Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a pain pattern that occurs in your sciatic nerve. Five different nerve roots converge at the base of your spine to make the sciatic nerve the longest in the human body. The sciatic nerve then splits to run down each leg, ending just below the knees. 

With sciatica, damage occurs in the sciatic nerve at the bottom of your spine. This damage causes low back and hip area pain, which then radiates, shooting down the back of your leg. Sciatica usually occurs in just one leg.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica commonly occurs when something changes the balance in your lumbar (lower) spine. For example, a herniated disc or bone spur can cause abnormal pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica. 

In many cases, the problem that leads to sciatica occurs with age-related changes in the spine; however, accidents and injuries can also cause issues in your spine.

If you struggle with your weight or sit for prolonged periods, you may be more likely to develop sciatica. Conditions like diabetes, which cause nerve damage, can also increase your risk of sciatica. 

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

Sciatica symptoms may vary by case, but the most common symptom is pain that radiates down your leg, sometimes as far as your calf. Everyone may experience this pain differently, but it may feel particularly sharp or similar to an electric shock. 

Many people have especially severe sciatica pain when they cough, sneeze, or rise after a prolonged period of sitting. Some other symptoms of sciatica can include numbness, tingling, or weakness in one leg or foot.  

How are sciatica and peripheral neuropathy different?

Both sciatica and peripheral neuropathy involve nerve damage, so the symptoms can sometimes be quite similar. 

One key difference is that sciatica starts higher (in the lower back) while peripheral neuropathy symptoms usually begin in the feet. Another difference is that sciatica features shooting pain while peripheral neuropathy pain usually stays in the foot area. 

How is sciatica treated?

The Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas team focuses on healing the nerve damage that causes your sciatica — and that, in turn, leads to long-lasting pain relief.  

Some of the most effective sciatica treatments include:

• Chiropractic care
• Cold laser therapy
• M6 MLS® (multiwave locked system) robotic laser 
• Massage

Sciatica treatment always emphasizes noninvasive and nonsurgical solutions that also boost your general wellness. So, there’s no need for potentially dangerous or habit-forming pain medications.

To learn more about how you can beat sciatica without invasive treatments or surgery, call Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas or book an appointment online today.