Sciatica Pain Specialists
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica most often occurs when a herniated disk on the spine or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine) compresses part of the nerve that runs through the spine/lower back and downthe back of the leg.
Some common symptoms of sciatica Include:
- Radiating Pain from lumbar spine to buttock
- Radiating Pain down the Leg
- Sharp or burning sensations
- Pain on one side of the lower body
Who is at Risk for Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica is a fairly common condition especially in the elderly population. Those who are particular at risk are the elderly who suffer from Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) as well as those who have had a spinal injury or herniated disk. In addition, those who live a sedentary lifestyle or are obese are also at greater risk to develop this pain.
When Should a Doctor be Consulted for Sciatica Pain?
If your sciatica is mild, it usually can go away over time – especially with stretches and various movements. If at-home care does not improve your symptoms or the pain is consistent for more than 1 week or becomes severe, it is important to see a doctor to treat it as it may become chronic.
Sciatica Treatments
Treatments can vary based on pain origin and other related conditions, but in general some of our minimally invasive, effective Sciatica pain treatments are listed below.
01.
Spinal Injections
Spinal injections, such as an epidural, are done under fluroscopy guided imaging for accuracy and inject anesthetics or anti-inflammatory medications near the affected nerve area(s) for inflammation reduction and pain relief.
*This is done outpatient and does not require anesthesia.
02.
Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks are fluroscopy guided injections that target specific clusters of nerves associated with the area of pain with a ‘blocking’ or numbing medication to help stop or block the pain sensations sent throughout that area of the body.
*This is done outpatient and does not require anesthesia
03.
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)
This minimally invasive procedure is used to treat Spinal Stenosis – which can alleviate associated sciatica pain for those who have this condition. It is performed in a surgery setting with a tiny incision to remove the stenosis and open up the spinal canal to provide relief.
*This surgical procedure requires no general anesthesia.
04.
Medication Management
In conjunction with other treatments, medication can be a helpful tool in the management of sciatica. Medications such as steroids, nerve pain reducers, and medical marijuana, etc. may be options depending on your symptoms and condition.
