Sciatica

Known medically as lumbar radiculopathy, sciatica may feel like a bad leg cramp that lasts for weeks before going away. The pain often becomes more intense when sitting, sneezing, or coughing. The condition may also be accompanied by weakness, "pins and needles" numbness, or a burning or tingling sensation in one or both legs.

Most common in those between 30 and 50 years old, sciatica may develop due to the effects of general wear and tear, plus any sudden pressure on the discs that cushion the lower spinal vertebra.

The gel-like center of a disc, known as the nucleus pulposus, may protrude into or through the disc's outer lining (the annulus fibrosus). This herniated disc may press directly on nerve roots that become the sciatic nerve. The nerve may also become inflamed and irritated due to chemicals from the disc's nucleus.

The condition usually only affects one side of the lower body, and the pain often radiates from the lower back all the way through the back of the thigh and down through the leg. Depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected, pain may also radiate to the foot or toes.

Treatment Options
The pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. Treatment is centered on relieving the pressure and inflammation surrounding the nerve root.

Typical treatments include:

Physical therapy including specific stretching and strengthening exercises
Osteopathic or chiropractic manipulation to help relieve the pressure on the nerve root
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Oral steroids
Epidural steroid injections

While epidural steroid injections have been used to treat lower back pain since 1952, their effectiveness has increased significantly with the introduction of fluoroscopy, or xray imaging. Fluoroscopy lets the doctor see the injection "live" on a monitor to ensure the medicine is delivered exactly where it will provide maximum, long-lasting relief.

We Can Help
The physicians at the Northwest Surgical Specialists Pain Management Center are experts at diagnosing the need for and delivering soothing pain medicine exactly where it will result in maximum relief.

If you or a loved one is suffering the effects of sciatica, contact the Pain Management Center at 847.885.9525 to arrange a consultation.

Hoffman Estates

Northwest Surgical Specialists
3100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 150
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
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Foot & Ankle Care
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Skin Care
Surgical Care Center

847.885.9525

Elgin

Summit Green Medical Center
431 Summit Street, Suite 102
Elgin, IL 60120
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Foot & Ankle Care
Physical Therapy

847.697.4500