Sciatica
Pain associated with the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the hips and buttocks, is known as sciatica. It is usually more pronounced when bending over or sitting and affects only one side of the body.
If you are suffering from sciatica or have had a number of repeated episodes, at Arch Orthopedic & Spine we offer personalized treatments to alleviate the pain and get you back to function. Reach us at our Athens or Loganville, Georgia, locations or book an appointment online today.
What Causes Sciatica?
Different conditions affecting the sciatic nerve can cause sciatica, including:
- Herniated disks.
- Degenerative disk disease.
- Spinal stenosis.
- Foraminal stenosis.
- Spondylolisthesis.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Injuries.
- Pregnancy.
- Tumors, cysts or other growths.
- Conus medullaris syndrome.
- Cauda equina syndrome.
Because of the pressure that these conditions might create around the lumbar spine nerve roots, sciatica can flare-up.
“The thing I like best about Dr. Callaway is his knowledge and expertise in the latest procedures and treatments for my conditions. And he explains everything very well!”
Symptoms
A sharp pain going down the lower back into the leg is the most common and identifiable symptom of sciatica. Additionally, you might feel:
- Constant pain on one of your buttocks
- Hip pain
- A burning or tingling feeling down one leg
- Weakness or numbness on your leg or foot
Potential Complications
Although sciatica pain can usually go away by doing some stretching exercises at home, sometimes it does not, leading to chronic pain. Additionally, if damage to the nerve is severe, a condition called “drop foot” might develop. Patients who suffer from this syndrome feel numbness in their feet, therefore find it nearly impossible to walk. Likewise, when damage is severe, it can result in a loss of feeling in the affected legs.
Treatment of Sciatica
Sciatica treatment aims at reducing the pain and increasing mobility for the patient. Some are at-home methods to relieve pain and others involve a doctor’s appointment. While sciatica can effectively go away on its own with at-home techniques, if it becomes persistent or you experience repeated flare-ups, you should book a consultation with Dr. Callaway.
At-Home Treatments
- Ice Packs can decrease pain and swelling. Apply for 20 minutes, several times a day.
- Heat work after applying ice for a few days. Apply warm compresses for 20 minutes a couple of times a day.
- Stretching exercises can greatly help go back to normal. Consult with your doctor to learn the best way to stretch for you.
In-Office Treatments
- Orthopedic Injections (non-invasive). Corticosteroid injections are a non-surgical way to address sciatica pain. They supply an anesthetic substance directly to the nerve which helps relieve pain immediately.
- Prescription medication. For chronic or nerve-based pain, your doctor might prescribe specific medication to treat the symptoms associated with your sciatica.
- Discectomy (surgery). Dr. Callaway can remove part of the disc that is irritating the nerves and causing sciatica.
How Are Our Treatments Beneficial?
With more than 3,000 surgeries under his belt, Dr. Callaway specializes in neck and back pain. Whether non-operative or surgery, his goal is to relieve patients’ pain, restore mobility and get them back to being active and doing the things they enjoy. He specializes in minimally-invasive and motion-sparing techniques with the goal of getting patients in and out of the hospital and back to normal as quickly as possible.
His approach empowers patients to take an active role in their treatment plan. By exploring all available options first, Dr. Callaway ensures that each receives a personalized care strategy that aligns with their specific needs and goals, fostering long-term healing and improved quality of life.
If you would like more information about our approach to sciatica, call Arch Orthopedic & Spine or book a personalized appointment online today.