Sciatica

Sciatica, or lumbar radiculopathy, refers to pain that radiates from the point of pressure on the sciatic nerve down through the legs.

The pain is usually caused by a herniated disc or bone spur applying pressure to the sciatic nerve within the spine. Sciatica pain can range from mild to severe, and can be felt from the lower back to the foot.

For severe cases of sciatica, minimally invasive surgery may be necessary to relieve debilitating pain or to prevent the condition from worsening over time.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE SCIATICA?

The symptoms of sciatica affect the back, buttocks, hip and leg areas. Pain can be anywhere from mild to severe, and people may experience numbness in the legs or “pins and needles.”

Most describe radicular pain as a sharp or burning pain that travels down the leg. It is possible for that pain to begin in the low back. Keeping a record of how you’re experiencing pain can help to determine where it is originating from and which nerves are being compressed.

It is common to experience sciatica after an injury, and pain can be experienced while performing daily activities, walking, and even while sitting. Common sensations can also include:

A burning sensation
Numbness in the feet and legs
Weakness in the muscles

WHAT IS THE RIGHT SCIATICA TREATMENT FOR ME?

California Spine and Pain Institutes recommended treatment for sciatica, or lumbar radiculopathy, can vary depending on the patient’s health, age, and the severity of symptoms.

In many cases, the first approach is conservative management of your condition, including plenty of rest combined with applying hot or cold compresses and low-impact exercise like walking or yoga. Steroid injections or anti-inflammatory medication may also help your condition.

Dr Fadly may recommend surgical treatment if symptoms are severe and more conservative approaches do not provide you with enough relief.

Surgical treatments may include microendosopic discectomy, in which a portion of the herniated disc is removed to relieve pressure on the nerve and help with pain.

If you’d like to talk with us about possible treatments for your condition, or if your symptoms worsen after conservative treatment, make an appointment for a free consultation with California Spine and Pain Institutes today. We look forward to helping you!