Sciatica is leg pain that is associated with tingling, numbness and weakness.  The symptoms often radiate to the lower back via the sciatic nerve that is located at the back of the leg.  Sciatica is also known as radiculopathy.  It is not a diagnosis but merely a description of the symptoms of sciatic pain.  Conditions that can cause sciatica include spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, herniated disc and degenerative disc disease.

Sciatica results in periodic mild to severe debilitating pain along the large sciatic nerve. The effect varies based on the nerve root that is affected. Inflammation or herniations can irritate the nerve roots due to their increased sensitivity. This contributes to the severity of pain.

Non-operative treatments for sciatic pain include anti-Inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs. These reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy is very effective because it strengthens the muscles and improves structural support of the bones. An epidural injection provides therapeutic effects in relieving pain caused by sciatica. This injection is called Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB). It is administered under live x-ray guidance. It is a corticosteroid and has potent anti-inflammatory effects. Benefits are seen after 2 to 4 injections.

Surgical treatments are available for patients who continue to experience significant pain after using non-operative interventions. However, these procedures are associated with risks and complications such as nerve root injury, excessive scarring around the nerve root and mechanical instability. Surgeries include Discectomy and Laminotomy.