Sciatica

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that develops when compression or irritation of your sciatic nerve, a nerve that runs down your lower back and legs, causes bothersome symptoms. While it’s not usually dangerous, sciatica can lead to crippling symptoms when left untreated. Sciatica treatment at Synchrony Medical Group provides lasting relief.

Which symptoms can sciatica cause?

Sciatica can cause the following symptoms:

• Tingling 
• Burning
• Numbness in your butt or back
• Radiating discomfort down your leg
• Muscle weakness
• Urinary or fecal incontinence 

Sometimes, radiating pain down one of your legs can extend to your feet or toes. The symptoms might be mild and go away on their own or become severe or long-lasting. 

What are the risk factors for sciatica?

While anyone may develop sciatica, common risk factors include:

• Disc herniation
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spondylolisthesis
• Current or previous injuries
• Osteoarthritis
• Tumors or other growths
• Pregnancy
• Age-related wear
• Carrying excess body weight
• Weak core muscles
• Physically demanding job
• Heavy lifting
• Poor posture when lifting
• Using tobacco products
• Physical inactivity

Sciatica affects about 40% of people in the United States during their lifetime. See the Synchrony Medical Group specialist at the first sign of worsening or ongoing sciatica discomfort. 

How does my specialist diagnose sciatica?

Diagnosing sciatica involves a review of your symptoms and medical history. Your provider also discusses any injuries, lifestyle habits, and the specifics of your pain. They complete a physical exam and sometimes additional tests. 

Diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays, an MRI, or nerve conduction tests, can confirm a diagnosis or test for similar conditions. 

How is sciatica treated?

Treating sciatica may include:

• Physical therapy 
• Ice or heat packs
• Medications
• Stretching
• Spinal injections
• Spinal manipulation 
• Lifestyle changes
• Spine surgery

In severe cases, if other treatments haven’t worked, you may be a candidate for spinal surgery to ease pressure on the sciatic nerve. However, about 80-90% of people struggling with sciatica don’t need surgery to recover. Mild sciatica may disappear on its own over time with self-care.

Ways to reduce the risk of future sciatic pain include using good posture, not smoking, maintaining an ideal body weight, staying physically active, and using good form when lifting things. Wear well-fitting shoes to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Schedule a sciatica consultation with the Synchrony Medical Group team by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.