Sciatic Nerve Pain

The term sciatica describes the symptoms of leg pain (and possibly tingling, numbness or weakness) that starts in the lower back and travels through the buttock and down the large sciatic nerve in the back of the leg. Sciatica is not a medical diagnosis—it is a symptom of an underlying spine problem, such as a degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis or a herniated disc. Dr. Francis is a fellowship-trained, board-certified spine surgeon and has extensive experience treating sciatica. Spine Associates offers accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment for a variety of spinal conditions.

To learn more about treatments for sciatic nerve pain, request a consultation in Houston or Beaumont. Or you can call us at 1-713-383-7100 to schedule your appointment.

Symptoms

Sciatica is often characterized by one or a combination of the following symptoms:

• Constant pain in only one side of the buttock or leg (rarely occurs in both legs)
• Pain that is worse when sitting
• Leg pain that is often described as burning, tingling or searing (vs. a dull pain or ache)
• Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot
• A sharp pain that may make it difficult to stand up or to walk

Sciatic pain can vary from constant and incapacitating to infrequent and irritating. Specific sciatica symptoms can be different in location and severity, depending upon the condition causing the sciatica.

Diagnosis

Minor symptoms of sciatica will resolve over time. If symptoms are intense and continue for several weeks, or result from a sudden injury, it’s likely you need treatment. Dr. Francis is highly experienced in diagnosing the causes of sciatica and other spinal disorders as well as providing both surgical and non-surgical care.

Treatment

Dr. Francis takes a conservative approach by recommending non-surgical treatments whenever possible. Treatment options for sciatica may include one or a combination of the following:

• Modified Physical Activity
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Minimally Invasive Lumbar discectomy or lumbar laminectomy when symptoms persist or are severe