How and who can Sciatica be treated?
Optional Information: Person's Age: 81 Already Tried: I am dependent on canes and walkers now. A wheel chair could be in my future. Can you help me before I get to the wheel chair?
Hello,Thanks for your question.Are you having active symptoms of sciatica? Are you taking any meds for it? Have you been evaluated for it?
It seems like you are not online at this time. I am posting this response just to address your concern stated in the initial description.
Most of the people with sciatica feel better with conservative measures such as rest, heating pad, mild stretching exercise, anti inflammatory meds such as ibuprofen. Having physiotherapy is also very beneficial. Generally, 80-90% people get better with these conservative measures, if it does not help, then other meds for chronic pain management such as neurontin or lyrica can be prescribed. If these measures do not work, steroid injection can be considered. Surgery is rarely considered for it and rarely performed. You can read more about these treatment options from this link:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sciatica/DS00516/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
Sciatica can be treated my many health professionals such as orthopedic doctor, rheumatologist, neurologist, and even primary care physician. It is better to start from your primary care physician, if needed he/she can refer you to a specialist depending upon your need.
Please let me know if you have any other question.