Curing Sciatica Pain With a Laser Spine Surgeon

Sciatica is a very common cause of pain in the lower back and leg. People can develop sciatica for a variety of reasons. The majority of cases can be resolved with non-surgical methods, but more severe cases can often be treated using laser spine surgery.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the legs, becomes inflamed, as can occur when the nerve becomes compressed or "pinched." Causes include:

• Tight piriformis muscle
• Bulging disc
• Herniated disc
• Bone spurs
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spinal tumors (rare)

Laser Spine Surgery

The majority of the above conditions can be effectively treated using non-invasive methods most of the time. Non-surgical methods are preferable because they are less expensive, less risky, and have a shorter downtime.  However, if symptoms are severe or persistent, then surgery may be necessary for curing sciatica pain.

For decades, the only option for back surgery was invasive, open back surgery. During this surgery, the doctor had to open up the back to treat common issues like bulging discs and herniated discs. Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces the risks and downtime of surgery significantly. Many of the best spine surgeons in the country, such as Dr. Sukdeb Datta, have made laser spine surgery a part of their practice.

During laser spine surgery, the doctor creates just a couple of small incisions near the area being treated. Through one incision, a camera can be inserted. Through the other, a laser probe and any other necessary tools are inserted. The laser probe can be used for several purposes, such as dissolved the herniated portion of a herniated disc.

Although laser spine surgery can help with sciatica dramatically, even patients who get surgery should use lifestyle changes to improve their back health and reduce the chances of future injuries. Regularly performing sciatica stretches and exercises can help, as can losing weight if you are obese.

Only a doctor can determine what method would be best for curing sciatica pain in your case. To schedule a consultation about treatment for your sciatica pain, call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (347)-380-9138.