Best Sciatica Doctors in Chennai

Sciatica is a condition characterized by severe pain radiating from the lower back down one leg due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. Causes of sciatica include lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, herniated discs, arthritis, and bone spurs. Risk factors for sciatica include aging, diabetes, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and occupations involving heavy lifting.

In Chennai, the fast-paced lifestyle and high-stress environment may contribute to sedentary habits among residents, leading to conditions like sciatica. Consulting with the best doctors for sciatica treatment can provide significant pain relief and advice on necessary lifestyle modifications for managing the condition effectively. At Apollo Hospitals, patients receive comprehensive care and expert guidance to navigate the challenges of sciatica with ease and confidence.

Types/Stages of Sciatica

The medical fraternity generally recognises four stages of sciatica, which may vary in manifestation depending on its cause and severity:

• Acute Phase: It is characterised by episodic and short-lived pain and discomfort. However, without appropriate intervention, it can progress into a chronic issue.

• Subacute Phase: With pain persisting beyond a few weeks, this phase requires more intensive treatment plans involving physical therapy and medication.

• Chronic Phase: Pain lasts beyond 12 weeks despite treatment. It often necessitates long-term management strategies that include lifestyle modifications and regular check-ups.

• Resolution: The final stage of sciatica is characterised by decreased pain or even complete resolution of symptoms.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The symptoms of sciatica are quite distinguishable:

• Sharp pain that starts from the lower back and shoots down one leg

• Numbness or tingling sensations in the affected leg or foot

• Difficulty moving or lifting the affected leg

• Symptoms worsen while sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods

• Disturbed sleep due to pain

Tests to Diagnose Sciatica

To diagnose sciatica accurately, doctors for sciatica pain relief might recommend several tests, including:

• Physical Examination: This involves checking the patient's gait, posture, mobility, and reflexes.

• X-ray: This is used to identify deformities, fractures or abnormalities in the spine.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This provides detailed images of the spine and helps identify issues like herniated discs, nerve compression, and spinal tumours.

• Electromyography (EMG): EMG evaluates electrical activity in muscles and helps to diagnose nerve compression.

• Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): This assesses the speed and strength of electrical signals in nerves, aiding in identifying nerve damage or compression.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Sciatica at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, specialists for sciatica nerve pain offer a wide range of treatment options, such as:

• Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or analgesics help manage pain and inflammation.

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches can strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. A specialist for sciatica stretches for pain relief can guide patients through this process.

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections near the affected nerve can reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.

• Chiropractic manipulation: This involves spinal adjustments by a chiropractor to realign the spine, easing pressure on the sciatic nerve and enhancing mobility.

• Acupuncture: This therapy uses thin needles inserted into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote healing.

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures like microdiscectomy or laminectomy may be performed by a surgeon for sciatica treatment.