Chronic sciatica: Is there a solution? (advice)

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A sciatica chronic is a condition where the symptoms of sciatica do not subside over time. Obviously, generates a great feeling of unease and a lot of stress in those affected.

Is there a solution to chronic sciatica? This will depend on several factors. Above all, it is necessary to make sure that the symptoms really come from sciatica, and not from a differential diagnosis. Then, you must have tried effective and scientifically proven treatments.

Have you done everything right to cure your chronic sciatica? We take stock in this article.

Short anatomical reminder

To fully understand chronic sciatica, we must first remember the anatomy of the sciatic nerve.

The nerve sciatica is the longest nerve in the body. It starts from the lower back, crosses the buttocks and goes down along the legs. The nerve sciatica is responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the leg muscles. It also provides sensations to the skin of the legs and feet.

Le nerf sciatica is made up of two smaller nerves, the tibial nerve and the peroneal nerve. The tibial nerve branches from the nerve sciatica across the lower back and down the back of the leg. The peroneal nerve branches from the nerve sciatica in the buttock and down the front of the leg.

These two nerves are surrounded by a sheath of protective tissue called myelin. Myelin helps insulate and protect nerves. It also helps to increase the speed at which electrical impulses travel along nerves.

The nerve sciatica is susceptible to damage due to its long length and location near bones and joints. A nerve injury sciatica may cause pain, numbness or weakness in the legs.

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What exactly is meant by chronic sciatica?

La sciatica chronic is a condition that is characterized by pain in the lower back and/or leg that persists over time (usually more than 3-6 months). The pain is caused by irritation or compression of a nerve root at the origin of the nerve sciatica.

Many people describe it as a sharp or burning pain that gets worse when you sit or stand for long periods of time. The sciatica can make it difficult to walk or even stand up straight.

Over time, chronic sciatica causes several compensatory patterns that affect other joints (such as the hip, opposite leg, mid-back, musculature surrounding the pelvis, etc.).

This can affect daily activities, sports, and even work. Indeed, it is not uncommon for chronic sciatica to be responsible for prolonged absence from work, and even professional redeployment.

Also, psychological repercussions are often felt, even going as far as depression.

Why can sciatica become chronic?

Several factors can explain the persistence of pain related to chronic sciatica, and they are complex. They are not only due to physical causes, but also to the emotions and the mind.

On the one hand, a wrong diagnosis (or a diagnosis made too late) can slow down the management of the condition. In the absence of initial treatments, the condition may worsen, and therefore become more difficult to treat.

On the other hand, a lack of assiduity during treatment can prevent optimal healing of sciatica. This is even more serious if the factors contributing to the pain (such as unsuitable postures, heavy lifting, overuse of the lumbar region, etc.) are not controlled.

Then, you should know that the sciatica can often be aggravated by stress or depression. In addition, people who suffer from sciatica may isolate themselves and become disinterested in activities they previously enjoyed.

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This can lead to decreased levels of mental and physical activity, which can contribute to pain. Also, chronic sciatica can cause nerve hypersensitivity, which can lead to increased pain perception.

La Chronic Pain can also lead to a lowered pain tolerance threshold, making pain management more difficult. Although there is no single cure for sciatica, several treatments can help relieve pain and improve quality of life.

What to do in the presence of chronic sciatica?

First, it is important to get a correct diagnosis from a medical professional. By taking a closer look at your condition, a doctor could shed light on the root cause of your pain. For example, a medical imaging (such as a CT scan or MRI) could identify one of the following conditions responsible for sciatica:

Once diagnosed, you can work with your doctor to explore medical treatment options.

Treatments for sciatica are always started with conservative methods. These options may include medication, osteo, or therapeutic exercises in physiotherapy. Each therapist uses different methods, so do not hesitate to seek a second opinion when reaching a therapeutic plateau.

For example, various practitioners could help treat chronic sciatica through the following methods:

Note: It should be noted that these methods are not all scientifically proven. On the other hand, some have led to interesting results that are convincing enough to merit a try.

If you've tried all the medical options and still aren't getting relief, it might be time to try some natural approaches.

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There are many home remedies that can help the pain of the sciatica. Consult your doctor before trying any of these remedies, and use them only in addition to a medical approach, not as a substitute for it.

The pain of sciatica can also be relieved by adopting a biopsychosocial approach. It means taking care of your body and mind, not just your physical body.

Consult a mental health professional if you are struggling with the psychological aspects of sciatica chronic. Also, do breathing exercises and meditation to help relieve stress. You can also consult a pain center to help you manage the pain.

Finally, you need to determine if you are a candidate for seepage or surgery. If the sciatica chronic has a big impact on your life, invasive approaches can sometimes be the best solution. A surgeon will know how to weigh the pros and cons, and determine if you are a candidate for surgery.

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