of side effects is higher, so injections are performed at least 12 hours apart. Ointment rub into the skin of the lower back 1 – 2 times a day in an amount of 2 – 4 grams. (Neurology, Guide for Doctors, Medical Information Agency, 2002; M. D Mashkovsky, “Medicines”, 2005).
Meloxicam (Movalis, a group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)	This drug has a very strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. It is prescribed to patients whose sciatica is accompanied by severe pain.	1 tablet 0.0075 g 1 time per day. The maximum dose that can be taken during the day is 0.015 g. (M. D Mashkovsky, “Medicines”, 2005).
Vitamin preparations	Vitamins are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and maintaining the normal condition of the nerve trunks. The group of vitamins B is especially important. In neurological hospitals, injectable forms of B6 (pyridoxine) and B1 (thiamine) are used.	Application of vitaminB1(in ampoules of 1 or 2 ml 2.5% or 5% - the dosage is selected by the attending physician): 1 ampoule per day or every other day. Use of vitamin B6 (in ampoules of 1 or 2 ml 2.5% or 5% - the dosage is selected by the attending physician): 1 ampoule per day or every other day. (M. D Mashkovsky, “Medicines”, 2005).
Irritating (distracting) agents: fruits of capsicum (in the form of ointments, in combination with ammonia and camphor); turpentine ointment; camphor ointment; ointments based on bee and snake venoms.	Effects of irritating (distracting) agents: Irritation of skin receptors, dulling of the feeling of pain associated with compression of the nerve root during sciatica. Release of biologically active substances in the skin that have an analgesic effect ( endorphins). Release of biologically active substances that normalize blood circulation, relieve inflammation and swelling.	To relieve sciatica pain, a small amount of ointment is rubbed into the skin. The selection of an ointment for a particular patient should be carried out together with the attending physician. (M. D Mashkovsky, “Medicines”, 2005).
Novocaine blockades	Novocaine is an anesthetic that, when in contact with nerve endings, blocks the occurrence of nerve impulses in them. This drug is used for severe pain caused by sciatica.	Novocaine blockades are performed by a doctor who knows this technique. He makes injections in the lumbar region at the right points, blocking the bundles of plexuses and nerves in which pain impulses arise. A contraindication to the use of novocaine blockades is individual intolerance.

Massage for sciatica

For sciatica, both in the acute stage and in remission (the pathological process subsides), massage can be used.

General rules of massage for sciatica:

for lumbosacral radiculitis, accompanied by damage to the sciatic nerve, massage is used in the lumbar, gluteal region, back of the thigh, lower leg, foot;
in the acute phase of the disease, only light stroking and rubbing can be used, since kneading and vibration (patting) can provoke increased pain;
when pain and other symptoms subside, in the remission stage, the massage can be more intense, you can add reflex-segmental, acupressure, cupping massage;
the use of properly selected essential oils during a massage can significantly improve the effect;
massage for sciatica is useful to combine with rubbing with irritating ointments (see above), therapeutic exercises;
the duration of one massage session can be up to 30 – 35 minutes;
number of massage sessions – 10.

Effects of massage for sciatica:

irritating, distracting effect;
improving blood flow to affected nerves and roots;
relieving increased muscle tone caused by pain;
improving lymph outflow, relieving inflammatory edema;
release of biologically active substances in the skin and underlying tissues that reduce inflammation and pain.

Physiotherapy for sciatica

Method	Essence, indications and contraindications	Duration and number of sessions
Electrophoresis	The essence of the technique: administration of medicinal substances through the skin using direct current. Indications: Sciatica, other types of radiculitis. Contraindications	Special electrodes soaked in a solution of the medicinal substance are placed on the skin in two places. Most often, one of them is located in the lumbar region. Usually the procedure lasts for 15 minutes, the total number of sessions is 10.
UHF	The essence of the technique: exposure to the area of the affected nerve with ultra-high frequency currents. At the same time, heating occurs in the tissues, pain and inflammation are eliminated, blood flow in small vessels is restored, and swelling is relieved. Indications: Sciatica and other inflammatory diseases. Contraindications: Skin damage in the gluteal and lumbar region in the form of inflammation, allergic rashes, infections, pustules, neoplasms.	As with electrophoresis, electrodes are placed on the skin and supplied with ultra-high frequency current. Usually 10 sessions of UHF therapy are prescribed.
Laser therapy	The essence of the technique: Laser radiation of a certain intensity and wavelength is able to penetrate tissue to a certain depth, delivering energy quanta to cells and causing a therapeutic effect. Effects of laser on sciatica: analgesic effect; relieving inflammation; removal of swelling; restoration of normal blood flow in small vessels; release of biologically active substances and increase of protective forces; improvement of metabolic processes. Indications: Sciatica and a wide range of other diseases. Contraindications: Skin damage in the gluteal and lumbar region in the form of inflammation, allergic rashes, infections, pustules, neoplasms.	The procedure can take from 2 to 25 minutes. A special device is brought to the affected area and laser irradiation is carried out. The total number of procedures is 10 – 15 sessions. Most often, it is recommended to undergo a course of laser therapy 2-3 times a year.
Magnetotherapy	The essence of the technique: The magnetic field has a high penetrating ability; it penetrates into all organs and tissues, changing the orientation and movement of charged particles in them. Effects of a magnetic field on sciatica: anti-inflammatory; decongestant; anesthetic; calming; the magnetic field activates restoration processes in organs and tissues; normalizes blood flow. Indications: Sciatica and a wide range of other diseases. Contraindications: arterial hypertension stage 3, significant increase in blood pressure; severe exhaustion; epileptic seizures; increased bleeding and systemic blood diseases.	Typically, for sciatica, 10 sessions of magnetic therapy are performed using a constant magnetic field or an alternating high frequency.

Acupuncture (acupuncture) for sciatica

A large number of practical examples confirm the effectiveness of acupuncture for sciatica and other forms of radiculitis. But to date, not a single large-scale study has been conducted to confirm this effectiveness.

The essence of the procedure:

At certain points, thin needles made of stainless steel, gold, silver or other material are inserted into the skin. The procedure can only be performed by a specially trained specialist.

Effects of acupuncture for sciatica:

analgesic effect due to the release of endorphins - natural substances that act like narcotic analgesics;
increasing protective forces and tissue regeneration;
dilation of small vessels and improved blood flow, improvement of the condition of the pinched root;
elimination of general inflammation and edema

Contraindications to acupuncture:

acute infectious diseases;
oncological diseases;
skin lesions at the site of exposure

A course of treatment

A course of acupuncture for sciatica can last up to 3 months. First, 3–4 sessions per week are performed, then you can move on to 1–4 sessions per month.

Osteopathy for sciatica

Osteopathy is a relatively new direction in the treatment of sciatica and other diseases, which today is considered to be classical medicine. This is a light effect using movements and pressure, which is aimed at eliminating pain and inflammation.

Osteopathy has virtually no contraindications. The positive effect is achieved within one session. It is not able to cope with the cause of the disease, but only eliminates the symptoms of sciatica.

Therapeutic exercises for sciatica

During the acute period of the disease, bed rest is prescribed, and any physical activity is contraindicated. The patient is placed on his back with his legs elevated, and pillows are placed under the lower back.

After the pain subsides, the following exercises are prescribed:

Lying on your back: pulling your knees bent to your chest. Repeat 10 times.
When lying on your stomach: lift your body as if you were doing a push-up. Repeat 5 times.
In a supine position: raising straight legs up and then holding them in this position for 5 minutes.
While sitting on a chair: turn the body to the right and left, 5 times in each direction.
In a sitting position on your knees: bend forward with your arms raised up and your hands clasped.
In a standing position, feet shoulder-width apart: alternate bends to the right and left.
All exercises must be performed gently and carefully, as sciatica can manifest itself at the most unexpected moment.

Traditional methods of treating sciatica

Infusion for pain

Ingredients:

viburnum flowers – 1 tbsp. spoon;
calendula flowers - 1 tbsp. spoon;
thyme herb - 1 tbsp. spoon;
horsetail grass - 2 tbsp. spoons;
water – 500 ml

Preparation:
Grind all the ingredients and take the resulting mixture in the amount of 2 tablespoons. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes, then cool.

Application:
Take half a glass three times a day before meals.

Rubbing homemade agave for sciatica

You need to cut the stem of the domestic agave, a potted plant that is very common in flower shops today. It should not be very young and not very old (otherwise there will be no effect or you may burn the skin). Remove thorns and cut lengthwise. Rub the cut into the area where pain is noted 2 – 3 times a day.

Rub ointment for sciatica

Ingredients:

fresh black radish juice (5 glasses);
bee honey (1 cup);
table salt (1 tbsp);
vodka (250 ml).

Preparation:
You just need to mix all the ingredients. Shake the mixture thoroughly before each use.

Application:
Rub the lower back and back of the thigh 2 times a day.

Compress for sciatica

Take one black radish and finely grate it. Place a piece of cloth on the lower back, place a radish on top, put another piece of cloth on top, cover with wax paper and wrap it in something warm. Perform 2 times a day for 15 minutes.

Other treatments for sciatica:

apitherapy - treatment with bees, which are placed in the lumbar region and along the nerve;
hirudotherapy - placement of medicinal leeches - they relieve swelling and blood stagnation in the area of the affected nerve;
mud therapy;
Spa treatment;
salt and herbal baths.

The need for surgery for sciatica

Surgery for sciatica is very rarely required.

Measures to prevent sciatica:

Sufficient physical activity. Patients with sciatica always note that during walking and other physical activity their general condition improves and stiffness in the joints is eliminated. This occurs due to the fact that during exercise the muscles and nervous system are activated and muscle tone is normalized. During sports, blood flow in the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and nerve roots improves. Physical activity is the best way to prevent osteochondrosis and osteoporosis of the vertebrae. It is worth remembering that excessively intense loads, on the contrary, lead to damage to the spine and contribute to the development of sciatica and radiculitis. Preferred sports: swimming, yoga, brisk walking.

Compliance with occupational health. People who often sit, stand, or are in an uncomfortable position for long periods of time at work should use special orthopedic office chairs and corsets.

Comfortable bed. It should not be too soft or too hard. There should be no drops or bumps. You can slightly raise the legs at the head of the bed in order to sleep on an inclined surface. It is good to use special orthopedic pillows and mattresses.

Proper lifting of weights. This point is often overlooked, but it is very important. When lifting weights, the muscles of the arms and legs should tense, but not the lower back. To do this, you need to squat and bend over slightly and lift the weight without bending your back.

Why does sciatica occur and how does it manifest during pregnancy?

Sciatica in an expectant mother can be caused by the same factors as in any other person. For example, compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc or tumor, hypothermia, and others. Discectomy (disc removal) and disc replacement

Large hernia;
Reducing the height of the intervertebral foramina and compression of the nerve roots.

The purpose of the operation: to maintain mobility of the spine. The operation is performed under general anesthesia. First, the skin is cut to gain access, and then the intervertebral disc is removed. Next, an implant made of titanium or another material with properties as close as possible to human tissue is installed in its place. Efficiency - 90-95%.

For 6 weeks after surgery, the patient is not recommended to travel by bicycle, motorcycle or car.

After X-ray confirmation of the optimal position of the implant, the patient returns to his normal lifestyle.

Facetectomy

Compression of the sciatic nerve roots by a herniated disc;
Compression of the spinal cord by bone growths - for example, osteophytes.

A skin incision is made in the lumbar region under general anesthesia.
Then, under a microscope, small intervertebral joints (facets) are removed using special pliers.

After removing small joints, there are two options for solving the problem:

A stationary block is created;
The affected joint is replaced with an implant.

After the operation, the patient is prohibited from making sudden movements or lifting heavy loads for three weeks.

Activities in the postoperative period

1. To speed up recovery It is recommended to carry out physiotherapy (magnetic therapy, electrophoresis and others), massage, as well as physical therapy exercises. The duration of rehabilitation, timing and methods are determined by the doctor.

2. For fixation spine After most operations, it is usually recommended to wear a non-rigid lumbar corset for 1-2 months. If necessary, wearing the corset continues for a longer time. The corset model is determined by the doctor depending on the volume and method of surgical intervention.

3. The load on the spine increases gradually.

4. If necessary and depending on the method used patients in the hospital are taught correctly go to bed and get out of bed, sit down, and so on.

What creams, gels and ointments are used for sciatica?

To relieve symptoms and speed up recovery, in addition to pills, injections and surgery, local treatment is used.

Drugs	Mechanism of action	How to use?
Irritating and warming ointments for sciatica
Capsicam; Efkamon; Viprosal; Finalgon.	Locally in the tissues, they increase blood circulation and dilate blood vessels, improve nutrition and oxygen supply, reduce swelling and pain. As a result, recovery is accelerated.	Ointments are applied over the area of inflammation to the skin. To enhance the warming effect, apply a warm bandage to the area where the ointment is applied. The course of treatment is 5-10 days.
Pain-relieving gels and ointments for sciatica
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Butadion; Fastum gel; Nurofen gel; Piroxicam-Verte; Nise gel (Nimesulide) and others.	The list of drugs can be continued, some of them more effective, others less. However, the general mechanism of action is to inhibit the synthesis of COX-1 and COX-2, as well as suppress the production of prostaglandins - substances involved in the inflammatory process. Therefore, pain and local swelling are reduced.	The ointment is applied to the skin above the inflammation 2-3 times a day, in a thin layer. The course of treatment is 10 days, unless the doctor prescribes otherwise.
Healing ointments for sciatica
Chondroitin Akos; Chondroxide; Sofia with chondroitin-glucosamine complex; Honda cream; Chondroitin gel;	The main active ingredients are chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate, which are building components of cartilage tissue and also improve the quality of intra-articular fluid. The substances have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, promote the deposition of calcium in bones and the restoration of cartilage. In addition, some drugs contain excipients. For example, Honda cream contains clove and rosemary oils, which have a warming effect and improve local blood circulation.	A strip of cream, ointment or gel 2-3 cm long is applied to the skin in the affected area, and then the ointment is rubbed in with light massaging movements until completely absorbed. The course of treatment is long and is determined by the doctor. Disadvantage: poor penetration of ointments, gels and creams through the skin, so they are recommended for complex treatment.

How and why is self-massage performed for sciatica?

The process of treating sciatica with medications is quite lengthy, so it is important to learn how to alleviate your condition on your own. Therapeutic self-massage will help you cope with this task.

In addition, its implementation after surgery helps speed up recovery.

Goals of self-massage: relaxation of back muscles, improvement of local blood circulation and reduction of pain.

Self-massage techniques for the lumbosacral region

First, in a standing position, place your feet shoulder-width apart, then start performing self-massage techniques:

1. Stroke on both sides the skin of the lower back and sacrum: first with the palmar surface of the hand, then with the back.

2. Perform rubbing rectilinear and circular movements: first with the pads of the fingers of both palms, then with the knuckles clenched into a fist.

During self-massage of the lumbosacral region, direct all movements from the tailbone upward. In addition, alternately move the pelvis a little forward, then move it a little back, which will allow you to more thoroughly massage the sacrum area.

For self-massage, use massage oil or ointments, and perform the techniques themselves for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day.

How is sciatica treated during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a period when the number of drugs approved for use is very limited. Since most of them negatively affect the formation and development of the fetus, and can also lead to miscarriage or premature birth. Moreover, many folk remedies can also cause undesirable consequences.

Unfortunately, in this situation, often the main ways to alleviate the general well-being of a pregnant woman are therapeutic exercises and wearing a prenatal bandage. However, even in this case, there are drugs that can be used during pregnancy.

Medicines to reduce pain during pregnancy

From the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Indomethacin is approved for use. The prescription of the drug has a time frame: it is recommended to take it from 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, maximum up to 32 weeks.

This is explained by the fact that the use of Indomethacin at a later stage can lead to the formation of a congenital heart defect - premature closure of the oval window. Using the drug at an earlier stage is less dangerous, but it is still not recommended to use it unless absolutely necessary.

B vitamins during pregnancy

They are approved for use, because they not only help cope with pain and improve the condition of the expectant mother, but are also important for the development of the fetus.

The main actions of B vitamins for sciatica

Vitamin B 12 reduces back pain, improves motor function, helps restore the outer sheath of nerves (myelin fibers).

Vitamin B 6 reduces pain, improves impulse transmission along nerve fibers.

Vitamin B 1 improves nutrition of nerve cells and promotes restoration of nerve tissue.

They are used as single preparations containing only one vitamin - B 1, B 12 or B 6, as well as combined ones - with a complex of vitamins.

For example, during pregnancy, Benevron, Plebex and some others are allowed to be used from combination drugs of group B.

Local treatment

Until recently, some ointments and gels were more widely approved for use during pregnancy. However, the results of recent studies indicate that a small part of the drugs can enter the blood of the expectant mother through the skin and cause harm to the fetus.

Therefore, the topical use of drugs during pregnancy should also be approached with caution. For example, warming ointments are not recommended, while ointments, gels and creams with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are permitted.

What is prohibited to do and take during pregnancy to treat sciatica?

1. Physiotherapy which can cause miscarriage or premature birth.

2. Muscle relaxants(Mydocalm, Sirdalud), since the effect of these drugs on the fetus has not been fully studied. Moreover, they act systemically, relaxing the muscles, and therefore can lead to miscarriage or premature birth.

Why and what kind of gymnastics are needed for pregnant women with sciatica?

Therapeutic gymnastics has several goals:

Reducing pain;
Improving blood flow to the spine;
Relaxation of the muscles that support the spine.

As a result, overall well-being improves and recovery accelerates.

Available required condition for therapeutic exercises during pregnancy: preliminary consultation with a neurologist and gynecologist.

It should also be remembered that it is advisable to train a set of exercises under the guidance of a kinetherapist(kinesiotherapist) - a doctor in therapeutic exercises.

However, the expectant mother can perform some simple exercises at home on her own.

Complex of therapeutic exercises for sciatica for pregnant women

You need to practice on a straight, hard surface - for example, on a special floor mat.

1. Lying on your back

Bend your knees and slowly swing them left and right - in each direction 5-7 times, moving them as far as you can.

Stretch both legs, then alternately stretch your toes forward, then return to the starting position and relax.

Bend your right leg at the knee, and slowly lift your straightened left leg up with your toe extended as much as possible, but do not overdo it. Hold your left leg in this position for 3-5 seconds. Then lower it and do the exercise for your right leg.

Relax and stretch your arms up, holding this position for 3-5 seconds - this stretches the spine.

Repeat each exercise up to 5-7 times.

2. Lying on your side

3. Standing on all fours - “cat” exercise

Stand so that your arms are at a 90° angle to your shoulders, and your legs are at the same angle to your pelvis. Lower your head down and then arch your back upward. Hold this position for 3-5 seconds. Next, straighten your back and raise your head so that it is parallel to the floor. At the same time, try not to throw your head back. Repeat the exercise up to 7-10 times.

4. While standing on your feet

Go to the wall and stand with your back to it, pressing yourself so that the lumbar spine is at the closest distance to it. Hold this position for 3-5 seconds and relax, then return to the starting position. Repeat the exercise 7-10 times.

On a note

1. If some exercise is difficult for you or increases pain and discomfort, then exclude it from the general scheme.

2. Perform all exercises slowly and smoothly, and between them, if necessary, take short breaks to rest.

3. Start classes with light loads and short exercises.

4. Exercises can be repeated two to three times a day.

5. Don’t forget about breathing: during each exercise, inhale slowly through your nose, and when returning to the starting position, exhale slowly through your mouth. This will help you keep the rhythm and not rush.

Unfortunately, not all expectant mothers can perform therapeutic exercises, even simplified ones, since much depends on the duration and course of pregnancy.

Absolute contraindications

Increased uterine tone, threat of miscarriage or premature birth, leakage of amniotic fluid.

Partial or complete premature detachment of a normally located placenta.

Uterine bleeding, even if it manifests itself in the form of a “daub”. Moreover, the expectant mother should urgently seek medical help, since bleeding is a sign that threatens the life of the mother and fetus.

In all other cases, the intensity of the load and the volume of exercises are discussed individually with the doctor.

How is sciatica prevented during pregnancy?

It is better to start preparing for future motherhood even before the onset of an interesting situation by playing sports.

However, even after two stripes confirm pregnancy, it is not too late to start prevention of sciatica development. Swimming, yoga and Pilates for pregnant women will cope with this task perfectly.

Classes help strengthen the rectus muscles of the back, pelvis and abdomen. This will allow the spine to withstand increased load as pregnancy progresses and will be the key to a successful birth.

However, before you start attending training, you must consult with a gynecologist and neurologist. Since there are conditions when It is recommended to completely abstain from the following physical activities:

Threat of miscarriage or miscarriage;
Placenta previa, when it is located in the lower parts of the uterus;
Increased uterine tone;
Leakage of amniotic fluid;
Uterine bleeding and premature detachment of a normally located placenta;
Any vaginal discharge is a contraindication only for visiting the pool.

In all other cases, the decision to attend classes is made by the doctor individually, taking into account the course of pregnancy and the presence of other diseases in the expectant mother.

Moreover, it should be remembered that if before pregnancy a woman led a sedentary lifestyle, then in an interesting position, excessive physical activity, on the contrary, can be harmful. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from intense training.

After receiving a diagnosis, patients ask: what is sciatica? It's just that some doctors, instead of the general term inflammation of the sciatic nerve, use a shorter and clearer one - sciatica. A small number of people know what inflammation of the sciatic nerve is, and even more so the symptoms and treatment of sciatica. The human body is a very complex mechanism, consisting of tissues and numerous nerve networks. The longest is the sciatic nerve. It is formed from five pairs of spinal roots. If one of them is pinched, the symptoms begin almost immediately. This pinching is called sciatica.

The sciatic nerve is quite long, formed in the iliosacral plexus and passes down along the femoral area. In the popliteal fossa it divides, one part goes into the lower leg, the other into the foot. Pain due to inflammation of the sciatic nerve cannot be ignored. Some inexperienced specialists in some cases confuse this disease with osteochondrosis. Most often this happens when the patient cannot accurately describe his pain sensations and show the exact location of the lesion. The main difference between inflammation of the sciatic nerve and osteochondrosis is the localization of pain. In the first case, it can manifest itself only on one side of the body, in the second case, the pain is girdling.

Causes of inflammation

As noted above, signs of inflammation of the sciatic nerve appear quite sharply and are very difficult to tolerate. There are many reasons for their appearance:

Complications that arose due to incorrect treatment of osteochondrosis;
Formations of different sizes in the area of intervertebral discs;
Fresh or old mechanical injuries of the spine;
Complication after severe hypothermia.
The sciatic nerve can become inflamed even after short-term overheating;
Arthritis;
Infections of various origins in the pelvic cavity;
Abscesses;
Thrombosis.

Sciatica, the cause of which is an infectious disease, can be an indirect “culprit” of poisoning of the entire human body. If the patient’s immunity is reduced, then additional treatment will be needed to overcome pathogens. With sciatica, the piriformis muscle may become inflamed. Such cases are rare and difficult to identify. There is a separate medical term: piriformis syndrome. The pain is localized in the gluteal region, lower leg and upper thigh, and groin. The signs of sciatica in piriformis syndrome resemble.

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Neuralgia of the sciatic nerve can also occur with spondylolisthesis - displacement of the vertebrae. This disease can be congenital or acquired. The sciatic nerve also becomes inflamed due to the progression of the spinal cord tumor. This is quite a rare occurrence. Also, inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the main causes of which cannot be identified for a long time, often leads to serious complications, including the development of oncology and disability.

The symptoms of sciatica can vary greatly. It all depends on the severity of the disease, the general condition of the body, the area of tissue damage and nerve muscles. The main clinical symptom is severe pain.

Nerve endings are found throughout the body and have a large number of receptors that are very sensitive to any impact or damage. That is why, when pinched, the patient experiences almost unbearable pain.

The pain is felt in the gluteal area and spreads throughout the leg, sometimes reaching the toes. In such cases, the attending doctor recommends limiting physical activity as much as possible. At rest, the pain subsides and is rather aching in nature. If an individual decides to take a walk, even slightly strains the sore muscles when bending forward or to the side, or coughs, then the pain syndrome intensifies, and shooting pains are possible. Symptoms of sciatica also manifest themselves in the phenomenon of numbness in the legs.

Patients with chronic back diseases know exactly the concept of sciatica and what it is. It is this category of citizens who often complain of periodic paralysis of the lower extremities.

Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. To do this, he must know the exact clinical picture of the disease, its signs, and ask the patient in detail about his condition. A neurologist tells how to treat inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Only special equipment will help determine the exact location of inflammation of the sciatic nerve and the severity of the damage:

X-ray. The patient receives a referral for radiography first. With its help, you can accurately determine all the disorders that have formed in the spine, and it is also good to view possible changes;
Computer tomography. Recommended when standard x-rays are unable to detect abnormalities. The device scans all affected tissues layer by layer, looking for the main foci of inflammation;
Magnetic resonance imaging;
Ultrasound examination. When using “it,” the doctor can examine in detail the condition of joints, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments. Study them to identify neoplasms that can become a direct cause of inflammation.

It should be noted that it is after the ultrasound procedure for sciatica, the symptoms of which are quite vague and easily recognized, that the doctor receives accurate information about the location of the disease and its severity. The advantages of this procedure: safety for the body, no radiation exposure; has no contraindications; is able to “examine” even the smallest vessels and fibers.

Treatment methods

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve and its treatment are prescribed only by the attending doctor and are selected strictly individually. Therefore, it is impossible to say exactly how long a particular case of the disease will take to be treated. Treatment depends on the general picture of the disease, severity, health status of the patient, and age. In most cases, complex therapy is used.

Medicines

Treatment of sciatica begins with pain relief, a powerful effect on the main foci of inflammation with the help of medicinal medications.

In this case, ortofen, diclofenac, and rheumoxicam, which have been tested over the years, are prescribed. They have a good anti-inflammatory effect and successfully relieve pain. To quickly deliver the drug into the body, medications are administered intramuscularly or intravenously. Chondroprotectors will help cure the disease, relieve inflammation, and restore damaged tissues.

Physiotherapy

For sciatica, which was initially treated with medications and yielded positive results, the following stage of sciatica treatment is allowed: . Most often this is a course of electrophoresis or magnetic therapy. If the doctor sees improvement, additional physical therapy is prescribed. The set of exercises for each patient is individual and specific. The program development specialist takes into account the causes of the disease, severity, level of physical fitness of the patient, and age characteristics.

At home

It is allowed if home therapy is carried out in the form of prevention. The patient is discharged from the medical institution if the main foci of the affected tissue are restored and the pain is practically not bothered. Drug exposure can already be significantly reduced. When diagnosed with sciatica, acute inflammation of the sciatic nerve, most individuals actively use healing recipes of traditional medicine. This is allowed, but on the condition that the patient tells the attending physician in detail about this and he gives his recommendations on how to cure the disease completely.

Honey. Treatment of sciatica is rarely complete without a healing honey massage. You can carry out the procedure yourself or ask your loved ones for help. For sciatica, the treatment of which is quite complex, it “requires” that the product be natural and liquid. You will need 250-300 g, heat it up and add 40-50 g of alcohol infusion. Cool the liquid and use as directed. But it is worth remembering that massage of the lumbar region should not be painful, as it can injure muscles or joints.
Beeswax. Warming applications are made with propolis. They warm up well and relieve pain.
Balm infused with herbs. For sciatica, for cooking you can take celandine, hot pepper, aloe in equal proportions, about a large spoon. Stir and dilute the mass with vodka, 200-250 g. What to do next: leave in a dark place for 7-8 days. We treat the pain localization every day, the course is no more than 7-10 days.
Agave leaves. We apply it to the affected areas, wrap it tightly, and cover it with a scarf or scarf on top.
Ledum infusion. Pour 2 large spoons with 5 identical tablespoons of pure vegetable oil. Leave the resulting mixture for 12-14 hours and use as directed, that is, rub the affected areas.
Healing baths with the addition of pine tincture. Pour boiling water over fresh pine needles and simmer over low heat for half an hour. Take a bath with pine tincture for no more than 15 minutes.
Hirudotherapy (treatment with leeches). Sciatica is a disease that provokes an inflammatory process in the body. Modern medicine has proven that leeches can relieve inflammation after just one session.

It is worth remembering that no matter how much one or another folk treatment method is praised and told how to treat sciatica quickly and without consequences in this way, folk therapy may have its contraindications. In particular, an allergic reaction may occur.

Medical nutrition

In case of inflammation of the sciatic nerve, symptoms and treatment, the doctor must draw up an individual nutrition plan. Treating sciatica requires making significant changes to your diet. It is better to eat little by little, 5-6 times a day. The diet must contain foods containing fiber, calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamins A, C, E.

To saturate the body with calcium, you need to eat: fish, nuts, seafood, cauliflower, nuts, liver.

Magnesium is found in avocados, peas, beans, and pistachios. Iron is found in lentils, peas, corn, and wheat. Vitamin A is found in broccoli, garlic, and cottage cheese. Vitamin C is found in kiwi, sea buckthorn, black currant, orange, and lemon. Vitamin D: liver, sour cream, chicken egg, butter. It will be necessary to remove or significantly limit smoked foods, sweets, salty and fatty foods from the diet. It is this category of food that contributes to excess weight gain, which is extremely undesirable for sciatica.

Prevention

Cure inflammation of the sciatic nerve is only half the success. To prevent the disease from progressing and the pain to no longer appear, it is necessary to follow the general rules of prevention. With the right approach and a great desire to be healthy, this is not at all difficult:

Keep your back straight (posture);
Try to avoid mechanical damage and falls;
Keep your weight under control;
Do not overheat or overcool;
Prevent the development of infectious diseases.

The question of how to quickly cure sciatica definitely cannot be answered by any doctor. The disease progresses individually and may have completely different signs and symptoms. Therefore, treatment may take some time.

Neuralgia and neuritis bring a lot of discomfort to the patient. Stitching or cutting pain, numbness and lumbago – this is what worries a person who has sciatica.

, the symptoms and treatment of which until recently were in people of mature age, are now younger. A sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity on the body, and poor nutrition provoke the disease at an earlier age. How to identify the disease and treat it correctly is what worries patients.

Why is this nerve needed and where is it located?

The sciatic nerve is considered the largest nerve in the human body. In an adult, the diameter of the nerve can reach 1 cm. Everyone should know where the sciatic nerve is located. It begins in the pelvis and exits through an opening in the ilium. Passing between the muscles of the buttock, it goes under the lower edge of the gluteal muscles to the thigh. Then it passes along the back of the thigh and branches into smaller processes. Thus, the sciatic nerve extends from the lumbar region to the tip of the thumb.

A pinched sciatic nerve is an inflammation of the largest nerve in the human body, characterized by severe pain. The medical name for this pathology is sciatica.

If a lumbago occurs when lifting a heavy object or making a sudden movement, then this is a consequence of pinching the ends of the sciatic nerve, and this problem is called - lumbago with sciatica.

Unblocking the sciatic nerve. Video:

Causes of inflammation

If the sciatic nerve hurts, then there are reasons for this. Pain occurs as a result of pinched nerve roots, as a result of which inflammation develops, pain begins in the lumbar region and radiates throughout the leg. The causes of this pathology are:

It should be noted that the inflammatory process is not an independent disease - it is a reaction to some developing disorders in the body.

Pinched sciatic nerve: symptoms and treatment

Signs of inflammation of the sciatic nerve differ depending on the severity of the lesion, the source of inflammation, duration and nature. In this case, the patient suffers from the following symptoms:

Pain syndrome. Nerve roots have a huge number of receptors, so any damage to them causes severe pain. Usually the lesion covers one side; bilateral sciatica is diagnosed very rarely. Pain syndrome occurs in the buttock and radiates to the lower limb. If the affected area is large, the pain can reach the foot and even the toes.
Limited movement. The pain intensifies with the slightest exertion, walking, bending the body, coughing, and manifests itself even when breathing.
Numbness of the limbs. Quite often, sciatica provokes complete or partial numbness of the legs.

The pain syndrome can have different intensities, from mild to very severe. Usually it is of a shooting type, similar to an electric shock.

What to do if the sciatic nerve is pinched?

First you need to establish the correct diagnosis - this is done based on clinical manifestations and pronounced characteristic symptoms. The location of nerve damage and the severity of inflammation can be determined using hardware tests:

Radiography.
Determines disorders and damage in the structure of the spine. CT – computed tomography.
This is a high-tech X-ray examination technique that can scan tissue components layer by layer and give a more accurate picture of the location of the source of inflammation. MRI – magnetic resonance imaging.
A more informative method of layer-by-layer tissue examination. Ultrasound – ultrasound examination.

The ultrasound method is considered the most effective in diagnosis and safety. It also has some advantages over others: it does not have radiation exposure, can be used many times during treatment, there are no contraindications, and small tissue elements are clearly visible.

How to treat the sciatic nerve?

Usually the doctor prescribes complex treatment, taking into account the degree of damage, symptoms, finding out the cause and neglect of the problem. Complex therapy for sciatica includes:

Drug treatment.
Therapeutic gymnastics and special exercises.
Physical therapy, sometimes radiology.
Taking homeopathic medicines - special creams and ointments help relieve pain and inflammation.
Treatment with folk remedies.

Often, prescribed therapy helps to quickly cope with inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Treatment is carried out comprehensively, under the supervision of a doctor.

Treatment with traditional methods

How to treat a pinched sciatic nerve with medication - first you need to relieve the pain painkillers, for which analgin or agents with a pronounced direction of action are used. Such drugs include:

Tempalgin - eliminates pain due to the content of a mild tranquilizer - tempidine.
Sedalgin - codeine and paracetamol, which are part of the drug, have an invigorating effect on nerve endings and relieve inflammation.
Baralgin - thanks to the action of antispasmodics, inflammation is removed and spasm of the sciatic nerve is relieved.
Pentalgin.

Non-steroidal drugs must be used for treatment. These can be tablets, injections during periods of severe pain, ointments:

Other medications are prescribed for pregnant women because many drugs are harmful to both mother and baby. Safer for them are pain-relieving suppositories and homeopathic remedies.

It should be noted that, apart from drug treatment, the patient cannot do anything during an exacerbation. He must comply bed rest, move little, get up only when necessary, apply ice and a heating pad, alternating them.

After the exacerbation passes, the patient needs to undergo full treatment. In addition, he is indicated for sanatorium treatment with mud, radon and hydrogen sulfide baths, and exhaust hoods in the pool.

Physiotherapy

When acute pain subsides, you should begin to perform exercises for the sciatic nerve. It is recommended to choose simple exercises and perform them slowly and smoothly, without straining at all. The following exercises are considered effective in this situation:

Bicycle, which is done in a lying position on the floor.
Rotational movements of the pelvis.
Walking on the floor on your buttocks.
Stretching in any form of execution.

Exercise therapy will improve blood circulation in the lower back and buttocks and alleviate the patient’s general condition.

Physiotherapeutic procedures

Neuralgia of the sciatic nerve can also be treated with physiotherapeutic procedures. The following activities are shown:

electrophoresis;
phonophoresis;
various compresses;
warming activities.

They are prescribed in combination with drug therapy. In this way, inflammation is relieved faster because blood circulation in the affected areas improves. All appointments are made by the doctor, the number of sessions and their intensity.

Medicinal massage It is recommended to do it only after the exacerbation has subsided. It helps improve blood circulation, restores muscles, eliminates pain, and increases nerve conductivity. Improvement from massage usually occurs after 10 procedures. It is necessary to increase the intensity of exposure with each procedure.

Sciatica: symptoms and treatment at home

Sciatica is a serious condition and must be treated as such. In addition to medical care and other procedures, you can treat the sciatic nerve at home.

Getting rid of sciatica will take a long time, so it pays to be patient and persistent.

At home, you are allowed to massage your sore buttock and leg daily or every other day. It will also be helpful to take hot baths twice a day for severe pain. Therapy for sciatica requires following some recommendations:

You can start treatment with traditional medicine only if the exacerbation has passed.

How to cure the sciatic nerve at home using folk recipes? Treatment with this method can only be done after consulting a doctor.

Folk recipes are simple and accessible to use and to use. Some of the most effective recipes are as follows:

Bay leaf tincture. Place 20 bay leaves in 200 ml of vodka and place in a dark place for 3 days. Rub the prepared infusion into the inflamed area. Improvement occurs after 3-4 sessions.
Honey cake. Make a cake from a glass of flour and a spoon of honey and apply it to the sore spot. Cover the cake with film and wrap it with a warm scarf.
Infusion of potato sprouts. Take a glass of sprouts, add two glasses of vodka to them and place them in a dark place for two weeks. Rub the prepared infusion into the problem area in the morning. Wrap the area in a warm shawl.

Sciatica is not difficult to cure, but it will take a lot of time, as a result of which you need to be patient. It is necessary to follow the doctor’s recommendations and not do anything that will complicate the disease.

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When the sciatic nerve, which is located in the lumbar region, becomes inflamed, sciatica is diagnosed. It has other names - lumbosacral, sciatica.

Often patients try to endure painful sensations, postponing a visit to the doctor until better times.

However, if nothing is done, the situation will not get better.

And then the patient will have to deal with chronic sciatica, for the treatment of which physiotherapy and even physical therapy will be used.

Features of the disease

Many people who are over 45 years old are familiar with such an unpleasant pathology as sciatica. Unfortunately, with age, degenerative changes occur in the structure of the spine.

If a person is healthy, thanks to the muscles of the back and abdominals, the spinal column remains protected, it receives enough nutrition, and excess load is removed from the intervertebral discs.

The older a person is, the more often one can observe:

weakening of the back muscles;
contraction of ligaments;
appearance and .

When an attack of sciatica occurs, a pulling, aching or shooting pain is felt in the lumbar region, radiating to the lower limb. Accordingly, the victim will avoid standing on his leg.

Recognizing chronic sciatica is not that difficult. The pathology affects the patient’s posture and gait:

the back becomes slouched;
the body leans slightly forward;
the patient limps or pulls his leg.

Lumbosacral radiculitis can go away within about 6 weeks without the use of any serious treatment methods.

But with a chronic course, the patient must undergo certain procedures. This is about:

treatment methods that can be used at home;
conservative therapy;
surgical intervention.

Causes of chronic sciatica

Sciatica is a neurological disease and can develop in the body over many years. At first, a person may not notice that degenerative changes occur in muscle, joint and cartilage tissues.

And when certain symptoms appear, patients often try to eliminate them on their own, in particular, using traditional methods.

However, self-medication and untimely assistance provoke a situation where chronic sciatica occurs.

In general, the disease is caused by:

sedentary lifestyle;
excess body weight;
injury to the spinal column;
leg damage;
diets;
alcohol abuse;
improperly organized nutrition;
excessive stress on the joints;
cardiovascular diseases;
hereditary predisposition.

The most common causes are protrusions and intervertebral hernias.

Ways to eliminate pathology

After a thorough examination, the doctor will prescribe medications that will be used to treat chronic sciatica. If you have constant pain in the lumbosacral region, you cannot do without:

opioid drugs;
tricyclic antidepressants;
anticonvulsants;

All medications are prescribed on an individual basis and as needed, especially if treatment is expected to be long-term. Some medications can cause serious side effects to the patient.

When pain discomfort persists for more than 12 weeks, the patient is treated.

During the procedure, a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent is injected into the inflamed area, which relieves pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduces pain.

Based on the results of the examination, the doctor may refer the patient to undergo:

vacuum therapy;
spot and regular.

In addition, it is useful for chronic sciatica. You should first consult with your doctor about how to properly perform various movements.

Doctors rarely resort to surgical methods. Moreover, after the operation, consequences in the form of infection of the operated area or damage to the spinal nerve cannot be ruled out.

Treatment at home

Therapeutic baths, which have a strengthening and relaxing effect, will help you cope with the disease. Try the following recipes:

Pour pine shoots (1 kg) with hot water (3 l). Leave the decoction for 4 hours, then filter and add to the prepared bath (the ratio of decoction to water is 1:15).
The horseradish is grated, wrapped in a piece of gauze and placed in the bath. Water temperatures should not exceed 37 degrees.

The procedures should be performed before resting at night for at least 10 minutes. The treatment lasts for a week.

You can get rid of discomfort with the help of compresses that must be applied to the affected area.

For example, take pre-peeled radish and finely grate it.

The pulp should be placed in a prepared cloth made of natural material, and then applied to the lower back.

Parchment paper is placed on top and a woolen scarf is tied. For the compress to have an effect, it should be left for a long period. The procedures themselves should be at least 10.

The pathology will not develop into a chronic form if the patient seeks help in time and follows all medical recommendations.

An excellent way to get rid of constant pain and maintain a toned muscle corset will be advice from Alexandra Bonina.

Denial of responsibility

The information in the articles is for general information purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis of health problems or for therapeutic purposes. This article is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor (neurologist, therapist). Please consult your doctor first to know the exact cause of your health problem.

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