If you’ve ever experienced a sharp, burning pain that radiates from your lower back down your leg, you may be dealing with sciatica. This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in your body—becomes irritated or compressed. It can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is often triggered by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or bone spurs that put pressure on the nerve. Other causes include muscle tightness (such as piriformis syndrome), inflammation, or even prolonged sitting. While some cases improve on their own, others require medical intervention.

Effective Treatments for Sciatica

Mild sciatica can often be managed at home with rest, ice, and gentle stretching. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also help. However, if pain persists, more advanced treatments can provide relief:

• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises help strengthen core and back muscles, reducing nerve compression.
• Medications: Muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications, or oral steroids can ease inflammation.
• Minimally invasive procedures: For persistent cases, epidural steroid injections or radiofrequency ablation may help by reducing nerve irritation.
• Surgery: In rare cases where nerve compression is severe and causing significant weakness, surgical options like a microdiscectomy or laminectomy may be necessary.

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should consult a physician if your pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens, or causes weakness or severe numbness. A specialist can evaluate your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to help you get back to pain-free living.

If sciatica is keeping you from doing the activities you love, schedule a consultation today!

Orange County Spine & Sports Medicine