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Sciatica

Sciatica is a distinct type of nerve pain that can be very disruptive to your daily routines. Many people in and around Sarasota and Venice, Florida, rely on William J Cole Jr. DO, Sandeep Kola, DO, and the OrthoMed Pain & Sports Medicine team for outstanding diagnostic and treatment services for sciatica. Booking your initial visit is as simple as a phone call or a visit to the online scheduling page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a form of pain that originates in your sciatic nerve, the longest single nerve in your body. Your sciatic nerve begins in your lower back and extends downward through your buttocks and into each leg. 

Like all nerve tissues, when your sciatic nerve is placed under undue pressure it sends pain signals to your brain. A common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in your lower spine. When one of the firm, rubbery discs that cushion your vertebra becomes worn down the softer central tissue can begin to bulge out and press against your sciatic nerve. 

What are the common symptoms of sciatica?

Unlike many types of pain, sciatica is relatively easy to diagnose. Sciatica creates pain that begins in your lower back and radiates down into the back or side of one leg. That pain can be a sharp, burning sensation or a dull throbbing discomfort. 

Additional symptoms of sciatica include:

  • Pain that worsens after prolonged periods of sitting
  • Pain that flares up when you cough or sneeze
  • Sensations of numbness or weakness in your leg or foot
  • Difficulty moving your leg or foot

Sciatica pain almost always occurs only on one side of your body. It can range from mild to severe and can be steady or intermittent.

Are there treatments other than medication to manage sciatica pain?

Many people with sciatica want to find lasting relief that does not rely on pain medication or invasive surgical procedures. Fortunately, sciatic responds well to numerous therapies. 

Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment for sciatica. This process uses a special treatment needle to deliver a carefully controlled electric current toward the nerve tissue causing your pain. Small burns, or lesions, are created to damage that area of nerve tissue, which prevents the nerve from sending pain signals to your brain. 

Therapeutic injections can also ease sciatica pain. Many people respond well to a course of physical therapy, which can help strengthen the muscles in your lower back, buttocks, and legs. Increasing your physical activity levels can also reduce the pressure placed on your sciatic nerve. 

Many people who are overweight will struggle with sciatica. Finding an effective weight loss program can make a world of difference and prevent future sciatica pain. 

If you’re ready to begin a new treatment path for sciatica or any other form of back pain, call OrthoMed Pain & Sports Medicine to set up a visit. Online booking is also an option and is fast and easy.