What is Sciatica
and How is it Treated?

Sciatic pain originates from the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down the back of each leg. Sciatica is the term used to describe the painful group of symptoms that develop when the nerve roots, which make up the sciatic nerve, become irritated or compressed—usually affecting only one side of the lower body .

Suffering from symptoms of sciatica? Take the first step to finding relief from your pain with our free interactive assessment.

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How Do I know if
I Have Sciatica?

Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is a common pain that affects millions of Americans’ ability to do the activities they care about most. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, excruciating pain that makes it difficult to walk or stand.

Common Symptoms of Sciatica
While sciatic nerve pain typically only occurs in one side of your body, that depends on exactly where the compression is located. Common symptoms include:
  • Sharp pain, throbbing or tingling sensations.
  • Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving lower limbs.
  • Discomfort when sitting or lying down.
  • Feeling of numbness, often throughout the buttock, leg, and foot.
  • Hip and/or lower back pain.
  • Constant pain on one side of the rear.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica or sciatic nerve pain is often the result of nearby spine issues, such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs and arthritis. The most common conditions that can lead to sciatica are:

If you are experiencing the single-sided, lower body pain that indicates sciatica or sciatic nerve pain, start your diagnosis with our interactive condition assessment tool.

How is Sciatica
Treated?

In most cases, there is an underlying condition that is causing the sciatic nerve issue, and the more quickly you take action to seek a diagnosis and treatment, the better your overall recovery will be.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Sciatica
For milder cases, you may be able to find relief from the painful symptoms associated with sciatica with less invasive or at-home remedies including:
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Rest
  • Heat and ice therapy
  • Stretching and low impact activities such as walking
Pain management treatments, such as an epidural injection or nerve root block, may also be used to alleviate the pain and inflammation as you work through treatment options at home.
Surgical Treatments for Sciatica
When non-surgical treatments have been exhausted, surgery may be required to correct the underlying condition and relieve your pain. Depending on the underlying condition, your surgical treatment options for sciatica can vary. The most common minimally invasive options include microlaminectomy, which is typically associated with herniated discs and spinal stenosis conditions, or microdiscectomy, which is often used to treat degenerative disc disease. Other surgical treatment options include: If you are suffering from painful symptoms associated with sciatica or sciatic nerve pain and are ready to take the next step, try our interactive treatment finder below to find right treatment for you.

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