Treatment of Sciatic Hernia Pain

Sciatic hernia pain is usually caused by lumbar hernia. Lumbar hernia occurs in different age groups of both men and women. This common condition leads to a decrease in individuals' quality of life.

If not treated early or if a wrong and unconscious treatment method is chosen, this condition becomes more challenging over time.

What is Sciatic Hernia Pain?

Pain occurring from the lumbar region to the ankle area is defined as leg pain. While there can be various reasons for this, the most common cause is lumbar hernia.

Lumbar hernia generally occurs at any age and affects both men and women. Among the main reasons are the tasks individuals perform and constantly lifting heavy objects. Also, lumbar hernia formation may manifest itself as age progresses.

The formation of lumbar hernia is a condition that puts pressure on the nervous system. The tearing or slipping of the discs located between the vertebrae, which serve as cushions, causes lumbar hernia. This condition puts pressure on the nerves descending from the lumbar region to the leg and causes pain in the leg. It generally prevents individuals from sitting, lying down, and walking.

What Are the Symptoms of Sciatic Hernia Pain?

The leg pain experienced due to lumbar hernia can reach a level that prevents individuals from performing their daily tasks. The person may become unable to get up from where they are sitting alone and may also have difficulty walking without assistance. The symptoms of sciatic hernia pain include the following:

• Pain starting in the lumbar region and radiating to the leg
• Numbness in the leg region
• Numbness in the feet
• Leg pain
• Difficulty in walking
• Loss of balance
• Difficulty in holding or urinating
• Inability to perform sexual functions

What Helps with Sciatic Hernia Pain?

Consultation with specialist physicians is necessary for sciatic hernia pain. Treatment methods applied by individuals themselves lead to further deterioration of the condition.

Generally, rest, use of pain relievers, and physical therapy options come into play for leg pain caused by lumbar hernia. However, surgical operation options are considered by physicians for patients who do not respond to these treatment methods.

During the rest period, it is essential not to overload the lumbar and leg regions. Resting as much as possible contributes positively to the treatment of this problem.

Methods of Spinal Injections in the Treatment of Sciatic Hernia Pain

Depending on the level and degree of lumbar hernia, there are treatment methods that need to be tried before surgery, such as prolotherapy, PRP, smart serum, and ozone, can be used in the treatment

• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Treatment: PRP treatment is a method where platelet-rich plasma obtained from the individual's own blood is used. It is known that platelets support tissue healing through the growth factors they contain. This method can be used in the treatment of pain caused by hernia by injecting PRP into the spinal region. PRP treatment can help reduce pain and accelerate the healing process.
• Prolotherapy: Prolotherapy is an injection treatment method applied to repair damaged ligaments and tendons. It can also be effective in treating discomfort caused by hernia in the spinal region. By strengthening the ligaments, this method can increase spinal stability and reduce pain.
• Neural Therapy: Neural therapy is an approach to regulate the function of nerves and nerve endings. It can be used in the treatment of pain caused by pressure on the nerves in the spinal region. By regulating the function of the nerves around the spine, this method can alleviate pain and support the healing process.
• Sanakin (Smart Serum): Sanakin is a product commonly used in spinal injection treatments lately. By reducing inflammation in the nerve roots, it relieves pain and increases mobility. Sanakin injections are generally effective in relieving pain from herniated discs in the legs and can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.
• Ozone Therapy: Ozone therapy is a treatment method where ozone gas is used for medical purposes. Ozone injections applied to the spinal region can reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and support tissue healing. This method can be considered as an alternative option in the treatment of pain caused by spinal hernia.

Spinal injection methods in the treatment of sciatic hernia pain offer an effective option to improve patients' quality of life and help them cope with pain. However, it is important to consult a physiotherapy and rehabilitation specialist to determine the most suitable treatment method for each patient. With the guidance and experience of a specialist doctor, spinal injection methods provide relief to patients and support the treatment process.

Assoc. Prof. Elif BERBER, MD

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist