The Complete Guide to Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

If you’ve ever experienced a sharp, radiating pain that shoots down your leg, there’s a good chance it’s sciatica. This common condition affects millions of people every year—and while the pain can be intense, the good news is that there are highly effective treatments available.

At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery (OLSS), we specialize in diagnosing and treating the root causes of sciatica using advanced, minimally invasive techniques. Whether you’re just starting to feel symptoms or have been living with discomfort for a while, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica isn’t a condition in itself—it’s a symptom of an underlying problem affecting the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. This nerve starts in your lower back and travels through your hips, buttocks, and down each leg.

When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates along the nerve’s path—usually on one side of the body.

What Causes Sciatica?

Several spinal issues can lead to sciatic nerve irritation. The most common causes include:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs
  When the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes out and presses on a nearby nerve root.
• Spinal Stenosis
  A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
• Degenerative Disc Disease
  Wear and tear on spinal discs can cause instability and inflammation around nerve roots.
• Bone Spurs
  Extra bone growth can develop on the spine and compress nearby nerves.
• Spondylolisthesis
  When one vertebra slips forward over another, it can pinch the sciatic nerve.
• Trauma or Injury
  Accidents or falls can damage the spine or muscles, triggering sciatic pain.
• Piriformis Syndrome
  A tight piriformis muscle in the buttocks can irritate the sciatic nerve.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatic pain can vary from mild discomfort to intense, debilitating pain. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or burning pain that radiates from the lower back down one leg
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg
• Pain that worsens when sitting, standing for long periods, or coughing/sneezing
• Difficulty moving the leg or foot normally

If your symptoms are sudden, severe, or accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control, seek emergency care immediately.

How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?

At OLSS, we begin with a comprehensive evaluation that includes a medical history, physical exam, and advanced imaging such as:

• MRI or CT scans to pinpoint the exact source of nerve compression
• X-rays to check for spinal alignment or bone spurs
• Nerve studies (EMG/NCV) if needed to assess nerve function

Correct diagnosis is key to effective treatment, and we use the latest diagnostic tools to ensure you get a personalized care plan.

Treatment Options for Sciatica

Most cases of sciatica do not require surgery and respond well to conservative treatments. Your treatment plan may include:

💪 Non-Surgical Options:

• Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the lower back and core muscles
• Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants
• Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the nerve
• Chiropractic care or massage therapy for pain management
• Lifestyle modifications, including posture correction and ergonomic adjustments

🔬 Minimally Invasive Surgical Options:

If conservative treatments aren’t effective and symptoms persist, surgery may be recommended. At OLSS, we offer minimally invasive spine surgery options such as:

• Microdiscectomy – Removes a portion of a herniated disc pressing on the sciatic nerve
• Laminotomy or Foraminotomy – Widens the spinal canal or nerve pathways to relieve pressure
• Spinal fusion (in more advanced cases) to stabilize the spine

Our advanced laser and endoscopic techniques mean smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less downtime compared to traditional open surgery.

Preventing Sciatica Recurrence

Once you’ve recovered, it’s important to protect your spine and prevent future flare-ups. Tips for long-term sciatic nerve health include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Practicing good posture
• Avoiding prolonged sitting or heavy lifting without proper support
• Strengthening your core and lower back through regular exercise
• Staying flexible with daily stretching

Explore our wellness resources for more tips on spine health and injury prevention.

Ready to Find Relief?

You don’t have to live with sciatic pain. Whether you’re just starting to experience symptoms or have tried treatments without success, Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery is here to help.

Our team of specialists is dedicated to identifying the root cause of your pain and delivering the most effective, least invasive solution possible.

👉 Schedule your consultation today and let us help you take the first step toward lasting relief from sciatica.