Sciatica is a term that describes symptoms of pain, numbness, and/or weakness that radiates down the leg. The symptoms usually follow along the sciatic nerve, which starts in the lower back and goes down to the buttocks and leg. Another term for sciatica is lumbar radiculopathy.
The vast majority of sciatica symptoms result from lower back disorders between the L4 and S1 levels that put pressure on or cause irritation to a lumbar nerve root. Most commonly, sciatica is caused by a disc problem, such as a herniated disc that is pressing against a nerve root.
It can also occur when a disc degenerates, which releases inflammatory proteins that irritate the adjacent nerve. Another cause of sciatica is when a muscle called the piriformis puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica symptoms are typically felt on only one side of the body. They may include a combination of leg and foot pain, weakness, tingling or numbness. Sciatica pain is often described as searing or sharp, as opposed to achy or throbbing. Depending on where the sciatic nerve roots are compressed, symptoms may be felt in different areas of the leg and into the foot.
Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition. We determine what the underlying condition is through a detailed examination and diagnostic tests. We then correct the problem using non-surgical, drug-free treatment protocols. We’ve have help thousands of patients return to their normal daily activities…..pain free.