If you’ve ever felt sharp, shooting pain down your leg or numbness in your foot, you may be dealing with sciatica. Sciatica is often a symptom of an underlying condition, rather than a condition on its own. Pain is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. At Suburban Orthopaecis, our specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment to relieve pain and restore mobility.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through your hips, buttocks, and legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This can result in:
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness or difficulty controlling movement
Symptoms can vary widely. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others may have pain so intense it affects daily life.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Several conditions can lead to sciatica, including:
- Herniated or Bulging Discs: Pressure from a disc on the sciatic nerve is the most common cause.
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the discs over time may irritate nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis: A vertebra slipping forward can pinch the nerve.
- Muscle Imbalances: Tight or weak muscles, especially in the lower back, hips, or glutes, can exacerbate nerve compression.
What to Expect in a Sciatica Consultation
When you schedule a visit at Suburban Orthopaedics, your orthopedic provider will perform a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of your sciatica. The consultation typically includes:
- Medical History & Symptom Review
Your provider will ask about your pain such as when it started, triggers, and how it affects your daily life, as well as your overall medical history, previous injuries, and past treatments. - Physical Examination
A hands-on assessment evaluates strength, flexibility, posture, and reflexes to determine which nerves or muscle groups may be affected. - Imaging and Screening Tests
Depending on your symptoms, your provider may order:
- X-rays to check bone alignment and structural issues
- MRI or CT scans to visualize discs, nerves, and soft tissue
- Electromyography (EMG) in select cases to assess nerve function
- Personalized Treatment Plan
After reviewing exam results and imaging, your orthopedic specialist will discuss pain management options and a tailored care plan. This may include physical therapy, medication, interventional procedures, or, in rare cases, surgery:
Conservative Care
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice and heat therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants
Physical Therapy
- Targeted exercises to strengthen back, core, and hip muscles
- Stretching and posture training to reduce nerve pressure
Interventional Procedures
- Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks for persistent pain
Surgical Options
- Reserved for severe cases with significant nerve compression, weakness, or loss of function
Orthopedic Knee and Hip Care
Sciatica can sometimes affect mobility, which may indirectly strain your knees and hips. At Suburban Orthopaedics, we evaluate movement patterns and recommend orthopedic care to reduce secondary joint stress. In some cases, patients considering knee replacement due to osteoarthritis may find that addressing spinal and nerve issues first improves overall comfort and mobility. For more information, see our guide on obesity and knee replacement surgery.
When to Seek Help
While sciatica often improves with conservative care, see a specialist if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than a few weeks
- Severe or worsening leg weakness
- Numbness or tingling that interferes with daily life
Early evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and treatment, reducing the risk of chronic symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to relieve sciatica pain at home?
A: Gentle stretching, activity modification, ice/heat therapy, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help. Persistent pain should be evaluated by a specialist.
Q: Can physical therapy really help?
A: Yes! Strengthening the core, back, and hip muscles reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve and prevents future episodes.
Q: When is surgery necessary for sciatica?
A: Surgery is usually reserved for severe cases with nerve compression, significant weakness, or loss of function that does not respond to other treatments.
Q: How does sciatica affect daily life?
A: Sciatica can make walking, sitting, or climbing stairs uncomfortable. Pain management and proper orthopedic care can restore mobility and improve quality of life.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, we take a personalized approach to sciatica care, combining pain management, physical therapy, and orthopedic expertise to help you regain comfort and function. Don’t let sciatica control your life. Schedule an appointment today.