Health, Life

Methods To Relieve Sciatica

Surgery

Scientific American

Most cases of sciatica do not require treatment other than to manage the pain through any or a combination of the methods listed in this article. Some sciatica cases resolve on their own after a few weeks or months. However, there are cases of sciatica that are more debilitating, more painful, can cause severe leg weakness, and even limit mobility. For such extreme cases, the doctor may recommend surgery.

There are generally two kinds of surgery to resolve sciatica: Microdiscectomy and Laminectomy. In a microdiscectomy, portions of the herniated disc are removed to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. In a laminectomy, fragments of the vertebra are removed to release its pressing on the sciatic nerve. Which one applies to you, or if either even apply to you at all, will have to be determined by a medical doctor. Remember, not all cases of sciatica require surgery, so do not be surprised if your doctor chooses to not have you undergo surgery. This leads us to a very important reminder regarding sciatica: the importance of getting a proper diagnosis.