Sciatica: understanding the pain, finding the solution

Sciatica: understanding the pain, finding the solution

Sciatica is one of the most frequent causes of medical consultation for pain. It is a type of neuropathic painthat is to say, a pain that arises from an alteration or compression of the nerves, and that can become extremely disabling if it is not treated in time.

According to Dr. Jorge OrduñaMedical Director of MIVI Salud, “sciatic pain can be very complicated.sciatic pain can become very complicated, and not only manifests itself as lower back discomfort.” and not only manifests itself as discomfort in the lower back.

“It can present with numbness, electrical sensations, and even a burn-like sensation without actually having suffered it”,

What exactly is sciatica?

🎥 You can watch the full video here.

The term “sciatica” refers to the pain that runs along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back, through the buttocks, thighs and legs, to the feet.

However, as Dr. Orduña explains, the cause can be in different parts of the spine, and it is not alwaysand it is not always as obvious as it seems. “It can affect everything from the cervical spine to the dorsal and lumbar spine. The entire course of the spine can be involved at some point.”

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain radiating from the lower back down the leg

  • Tingling or numbness

  • Electrical discharges

  • Burning sensation

  • Muscle weakness or loss of coordination

These symptoms are the result of irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve or adjacent structures.

Common causes of sciatica

Among the most common causes are:

  • Herniated discs

  • Spinal osteoarthritis

  • Canal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)

  • Fibrosis or post-surgical scars

  • Maintained nerve compression

“A herniated disc with significant motor deficit may be cause for urgent surgery.”

Dr. Orduña warns, adding that this is why it is essential to have an accurate and early is essential to have an accurate and early with tests such as magnetic resonance MRI, dynamic studies of the spine or electromyography..

 

What treatments are available?

Treatments range from conservative to advanced techniques. At MIVI we work at different levels:

Pharmacological treatment:

  • Analgesics

  • Anti-inflammatories

  • Specific drugs for neuropathic pain

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation:

Very important to strengthen muscles, improve mobility and prevent relapses.

3. Minimally invasive interventional techniques:

This is one of the key points of our approach at MIVI. As Dr. Orduña states, ” these techniques are ambulatory; the patient returns home the same day and the next day can be practically living a normal life.“.

These techniques include:

  • Dorsal ganglion radiofrequency

  • Selective corticosteroid infiltrations

  • Image-guided neuromodulation

“In a very high percentage of patients we achieve significant and lasting pain relief. And many times we manage to avoid surgery, which makes us very happy. “

A different approach, a clear philosophy

 

At MIVI Salud we approach pain from its origin, with a very clear philosophy: to combine advanced technology with patient-centered care.

“It is not enough to relieve pain, we must identify the cause, treat it effectively and accompany the patient in his or her recovery“explains Dr. Orduña. This includes working the lifestyle habits, weight control, ergonomics and spinal strengthening..

 

Dr. Jorge Orduña
Medical Director MIVI Salud and Doctor in MIVI Valencia

 

Do you have sciatic pain?

 

📍 Do not normalize it. See a specialist as soon as possible. The longer it takes to intervene, the more difficult it may be to reverse the problem.

📞 At MIVI Salud we have specialized Pain Units and a multidisciplinary team that works in a coordinated way to give you back control of your life.

MIVI Salud – Living without pain is possible.