Sciatica is a common condition that impacts your sciatic nerve. Millions of people across the globe suffer from the medical condition. It is characterized by persistent pain in your back and radiating down to your legs. It can impact one of both legs. The pain radiates from your sciatic nerve and can dramatically impact your daily life. For those who have the condition, treatment is necessary to address the unwanted symptoms. You may wonder, can an epidural injection relieve sciatica symptoms? Below, you will find helpful information about the condition and how to address the pain.
Can an epidural injection relieve sciatica symptoms?
Sciatic pain can be difficult to manage. An epidural injection is often a common form of treatment due to its benefits on your unwanted symptoms. Sciatic pain stems from pressure on the nerve. Epidural injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the areas of your spine that are impacted. Once injected, the medication reduces the pain and other unwanted symptoms you feel.
The epidural is placed in the epidural space, specifically the irritated and inflamed area of your spine. It is located between your dura matter membrane and vertebral wall. This is where blood vessels and fatty tissues are located. It is also a common location where inflammation occurs due to injuries or disease.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is one of the most common types of back pain. In fact, roughly 40% of people develop the condition at some point in their life. The condition refers to pain that radiates from your sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in your body. When the sciatic nerve is irritated or pinched, it results in compression. This is often caused by a herniated disc or bone overgrowth.
While anyone can get the condition, there are certain factors that place you at a higher risk. Risk factors include those who are overweight or obese, have diabetes, live a sedentary lifestyle, or have age-related spine issues. In addition, a job or hobby that requires significant testing can also place you at a higher risk for the condition.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica requires a diagnosis from a medical professional. There are a number of common symptoms that indicate you may have the condition. If you experience any of the following, contact a medical professional right away.
- Pain: It is often a sharp, shooting pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve and varies in intensity
- Numbness: Patients often feel numbness in one of both of their legs
- Tingling: The pain is often accompanied by a tingling sensation on one of both or your legs
- Burning: While not as common, some patients report a burning pain in one of both of their legs
- Weakness: The pain and other unwanted symptoms can cause muscle weakness and make everyday tasks really difficult
- Lower Back Issues: While many of the symptoms impact the leg area, patients also experience intense lower back pain
- Difficulty Standing For Long Periods: Standing for long periods can exacerbate the symptoms associated with sciatica
Treatment for Sciatica Pain
If you experience any of the symptoms of the condition above, contact the Centers of Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine. They can assess your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis. Once diagnosed, a customized treatment plan is created to meet your unique needs. This can include a variety of modalities and depends on the severity of your condition.
Untreated sciatica can lead to a number of unwanted conditions. This includes chronic pain, reduced mobility, muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, and nerve damage. Early intervention is key, so it’s important to prioritize your health. Contact the top pain clinic in Orange County today to schedule an appointment!
