Sciatica

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• Sciatica is a condition where there is pain along the sciatic nerve. This occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, inflamed (swollen), irritated, or stretched anywhere along its length. Sciatica may be a symptom of other diseases, such as spinal and neurological (nerve) diseases. It may be related to certain activities, poor posture, or physical or psychological (mental) stress. The most common cause of sciatica is a slipped disc in the spine. Other causes include too much use of buttock or leg muscles, being overweight or pregnant, infections, and tumors.
  
  
• Sciatica usually starts in the lower back and goes down the buttocks and thighs. There may be numbness or problems moving or controlling the leg. A simple leg raise test, bone scan, or x-ray may be done to diagnose sciatica. You may also need an electromyography (EMG), myelogram, computerized tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment may include bed rest, lifestyle changes, assistive devices, medicines, massage, surgery, and physical therapy. With treatment of sciatica, you have a greater chance of the condition going away.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Take your medicine as directed:

Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists.

• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine may decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine can be bought with or without a doctor's order. This medicine can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. Always read the medicine label and follow the directions on it before using this medicine.
  
  

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

Activity:

• Rest: You may need to rest for no more than two days. As pain decreases, you may start doing your normal activities.
  
  
• Sports and exercise: Talk to your caregiver before you start exercising. Together you can plan an exercise program that best suits you. Start with a low-impact sport, such as walking or swimming, and do more as you get stronger.
  
  
• Walking: You may need to use a cane, walker or crutches. This may help you get around and decrease your chances of falling or getting hurt. It is important to use your cane, walker, or crutches correctly. Ask your caregiver for more information about how to choose and use them properly.

Binder or brace care:

Caregivers may tell you to wear a binder or brace to support your back. It may also be used to decrease pain. Ask your caregiver for more information on binder or brace care.

Cold or warm compress:

• Ice pack: An ice pack may be applied to your skin on top of the swollen part to decrease swelling. An ice pack is made of crushed or cubed ice in a plastic bag or an ice pack. Some water is mixed in a bag with the ice to more evenly spread the cold. Wrap the ice bag in a towel. Do not place the ice bag directly on the skin.
  
  
• Warm pack: After applying a cold compress, try warm, wet washcloths, a heating pad (turned on low), or a hot water bottle. Sitting in a warm water bath or whirlpool may also help.

Do not leave the ice or warm pack on the skin for a long time. Ask your caregiver for more information on how to apply cold or warm compress correctly.

Physical therapy:

You may need to see a physical therapist to teach you special exercises. These exercises help improve movement and decrease pain. Physical therapy can also help improve strength and decrease your risk for loss of function.

Self-care:

• Avoid too much pressure on your back and legs: Do not lift heavy objects or stand or sit for long periods of time.
  
  
• Have good lifting techniques: Keep your back straight while bending your knees when picking up an object.
  
  
• Maintain proper posture: Always sit in a straight-backed chair with your feet flat on the floor.
  
  
• Sleep on a good, firm mattress: Try placing a piece of plywood under your mattress to help make it firmer. If you do not have a firm mattress, you may also sleep on the floor for a few days.

Do not smoke:

Smoking causes lung cancer and other long-term lung diseases. It increases your risk of many cancer types. Smoking also increases your risk of blood vessel disease, heart attack, and vision disorders. Not smoking may help prevent such symptoms as headaches and dizziness for yourself and those around you. Smokers have shorter lifespans than nonsmokers.

Manage your stress:

Stress may slow healing and lead to illness. Learn ways to control stress, such as relaxation, deep breathing, and music. Talk to someone about things that upset you.

Weight:

Weighing too much can make your back problems worse, your heart work harder and can cause other health problems. You may need to talk to your caregiver about a weight loss plan.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have a low back pain at night or even when resting.
  
  
• You have low back pain with numbness below the knee.
  
  
• You have weakness on only one leg.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, care, or medicine.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You have trouble holding back your urine or bowel movements.
  
  
• You have weakness on both legs.
  
  
• You have numbness in your groin (between your legs) or buttocks (rear).
  
  
• You are a male, and you cannot get an erection.

Copyright © 2011. Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Sciatica (Aftercare Instructions)