Sciatica is commonly used generic term for pain running down from the back into the leg. Sciatica is commonly the result of a herniated disc, which leads to a lumbar radiculopathy (pinched nerve), but sciatic type pain may be the result of a number of causes. Injury to the nerve root caused by pressure, narrowing of the exiting canal or inflammation and swelling of the nerve root can result from disc bulges or herniations (slipped disc or ruptured disc), bone spurs, canal narrowing (spinal stenosis). In some rare instances, sciatic pain may be caused by other causes (cysts, tumors or infections). Lumbar radiculopathy is the most common cause, but pain from facet joint disease, sacroiliac joint dysfunction and spinal stenosis may also produce sciatic type pain.

Symptoms

The symptoms of sciatica may include: pain, tingling, numbness and/or weakness from the back extending down to the leg and possibly into the foot. The pain is usually burning or shooting pain and can radiate down from the buttocks area all the way down into the feet. There may also be tingling or frank numbness in a similar distribution as the pain in the leg.

Diagnosis Procedure

A complete history and physical exam along with diagnostic tests will help to confirm the diagnosis. Diagnostic tests may include imaging studies (X-ray, CT, MRI), diagnostic injections (selective root blocks, discograms) and electrodiagnostic studies (EMG/NCS).

Treatment

Our goal is to provide targeted treatment that will relieve the nerve root’s pressure and inflammation, and help to prevent future re-injury. Treatment is typically a combination of physical therapy and modalities, lumbar traction, medications and lumbar epidural steroid injections. If conservative treatment options do not provide proper relief, then percutaneous disc decompression or other surgical procedures may be necessary to prevent permanent nerve injury.

Our Fellowship Trained Pain Management Physicians will guide you through the treatment of your Sciatic pain. Our goal is to relieve your pain and help you live life to the fullest.