Sciatica typically affects just one side of the body, but the pain itself can range from a minor, dull ache to an excruciating, sharp, burning sensation. Common symptoms include:

• Radiating Pain: Pain that starts in the lower back or buttocks and extends down the leg.
• Numbness or Tingling: A “pins and needles” sensation or a feeling of numbness in the leg, foot, or toes.
• Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving the leg or foot, or a feeling of weakness when standing or walking.
• Pain with Movement: Pain that is triggered by coughing, sneezing, bending, or twisting.
• Pain Relief with Rest: The pain may be lessened by lying down.

The causes of neurosurgical-related sciatica are structural problems within the spine that put pressure on the delicate nerve roots. Risk factors include:

• Age: Age-related changes in the spine, such as herniated discs and bone spurs, are the most common cause.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can increase the stress on the spine.
• Occupation: Jobs that require heavy lifting or prolonged sitting.
• Diabetes: Can increase the risk of nerve damage.

A precise diagnosis is the single most important step in successfully treating sciatica. Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh employs a systematic approach:

• Detailed Medical History and Physical Examination: A thorough review of your symptoms and a physical exam that assesses your muscle strength, reflexes, and pain response to specific movements.
• Imaging Tests:
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of the Lumbar Spine: This is the gold standard for diagnosis. An MRI provides detailed images of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and discs, and can clearly show a herniated disc or other forms of nerve compression.
  • X-rays: Used to check for spinal alignment, instability, or bone issues.
  • CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Provides detailed images of the bony structures and can identify spinal stenosis.

The appropriate treatment for sciatica depends entirely on the underlying cause and how severe the symptoms are. Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh will always start by recommending the most conservative approaches before surgery is considered.

• Conservative Management:
  • Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen the pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve core strength, flexibility, and posture.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs and nerve pain medications.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the irritated nerve.
• Surgical Intervention:
  • When is Surgery Considered? Surgery is a last resort, typically recommended when conservative treatments have failed, the pain is debilitating, or there is evidence of progressive weakness or other neurological deficits.
  • Types of Surgery: Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh is highly experienced in a range of spine surgeries, including:
    • Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove a small portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve.
    • Laminectomy: Removing a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create more space and decompress the nerve.