Sciatica

Although commonly used as a diagnosis, the term sciatica actually describes a number of symptoms, including pain and/or numbness, tingling, and at times weakness, which can be present in the lower back and buttocks, often radiating into the legs and feet. This condition may be quite painful and debilitating. Sciatica has many causes, including bulging or herniated lumbar (lower back) discs, which can impinge on nerves. Another cause of sciatica is from inflamed/irritated or arthritic lumbar facets (joints which connect the vertebra). The sacroiliac joints, which are found in the buttocks region, (joints connecting the pelvis and tailbone), can also become inflamed/irritated or arthritic and cause sciatica. Referred pain from trigger points, spasms or injuries to muscles can also produce sciatic type symptoms. Just as there are many causes of sciatica, there are also a number of potential treatment options available. Only after the doctor has obtained a careful history and examination (often including diagnostic studies), can the potential underlying cause be identified and the appropriate treatment recommendations be selected, including: Lumbar epidural steroid injections Caudal epidural steroid injections Lumbar and sacral selective nerve root blocks Facet joint injections Diagnostic medial branch blocks (to diagnoses lumbar facet pain) Radiofrequency ablation Sacroiliac joint injections Trigger point injections Many other treatment modalities are available for sciatica including chiropractic care, physical therapy, acupuncture, spinal decompression, and medication management.