Sciatica

Relief for radiating leg pain caused by nerve irritation in the lower spine

Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically beginning in the lower back or buttock and radiating down the leg. It is most often caused by irritation or compression of lumbar nerve roots from conditions such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes.

At Resolution Spine & Joint, we focus on identifying the exact source of nerve irritation and delivering targeted, minimally invasive treatments designed to reduce inflammation, relieve nerve compression, and restore mobility.

Common Symptoms

Sciatica can present in many ways, including:

• Radiating pain from the low back or buttock into the leg

• Sharp, burning, or electric-like pain

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Muscle weakness

• Pain worsened by sitting, bending, coughing, or prolonged activity

Symptoms may occur on one or both sides and can range from intermittent discomfort to severe, function-limiting pain.

Common Causes

Sciatica is typically caused by underlying spinal conditions such as:

• Lumbar disc herniation

• Spinal stenosis

• Degenerative disc disease

• Facet joint arthritis causing nerve irritation

• Foraminal narrowing

• Piriformis syndrome (less commonly)

The key concept is nerve inflammation. Mechanical compression often starts the process, but persistent pain is largely driven by inflammatory signaling around the nerve root.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis involves correlating symptoms, examination findings, and imaging when appropriate.

Evaluation may include:

• Comprehensive neurologic and musculoskeletal examination

• Assessment of strength, sensation, and reflexes

• MRI imaging when clinically indicated

• Diagnostic injections when needed to confirm the pain generator

Imaging alone does not determine treatment, many patients have abnormal scans without symptoms. The nervous system’s interpretation of irritation is what ultimately produces pain.

Treatment Options at Resolution Spine & Joint

Most cases improve without surgery, particularly with targeted treatment.

Conservative Management

• Physical therapy focused on nerve mobility and stabilization

• Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments

• Anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate

Interventional Treatments

• Lumbar epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation

• Selective nerve root blocks for both diagnosis and relief

• Targeted injections for associated pain generators such as facet joints or piriformis muscle

When inflammation settles, nerve sensitivity often decreases dramatically, allowing normal movement and healing to resume.

When to Seek Urgent Evaluation

Immediate evaluation is recommended if symptoms include:

• Progressive leg weakness

• Difficulty walking or balance problems

• Loss of bowel or bladder control

• Saddle numbness

These may indicate significant nerve compression requiring urgent attention.

Why Choose Resolution Spine & Joint

• Rapid access to evaluation and treatment

• Advanced image-guided nerve-targeted procedures

• Same-day interventional capabilities when appropriate

• Individualized treatment plans focused on restoring function and reducing recurrence

• Compassionate care that prioritizes both pain relief and long-term mobility

Sciatica patients often feel stuck between “wait it out” and “consider surgery.” Your clinic fills the critical middle ground, precise diagnosis with meaningful relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does sciatica go away on its own?
Many cases improve over time, though persistent inflammation may benefit from targeted treatment.

Is bed rest helpful?
Prolonged inactivity can worsen stiffness and delay recovery. Guided movement is usually beneficial.

How long does recovery take?
Improvement may occur within weeks, though timelines vary based on the underlying cause.

Do injections cure sciatica?
They reduce inflammation and allow healing but do not reverse structural changes.

References

• North American Spine Society (NASS)

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)