Sciatica

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Navigating Sciatica: Understanding and Treatment

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in diagnosing and treating sciatica, offering both surgical and non-surgical interventions tailored to each patient’s needs. Sciatica, characterized by pain in the low back, buttocks, or leg, often results from irritation or pinching of the spinal nerves, typically caused by conditions such as herniated disks or bone spurs. Dr. Arutyunyan emphasizes a collaborative approach to treatment, ensuring patients are actively involved in decisions regarding their care.

Identifying Potential Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing sciatica, including age, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Prolonged sitting, lifting heavy loads, and stressful activities can also contribute to its onset. By understanding these risk factors, Dr. Arutyunyan and his team work with patients to develop personalized strategies for prevention and management.

Recognizing Symptoms of Sciatica

Symptoms of sciatica may include radiating pain, tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or a burning sensation in the leg. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mobility. Dr. Arutyunyan conducts comprehensive evaluations, including physical exams and medical history reviews, to accurately diagnose sciatica and develop effective treatment plans.

Diagnostic Procedures and Assessments

Advanced medical imaging techniques, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, are utilized to assess the underlying causes of sciatica. Through thorough evaluations and discussions with patients, Dr. Arutyunyan ensures a precise diagnosis, allowing for targeted treatment strategies that address the root cause of the condition.

Exploring Treatment Options

Treatment options for sciatica range from conservative approaches like medication, physical therapy, and chiropractic care to more invasive interventions such as cortisone injections or spinal surgery. Dr. Arutyunyan prioritizes shared decision-making, empowering patients to choose the treatment path that aligns with their goals and preferences.

Surgical Interventions for Sciatica

While most cases of sciatica can be managed without surgery, some patients may require surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if neurological symptoms develop. Surgical procedures such as diskectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion may be recommended based on the specific underlying cause of the sciatic pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Patients experiencing severe or worsening sciatic pain, along with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder control, should seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, if sciatic pain persists despite conservative treatments or significantly impacts daily functioning, consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan is recommended to explore further treatment options.

Patient-Centered Care and Recovery

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, patient-centered care is at the forefront of our approach. Dr. Arutyunyan collaborates closely with each patient, providing personalized care and support throughout their treatment journey. Our commitment to comprehensive care and shared decision-making ensures that patients receive the highest quality of treatment tailored to their unique needs.

Reaching Out for Support

If you are experiencing sciatica symptoms or seeking guidance on treatment options, we invite you to contact Dr. Arutyunyan at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Our team is dedicated to helping you understand your condition and navigate the path to recovery, empowering you to regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.