Sciatica

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is commonly grouped with lower back pain, but the pain itself generates from pinching or irritation of your sciatic nerve. 

This thick nerve begins in your lumbar (lower back) spine and travels through your hips and buttocks down into your legs. The nerve provides sensation in your lower legs and feet and provides muscle movement in your legs.

If the nerve is irritated or pinched, usually at the root as it exits your lumbar spine, you could feel minor to severe discomfort at any point along the nerve, but usually only on one side of your body. The discomfort you experience can range in severity from a dull ache to a severe electric shock sensation.

What causes sciatica?

The irritation to your sciatic nerve that leads to sciatica can develop from a number of causes. It most often occurs because of degenerative changes in your spine as you get older that lead to a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis.

Your risk of sciatica increases as you get older and you’re more likely to develop it if your job requires heavy lifting and twisting motion of your back or if you drive a vehicle that causes constant vibration.

Obesity, diabetes, and prolonged sitting can also increase your risk of developing sciatica.

What can I expect during a sciatica evaluation?

NovaSpine Pain Institute is equipped with the latest diagnostic tests and tools to assist in diagnosing sciatica. 

During your evaluation, your doctor first reviews your symptoms, medical and work history and does a physical exam that includes testing your muscle strength and reflexes.

To determine the cause of your sciatica, and help direct your treatment, your doctor will probably request diagnostic tests like an X-ray, MRI, or electromyography (EMG). 

How is sciatica treated?

Your pain management specialist at NovaSpine Pain Institute develops an individualized treatment plan for the management of your sciatica. 

Your treatment will depend on the cause of your pain, the severity of your pain, and your overall health. Your treatment can include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Muscle relaxants
• Physical therapy
• Epidural steroid injections

The team specializes in interventional pain management treatments and provides epidural steroid injections at the office using fluoroscopic guidance to ensure the accuracy of the injection.

Sciatica is a common source of pain, but with the right treatment plan, you can get relief and reduce the risk of recurrence. 

Contact NovaSpine Pain Institute by phone or use the online contact form today to schedule an appointment for comprehensive care focused on getting you the best possible outcomes.