Simply defined, Sciatica is inflammation and irritation of the Sciatic nerve. It's often experienced as a sharp or burning pain radiating from the lower back or buttock region down into one or both legs. It is often associated with numbness and tingling or burning along it's path into the leg, and can travel all the way to the foot. Walking, bending forward, or stretching of the leg upward will usually increase the painful symptoms of Sciatica.

Sciatica is often caused by irritation or injury to the nerves that form the sciatic nerve at their origin in the spine. Damaged spinal discs (degenerated, herniated, or bulging discs) or spinal facet joints (from traumatic injury, repetitive stress, or degenerative arthritis) can create direct pressure on the spinal nerves that form the Sciatic nerve, resulting in Sciatica. Direct pressure on the Sciatic nerve itself from deep muscular spasm (piriformis or paraspinal) can also cause Sciatica. Proper medical history, examination procedures, and diagnostic testing are all essential to determine the correct cause of Sciatica, which then leads to the correct treatment.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you'll need to schedule an exam with your doctor (or with our offices) as soon as possible. If you've already received an MRI exam and have been told that you have a disc problem that requires epidural steroid injections or surgery, STOP . . . before you agree to a more invasive procedure, contact our offices first for a complimentary evaluation and MRI review. Our Spine Specialists will review your information, confirm or correct your diagnosis, and outline the best treatment options available to you. Hopefully, you can avoid surgery and/or needle injections, and find relief with one of our highly effective nonsurgical treatment methods. The only way to find out is to call us at: 619-472-2225 to get the information you need to make the best decision for your health and welfare.

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