Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a symptom that affects the legs, usually just on one side at a time. More specifically, it involves pain that radiates through one of your buttocks and down the back of the corresponding leg. This pain comes from the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in your body. 

While experiencing sciatica, pain may not be the only characteristic. You might also get more neurological symptoms, such as tingling or burning. You might even feel different symptoms in different parts of the leg simultaneously, like pain in one area and numbness in another. 

The team at Johnston Pain Management, P.A., evaluates you in order to locate the cause of your sciatic pain. Most cases come from compression of the sciatic nerve, which can develop due to multiple injuries and structural problems in the lumbar spine (low back).

Evaluating sciatica can involve imaging scans such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-rays, and computed tomography (CT) scans. 

What causes sciatica?

The team at Johnston Pain Management, P.A., performs a brief physical examination after going over your medical history. They review the results of any imaging scans and form a diagnosis based on their findings. 

A few of the most common causes of sciatica are nerve root compression from:

• Herniated discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spondylolisthesis
• Bone spurs
• Spinal stenosis
• Traumatic injuries

With an accurate diagnosis, the team can create a treatment plan that considers the underlying cause and any contributing factors. 

How can I manage my sciatica?

After your evaluation, the team plans your treatment using multiple options, from a list of in-office treatments as well as prescription and nonprescription medications. Most cases of sciatica respond well to these conservative treatments and do not need surgery. 

Your personalized sciatica treatment plan might involve:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Antidepressants
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Short-term narcotics
• Physical therapy

The team at Johnston Pain Management, P.A., invites you to come in for follow-up visits. They update your care plan and make sure you see results from your current treatments. 

To schedule an appointment and explore all of your treatment options for sciatica, call Johnston Pain Management, P.A., or book online today.