Causes of Sciatica Pain
A herniated disc pressing on the nerve root is the most common cause. Other causes include bone spurs on vertebrae, spinal stenosis narrowing the canal, piriformis syndrome irritating the nerve, traumatic injuries, or rarely tumors and nerve damage from conditions such as diabetes.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Common signs include sharp, burning, or shooting pain from the lower back to the leg, numbness or tingling in the leg or foot, muscle weakness in the affected limb, and difficulty bending, lifting, or walking due to discomfort.
Prognosis of Sciatica
Most people recover within a few weeks using conservative treatments such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. Some cases become chronic and may require interventional pain procedures or surgery. Prompt diagnosis supports faster recovery and prevents long-term nerve damage.
Diagnosis of Sciatica
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam, including a straight-leg raise test to confirm nerve involvement. Imaging such as X-ray, MRI, or CT can reveal herniated discs or bone spurs. Electromyography (EMG) may be used to measure electrical activity in nerves and muscles to pinpoint compression.
Pain Management and Treatment
Relief starts with over-the-counter NSAIDs or acetaminophen and may include prescription muscle relaxants or nerve-pain medications. Epidural steroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain. Physical therapy strengthens back and core muscles and improves flexibility. Hot and cold packs help manage discomfort, while maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good posture lower recurrence risk. If conservative care fails, surgical options such as discectomy or laminectomy may be recommended. Learn more about personalized pain care at Maywell Health or contact us.
Procedure Videos
Epidural Steroid Injection
Spinal Cord Stimulation
References
- “Sciatica.” Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435. Accessed July 17, 2024.
- “Sciatica.” Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica. Accessed July 17, 2024.
- “Sciatica.” Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/sciatica. Accessed July 18, 2024.
- Valat, J. P., Genevay, S., Marty, M., Rozenberg, S., & Koes, B. (2010). Sciatica. Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology, 24(2), 241–252. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.berh.2009.11.005
- Stafford, M. A., Peng, P., & Hill, D. A. (2007). Sciatica: a review of history, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and the role of epidural steroid injection in management. British journal of anaesthesia, 99(4), 461–473. https://doi.org/10.1093/bja/aem238
AICA Orthopedics. https://aica.com/does-popping-my-back-contribute-to-sciatica/ Accessed July 18, 2024.
