Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. While it usually affects only one leg, symptoms in both legs are also commonly observed.
If you are experiencing persistent leg pain, tingling, or weakness, it may be time to consult a specialist. Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari, neurosurgeon in Hubli, explains everything you need to know about sciatica—from causes to treatment options.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself but a symptom of an underlying condition that compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. The pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain that worsens with certain movements like sitting, bending forward, coughing, or lifting heavy objects.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain from the lower back or buttock down the leg
- Numbness or tingling along the path of the sciatic nerve
- Muscle weakness in the leg or foot (in some cases)
- Pain that worsens while sitting, bending forward, sneezing, coughing, lifting weights, or traveling
- In severe cases, urinary or bowel incontinence may occur – a sign of cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention
According to Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari, early evaluation by a neurosurgeon is essential to prevent long-term nerve damage and ensure the right treatment path.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is most commonly caused by spinal issues. Here are the primary causes:
- Herniated disc (most common cause)
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Piriformis syndrome (compression from the piriformis muscle)
- Spondylolisthesis (slipping of one vertebra over another)
- Spinal infections
- Spinal tumors
- Spinal trauma or fracture
- Nerve pressure due to injury
- Idiopathic causes – rarely, the cause remains unknown
As a neurosurgeon in Hubli, Dr. Pujari treats many patients with sciatica symptoms caused by these underlying spinal problems.
Treatment Options for Sciatica
🔹 Non-Surgical Treatment
Contrary to popular belief, over 90% of sciatica cases improve without surgery. Many patients assume surgery is the only solution, but it’s often the last resort, not the first.
Non-surgical management includes:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) or prescription medications
- Ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation
- Epidural steroid injections for severe inflammation
Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari emphasizes that conservative treatments are highly effective when started early and monitored properly.
🔹 Surgical Treatment
Surgery is considered only when:
- Pain is severe and persistent for more than 6 weeks
- There is significant leg weakness or functional loss
- The patient has cauda equina syndrome or other emergencies
Surgical options include:
- Endoscopic spine surgery
- Keyhole spine surgery (minimally invasive)
- Microscopic spine surgery
- Spinal fixation using titanium screws, rods, or cages (only in selected cases with instability)
With his vast experience and advanced surgical skills, Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari offers these options at his center in Hubli, ensuring safe and effective outcomes tailored to each patient’s condition.
When to Consult a Neurosurgeon
If your symptoms are persistent or worsening, or if you experience bladder or bowel issues, consulting a neurosurgeon is critical. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage and improve your quality of life.
Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari, one of the most trusted neurosurgeons in Hubli, is known for his patient-first approach and precise diagnosis in treating spine and nerve-related conditions like sciatica.
Final Thoughts
Sciatica can be a debilitating condition, but with early intervention, lifestyle changes, and expert care, recovery is not only possible but likely. Whether you need conservative care or advanced surgical options, Dr. Vijaymahantesh Pujari offers comprehensive sciatica management in Hubli, helping patients regain mobility and confidence.