【Common Diseases】Sciatica
What is sciatica?
Let me explain: sciatica isn't a single condition, but rather a symptom. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, extending from the lumbar spine through the buttocks and down the legs. If the nerve becomes compressed, inflamed, or damaged, it can cause radiating pain down the lower back, buttocks, and legs. This pain typically radiates down one leg, sometimes accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.
Common causes in Hong Kong
According to local medical institutions, the causes of sciatica in Hong Kong people include:
-
Herniated disc (commonly known as "lumbar disc displacement")
Sitting for long periods of time, lifting heavy objects or using poor posture can cause the intervertebral disc to compress the sciatic nerve. - Lumbar degeneration <br>Age-related, bone spurs or narrowing of the intervertebral disc may also compress the nerves.
- Sports or accidental injuries <br>Such as low back injuries from weightlifting, falls, or traffic accidents.
- Pregnancy <br>Weight gain and changes in pelvic structure can put pressure on nerves.
- Piriformis syndrome <br>Tight or inflamed piriformis muscle in the buttocks, causing nerve pinching.
Common treatment methods in Hong Kong
I've consulted various local and international medical websites and summarized the following common treatment options. In Hong Kong, treatment typically begins with conservative measures, with surgery considered only if symptoms persist or worsen.
1. Conservative treatment (non-surgical)
- Medication <br>Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers (such as paracetamol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or a short course of steroids to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy <br>Many physical therapy clinics in Hong Kong provide traction therapy, electrotherapy, hot compress, ultrasound therapy, etc., combined with stretching and muscle strength training for the waist, hips and legs.
- Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment <br>Some patients choose Traditional Chinese Medicine methods such as acupuncture, cupping, and massage to dredge meridians and relieve pain, but they must choose a licensed registered Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.
- Lifestyle adjustments <br>Avoid sitting for long periods of time, maintain correct posture, and use a supportive mattress and chair to reduce pressure on the lumbar spine.
2. Interventional therapy
- Nerve block injection <br>A specialist, under imaging guidance, injects a local anesthetic or steroid into the area around the nerve to temporarily relieve pain.
- Radiofrequency ablation <br>Uses radiofrequency energy to destroy nerve tissue that transmits pain and is often used for people with chronic pain.
3. Surgical treatment
-
Microdiscectomy
Removing the herniated disc that is compressing the nerves is a minimally invasive procedure. -
Laminectomy
Removal of part of the lamina to relieve pressure on the nerves; this is often done for severe spinal stenosis. - Fusion surgery <br>is used to fix unstable spinal structures by fusing adjacent vertebrae.
In Hong Kong, surgery is usually only recommended for patients whose daily life or neurological function is affected by conservative treatment and who are evaluated by orthopedic or spinal surgery specialists.
Self-care and rehabilitation
The editor reminds you that treatment is not just about relieving pain, but also about preventing recurrence:
- Regular exercise : such as swimming, Pilates, yoga, etc. can help strengthen the core muscles.
- Avoid excessive loads : Bend at the knees rather than at the waist when lifting heavy objects.
- Pay attention to weight management : reduce the pressure on the lumbar spine.
- Learn the correct sitting and standing posture : keep the computer screen parallel to your eyes and your feet flat on the ground.
Editor's Friendly Suggestions
Hong Kong has relatively adequate medical resources. If you suspect you have sciatica, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially if you experience the following:
- Severe weakness or paralysis in the lower limbs
- loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain that suddenly worsens or is accompanied by fever
This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles
