Sciatica

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve exiting the lumbar spine and serves the lower back, buttocks and legs. When this large nerve is irritated, pinched or compressed, pain and other related nerve symptoms are referred to as sciatica. One of the most common types of lower back and leg pain is sciatica, which can be caused by a variety of spinal and musculoskeletal issues. Our physicians at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine can help patients with sciatica find relief and enjoy an improved quality of life.

Sciatica is not a condition, but a group of symptoms related to the sciatic nerves. There are two sciatic nerves that travel from the lower lumbar spine on each side through the pelvic region to the legs. Sciatica symptoms are usually only felt on one side, whichever of the sciatic nerves is affected.

Symptoms may include:

• Lower back pain
• Shooting pain through the buttocks, hips and legs on one side
• Tingling, burning or numbness traveling down from the lower back to the leg and foot
• Weakness in the hip or leg on one side

In many cases, sciatica symptoms can sporadically come and go. They may be triggered by certain activities. Sitting or standing for long periods may cause sciatica symptoms. If there is a chronic condition causing pressure on the sciatic nerve, the symptoms may be constant or more frequent.

Treating Sciatic Nerve Pain

As with all our chronic pain management treatment plans, our team focuses on finding the source of sciatica symptoms. Medications can mask the pain, but they do not offer long-term relief. Some causes of sciatic nerve irritation include herniated discs, lumbar spondylosis, stenosis, degenerative disc disease and piriformis syndrome. When the source of the pressure on the sciatic nerve is identified, a specific treatment plan can be recommended to offer ongoing relief from sciatica.

If you have lower back or leg pain that may be sciatica, come see our team at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine. We will begin diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your pain and find the right treatment for relief. Contact us at one of our clinics in the Atlanta area, to schedule your first appointment.