How do injections treat sciatica symptoms?

In this article below, Mr Michael Athanassacopoulos, a distinguished consultant spinal surgeon, explains what sciatica is, and how injections treat the symptoms caused by sciatica.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is shooting pain from the lower back down to the leg caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve formed by the lower lumbar nerves. It results in sharp, burning pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the leg.

How do injections treat sciatica symptoms?

Sciatica injections deliver corticosteroids and local anaesthetic directly to the affected nerves, numbing them and reducing inflammation. This targeted approach offers better pain management compared to oral medications. The medication in the injection reduces inflammation and swelling of the nerve and provides patients with temporary pain relief from sciatica symptoms.

When are sciatica injections suitable? Is other treatment available first?

For sciatica treatment, conservative management is the initial approach, including physiotherapy, pain medications, exercise, and lifestyle changes. These methods aim to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance mobility. If symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative measures, injections may be considered as an additional option.

What’s the best injection for sciatica?

The best injection for sciatica depends on the individual's condition and the underlying cause. Nerve root injections target the specific nerve root exiting the spinal column, reducing inflammation and relieving pain caused by compression or irritation.

Foraminal epidurals involve injecting medication into the small openings where nerve roots exit the spinal column, alleviating symptoms of nerve compression. The choice of injection is determined by the healthcare provider after evaluating the individual's condition.

How long do sciatica injections last?

The duration of relief from sciatica injections varies. Typically, corticosteroid injections provide pain relief for a few weeks to a few months. It's important to note that injections offer temporary relief and do not treat the root cause of sciatica.

To schedule in an appointment with Mr Michael Athanassacopoulos, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today