Pre-symptoms of sciatica

Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

Updated on January 21, 2025

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For the early symptoms of sciatica, it is usually manifested as obvious pain in the area where the sciatic nerve enters and distributes. The main symptom is radiating pain, especially under circumstances such as catching a cold, strenuous exercise, fatigue, or suffering from trauma, where the pain will be more pronounced. There are many causes of sciatica in clinical practice. Common causes include issues with the lumbar spine, such as disc herniation, lumbar spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis, which can compress the spinal nerves and result in symptoms of sciatic nerve pain.

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

37sec

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Which department should I go to for sciatica?

For sciatic nerve pain, it is recommended to first consult an orthopedic or spinal surgery specialist. Initially, it is important to determine the cause of the pain, such as whether it is caused by a herniated disc pressing on the nerve root. If it is confirmed that the pain is not caused by a herniated disc pressing on the nerve root, and it is purely sciatic nerve pain, you can then visit a pain management clinic to check for potential issues like piriformis syndrome. In essence, start with an orthopedic consultation to rule out orthopedic conditions. If no orthopedic issues are found, then consult a pain management specialist.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 13sec

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What does sciatica cause?

Sciatica generally causes changes in six aspects. The first is pain, which mainly occurs along the distribution area of the sciatic nerve, including the back of the thigh, the posterior and lateral sides of the calf, and the lateral side of the foot and sole. I have seen a patient with severe sciatica who had to stay in bed with his head down and buttocks up to minimize spinal canal pressure, finding some relief only in this position. The second change is a decrease in muscle strength, which can even lead to muscle atrophy. The third aspect involves the pathway of the sciatic nerve, including the exit of the piriformis muscle, with tenderness and percussion pain along the course of the nerve. The fourth aspect includes symptoms of sciatic nerve traction, which involves positive results in straight leg raise tests and cross-legged tests. The fifth point is a weakened or absent Achilles reflex, due to the sciatic nerve's innervation of the muscles on the back of the thigh, leading to a decrease or disappearance of the Achilles reflex. The sixth point is abnormal sensations in the area innervated by the sciatic nerve, including reduced or lost sensations or mild sensory disturbances.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 21sec

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How to completely cure sciatica?

Treatment methods for sciatica include several approaches. First, resting on a hard board bed; typically, this rest period lasts three to four weeks, during which many patients experience symptom relief. Second, pharmacological treatment is recommended, usually involving non-steroidal pain relievers, as well as vitamins B1, B6, and B12. Short courses of corticosteroid hormones are also used. However, it is important to use hormones minimally and to stop their use correctly if possible. Third, traditional Chinese medicine and herbal treatments are preferred. Many cases of sciatica may be alleviated or even cured with the proper application of traditional Chinese medicine and herbs. Common remedies include Xuanluo Tongbi Decoction, Wutou Xixin Tongbi Decoction, and Duhuo Jisheng Decoction. Local injection treatments are also available, but it is crucial to ensure precise and successful injection on the first attempt. Fourth, exercise therapy is essential as inactivity can lead to muscle atrophy, so proper rehabilitation is necessary. Sixth, dietary therapy should focus on nutritious foods while avoiding junk food and spicy, stimulating dishes.

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

1min 1sec

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What is the fastest way to treat sciatica?

When pain occurs in the sciatic nerve, the first thing we need to consider is whether it is caused by degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Accompanied by the rupture of the fibrous ring, it protrudes and compresses the nerve root, causing pain and numbness in the lower limbs, and even limited mobility. Once sciatic nerve pain occurs, it is essential to identify the cause so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. If it is due to degeneration of the intervertebral disc, early stages can involve back exercises and appropriate medication to alleviate these symptoms. For example, sleeping on a firm bed, wearing a lumbar support during activities, minimizing sitting time, or avoiding bending over to pick things up. Additionally, you can perform exercises like the "bird flying" and the "plank bridge" for back muscle training to help reduce pain symptoms. If these do not alleviate the pain, pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed for symptomatic treatment.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua

Orthopedic Surgery

58sec

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Can sciatica patients walk?

Sciatica can be managed with activities like walking, brisk walking, or jogging. It is best to walk or even walk backwards. It is important to avoid sitting for long periods, bending over, or carrying heavy objects. When the spine is bent, it can increase the pressure on the intervertebral discs, potentially worsening the nucleus pulposus, rupturing the annulus fibrosus, and causing a series of symptoms related to nerve root compression. This compression can cause local swelling, which can press on the nerves to varying degrees. It is recommended to strictly rest on a hard bed, and generally, with about ten days to two weeks of warming up the lower back, recovery is usually achievable. Gradual relief and disappearance of symptoms can occur, and it is advisable to avoid sitting for long periods, bending, or carrying heavy loads. Moderate walking is suitable.