Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is nerve pain that causes tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation that runs from the lower back, down one side of the buttocks and leg to the foot. It is the symptom of an underlying spinal condition such as a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body, so when it’s irritated, you feel pain.

Pain from the sciatic nerve results when the nerve is compressed, often in the lower back or pelvis. While you may experience pain in your buttocks, hip, or down the back of your leg, if it’s left untreated, sciatic pain may also radiate into your knee, ankle, and foot. It rarely occurs only in your foot.

What are the characteristics of sciatica?

Sciatica typically affects only one leg, and rarely occurs in men and women before the age of 20. You know you’re experiencing sciatic pain if you have any of the following:

• Burning, tingling, or numbness down the back or side of your leg
• Pain in the upper buttocks
• Pain in the lower back
• Radiating pain to the hips and thighs
• Constant dull leg pain
• Pain when sitting or difficulty getting comfortable while sitting
• Hip pain when lying down
• Difficulty walking
• Pain relief from changing sitting positions to relieve pressure

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Health care providers who specialize in spinal function, like Dr. Altieri and Dr. Cavallo, are experts at evaluating your pain and determining the cause. They perform a physical exam, learn about your medical history, and may take X-rays.

You may be asked to bend and reach for your toes, along with a series of other pertinent physical movements. This way, they can evaluate the triggers and severity of your pain in relation to everyday motion.

What are the treatment options for sciatica?

The treatment of sciatica pain depends on the cause. Once Dr. Altieri or Dr. Cavallo determine if you have a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or another spinal condition, they prescribe an individualized treatment plan just for you. To address the underlying cause of your sciatica, the recommended therapies may include:

• Specific low back stretching exercises
• Heat or cold therapies
• A series of chiropractic adjustments
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy

Untreated sciatica pain worsens over time if left untreated. Don’t wait until the pain becomes debilitating. Call the office or go online to schedule a consultation today.