Sciatica
Sciatica is a relatively common form of back pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine through the buttock and back of the thigh and down to the foot, connecting the spinal cord with the leg and foot muscles. Sciatica may affect only one side of the body or may be bilateral, radiating from the lower back down through the buttock and down the leg. Depending on which part of the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain may also extend into the foot or toes. While sciatica can be very painful, it is rare that permanent nerve damage will result.
Evaluating Your Condition
WHAT CAUSES SCIATICA?
The most common causes of sciatica are usually pressure on the sciatic nerve from a herniated disc, neuroforaminal stenosis, spinal stenosis, which results in lumbar radiculopathy.
SYMPTOMS
- Pain in the buttocks or leg that is worse when sitting
- Burning, tingling, or numbness down the leg
- Weakness or difficulty moving the leg or foot
- Constant pain on one side of the buttocks
- Shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up
Common Treatments Available for Sciatica
- NSAIDs
- Medication Management
- Epidural Steroid Injections
- Spinal Cord Stimulation
- Physical Therapy
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
