Sciatica symptoms can be debilitating and should not be underestimated, as they can signal a serious underlying problem. Our best-in-class New York City sciatica doctors successfully treat patients with sciatica using the most advanced diagnostic technology and time-tested approaches to treatment and rehabilitation. To reclaim your life without pain, visit New York Pain Care, and our specialists will help you restore your health and ensure that you get back to normal.
What Is Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down to the hips, buttocks, and legs. The sciatic nerve runs down each side as the body’s largest nerve. However, sciatica usually affects only one side at a time. The symptoms can vary depending on the location of the nerve compression in the lower back.
These symptoms may include:
- Pain on one side of your buttocks or down one leg
- Weakness or numbness in one leg or foot
- A burning or tingling sensation down one leg
The pain is usually described as a burning or shooting pain. It ranges from moderate to debilitating. Certain positions or posture changes — such as twisting, bending forward, prolonged sitting or rising from a sitting position — may worsen the symptoms.
What Causes Sciatica?
The pain of sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. The pain can also be triggered by an abnormal immune system response, inflammation or a combination of factors.
Pressure on the nerve happens for several reasons, including:
- A herniated disc. This is the most common cause of sciatica. It can occur when the gel-like cushion between vertebrae bulges through a weakness in the outer wall and presses on the sciatic nerve.
- Spinal stenosis. A narrowing of the spinal canal is common in adults over the age of 60.
- Spondylolisthesis. This condition occurs when a vertebral bone slips and presses on another vertebra, pinching a nerve.
- Degenerative disc disease. Degeneration of the disc between the bones of your vertebrae may cause two vertebrae to shift closer and actually rub against each other, compressing the nerve roots in between.
- Spinal tumor. Although rare, these tumors put pressure on your sciatic nerve.
The risk of sciatica increases with age, the development of osteoarthritis of the spine or a prior back injury. Jobs that require heavy lifting or a lot of sitting increase the risk of back problems. Being overweight, smoking or having an inactive lifestyle also contribute to an increased risk of back pain and sciatica. Sciatica may also result from a traumatic sports injury.
How is Sciatica Diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At New York Pain Care, we use state-of-the-art tools to pinpoint the source of your sciatica. From X-rays and MRIs to CT scans and electromyography, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of answers.
Our specialists are skilled in performing thorough physical examinations and assessing your medical history to identify risk factors and underlying conditions contributing to your sciatica. With a precise diagnosis, we can develop a targeted treatment plan.
Finding a Sciatica Doctor Near Me
People suffering from acute nerve pain in the leg, often turn to Google and search for “sciatica specialist near me” or “
sciatica treatment near me”. They usually want to achieve immediate pain relief and may and subsequently choose incompetent doctors.
During your visit with a specialist, be sure to ask about their experience in sciatica management, their treatment philosophy, and approach to patient care. You should also feel comfortable asking questions about your condition and treatment options.
Finding a sciatica doctor near you is easy, but finding a skilled and knowledgeable provider requires considering their expertise, presence of board certification and medical licensure, experience, and reviews. A qualified sciatica specialist will develop an effective treatment plan, taking into account your unique needs, including your spine issue, nerve compression, pain intensity, and lifestyle factors.