Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, and burning sensations that travel along the sciatica nerve from the low back to the buttocks, and down the back of the leg. Pain may worsen with sitting, coughing, or sneezing.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica may be caused by a "pinched nerve" of one or more spinal nerves exiting the lower spine. Conditions that cause this may include:
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Herniated, bulging, or "slipped disc" - disc matter putting pressure and irritating the exiting nerve roots.
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Piriformis Syndrome - A small muscle in the buttocks region spasms and compresses the sciatica nerve.
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Spinal stenosis - narrowing of the spinal canal putting pressure on the nerves.
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Spondylolisthesis - When a vertebra has moved out of alignment either due to trauma or degeneration, narrowing the space where the nerves exit the spine and causes compression and irritation to the nerve root.
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How is sciatica diagnosed?
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A complete history and physical exam is needed for the health care provider to diagnose and determine its cause. An evaluation of reflexes, sensation, muscle strength, and orthopedic tests will help identify which nerves are involced. Further recommendations may be made to identify cause and prognosis:
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X-ray - identifies fractures, degeneration, changes in alignment, etc.
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Magnetic Reasonance Imaging (MRI) or computed Tomography (CT) images of the spine including soft tissue structures like your discs
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Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) or electromyography (EMG) studies - electrical impulse are transmitted through peripheral nerves to test for compression.
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What conservative options do your offer for sciatica?
Following the history, physical examination, and possible additional testing, the cause of your sciatica will be determined and treatment options will be given. These can include but are not limited to:​​​
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Stimpod NMS 460 Pulsed Radiofrequency system​
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