Sciatica

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Orthopedics

9.     What are the symptoms and treatment of sciatic nerve pain and sciatica?

Ans:

Sciatica:

§  Sciatica pain is caused by an irritation, inflammation, pinching or compression of a nerve in the lower back.

§  Back pain might be sudden and short-lived (acute) or long-lasting (chronic).

§  The most common cause is a herniated disk that causes pressure on the nerve root.

§  The sciatic nerve is the longest finger-width thickest nerve in the body.

§  It’s actually made up of five nerve roots: two from the lower back region called the lumbar spine and three from the final section of the spine called the sacrum.

§  One sciatic nerve runs through the hips, buttocks and down a leg, ending just below the knee.

Symptoms of sciatica:

§  Moderate to severe pain in lower back, buttock and down the leg.

§  pain that worsens with movement; loss of movement.

§  Numbness or weakness in the lower back, buttock, leg or feet.

§  “Pins and needles” feeling in the legs, toes, or feet.

§  Loss of bowel and bladder control due to cauda equina.

 

10. How is osteoporosis related to arthritis?

Ans:

§  Although they can both have an impact on the bones and joints, osteoporosis and arthritis are two separate disorders. 

§  Bones that have osteoporosis are weak and brittle, which makes them more prone to breaking. It happens when the body makes too little bone, loses too much bone, or does both. Typically, osteoporosis affects the wrists, hips, and spine. 

§  Contrarily, a collection of disorders known as arthritis produce inflammation in one or more joints, resulting in discomfort, stiffness, and swelling. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are just a few examples of the various forms of arthritis. 

§  Although there is no direct link between osteoporosis and arthritis, there is some overlap in terms of risk factors. For instance, older persons and women are more likely to have both illnesses. In addition, several drugs used to treat arthritis may make you more likely to get osteoporosis. 

§  It's also important to keep in mind that osteoporosis can cause fractures, which in turn can cause arthritis in the affected joint or joints. In certain circumstances, arthritis can also affect the bones, weakening them over time. However, there is no clear connection between the two ailments. 

11.Why does osteoporosis particularly occur to postmenopausal women?

Ans:

§  Reduced bone mass and density are symptoms of osteoporosis, which makes bones brittle and prone to fractures. Compared to men or premenopausal women, postmenopausal women are more likely to develop osteoporosis. 

§  Because estrogen, a hormone generated by the ovaries, aids in maintaining women's bone density, there is an elevated risk. 

§  A woman's body produces much less oestrogen after menopause, which causes bone loss and an increased risk of osteoporosis. 

§  In addition, women often have less bone mass and density than men, which makes it harder for them to keep strong bones. In addition, as women typically live longer than men do, they are more exposed to the negative effects of ageing on bone health. 

§  Postmenopausal women are more vulnerable to osteoporosis due to a number of additional variables, such as genetics, a history of fractures, insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake, smoking, and binge drinking. 

12. What are the benefits of swimming for back pain and sciatica?

Ans:

For people with sciatica and back discomfort, swimming has many advantages. The following are some methods swimming can help to treat certain ailments:

1.     Low-impact exercise: Swimming relieves stress on the spine and joints because it does not need you to carry any weight. Your body is supported by the buoyancy of the water, easing pressure on the afflicted areas. Because swimming reduces the chance of future injury, it is a great option for people with sciatica or back discomfort. 

2.     Strengthening and flexibility: Swimming works a variety of muscles, including those in the back, core, arms, and legs, to increase strength and flexibility. Water's resistance offers a mild yet effective workout that builds flexibility and muscle strength. The muscles that surround the spine can be strengthened to aid with stabilization and lessen stress on the troubled area. 

3.     Improved posture: Swimming helps to improve posture by activating the back and core muscles. Regular swimming can help strengthen weak muscles, rectify imbalances, and enhance postural alignment. This can lessen sciatic nerve pressure and relieve back discomfort.

4.     Increased circulation: While swimming, the water's pressure helps the body's blood flow and circulation. Increased circulation helps speed up recovery, lessen inflammation, and supply vital nutrients to the injured areas. Additionally, it aids in the removal of metabolic waste products and toxins, which supports a healthier back and lessens sciatic nerve pain.

5.     Pain relief and relaxation: Swimming has been shown to help people unwind and manage their stress. Muscle tension can be eased and a sensation of well-being can be enhanced by the weightlessness and rhythmic motions in the water. Temporary relief from sciatica and back pain symptoms can also be obtained through the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances. 

6.     Cardiovascular fitness: Swimming is a great cardio workout that strengthens the heart and lungs. Back pain can be relieved by maintaining a healthy weight and cardiovascular fitness, as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can both lead to greater pressure on the spine.

While swimming has many advantages, it's vital to speak with a healthcare provider, such a doctor or physical therapist, before beginning any fitness program, especially if you already suffer from sciatica or back discomfort. They can advise you on the best swimming techniques and exercises based on your unique condition and offer personalized advice.

13.What is the definition of a carpal tunnel release?

Ans:

A surgical treatment called a carpal tunnel release is used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The disorder known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is brought on by irritation or compression of the median nerve, which travels through the carpal tunnel, a small opening in the wrist. In the hand and fingers, this compression causes symptoms like pain, tingling, numbness, and weakening.

The transverse carpal ligament, which makes up the carpal tunnel's roof, is cut by the surgeon during a carpal tunnel release. This ligament is released, reducing pressure on the median nerve and improving CTS symptoms. Either an open or an endoscopic approach to the procedure is possible.

1.     Open carpal tunnel release: A tiny incision is created in the hand's palm during an open carpal tunnel release, giving the surgeon direct access to the carpal tunnel. The median nerve is then given additional room by splitting the transverse carpal ligament.

2.     Endoscopic carpal tunnel release: In order to perform an endoscopic carpal tunnel release, one or two small incisions must be made in the wrist or palm. To view the inside structures, the surgeon then inserts an endoscope—a small tube with a camera—into the opening. The transverse carpal ligament is severed with specific tools.

The identical goal of both strategies is to widen the carpal tunnel in order to relieve pressure on the median nerve. The hand is normally bandaged after the treatment, and the incisions are closed.

For moderate to severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome that don't respond to preventative measures like splinting, medication, or physical therapy, carpal tunnel release is regarded as a useful treatment. It can enhance hand function and offer long-lasting symptom alleviation. However, there are potential dangers and side effects with any surgery, therefore the choice to have a carpal tunnel release should be taken in collaboration with a licenced healthcare provider.